Received a Text About Unpaid Tolls? It’s a Scam

Posted on by
Reply

Cash-free toll lanes have improved driving convenience, but they also have led to a surge in text message scams. If you’ve gotten a message claiming an unpaid toll, you’re not alone. Many drivers nationwide, including in New Jersey – have reported similar suspicious texts.

How the Scam Works

Scammers will send a text pretending to be from a toll collection service such as E-ZPass, claiming you owe a balance and that your account will be suspended if you don’t pay immediately. The message usually includes a link that leads to a fake payment site designed to steal your personal and financial information.

These messages can sometimes make you feel a false sense of urgency, encouraging you to act quickly without giving yourself time to think. That’s exactly what they want. Scammers rely on panic so you’ll click before you even question the message.

Where do scammers get your number in the first place? Often from data breaches, people-search websites, or lists purchased on the dark web. They also rely on caller and sender ID spoofing to make a text look like it’s coming from a legitimate short code, so the fact that a message appears to come from “E-ZPass” tells you nothing about who actually sent it. Because these lists are typically bought in bulk and sent out to thousands of numbers at once, you may get a toll scam text even if you don’t own a car, don’t have an E-ZPass account, or have never driven through the state named in the message.

What a Scam Text Might Look Like

Below are two examples of the kind of unpaid toll scam texts you might receive. Details like the agency name and link will vary, but the pattern typically stays the same:

“E-ZPass: Your account has an unpaid toll of $6.99. To avoid a late fee and possible suspension of driving privileges, pay now: ezpass-nj-tollpay.com. Reply within 24 hours.”

“Toll Services: Final notice. Outstanding balance on your account will be sent to collections and may affect your credit if unpaid. Settle now: tollpay-notice.net”

Notice the pressure tactics in both message examples: A small, believable dollar amount, a countdown, and a threat if you don’t act. The link is also the giveaway. A genuine E-ZPass New Jersey link will appear as ezpassnj.com, not a lookalike domain.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

  • Receiving a text at all. Most toll agencies don’t text final payment reminders – they typically will bill through your account, email, or regular mail.
  • The message threatens fines, legal action or license suspension if you don’t pay right away.
  • The link looks slightly off. Scammers often use web addresses that are close to, but not quite – the real toll agency’s website.
  • The sender’s number looks unusual, such as an international number, or the greeting is generic (“Dear Customer”) instead of using your name.
  • You’re asked to pay through an unusual method, like a gift card or wire transfer.

Other Toll Scam Variations to Know

E-ZPass is the most commonly impersonated toll brand in our region, since it covers tolls throughout New Jersey and much of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. However, it isn’t the only one scammers borrow. Similar scam texts have circulated using the names of FasTrak in California, I-PASS in Illinois, SunPass in Florida, and Peach Pass in Georgia. If you receive a “toll violation” text referencing a state or toll system you’ve never used, that alone is a strong sign the message is fraudulent.

What to Do if You Get One of These Texts

  • Don’t click the link or reply to the message, even to say “stop.”
  • Check your account directly. Login to your toll account through the official app or website, or call the customer service number listed there – not one included in the text.
  • Block the sender to help prevent future attempts.
  • Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/, or file a complaint with the FCC.
  • If you already clicked the link and entered any personal or financial information, contact your financial institution right away.

Quick Questions, Quick Answers

Will E-ZPass text me about payment collection? No. E-ZPass and most other toll agencies don’t send final payment reminders by text. If your account is genuinely past due, you’ll typically see it reflected in your account balance, an email or physical mail. Learn more about NJ E-Z Pass text scams from the NJ Turnpike Authority.

How do I check if I actually owe a toll? Go directly to your toll agency’s official website or app and login to check your balance. Don’t use a link or number provided in a text message that you weren’t expecting.

I already clicked the scam link. What now? Don’t panic, but do act quickly. If you entered any account numbers, card details, or your Social Security Number – contact your financial institution right away. You may also want to consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus. If you only clicked the link but didn’t enter information – it’s still a good idea to run a security scan on your device, since some phishing links attempt to install malware in the background.

The safest scam prevention habit is a simple one: Treat any unexpected text asking you to click a link and pay immediately as suspicious by default, whether it claims to be about a toll, a package delivery, or an account alert. Verifying independently through an app, website or phone number you already trust – takes an extra minute, but closes the door on nearly every version of this scam.

At First Financial, keeping your accounts and personal information safe is always top priority. If you ever receive a suspicious message referencing one of your First Financial accounts, give us a call at 732.312.1500 or stop by your local branch.

For more tips on spotting scams, check out our Important Alerts and Scams collection on our First Scoop Blog.

How to Plan for the Hidden Expenses of Living in a Dorm

Posted on by
Reply

Moving out of the place you call home and into your college dorm is a milestone that can come with equally large expenses. While tuition, housing, and a meal plan are typically the big-ticket items of the traditional college experience, there are plenty of smaller costs that can quickly add up too. From bedding and cleaning supplies to late-night snack runs and laundry – planning for the hidden expenses of dorm life can help you create a realistic budget.

Dorm Essentials

The typical dorm comes furnished with a desk and chair, bed frame and mattress, and a closet – but it takes a lot more than that to make the room livable.

Here are a few examples of essential items that are usually not provided by schools:

  • Bedding (sheets, comforter, and pillows)
  • Towels, shower shoes, and caddy to use in communal bathrooms
  • Desk lamp
  • Laptop or tablet, surge protectors and extension cords
  • Class supplies (notebooks, pens, backpack, binders)
  • Kitchen set (a bowl/plate/glass/utensils for times you may eat in your dorm room)

While there are items that you can’t avoid bringing on move-in day, there are some ways to potentially save:

  • Coordinate with your roommate and split shared items. Roommates frequently share things like cleaning supplies, rugs, small refrigerators, TVs, and coffee makers. You can split costs, or assign each other items to bring and share for the semester.
  • Bring what you can from home. You might not realize it, but plenty of items you use in your day-to-day life will still apply in college. Consider bringing surge protectors, clothing hangers, a laundry basket, storage bins, and decorations from home – rather than spending extra on additional sets.
  • Buy or ship items locally to your campus. Rather than buying bulky items at home (that you will later have to either pay to ship or add to the vehicle you are bringing on move in day), consider shipping your bedding to the closest store and pick it up near your campus once you move in. Most stores usually have free pick-up!

Daily Conveniences

Let’s say you check the weather forecast before class and notice it will be raining by the time the lecture is over. You go to grab an umbrella – and realize you left it at home. Maybe your family can bring it (and anything else you may have forgotten) the next time they come for a visit, but you need an umbrella today.

College students often report that the need to buy small essentials such as umbrellas, are inevitable and regularly arise. Luckily many schools do have convenience stores on campus – but spending $10 here and there for items like these, can quickly add up.

Consider tracking the items you use over a week-long period to help you see what you might need away from home. This can help you avoid those impulse, convenience purchases once you arrive on campus.

Laundry

Many schools have on-site laundry rooms, but students usually are required to pay for every load. Let’s say your campus washers and dryers cost $1.50 per use and you plan to do laundry weekly. Your laundry bill could still be around $3 per week – which might seem like a small expense that’s easy to overlook. However after 39 weeks (the average amount of time you’ll spend at school during the year), you’ve suddenly spent $117 on laundry. That figure doesn’t include the items you need to actually do your laundry either, such as detergent and dryer sheets.

A big money saver is to wash full loads of laundry, as opposed to running small loads more frequently. You can also consider buying detergent or dryer sheets in bulk, as smaller quantities can be more expensive at convenience stores.

Food and Dining

When you’re in the mood for a late-night snack at your childhood home, you might have the luxury of tiptoeing around the house to a stocked pantry. Or, if you’re a morning person – maybe you count on waking up to the smell of a freshly brewed pot of coffee. Unfortunately, most college dining hall plans don’t cover the small treats that get you by between meals.

College students often buy coffee, snacks, and groceries – especially if their campus has limited options on weekends. It’s also common for students to order takeout or head off-campus to grab a bite with friends.

Here are some ways to save on those extra treats:

  • If you’re a coffee drinker, try making it in your dorm. There are ways to make coffee shop coffees at home – without the coffee shop price tag.
  • Meal prep for the weekends if your schedule allows it. Rather than impulsively ordering takeout, you’ll have affordable meals readily available.

Transportation

Many students who live on campus don’t realize how much can still be spent on transportation. Students may frequently venture off-campus to run errands, go to social events, or travel home for breaks and holidays. Some students may rely on public transportation or rideshare services, while others might bring their cars – though each comes with its own unique set of expenses to prepare for.

Consider searching the web or connecting with current students before you get to campus to learn about the student experience. Is there a grocery store or mall where students typically shop? Is there a local establishment where students frequently gather? This can help you learn how much you can expect to head off-campus and try to plan ahead.

Unexpected expenses are inevitable when you live on your own for the first time, but don’t let them catch you off guard. Planning ahead and creating a realistic budget can help you spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your college experience!

Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more financial resources and tips like these, delivered right to your inbox.

5 Common Types of Check Fraud Scams You Should Know

Posted on by
Reply

This August, we’re continuing to focus on check fraud scams and how you can avoid becoming a victim. Even in a digital world, checks (paper or electronic) contain valuable information that criminals can use to steal money or commit fraud. At the same time, scammers are increasingly combining traditional check scams with electronic payments, mobile deposits, and peer-to-peer payment apps.

Understanding the most common types of check fraud can help you recognize warning signs and better protect your finances.

1. Mail Theft

One of the most common ways check fraud begins is through stolen mail.

Criminals may target residential mailboxes, mailrooms, or public collection boxes looking for outgoing checks such as rent payments, utility bills, or personal checks. Once stolen, those checks may be altered, copied, or used to access personal banking information.

To reduce your risk:

  • Drop off mail inside the post office when possible.
  • Avoid leaving outgoing checks in unsecured mailboxes overnight.
  • Monitor expected payments and mail delivery closely.

2. Check Washing

Check washing happens when a thief steals a completed check and removes the ink using chemicals. Once the original writing is removed, they will rewrite the check with a new payee name or a larger amount.

For example, a $50 utility payment could become a $500 payment to a fraudster. Even a small check can be changed into a much larger fraudulent payment.

Using permanent gel pens and avoiding blank spaces on checks may help reduce the risk of alteration.

3. Counterfeit Checks

Counterfeit checks are fake checks created using real bank account information. Scammers may use stolen logos, routing and account numbers to print checks that look legitimate. This can happen after mail theft or data theft.

Counterfeit checks may be used to make purchases, withdraw cash, or scam others. Just because a check looks official does not always mean it is legitimate.

4. Fake Check Scams

Fake check scams often begin with an unexpected opportunity or payment. A scammer may:

  • Offer a fake job.
  • Send a prize or lottery “payment.”
  • “Overpay” for an online purchase.
  • Send money for supplies or equipment.

The victim is then instructed to deposit the check and quickly send some of the money back.

Many of these scams now involve electronic checks, mobile deposits, or peer-to-peer payment apps. A scammer may email a digital check image, ask someone to deposit it through a banking app, and then pressure them to send money electronically before the check fully clears. Although funds may appear available in an account, the check can still later be rejected and could leave the victim responsible for the lost money.

5. Forged Checks

Forged checks happen when someone signs or changes a check without permission. This may include:

  • Signing another person’s name.
  • Altering payment information.
  • Changing endorsement details.

Forgery can happen through stolen checkbooks, lost checks, or unauthorized access to financial information. Monitoring your account regularly can help you spot suspicious activity sooner.

Why This Matters

Check fraud continues to evolve, and scammers are finding new ways to combine traditional check fraud with today’s digital payment methods.

The good news is that awareness and simple habits can help reduce your risk. Understanding how these scams work can help you:

  • Spot warning signs earlier.
  • Avoid common scams.
  • Protect your banking information.
  • Take action quickly if something seems wrong.

 How to Protect Yourself

  • Monitor your accounts regularly.
  • Set up banking alerts.
  • Be cautious with unexpected checks or payments.
  • Never send money back based on a deposited check alone.
  • Use secure mail drop off locations whenever possible.

Protecting your money starts with awareness. Check yourself – stop check fraud before it starts.

Article Source: Made in partnership with the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, America’s Credit Unions, and TruStage

Credit Freeze vs. Credit Lock: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by
Reply

A credit freeze and a credit lock can both make it harder for an identity thief to open a new account in your name. Although the terms sound similar – they differ in cost, legal protection, and how they are managed.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the right safeguard, especially after a data breach, identity theft warning, or suspicious activity on your credit report.

What is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze (also called a security freeze), restricts most access to your credit report. Since lenders commonly review a credit report before approving a new loan, a freeze can help stop someone from opening an account or applying for a loan using your identity.

Federal law gives consumers the right to place and lift a credit freeze for free. A freeze does not affect your credit score and stays in place until you remove it or temporarily lift it.

Key things to know about a credit freeze:

  • You must place it separately with each credit bureau – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
  • It will block legitimate credit applications as well as fraudulent ones.
  • You can temporarily lift it when you need to apply for credit.
  • It does not close existing accounts or stop fraud on an account that is already open.
  • Parents and guardians can request a freeze for an eligible minor child.

What is a Credit Lock?

A credit lock also restricts access to a credit report, but it is a service offered by a credit bureau rather than a consumer right guaranteed under federal law. You will generally manage a lock through the bureau’s website or mobile app.

Some lock services are free, while others are included in paid identity monitoring packages. Features and costs vary, so you’ll want to review which credit reports the service covers, what alerts it includes, and what happens when you cancel.

Credit Freeze vs. Credit Lock at a Glance

Credit Freeze

  • Free to place, lift, or remove.
  • Protected by federal law.
  • Managed separately with each credit bureau.
  • Remains active until you lift or remove it.

Credit Lock

  • Cost depends on the provider.
  • Administered by the provider’s service terms.
  • Usually controlled through an app or online account.
  • May include monitoring, alerts, or other identity protection features.

Both tools can restrict access used to process new credit applications, and neither one replaces regular account and credit report monitoring.

Which Option is Right for You?

A credit freeze may make sense when you want a free option established by law, do not plan to apply for new credit soon, or believe your personal information has been exposed. It may also be useful as a preventive measure even when you have not experienced identity theft.

A credit lock may appeal to someone who wants app-based controls and values additional alerts or monitoring services. Compare the cost and coverage carefully. A paid lock is not necessarily more effective at restricting access than a free credit freeze.

What Happens When You Apply for Credit?

Before applying for a loan, credit card, or another account, you will generally need to lift the freeze or unlock the applicable credit report. After the credit review is complete, confirm that your freeze or lock is active again.

How is a Fraud Alert Different?

A fraud alert does not block access to your credit report. Instead, it tells businesses to take additional steps to verify your identity before opening an account. You only need to contact one of the three credit bureaus to place an initial fraud alert, and that bureau must notify the other two.

A fraud alert can be useful when you suspect identity theft, but still expect lenders to access your credit report. It does not offer the same access restriction as a freeze or lock.

Continue Monitoring Your Information

A freeze or lock focuses mainly on new account/loan application fraud. Continue reviewing your current bank and credit card accounts, checking your credit report, using strong passwords, and investigating unfamiliar activity.

Review our identity theft protection guide and explore our fraud prevention and identity theft resources for more ways to protect your personal and financial information. You can also visit the Preventing Identity Theft section of our First Scoop blog. If you notice suspicious activity involving one of your First Financial accounts, call 732-312-1500 or visit your local branch.

Article Sources: Federal Trade Commission | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

What is Check Fraud? How it Happens and Why it’s Increasing

Posted on by
Reply

Check fraud may sound like an old problem, but it’s still one of the fastest-growing types of financial fraud, and it can affect anyone. While many payments now happen online, millions of people still use paper checks to pay rent, send gifts, make business payments, or cover bills. And any time money is moving, you can guarantee fraudsters are paying attention.

Check fraud has changed over the years. It’s no longer just about stolen checks or forged signatures. Today, criminals use a mix of theft, scams, and technology to steal money and personal banking information. Understanding what check fraud is and why it’s increasing can help you protect your money and avoid becoming a victim.

What is Check Fraud?

Check fraud happens when someone uses a check illegally to steal money or gain access to personal and financial information.

That can mean stealing a check from the mail, creating a fake check, changing the details on a real check, or using scams to convince someone to deposit a fraudulent check.

Checks include sensitive information like your full name, address, account number, and routing number. In the wrong hands, that information can be used for more than just one transaction. And because checks can take time to process, fraud may not be discovered right away.

Why is Check Fraud Increasing?

One of the biggest reasons check fraud continues to rise is mail theft. Criminals often target residential mailboxes, mailrooms, and public mail collection boxes looking for outgoing payments like rent checks, utility bills, or gifts. Once a check is stolen, it can be altered, copied, or used to access personal banking information – turning one stolen envelope into a much larger financial problem.

Checks Still Contain Valuable Information

Checks contain a significant amount of personal and financial information in one place. This information can be used not only to steal from your account, but also to create counterfeit checks or commit other types of financial fraud. That makes checks especially valuable to criminals looking for easy access to sensitive information.

Scams are Evolving

Check fraud is no longer limited to physical theft. Scammers now use fake job offers, prize notifications, and online marketplace scams to send bogus checks and pressure victims into sending money back. These scams often create urgency and can look convincing.

Fraud Spreads Faster Online

Social media, online job boards, and digital marketplaces make it easier for scammers to reach more people, especially younger adults. A fake opportunity can spread quickly and look legitimate.

Who is Most at Risk?

Anyone who uses checks, or receives them, can be at risk. But some groups may face greater exposure.

  • Renters and Households Paying Bills by Check: Rent payments and mailed bills often involve large amounts of money and predictable timing, making them attractive targets.
  • Small Business Owners: Businesses may issue multiple checks each month for payroll, vendors, or operations. More transactions can mean more opportunities for fraud.
  • Older Adults and Seniors: Many older adults still rely on checks for bills, gifts, or charitable giving. They may also be more likely to use the mail regularly, increasing exposure to mail theft.
  • Families Managing Shared Accounts: When multiple people use the same account, unusual activity can be easier to miss if no one is reviewing statements regularly.
  • Younger Adults and First-Time Workers: Younger generations may not write many checks, but they are often targeted through fake job scams, prize scams, and online marketplace scams.

Many of these scams also involve electronic checks, where a scammer sends a fake check digitally or instructs the victim to deposit or transfer funds electronically before the check fully clears.

A scammer may “hire” someone, send a check for supplies or equipment, and ask the recipient to send money back. Later, the check bounces – and the victim is unfortunately responsible for the lost money.

Why it Matters

Check fraud can create more than just financial loss – it can disrupt your life. Victims may face:

  • Unauthorized withdrawals
  • Delayed bill payments
  • Missed rent or utility payments
  • Overdraft fees
  • Account freezes
  • Stress and time spent resolving fraud

For some households, even a temporary loss of funds can create serious challenges. In fake check scams, victims may lose money they willingly sent – without realizing the original check was fake. The more you understand about how check fraud works, the better prepared you are to recognize suspicious situations and protect yourself.

Simple Steps to Protect Yourself

You do not need to stop using checks altogether, but it helps to use them carefully. Start with these simple habits:

  • Mail checks from secure locations, like inside the post office.
  • Avoid leaving outgoing mail in your mailbox overnight.
  • Review your bank account regularly.
  • Set up transaction alerts through your financial institution.
  • Be cautious of checks connected to job offers, prizes, or urgent requests.
  • Contact your financial institution quickly if something feels wrong.

Check fraud is growing, but knowledge and simple habits can help reduce your risk.

Check yourself – stop check fraud before it starts.

Article Source: Made in partnership with the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, America’s Credit Unions, and TruStage

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this August 2026

Posted on by
Reply

The last full month of summer is here and there are countless ways to enjoy it! Check out these family and budget-friendly events happening in Monmouth and Ocean Counties this August.

Be sure to check dates, times, locations, and weather for any of the events you plan to attend, as details may be subject to change.

August 2

Long Branch | Bands By The Beach | 7pm-8:30pm

There are three more chances to enjoy Bands By The Beach on Sundays at West End Park (Brighton Ave). This Sunday’s performance is by Crushed Rock, a Monmouth County-based band that performs classics from the 70s to today. There is no entry fee to attend. See the remaining performance dates and bands set to take the sandy stage.

Seaside Heights | Movies on the Beach | 9pm

You have four more chances to enjoy a movie on Seaside Heights Beach (Freemont Ave. beach entrance) with the ocean as your backdrop and stars overhead. This Sunday’s movie showing is Back to the Future. There is no entry fee to attend. See the schedule of featured films through the end of August.

August 4

Freehold | National Night Out | 5pm-9pm

Freehold is taking National Night Out to the next level at iPlay America. National Night Out is a nation-wide initiative aimed at fostering positive relationships between neighbors and law enforcement, educating children and families about safety, and bringing a sense of community spirit to towns across the country. You’ll have a chance to mingle with the town’s first responders (police, fire, and first aid) while enjoying free rides, pizza, cotton candy, snacks, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.

Neptune | National Night Out | 5pm-8pm

Head over to Midtown Elementary for a night of fun with the whole family enjoying Neptune’s National Night Out. There will be free food and drinks, games, giveaways from local vendors and businesses, a helicopter flyover, and the Neptune-famous bicycle raffle. There is no entry fee to attend.

Point Pleasant | National Night Out | 6pm-8pm

Head over to Community Park (2255 Bridge Ave) to enjoy a National Night Out down the shore. This night of community fun will feature crafts and games, free popcorn and cotton candy, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.

August 5

Manchester | Summer Concert Series| Begins at 5pm

Get three concerts for the price of free at Harry Wright Lake. The final summer concert will take place on August 19th. All you’ll need to enjoy these summer sounds are lawn chairs. There is no entry fee to attend, but refreshments and food will be available for purchase.

Oakhurst | Italian American Festival | Begins at 5pm

Explore the Italian Festival at Joe Palaia Park, taking place through August 9th at various times. You’ll be able to sample traditional Italian eats, enjoy wholesome family fun with rides and activities, and immerse yourself in Italian-American culture. There is a concert on Sunday from 6pm-9pm, followed by fireworks. There is no entry fee to attend. There will be food and ride tickets available for purchase

August 6

Toms River | National Night Out | 4:30pm-7pm

Head over to South Toms River Elementary School to enjoy children’s attractions, community resources, demonstrations, and the chance to connect with local organizations and businesses. There is no entry fee to attend.

Howell | Movies Under the Stars | Begins at 6:30pm

There are two chances left to enjoy a movie under the stars at the Howell Library Hill. Children’s activities begin at 6:30pm and movies will begin at dusk. There’s no entry fee to attend – just bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and favorite movie theater snacks. This week’s showing is Lilo & Stitch.

August 7

Lacey | Sunflower Festival | 3pm-8pm

Enjoy golden hour and sunflowers every Friday to Sunday through August 23rd. Take a stroll through the sunflower fields while finding the perfect photo-op, gather sunflowers, enjoy live music (from 4pm-7pm) and tasty treats, check out unique farm attractions, and more. Admission is $19 per person, including taxes and fees. U-Pick sunflowers are not included with admission and are $2 per stem.

August 12

Seaside Heights | Wildlife Animal Show | 4pm-5pm

You’re in for a wild adventure and the chance to get up close and personal with amazing animals on the Casino Pier Stage (by the Ferris Wheel). You’ll learn fascinating facts about each special guest and get the chance to safely interact with them, with the help of an experienced handler – all for free.

August 15

Oceanport | Surf & Turf Seafood Festival | 11am-5pm

The Shore’s biggest seafood festival is returning for two days of fresh, mouthwatering bites at Monmouth Park Racetrack. With over one dozen of the Shore’s most fin-tastic seafood establishments attending, you can sample countless seafood favorites (think lobster rolls, crab cakes, etc.). Live racing begins at 12:50pm. General admission is $7, and children 12 attend free. Use promo code Seafood26 at http://seatgeek.com/monmouth to save 15% on general admission. Details are available for Day 2 of the festival on August 16th, which also features free family fun activities including a bounce house, pony rides, face painters and clowns from 12-4pm.

New Egypt | Street Eats & Brews | Begins at 12pm

What’s better than good food, good pours, and even better company? Enjoy all three at Dancer Farm through August 16th. There will be delicious eats from local food trucks, cold pours from Laurita Winery and local breweries (ages 21+), live music, local vendors, a kids’ play area, country-themed photo-ops, and more. Admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and those ages 20 and attend free. Tickets can be purchased in advance for day 2 of the festival.

August 22

Aberdeen | Town-Wide Garage Sale | 8am-4pm

Whether you wish to shop, sell, or explore – Aberdeen is hosting a neighborhood-wide garage sale through August 23rd where you can do it all! A list of participating locations will be released the week of the yard sale, with a copy available on the Aberdeen Parks & Recreation website. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

August 23

Jackson | Jackson Day | 12:30pm-8:30pm

Jackson Township is going all out for their 50th Anniversary celebration at Six Flags Great Adventure and you won’t want to miss it! There will be over 100 vendors, live music and entertainment, a beer garden (ages 21+), hands-on exhibits, and more. Plus, there will be Fright Fest zombie makeup demonstrations and Wild Safari critter interactions – so the whole family can enjoy the best of Six Flags in one trip. Children 12 and under will enjoy free admission during the celebration!

August 28

Asbury Park | Seafood & BBQ Festival | Begins at 5pm

From fresh seafood to sizzling BBQ, saddle up – you’re shore to find your next favorite bite at the Seafood & BBQ Festival at Bradley Park, taking place through Sunday, August 30th at various times. There will be over 20 food trucks, live music, a beer garden (ages 21+), children’s inflatables and activities. Admission is $5, and children 10 and under attend free.

August 29

Toms River | Block Party | 11am-5pm

Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. 1 is bringing a Block Party to the community on Washington Street, between Main Street and Robbins Street. Enjoy live music, games and activities for the whole family, fire truck exhibits and experiences, different craft breweries (ages 21+), delicious food, local vendors, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

Matawan | The Great Whaleboat Races | 5pm-7:30pm

Three towns and three whaleboats are coming together for one legendary mission at Lake Lefferts – “capture” their town’s mayor! Teams from Matawan, Aberdeen, and Keyport will race across the lake to a floating dock to “capture” their mayor, row back to shore, and hoist their town’s flag. After the race, enjoy live music, food, children’s games, inflatables, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.