Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

Ways to Boost Your Credit if You’re Looking for a Home

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The weather isn’t the only thing heating up – the spring homebuying market will soon be, too. Whether you’re considering making your move this spring or further down the road, your credit score will have a direct impact on your ability to obtain a mortgage and what you will pay for your home over time. Keep reading to learn potential benefits to boosting your credit score and some different ways to do so, before applying for a mortgage.

What is your credit score important when applying for a home loan?

As you probably know, a credit score is the number lenders use to determine your creditworthiness. Check out our guide to understanding your credit score to see all the factors that make up your score. When looking to finance a home, lenders will use the information on your credit report to decide if you’ll qualify for a mortgage and if you do – how much you can afford to pay and the interest rate that will be offered to you.

What are the potential benefits of increasing your credit score before applying for a mortgage?

  • You’re more likely to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders want to see that you have been, and can continue making on-time payments if they were to lend to you. Additionally, they want to ensure you can comfortably take on your mortgage payment along with the other payments you are making on any outstanding debt.
  • Lower interest rates. The interest rate offered to you by a lender is again based on your credit profile. Qualifying for a lower mortgage rate can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

How can you boost your credit score?

  1. Pay Your Bills in Full and On Time

Payment history shows whether you’ve made on-time payments on your reported loans and if not, how late any previous payments were made. This has the biggest impact on your credit score – making up 35%. If a payment is late, it generally impacts your score negatively and delinquency can stay on your credit report for up to seven years. Over time, the impact of late payments on your score will decrease.

Making your loan payments on time will continue to improve your credit. Additionally, making all payments on past-due accounts can help you avoid further delinquency on your report and build positive payment history.

  1. Lower Your Credit Utilization

Your credit utilization is the amount of available credit you are using. To calculate yours, divide your total credit card balance by your total credit limit, then multiply that number by 100. As a rule of thumb, try to keep your credit utilization for each credit card to 30% or less. To lenders, higher utilization signals a higher risk of missing payments and defaulting on your debt – as it shows you are relying on borrowed money and could be struggling financially.

There are two ways to lower your credit utilization – pay down debt or request credit limit increases. Paying down debt brings the total amount down, while a credit limit increase brings your available credit up. However, try to avoid spending more to match any credit limit increase so you don’t find yourself in more debt.

  1. Slow Down on Applying for & Opening New Accounts

Opening numerous loans and credit cards in a short time can hurt your credit score. New accounts are tied to factors that make up your credit score, such as length of credit history and new credit.

Length of credit history considers factors like the average age of your accounts, and your oldest and newest accounts. Generally, a longer credit history is better for your credit and shows you’ve successfully managed your debt over time.

When you apply for new credit, an inquiry is placed on your credit report. An inquiry shows that a lender requested your credit information, likely to make a lending decision. Depending on other factors in your report, this inquiry may temporarily drop your score.

  1. Review Your Credit Report

Before applying for any type of loan, it is always best to obtain a copy of your credit report and verify that the information is accurate and up to date. This will help you catch potential errors, which you can correct by contacting the credit bureaus before applying for a loan. Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting agency. You can request your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com.

If you’re located in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and considering springing into the homebuying market this season, we can help welcome you home with a First Financial Mortgage! Our mortgage loans have terms up to 30 years, personalized service, low fees, and no pre-payment penalties.* If you’re just getting started and have questions, schedule a no-commitment video chat or phone call with one of our mortgage experts. You can also register for our text alerts to see when our mortgage rates change. We’re happy to help with your homebuying journey every step of the way!

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. Credit worthiness determines your APR. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history and are for qualified borrowers. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. Higher rates may apply depending on terms of loan and credit worthiness. Minimum mortgage loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. The Interest Rates, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and fees are based on current market rates, are for informational purposes only. Rates and APRs listed are based on a mortgage loan amount of $250,000. Mortgage insurance may be required depending on loan guidelines. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. If mortgage insurance is required, the mortgage insurance premium could increase the APR and the monthly mortgage payment. See Credit Union for details. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Mortgage and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. 

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

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The additional six weeks of winter predicted on Groundhog Day are finally coming to an end and spring is around the corner. Luckily, we’ve found a pot of gold – which includes countless budget and family-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are perfect for welcoming the new season.

March 7

Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Seaside Heights) – Join the Annual Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, beginning at 12pm on the Boulevard. Various local businesses, teams, and community organizations will march and celebrate Irish heritage in the parade. There’s a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow too, a post-parade party at the Hershey Motel with a live performance by the Drunken Clams. There is no fee to attend the festivities. Learn more about the parade here. To add to the fun, Casino Pier is hosting their St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party from 11am-6pm – selling $30 Arcade Cards for $15 and offering various food and drink specials.

March 8

Belmar Dine and Discover will help you sample what local eateries have to offer – one trolley stop at a time, from 11:30am-2:30pm. Starting at the Belmar Municipal Building, you will hop on and off at participating Belmar restaurants – where you will be greeted with unique chef-crafted bites at every turn. Wristbands are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets – don’t forget to bring your appetite with you, too!

March 11

Irish Week Flavor of Freehold – Transport your tastebuds to Ireland without leaving Downtown Freehold from 5:30pm-8pm. Your $25 Shamrock Pass is packed with the luck of the Irish – it gives you special access to signature samples from some of Freehold’s most beloved establishments. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 12

Irish Week Pub Crawl (Freehold) – If a bar crawl is more your speed and you’re over 21, the Downtown Freehold Irish Week celebrations continue with a Pub Crawl from 8pm-10pm. Whether a frothy pint or a glass of smooth Scotch is your beverage of choice – there is a festive adventure through Freehold’s beloved pubs in store for everyone. The Beer Crawl Pass is $25 and the Scotch Crawl Pass is $50. You may only participate if you are age 21 and up. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 14

Opening Day at Allaire Village (Wall) – Head over to the Historic Village at Allaire for their opening day festivities from 8am-4pm. Take a stroll through the flea market in search of unique items. For history lovers – there will be special house tours, craft demonstrations, and guided excursions of the village’s newly developed interpretive sites – giving you a taste of 19th century life. There will also be hands-on activities for the whole family, such as children’s games and storytelling. Admission is $5.95 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Irish Festival (Toms River) – Celebrate Irish culture with friends, neighbors, and local businesses from 12pm-6pm on Washington Street. There will be live entertainment, Irish fare, and local vendors and businesses lined up along Downtown – making it a one-stop-shop to grab goodies. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Maple Syrup Festival (Manalapan) – Happy Day Farm is giving visitors a glimpse into the maple sugaring season in one, sap-packed day on select dates and times  throughout the month (tours begin at 10am and the last session of the day starts at 1:45pm). This outdoor experience is filled with demonstrations that display how sap becomes pancake-ready maple syrup and how you can identify maple trees to tap on your own. Admission is $18 per person for those ages 2 and up, and can only be purchased at the door. Learn more here.

March 15

Easter Bunny Pictures (Brick) – Hop on over to Icarus Brewing to welcome spring by taking family photos with the Easter Bunny from 12:30pm-2:30pm. A photographer will snap your picture, and digital copies will be emailed directly to you. The proceeds benefit Pitties and Pals Rescue, who will also have some of their adoptable dogs on site. There is a $20 donation to have your photos taken. Learn more here.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Freehold) – Downtown Freehold’s Irish Week concludes with the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicking off at 12:30pm. Get a seat along the parade route from Main Street to Freehold Elks Lodge 1454 for a front row view and live entertainment, such as a Pipes & Drums performance. The Irish spirit and tradition don’t stop there – head over to a participating establishment to enjoy an afternoon of live music, food, and beverages. There is no fee to attend the parade, but there will be items and experiences available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

March 21

Easter in the Park (Howell) – Join in on the Easter season fun at Oak Glen Park from 11am-2pm. There will be lots for the kids to do including egg hunts (see the town website for age groups and times), music, games, rides, face painting, a petting zoo, an appearance by the Easter Bunny, refreshments and more! There is no cost to attend. Get all the details here and don’t forget to bring your Easter basket.

All About Kids Fair (Toms River) – Head over to St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church for the 10th Annual Fair from 11am-2pm. From pre-schools and summer camps to after school sports and activities – countless local organizations will join together for parents to explore. While the adults are kept busy, there will be countless activities for children to enjoy such as face painting, crafts, character appearances, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. More information can be found here.

March 28

Easter Celebration (Wall) – Celebrate Easter like it’s the 19th century at the Historic Village of Allaire from 11am to 4pm. You’ll see similarities to today’s Easter celebrations with live chicks and bunnies in the village, an egg hunt, egg dying, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. You can also enjoy activities unique to the 19th century such as historical egg dying methods and bonnet decorating. Admission is $13.58 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Monmouth County Spring Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Spring is finally here and with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season around the corner – a one-stop-shop like the Monmouth County Spring Craft Show can make your list a piece of cake. Visit the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm to check gift giving for multiple celebrations off your list. With over 40 local artists, artisans, and vendors, you’re sure to find a thoughtful gift – and maybe something for yourself, too. There is no entry fee to attend but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Pancake Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (Toms River) – The Easter Bunny is hopping to the Manchester Volunteer Fire Co. for a pancake breakfast before continuing on his way to hide Easter eggs – catch him from 9am-12pm. After breakfast, kids can enjoy various games and chances to win prizes while parents partake in a 50/50 raffle. Tickets can be purchased in advance and are $10 for those ages 10 and up, $8 for children ages 3 to 9, and children 3 and under are free of charge. Click here to learn more.

How to Choose a Financial Institution if You’re Growing a Family

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If you have a growing family, you’re probably used to making big decisions – some of which might be related to family finances. The financial institution you choose to bank with might not always be top of mind, but it is an important aspect of your family’s financial well-being. Ultimately, where you choose to bank is the place you’ll trust with handling both day-to-day financial needs and future milestones. Consider the following criteria when choosing a financial institution that will grow with and support your family both now and in the future.

Your Short, Medium, and Long-Term Needs & Goals

Financial institutions are not one-size-fits-all. Similarly, your financial needs and goals aren’t either. Your co-worker might swear by a particular online-only bank, but you might prefer a local bank or credit union with a nearby branch. It’s important to consider the day-to-day ways your family currently uses money, as well as how they plan to use money in the future when deciding if a financial institution is a good fit. Identify some of your family’s financial needs and goals so you can consider them as you read through this article.

Here are some financial goals that first-time parents or those with changing family dynamics might consider:

  • Purchasing a family vehicle.
  • Saving for a down payment on a home, or preparing to purchase a home.
  • Establishing or adjusting an emergency fund and budget.
  • Introducing children to saving from a young age.

Product and Service Offerings

Your needs might be limited to certain accounts or services now, but they may change as your family evolves.

Let’s say you need a checking and savings account now, but you and your partner would like to become homeowners in the next 5 years. Does your financial institution have a special offer for first-time homebuyers? Would you like a dedicated representative who can assist you through the mortgage process from application to closing? Or, let’s say you would like to introduce your child to saving at a young age. Does your financial institution have accounts for children? If so, do the accounts have the capabilities and protections you would like in place?

Determining now if a particular financial institution has the offerings needed to support your financial goals, can save you time and effort down the road and also help you develop a long-term relationship with your institution.

Convenience and Accessibility

Convenience and accessibility look different for everyone based on preferences, but make sure your financial institution meets your definition of the two. Your financial institution should make your money management easier, not more stressful. Is your family busy managing hectic schedules, making it difficult to make trips to a branch? Would you prefer a financial institution with local branches to make transactions in person? Would you like a financial institution that has easy-to-use online and mobile banking? Can you view and manage all your accounts online or in the mobile app? Consider what convenience and accessibility mean for you and your family.

The Differences Between Financial Institutions

There are a few broad types of financial institutions you can pick from, and figuring out which might be best for you and your family can help narrow down your search.

  • National Banks: Typically offer a broad range of financial products and services suited for various life stages. They may have many branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility, but potentially less personalized customer service. At a bank there are typically higher account fees and borrowing rates, and lower interest rates on deposits.
  • Community or Regional Banks: Typically have a higher-level of personalized service and local expertise due to their presence in the community in which they operate. They might however, have limited financial products and services, branches, and ATMs compared to larger, national banks.
  • Credit Unions: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states, or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees and loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically will participate in an ATM network so their members can access services in various locations. Credit unions are known for delivering personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.
  • Online-Only Banks: These banks operate exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without any physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can typically minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

If the search for a financial institution for you and your family leads you to First Financial – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or check out our website to find out how you can become a member today.*

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

Five Valentine’s Date Ideas Under $25

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Valentine’s Day is often associated with fancy flower bouquets, pricey dinners, and big price tags – but when it comes to love, it’s really the thought that counts. A little creativity can make any budget go a long way in making your Valentine’s Day feel special, thoughtful, and romantic. Check out these five Valentine’s date ideas that celebrate love without spending more than $25.

1. Heart-Shaped Pancake or Waffle Bar

Make heart-shaped pancakes or waffles for breakfast or breakfast-for-dinner. Whether you’re making pancakes or waffles, all you’ll need is pancake mix or basic pantry staples to whip up a quick and delicious batter. If you want to take it a step further, pick up extra fixings – such as whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fruit.

To form the heart shapes for pancakes, use a pastry bag with a tip or a resealable plastic bag. Stand the pastry or resealable plastic bag up in a glass (folding the ends over the top) and fill it with the batter.

When you’re ready to cook, draw an outline of a heart on a heated, greased griddle and then fill in the center. If you’re using a resealable plastic bag, fill it with batter and then snip off one of the bottom corners (about 1/4”).

To make heart-shaped waffles, consider purchasing a heart-shaped waffle maker. Buying this waffle maker will still keep your budget under $25!

2. Shopping Challenge

Turn Valentine’s gift giving into a date itself with a shopping challenge. Set a spending limit you are both comfortable with, we’ll say $25 to keep within the parameters of this article – and head to a local dollar store, discount store, or department store together. The challenge is that you will set a time limit to shop separately and pick out items you think your partner will love, keeping within your budget. Think a book by their favorite author, an item they can put together (like a puzzle or LEGOS), or an assortment of their favorite snacks. After you’re done shopping, head home to do a gift exchange of the items you picked out. To make it even more thoughtful, you can take turns explaining why you picked out each item and why you thought your partner would love it.

If you have room left in your budget, consider stopping at a local coffee shop or bakery to pick up a coffee or sweet treat to enjoy together while you exchange gifts.

3. Make Candles Together 

Light the mood with homemade candles this Valentine’s Day. We found a step-by-step tutorial from Joys of Homemaking for how to make homemade candles, and some of the materials can even be found at home. We included a basic guide below, but be sure to visit the tutorial for full instructions.

Materials Needed: Wax melts or flakes (soy wax flakes are recommended and can be found at Hobby Lobby for $10.99) | Essential oils | Candle wicks (traditional or natural) | Disposable wooden stick or spoon, for stirring | Mason jars | Wick anchor (like a clothespin or chopsticks)

Steps:

  • Place the wax in a pot and set the pot on low to medium heat. Stir gently to ensure even melting. If you’re cautious about damaging your pot, a double boiler is the way to go. Simply fill the bottom pot with water and place the wax in the top pot.
  • Once the wax has fully melted, add in the essential oil(s) you selected. The number of drops will depend on the type of oil you are using and its potency – so be sure to do some research.
  • Secure your wick in place. One easy method is to use a small amount of melted wax, or you can choose pre-made wick stickers or anchors available at most craft stores. Once your wick is anchored, it’s time to stabilize it. Lay a chopstick (or a pencil) across the rim of the jar and tape the upright wick to it.
  • Let the wax cool down and then pour it into the jars. As you fill each jar, remember to leave a bit of space at the top.Once you have filled your jars, wait about an hour or so – until the wax solidifies. After the wax has completely hardened, it’s time for the final touch – cutting the wick to your desired length.

4. Game Night for Two

A game night is the perfect way to spend quality time together, have some friendly competition, and create an affordable date right at home. Take inventory of the board games you have, or card games you know how to play – and make a line-up for the evening. If you don’t have any games or cards at home, stick to the $25 budget and purchase one within the spending parameter. To make your game night even more Valentine’s themed, consider buying a couple’s game that tests your knowledge of each other or two-person board games that require you to put your heads together! If video games are more your thing, you can create a game night for those too.

5. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

If you and your partner have been together for some time, you might have a box stashed under the bed or in a closet – stuffed with mementos and tokens throughout your relationship. Consider pulling this box out to take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing on the good old days. This gives you a chance to connect with your partner and remember exactly what you love about your relationship, which is what the true spirit of the holiday is all about!  If you don’t have a box like this, consider making one together and add photos, love letters, or tickets from events you’ve been to.

If you’re local to Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and in search of other affordable ways to get out of the house this Valentine’s Day, or throughout the year – check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts. These blog posts are an easy way to stay updated on local, budget-friendly happenings all year round.

We hope you have an enjoyable (and affordable) Valentine’s Day!

How to Choose the Right Financial Institution for Your Small Business

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There are thousands of financial institutions offering business banking products and services, which can make choosing the right one time consuming for busy small business owners. Here’s a guide on how to decide on the institution that’s best for your business banking needs.

1. Consider Current and Future Needs of Your Business

Identify the needs of your business before deciding on a financial institution to avoid facing surprises down the road, such as not being able to perform a transaction that’s essential – or running into limitations when growing. Understanding your current needs, as well as how those needs will evolve with your business – will also help identify account types and features fit to your current and future operations.

Here are some questions to consider:

  • What day-to-day transactions do you conduct the most?
  • Is your business cash intensive or does it conduct mostly digital operations?
  • Do you need online and mobile banking access to manage your business finances on-the-go?
  • Does your business have multiple owners or signers needing account access?
  • What products, services, and support will your business need as it grows?

2. Identify Important Business Banking Features

It’s time to identify features that will support your needs and help effectively carry out day-to-day operations. This is important because features can widely vary not only between financial institutions, but between account types at the same institution.

To match needs to features – look at the needs you identified above and think about how the account features a financial institution offers can support them.

Some more questions to consider:

  • Is it easier to manage your finances digitally without visiting a branch?
  • What transactions do you complete through online or mobile banking?
  • Is full-service banking (keeping all your banking transactions at one financial institution) important to you?
  • Would you value your institution to provide personalized service and advice tailored to your business, even if it’s a smaller institution?

3. Common Types of Business Bank Accounts

There are many business accounts to choose from, made to support different business needs and functions.

Business Checking Account: An account where you will conduct and manage your day-to-day finances. You can accept payments, pay bills, and do your daily spending with this account. It’s foundational and essential for recordkeeping and tax filing.

Business Savings Account: An account that serves as a financial buffer, giving you quick access to funds in the event of an unexpected expense. It can also be used as a goal-oriented account to set funds aside for a specific financial goal. These accounts can be interest-bearing, allowing you to earn interest on funds while they aren’t being used.

Business Loan: Allows a business to borrow a set amount of funds, gaining access to capital for various purposes such as expanding operations or purchasing equipment.

Business Credit Card: Allows a business to manage cash flow by providing quick access to funds for supplies or other necessary expenses.

For small business owners in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, First Financial offers all of these account types to support your business through every stage.

4. Understand the Differences Between Financial Institutions

Banks: Owned by shareholders and operate for profit to drive returns to investors. They are typically open to anyone without specific eligibility criteria. Banks can have more branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility.

Credit Union: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees, lower loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically participates in an ATM network so members can access services in various locations. Credit unions deliver personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.

Online-Only Bank: Operates exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

5. Open Your Business Bank Account

Now that you’ve identified your business needs, as well as what account types and features will support those needs – you are ready to open an account at the institution that makes the most financial sense for you.

If you’re a small business owner in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and that leads you to First Financial as part of your search – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or visit our website to find out how you can become a business member today.*

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

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

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Love is in the air – and so are free or inexpensive local events to celebrate it! Check out these budget-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this month that say “Happy Valentine’s Day” without a hefty price tag.

February 6

Back to the 80s Dance Party (New Egypt) – Break out your legwarmers and neon for a night of reliving the iconic music and dance moves of the 80s at Laurita Winery, beginning at 7pm. This dance party will be filled with your favorite throwback hits, retro vibes, and nonstop fun. Admission is $11 per person in advance and $12 per person at the door. There will be alcoholic beverages available for purchase for those ages 21 and over. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

February 7

Tap the Sugar Maples (Howell) – Head over to the Howell Living History Farm from 10am-4pm for a lesson in how the sap from maple trees becomes pancake-ready! Expert tree-tappers will demonstrate the maple syrup production process from start to finish – beginning with how to tap a backyard maple tree to making syrup at home. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Valentine’s Sweet Stroll (Red Bank) – Enjoy a sweet afternoon of delicious treats and experiences in Downtown Red Bank from 11am-2pm. Your stroll begins at 6 Monmouth Street, where you will pick up your complimentary map and tote bag. Then you’ll continue exploring the small businesses and local eateries offering sweet deals, special treats, and unique experiences. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

February 8

Seals of Monmouth County (Port Monmouth) – You might have to seal it to believe it – but Monmouth County is the place many seals call “home” for the winter. Head over to the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center from 12pm-1pm to learn about our local seal population, how to identify the different species of seals, and what threats they may face along the Jersey Shore. There is no entry fee to attend and registration is not required. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Seals of Monmouth County.”

February 10

Healthy Eating: Mindful Choices for a Better You (Holmdel) – If one of your new year’s resolutions was to make healthier choices, check out this presentation at the Holmdel Branch of the Monmouth County Library System – beginning at 1:30pm. A Hackensack Meridian Registered Nurse will be presenting on how to simplify your health journey, how to elevate your overall wellbeing, and how to navigate advice when it can seem overwhelming. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

February 11

Valentine’s Day Pop-Up (Holmdel) – You can explore the Valentine’s Day Pop-Up at Bell Works from 11am-4pm – or again on February 14th from 11am-4pm if you miss it! Browse handcrafted items that make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, such as unique jewelry, clothing, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

February 14

Historical Valentines (Allentown) – Roses are red, violets are blue, and handwritten valentines are still a timeless tradition, too! Celebrate Valentine’s Day the old-fashioned way at Historic Walnford from 1pm-3pm. You’ll learn how love letters and valentines have changed since the 18th and 19th centuries, then take inspiration from what you’ve seen to create a love letter or valentine of your own with historically inspired materials. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Historical Valentines.”

Valentine’s Day Bazaar (Asbury Park) – Stop by Convention Hall to enjoy all things Valentine’s Day, all weekend long from 12pm-5pm. Explore the curated lineup of local makers and small businesses to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved ones (or yourself). In addition to love, live music and DJ sets will be in the air too! There will also be food and beverages, a themed photo wall to strike a pose with your sweetheart or besties, a fresh flower bouquet bar, family-friendly activities, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Winter Beach Walk (Manasquan) – If you and your special someone love long walks on the beach, you’ll love this Winter Beach Walk at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area from 11am-12:30pm. A Park System Naturalist will take you on a guided walk, identifying some of the ocean’s treasures and letting you stop to collect some along the way. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring something to carry shells in. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Winter Beach Walk.”

February 21

Black History Month Celebration (Toms River) – Celebrate Black History Month with musical entertainment and great food at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 12pm-3pm. There will be a food tasting prepared by members of the Toms River Area NAACP and a musical performance by veteran singer, producer, and songwriter Dave Revels. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Monmouth Moms Winter Play & Craft Fair (Holmdel) – Head over to Bell Works for a family-friendly indoor Winter Play & Craft Fair from 11am-3pm. This event will feature arts and crafts stations, a kids zone with open play areas, STEM activities, story time, a magic show, character visits, and more. Parents are welcome to explore the offerings of 80+ local vendors while the children are kept busy with countless activities. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Registration is required. Click here to learn more and register.

Winter Beach Blast (Toms River) – Don’t let any snow on the ground fool you, it’s summer inside the Ocean County Mall from 1pm-4pm. There will be a giant Twister game, crafts, and activities the whole family will enjoy. Additionally, Ocean County Parks and Recreation along with Jenkinson’s Aquarium – will be on-site providing activities and information for attendees. Click here to learn how you can experience summer instead of braving the cold for an afternoon.

Winter Warmup (Lakehurst) – Escape the winter blues with an afternoon of free family fun at Proving Ground Church from 1pm-3pm. They’ve got everyone covered with activities for all ages – such as games, crafts, facepainting, a hot cocoa bar, bounce house sanctuary, toddler soft play area, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. You can find additional information here.

February 22

Yoga at the Aquarium (Point Pleasant Beach) – Participate in a relaxing and mindful yoga session surrounded by sea life at Jenkinson’s Aquarium from 9am-10am. This program welcomes those ages 10 and older of all experience levels (minors must be accompanied by a participating adult). Admission is $30 per person and includes admission to the aquarium for the day following the session. You can register for the event and learn more information here.

February 23

Yoga for Beginners (Manalapan) – Stay active this winter by participating in a beginner yoga class at the Manalapan Branch of the Monmouth County Library System at 6:30pm. A yoga instructor will lead the session to help free the mind and body from everyday stress. This program welcomes adults ages 18 and older of all experience levels. A yoga mat or thick towel is required to participate. There is no entry fee to attend, and registration is not required. Click here for additional information and disclosures.

February 28

Puzzle Swap (Brick) – The only feeling better than finishing a puzzle is starting a new one, so head over to the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 10am-12pm to find your next adventure. Bring in as many gently used puzzles as you’d like to swap with other puzzle enthusiasts. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.