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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.

Money-Saving Meals: Recipes to Try in the New Year

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The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reset your budget and find ways to cut costs – and one of the easiest places to start is right in your kitchen. The rising cost of groceries and expensive food delivery services can quietly drain your wallet. Swapping out takeout for low-cost pantry essentials can help you save more money without sacrificing any of the flavor. Check out these simple meals made of typically inexpensive ingredients – you can just taste the savings!

Mushroom Ramen Noodles

Ramen is already a staple among college students because it is a budget-friendly, convenient option. It’s a great base that can turn into a satisfying meal for you, too – with the help of a few inexpensive additions!

Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients: 1 pack instant ramen noodles (any flavor) | 1 lb. wild mushrooms, sliced | 2 Tbsp vegetable oil | 1 Tbsp butter

  1. Set aside the flavor packet provided with the ramen. Soak the packet of instant ramen noodles in warm water for 5 minutes. Drain the noodles and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, stir fry together the sliced wild mushrooms and the ramen flavor packet with vegetable oil for 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Add the butter and noodles to the skillet and toss for one minute. Add the mushrooms and combine.
  4. Optional: Add any other toppings you would like to the noodles. Common favorites are diced green onions or sriracha sauce.

Check out the full recipe here.

Spicy Penne Pasta

This is an affordable twist on a classic Italian dish, still packed full of flavor.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients: 1 lb. box of penne pasta | 1/4 cup olive oil | 3 cloves garlic, chopped | 28 oz. chopped tomatoes | 1/2 tsp red chili flakes | 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | 6 leaves fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish if desired) | Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, optional (for garnish)

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, for about 9 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and heat until the oil starts to shimmer. Add the garlic and cook, stirring until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes, red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the chopped basil.
  4. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Garnish with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and more basil if desired. Serve warm.

Get the full recipe here.

Black Bean Burgers

Swapping ground beef for black beans is one of the easiest ways to keep a classic burger dish low in cost and high in protein.

Yield: 1 big or 2 small patties

Ingredients: 2 cups of black beans, drained and mashed | 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup grated onions | 1/2 tsp chili powder | 1 egg | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | Canola oil, for oiling grill pan | 1-2 kaiser rolls | Desired toppings, optional

  1. Mix together the beans, breadcrumbs, onions, chili powder, egg, and some salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Form the mixture into 1 big (or 2 smaller) patties.
  2. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add the canola oil. Cook the burger for 4 minutes per side. Serve on a kaiser roll with desired toppings.

Learn how to make these black bean burgers here.

Bistro Egg Sandwiches

These sandwiches can be made at home for just a fraction of the price – and taste just as good as ordering one out.

Yield: 4 sandwiches

Ingredients: 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature | 1-2 tsp Dijon mustard | 1-2 tsp anchovy paste | 1 baguette, cut into 4 pieces and each halved lengthwise | 4 large eggs | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | 1/4 lb. country pate or ham, cut into 4 slices | 2 oz. cheese of choice, sliced (gruyere and Comte are favorites) | 1 cup frisee or other greens | Sliced chives, for garnish

  1. Preheat broiler to high. In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with Dijon mustard and anchovy paste until smooth.
  2. Spread the anchovy butter on the cut sides of the bread. Place the buttered side up on a baking sheet and broil until toasted, 1 to 2 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Crack in the eggs. Season with salt and pepper and let cook until the yolks just begin to firm up and the edges are slightly crisp, about 3 minutes.
  4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing 2 bread halves on each of 4 plates, topping with a slice of pate, an egg, cheese, greens and chives.

Get the full recipe here.

Chicken Teriyaki Dump Dinner

This one-pan chicken teriyaki dinner is both quick to make and clean up – and is bursting with flavor.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients: Non-stick cooking spray | 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth | 3/4 cup teriyaki sauce | 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce | 2 Tbsp sesame oil | 2 tsp grated ginger | 3 cloves garlic, grated | 2 tsp salt | 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced | 1 red onion, sliced | 2 & 1/2 cups broccoli florets | 1 red bell pepper, sliced | 3 scallions, sliced

  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Whisk together the chicken broth, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic and salt in a medium bowl until combined. Add the chicken and stir to coat.
  3. Spread the rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour in the teriyaki mixture, scattering the chicken evenly. Scatter the onion, broccoli and bell pepper evenly over the top.
  4. Cover with foil and bake until the vegetables have softened but are still vibrant, about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the juices have thickened and the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes more. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb more of the moisture.
  5. Top with sliced scallions.

Check out the full recipe here.

By keeping your pantry stocked with staples and keeping these or similar money-saving recipes handy – your kitchen can turn into a new source of savings in the new year.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to see more money-saving hacks like this delivered right to your inbox.

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

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The new year calls for new adventures! Check out these free or inexpensive events in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that will help you kick off the new year with good times – not high price tags.

January 3

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – If you’re trying to soak up every second of the holiday spirit while you still can, Holland Ridge Farms’ Winter Wonderland is the place to be – coming to an end after January 4th. Although Santa has since made his return to the North Pole, you can still enjoy an array of twinkling lights and holiday displays, interactive family-fun activities, festive food, sweet treats, and handcrafted beverages. Admission is $20 per person all weekend long, with children ages 2 and under free of charge. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

January 10

Under the Winter Stars (Colts Neck) – Bundle up and search for the wonders of the universe at Dorbrook Recreational Area Soccer Field Parking Lot from 7:30pm-8:30pm. You will gaze into the night sky in search of constellations, planets, and satellites – and you might even see a shooting star streak across the sky if you’re lucky. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and a flashlight to light your way in the dark. There is no entry fee to attend. The event will be cancelled in the event of overcast skies or inclement weather. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Under the Winter Stars.”

Winter Beach Walk (Manasquan) – Who says beach days are only for summer? Bundle up and take a walk along the beach at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area in search of the ocean’s treasures from 11am-12:30pm. A Park System Naturalist will take you on a guided walk, identifying some of those 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.”

January 14

Princess Tea Party with Elsa (Toms River) – Your little ones will feel like they are right out of a Disney story at the Mathis House’s Princess Tea Party beginning at 6:30pm. You and your crew can enjoy an assortment of treats and teas while exploring the beautifully decorated mansion. Plus, Elsa will make a special appearance for a sing-along, story time, and pictures with the children. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Click here to learn more and visit The Mathis House page on RESY to book your visit.

January 17

Nature Walk: Signs of Animals of Winter (Toms River) – Bundle up and search for signs of the animals that call Cattus Island home for the winter on Saturday or Sunday, beginning at 2:00pm. A Naturalist will teach you about the Cattus Island ecosystem and help you search for the clues animals leave behind. You will meet at the Cooper Environmental Center before beginning your winter walk. There is no entry fee to attend and registration is not required. For more information, search “Signs of Animals of Winter” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

January 18

Sandy Snow Globes (Beachwood) – If the winter weather has you daydreaming of warmer days, head over to Jakes Branch County Park to make sandy snow globes from 10:30am-12pm. You will design a snow globe using only sand and seashells – so every time you peer inside, you can be transported to a summer day. Tickets are $10 per person and include all materials. This activity is intended for those ages 14 and up. A registration form and check must be mailed to the Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administrative Offices prior to attending the event. For more information, as well as registration form instructions, search “Sandy Snow Globes” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

Solving STEM Problems with LEGOs (Barnegat) – Put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test using LEGOs (and your brain) at Cloverdale Farm County Park from 10:30am-11:30am. You will create simple contraptions that solve practical STEM-related problems one LEGO piece at a time. There is no entry fee to attend, however; registration is required. A registration form must be mailed to the Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administrative Offices prior to attending the event. For more information, as well as registration form instructions, search “Solving STEM Problems with LEGOs” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

January 24

Book Sip N’ Swap (Howell) – If you have any books on your bookshelf that are getting dusty, consider finding them a new home at the Howell Library Book Sip N’ Swap from 2:00pm-3:30pm. You and other fellow booklovers will have the chance to bring five new or gently used books you no longer want, to trade for new ones. Plus, you can enjoy a cup of tea or hot chocolate while you search for your next read – or five. There is no entry fee to attend. Registration is not required. Learn more here.

January 25

Country Line Dancing & Cornhole (Toms River) – Bring the family down to Fun Bags Cornhole Lounge for a night of cornhole and line dancing from 6pm-9pm. If you’re new to line dancing, there will be beginner lessons from 6:00pm-6:30pm that are sure to get you moving on the dance floor. The event is BYOB for anyone ages 21 or older. Tickets are $12 per person in advance of the event and $13 per person at the door. Click here to learn more and purchase your tickets.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and your loved ones continued success and joy as we enter the new year.

How to Make Financial Goals Part of Your Daily Routine

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New Year’s resolutions can be easy to make, but hard to keep – especially without a plan in place. If your resolutions include financial goals, integrating simple habits into your daily routine to achieve them might be easier than you think. Here are steps you can take to make financial goals part of your daily routine, and why those steps matter.

Why Daily Habits Matter for Financial Success

Adding a new routine activity, no matter how big or small – into your already busy day might seem daunting. However, completing simple, achievable daily steps is one of the key actions you can take to reach your goals. This consistency will build discipline and confidence, and you will eventually consider these habits a “non-negotiable” part of your day. Furthermore, breaking a large goal into “bite-size” pieces can make that goal feel more attainable – as well as provide frequent checkpoints for tracking your progress.

Step 1: Clearly Define Your Goals and the Motivation Behind Them

An achievable goal is one that is clearly defined. A common framework for goalsetting is called SMART goals – which can help you create specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. Many goals fail because they are ambiguous, making it difficult to monitor progress and leaving you uncertain in how to achieve them. Additionally, goals can fail if they are clearly out of reach or you don’t have the means to achieve them given your current lifestyle. For example, if your goal is to save $1,000 a month but you only have $500 left after paying your monthly expenses – you might become discouraged from saving at all. SMART goals take uncertainty away to help ensure you cross the finish line.

If your goal is to pay off debt, you are more likely to have a successful outcome if it is structured as follows: “I will pay off $5,000 of credit card debt by December 31, 2026 by making a $208 payment plus interest every payday from the first payday of the year.” This goal is specific by mentioning the amount and type of debt, measurable every payday, and time-bound by setting a target payoff date. Click here to learn more about using SMART goals to achieve positive outcomes.

Another important part of setting goals is considering your why. Do you want to become debt free so you can purchase a home? Do you want to curb your impulse purchases to put more money toward your emergency fund? Your why will help you focus on the bigger picture.

Step 2: Personalize Your Routine with Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Habits

Personalizing your routine by creating daily, weekly, and monthly habits will make you more likely to reach your goals. Taking small actions in different frequencies will help make your goals feel attainable and easier for your current routine to accommodate new habits.

Let’s return to the financial goal of paying off $5,000 of credit card debt. A daily habit can be setting aside 5 minutes every morning to review your spending to ensure you’re on track to make your credit card payment. A weekly habit can be reviewing your budget to see if you have any upcoming expenses to plan for that could impact your debt repayment plan. A monthly habit can be reviewing your progress toward paying off the credit card – which gives you a chance to celebrate the progress you’ve made and stay motivated.

Step 3: Use Tools That Work for You

There are many tools out there claiming they will help you track your goals and create better money habits. While that may be true, the best tools to help you reach your goals are the ones you will actually use. If the thought of tracking your spending with a spreadsheet doesn’t excite you, deciding to use one might do more harm than good. Your success won’t necessarily come from a fancy budgeting app – it will come from the tools you use that make it easy to show up and work toward your goals every day.

Step 4: Automate When Possible

Automating your habits can help you make progress toward your goals even on the busy days. Back to the credit card example – setting up an automatic, recurring payment to your credit card can help make sure you never miss a payment.

Step 5: Hold Yourself Accountable, but Realize Progress isn’t Always Linear

Accountability is another important component of integrating financial goals into your routine. By checking in with yourself or a trusted individual, you can identify potential shortcomings early, come up with a plan to get back on track, and avoid shying away from uncomfortable conversations. Progress isn’t always linear – you might make great strides one week but fall short the next, and that’s okay! Be sure to celebrate your successes, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t quite meet the mark one week.

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and one of your financial goals in the new year is joining a credit union – get started in one of our local branches today, or give us a call at 732.312.1500.

The First Financial team wishes you continued success in the new year!

Family-Friendly Holiday Activities on a Budget

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From decking the halls and shopping for everyone on your nice list, to joining in on festive activities that spread joy – the holiday season can quickly become the most expensive time of the year. Luckily, making the holidays feel magical for your family doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Check out these low cost, family-friendly activities that are guaranteed to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.

1. Festive Walk or Drive to See Holiday Lights

Bundle up and embark on a festive walk or drive through a neighborhood that is decked out in holiday lights and classic character inflatables. Your community’s front yard displays can help transform an ordinary winter night into something special (without a price tag).

2. Holiday Movie Marathon

Bring the movie theater to your living room by hosting a holiday movie marathon! Decide on the perfect line-up of movies that will get you and your family in the spirit. Many holiday classics play free on various television networks throughout the season or can be rented on streaming services – often for a fraction of the price of movie theater tickets. Repurpose blankets, pillows, and cushions to create a cozy set-up. To elevate the experience even further, consider making a holiday-themed “concession stand” out of items you have in your pantry or that can be purchased affordably. Create a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings, make festive popcorn with holiday sprinkles, or bake seasonal cookies to enjoy.

 3. Make Homemade Ornaments

Turn your kitchen into your own version of Santa’s workshop by crafting homemade ornaments. With a few affordable supplies that can be found at local dollar and craft stores, you can create magical memories and holiday keepsakes. Not only will you end up with a Christmas tree of meaningful ornaments – they make great gifts for friends and family members, too.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these bead candy cane ornaments. All you need are pipe cleaners, festive colored beads, string, and ribbon!

4. Enjoy Local Events

Many towns host free or low cost events to spread holiday cheer in the community – and yours might be one of them! Keep your eye out for festive activities like Christmas tree or Menorah lightings, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family-fun days with seasonal crafts and games. You can find activities like this posted on your town or county website, in public groups or forums on Facebook and Nextdoor, or from flyers around the community. If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts – which feature local, affordable, and family-friendly activities for the season.

5. Start a Gratitude Jar

‘Tis the season to reflect on everything you’re grateful for, and a gratitude jar can help you express gratitude each day of the holiday season! You can start this tradition by encouraging your family to set time aside daily to write a note expressing a moment – big or small, in which they are thankful for or that brought them joy. These notes should be dropped into your “gratitude jar,” which should be kept in a visible spot so that everyone remembers to add their note daily. At the end of the season, gather your family together to read notes from the jar. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the year and share one another’s favorite moments and memories. Plus, with the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season – it can be easy to forget the simple things that brought a smile to your face this year.

6. Create Your Own Family Holiday Story

Tap into your family’s creative side to make a holiday story. To involve the whole crew, consider splitting up storytelling responsibilities. For example, the children can create the characters, and the parents can decide on a theme and plot. You might center your story around a task that must be completed as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, or throw a festive holiday spin on the main character’s activities. After your idea has been developed, it’s time to bring the story to life by writing the narrative and adding illustrations. The magic of crafting a holiday tale is that the story can go wherever your imagination takes you. This activity will leave you with special memories and a story that can be incorporated into holiday traditions for years to come.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to get monthly lists of low cost, family-friendly activities like this right to your inbox.

First Financial wishes you and yours a wonderful holiday season!

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this December 2025

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Check out these free or inexpensive events in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are sure to deliver big holiday cheer without stretching your budget!

December 1

Magic Of Lights: Drive-Through Holiday Experience (Holmdel) – Buckle up and drive right into the holiday spirit at PNC Bank Arts Center through December 30th, beginning at 5pm each evening. You will drive through a selection of dazzling lights, classic holiday scenes, and well-known characters. You can also venture to the village to take pictures with Santa, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, and enjoy festive activities. Ticket prices vary. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 2

Christmas Tree Lighting (Freehold) – There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by counting down to see a Christmas tree twinkle to life! Stop by the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Hall of Records from 5pm-7pm, with a rain date of December 3rd. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cider, and enjoy a choir performance – and a very special holiday guest may join in, too!  There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

The Village at Anne Ellen (Manalapan) – Experience holiday magic on select dates through December 30th between 5pm-9pm. You will embark on a nostalgic wagon ride that will drop you off at the village – and begin an enchanting journey through illuminated pathways, festive displays, cozy scenes, and charming shops. Tickets must be purchased online, and the admission price varies. Click here to purchase tickets and experience an unforgettable evening of festive cheer.

December 3

Winter Holiday Lighting (Marlboro) – Join Marlboro Township in the annual lighting of the Menorah, Christmas Tree, and Crescent beginning at 6pm. There will be live holiday music, family-fun activities, a dessert buffet, and character appearances from Santa, Miss Elf, and Little Dreidel. Learn more here.

December 5

Christmas Tree Lighting (Toms River) – Stop by the Christmas Tree Lighting at 33 Washington Street in Downtown Toms River from 5:30pm-7:30pm. With live entertainment, family activities, and a special visitor from the North Pole – we can’t think of anything that will get you in the holiday spirit faster! There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – Holland Ridge Farm has bloomed into a Winter Wonderland through January 4th. Twinkling holiday lights and all the festive classics are scattered amongst the tulips, creating an event that might become your newest holiday tradition. Santa will be making a trip down from the North Pole on select dates, too! Admission ranges from $17 to $25, and children ages 2 and under are always free. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 6

Hometown Christmas (Lavalette) – This Lavallette tradition is back to spread hometown holiday cheer from 11am-3pm. You can stroll through town, pop into participating local businesses to enjoy various festive crafts, and embark on a horse and carriage ride alongside Santa. There are additional details on the Lavallette Beach NJ Facebook page.

Winter Wonderland (Toms River) – Downtown Toms River will transform into a winter wonderland for the community to enjoy from 11am-4pm. There will be holiday music drifting through Washington Street, as well as family fun activities, caroling, face and ornament painting, holiday story time, and more. Your favorite local businesses and vendors will be selling various handcrafted gifts, bringing the holiday shopping to you! There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to see how you can ring in the holiday season in Downtown Toms River.

December 7

Breakfast with Santa (Shrewsbury) – Your little one can tell Santa their Christmas wish list over a delicious, hot breakfast at the Shrewsbury Firehouse from 9am-12pm. Everyone is encouraged to come hungry, festive, and ready to smile for a picture with Santa. Admission is $10 for those ages 4 & up, and free for those ages 3 & under. Additional information can be found here.

Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting (Holmdel) – There will be double the lights and double the cheer at the Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting at Town Hall from 4pm-6pm. From free hot chocolate and an inflatable snow maze with a gingerbread obstacle course, to face painting and a DJ mixing classic holiday hits – everyone in the family is sure to have a jolly good time. Plus, you can give Santa a warm welcome when he arrives with the help of the Holmdel Fire & Rescue. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop Vendor Market (Toms River) – Jingle all the way home after an afternoon of sipping and shopping at Garden State Distillery from 12pm-4pm. Local makers, artisans, and small businesses will be selling unique items perfect for someone on your list. If you are over 21 years of age, your shopping can be made even more festive with the help of a seasonal craft drink from the distillery. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

December 13

Brunch with Santa & Children’s Holiday Shopping Bazaar (Toms River) – Join Santa for brunch and holiday shopping at the Toms River Elks #1875 from 9am-1pm. Your little ones can share their wish lists and take photos with Santa. They can then take the reins at the holiday shopping bazaar – where items are all priced at $10 or less. Tickets are $12 for those ages 12 & up, and $6 for those ages 12 & under. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door, but will be cash only. Pre-payment for seating is strongly encouraged. Click here to find additional information and make your reservation.

Holiday Made in Monmouth (Lincroft) – If you still have people to shop for on your “nice list,” head to Brookdale Community College from 10am-4pm. With over 200 local vendors selling one-of-a-kind items, you’re sure to go home with something for everyone on your list. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

School of Rock Jingle Jam (Brick) – Enjoy an afternoon of family fun activities from 11am-2pm. There will be live performances by student musicians, festive crafts, and pictures with Santa. You’ll also have the chance to become an instant star by joining a spontaneous rock band. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

December 16

Menorah Lighting (Howell) – Join the community in the annual tradition of lighting the Menorah at the Howell Municipal Building, beginning at 5:30pm. In addition to lighting the Menorah, there will be free hot drinks and pastries to enjoy. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to view the event details.

December 21

Christmas at Allaire (Wall) – The Historic Village at Allaire is being transformed into the North Pole from 11am-4pm. Shop for seasonal goods as you enjoy the sound of live carolers and sip on cozy hot chocolate – and maybe run into Santa too. Step back in time and celebrate the holidays the Victorian way, with ornament making and traditional party games. Tickets can be purchased online for $13.58 for those ages 4 & older, and this event is free for those ages 3 & under. You can find more details and purchase tickets here.

December 31

First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration (Seaside Heights) – Ask yourself, “How is it already 2026?” at this family fun event at Seaside Heights Boardwalk from 1pm-5pm. With magic, wildlife, bubble and sing-along shows, to photo ops with your favorite characters – you’re in for an action-packed afternoon! The celebration ends with a balloon drop and countdown to the new year that will have the family in bed before midnight. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

Twilight Fun Run/Walk & Party (Manasquan) – Start the new year on a good foot at this 2-Mile Fun Run or Walk, beginning at Leggett’s Sand Bar at 4pm. Participating is a two-for-one deal – you can end 2025 as a 10,000-step day, and then enjoy a free buffet at Leggett’s. The Fun Run costs $35 per runner/walker, or $20 for those just looking to join in on the fun at the party afterward. Pre-registration is encouraged. Click here to learn more and “run” into 2026 in a unique way.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and yours a joyous holiday season. We look forward to serving the Monmouth and Ocean County community with the same dedication and personalized financial service in 2026.