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

Posted on September 2, 2025 by Business Development Rep Samantha

We hope these free or inexpensive happenings in Monmouth and Ocean Counties will pumpkin spice up your September!

September 3

Fall Concert Series (Freehold) – All you need is a lawn chair to enjoy free outdoor concerts at the Hall of Records every Wednesday through October 15th from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Each week will bring different voices the whole family will love, from widely known groups to local talent. Check out the schedule and voices you can look forward to hearing here.

September 6

Bugs, Birds, and Beyond Children’s Festival (Freehold) – Bring the whole family to the Monmouth County Agricultural Building from 12pm-4pm for an afternoon crawling with fun. This festival brings nature’s wonders to Monmouth County – giving you the chance to experience a nature scavenger hunt and story time under the trees, crafts, exciting experiments, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Neptune Day – Come see what makes Neptune great at Neptune Day, taking place at the Neptune Middle School Parking Lot from 12pm-5pm. There will be carnival games, a petting zoo, vendors, festival fare, and more. There is no entry fee, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Sailfest (Toms River) – Bring your family and friends to Sailfest for a boatload of fun on River Avenue from 10am-10pm. Known as the largest sailing festival in New Jersey – it attracts thousands from all over the East Coast to spectate Sail Race Regattas, enjoy live music and family activities, visit food trucks, shop local vendors, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be various goods available for purchase. Click here to learn how you can say “Ahoy!” to this fun-filled festival.

September 13

Fall Festival (Lacey) – If you’re looking for a day that looks like it’s straight out of a movie, check out the Fall Festival at Argos Farm – happening on select dates at various times through November 1st. You can stroll through the pumpkin patch in search of the perfect pumpkin, find your way through a corn maze, sample tasty seasonal treats, and enjoy fun farm attractions. For those looking for a picture-perfect photo op, you’ll find it here! General admission pricing will become available in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for additional information here.

Ocean County History Day (Toms River) – The Ocean County Historical Society will be bringing Ocean County’s rich history to life from 10am-3pm. There will be reenactments, displays from various local historical organizations, and a tour of the Elizabeth Sculthrop House and Museum. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information.

The Feast of San Gennaro (Belmar) – Enjoy a slice of Italy right in the heart of the Jersey Shore at the Feast of San Gennaro between 11am and 6pm. The festival begins with a special mass presented in Italian at St. Rose Catholic Church at 10am for those who are interested. Immediately after, there will be a procession down Main Street – taking you right into Italian food, live music, and vendors. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be Italian cuisine available for purchase. Learn more here.

September 14

Jackson Day – Celebrate the town of Jackson at Johnson Memorial Park from 11am-8pm. This community celebration includes carnival rides and games, giveaways from sponsors, a drone show, sky divers, an ATV and dirt bike exhibition, food, a craft and flea market, and more! Although there is no entry fee to attend or to partake in most activities, there will be food and vendor items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Oakley Farm Fall Festival (Freehold) – You don’t have to wait until the official start of fall to get in the spirit – head over to Oakley Farm to celebrate the unofficial start of autumn from 11am-4pm. There will be live music, family-friendly activities and crafts, vendors, a bake sale, and more. Plus, all buildings will be open for tours – so it’s the perfect opportunity to check out this historical gem of Freehold if you haven’t already done so. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. You can find additional information here.

September 19

Fall Festivities (Cream Ridge) – Stone Tavern Orchards is serving up the fall spirit every weekend from 9:30am-4:30pm, through mid-November. Your experience will begin with a hayride that takes you to a fork in the road – where you will decide if you want to start with the orchards, pumpkin patch, flower patch, corn maze, or corn pit. Admission is $9 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-11, with children 3 and under being free to attend. You will have to pay for what you pick. See how you can fall in love with fall at Stone Tavern Orchards.

September 20

Fall Harvest Festival (Wall) – Head over to the Historic Village at Allaire if you want to experience all things autumn, taking place from 11am-4pm both Saturday and Sunday. From apple cider pressing and pie baking contests, to vendors and on-site shops selling fall-themed goods – this festival is autumn all wrapped up in a little bow. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 to 12, with children 3 and under being free to attend. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

Howell Day & Green Fair takes place at Soldier Memorial Park from 3pm-8pm. This free, fun for the whole family event will get everyone outdoors and soaking up the last official days of summer. There will be inflatables and mechanical rides, live music and entertainment, demonstrations, vendors, and more. The day ends with a fireworks show at dusk. Learn how to get in on the fun!

Oktoberfest (Highlands) – Highlands is bringing Germany to the Jersey Shore at Oktoberfest, taking place in Veterans Park from 12pm-7pm. The park will come alive with traditional German cuisine, polka music and traditional German dances, a beer stein holding contest, craft and specialty vendors, and more. And of course, it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without an array of beer for those ages 21+. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here for more information.

Wind & Sea Festival (Port Monmouth) – Head over to Bayshore Waterfront Park from 11am-5pm to celebrate all things water. You can enjoy various coastal activities such as kayaking, fishing, crabbing, sandcastle building, children’s crafts, naturalist activities, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. You can learn more here.

September 26

Greek Festival (Toms River) – Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church is hosting a festival all weekend long, beginning Friday at noon and running through Sunday at 6pm. Sprawling both indoors and outdoors – there will be an outdoor food court and indoor dining room selling authentic Greek cuisine, traditional Greek dances, music performed by GOYANS and youth groups, games and entertainment, vendors, and more. There is parking at Ocean County College Lot #2 with a free shuttle service to the festival. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. You can find additional information here.

September 27

Fall Craft and Vendor Show (Wall) – Two worlds collide at the Fall Craft and Vendor Show at the Historic Village at Allaire, happening from 10am-4pm. Perfect for those who enjoy both history and all things homemade – there will be over 140 vendors displaying and selling their works, while the village will be conducting historical demonstrations and showcasing exhibits. Admission is $10 for those ages 10 and up, with children under 10 being free to attend. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets to shop and soak up the beginning of fall.

Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy and Gunning Show (Tuckerton) – The Decoy and Gunning show will give you a taste of folk life at Stanley “Tip” Seaman County Park on Saturday from 7am-5pm and Sunday from 7am-4pm. This weekend-long event is jam-packed with activities like archery, drop-in weaving classes for adults and children, carving and folk-art demonstrations, and boat rides. There will also be various exhibits like dock dog demonstrations, new and antique decoys, and musical performances. For our more competitive folks – various contests will be taking place throughout the weekend. There is no entry fee to attend and there will be free shuttles to the show from various locations. Click here to learn more.

September 28

Harvest Home Festival (Holmdel) – No time machine is needed to experience a country fair from the 1890s at Historic Longstreet Farm from 11am-5pm. The whole family is sure to enjoy the games, craft demonstrations, wagon rides, live entertainment, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn how you can celebrate fall like it’s the 1800s.

SPUR Family Barn Dance (Lincroft) – Come learn to line dance with the family while benefitting Special People United to Ride (SPUR) at Thompson Park Activity Barn from 1pm-4pm. Line dance your heart away, no matter your experience level. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child ages 10 and under. You can get additional information and purchase tickets online here.

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

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Business Development Rep Samantha

August is packed with free or inexpensive activities to help you soak up every last bit of the summer sun without draining your wallet!

August 1

Clamfest (Highlands) – If you want to feel like you’re at the beach without all the sand in your shoes, head over to Clamfest at Huddy Park – taking place from August 1st through August 3rd at various times. Though the name might suggest otherwise, you don’t have to be a self-proclaimed seafood lover to enjoy the weekend. In addition to the array of seafood offerings – there will be food trucks selling festival favorites, a beer, wine, and sangria garden (for those ages 21+), live music, and a fireworks display on Saturday. There is no entry fee to attend. You can find more information here.

August 2

Latino Festival (New Egypt) – Bring your friends and family to Laurita Winery to enjoy a weekend of Latin culture and cuisine, taking place from 12pm-9pm on Saturday and 12pm-7pm on Sunday. There will be an array of food trucks, live music, and local vendors to enjoy all weekend – with a side of wine (for those ages 21+). Supervised children are welcome and can enjoy a clown and facepainting artist, as well as an outdoor playground. Admission is $14, and there will be various wine and dine options available for purchase. Click here to learn more and to buy tickets online.

August 5

Cardboard Boat Regatta (Manahawkin) – See how far cardboard, tape, and creativity can take you at Manahawkin Lake Park beginning at 4pm. Your vessel (constructed only of cardboard and tape), will be put to the test to make a successful voyage across Manahawkin Lake. Boats will be inspected at 4pm and sailing will begin at 5pm. There is no fee to race or spectate, but you must register before the event to participate. Click here to learn how to register your boat and make a prize (and bragging rights) yours.

National Night Out (Howell) – Join Howell Township Police Athletic League for National Night Out at Soldier Memorial Park from 5pm-8pm. National Night Out is an annual event celebrated across the United States to promote safety and foster positive connections between citizens and local law enforcement – and an easy way to keep your young ones busy and having fun on a summer night. There will be live demonstrations, music, giveaways, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

National Night Out (Little Egg Harbor) – National Night Out is also making its way to Little Egg Harbor, taking place at Pinelands Regional High School from 6pm-9pm. There will be a K-9 demo, live music, food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

August 6

Family Movie Night (Freehold) – There is a free family movie to enjoy every Wednesday through August 20th at the Hall of Records, beginning at 8:30pm. All you need is a lawn chair or blanket! This movie showing will be The Lion King 1 & 1/2. Click here to see the rest of the movies you can catch this summer.

Italian Festival (Oakhurst) – If you’re looking to mangia, mingle, and make memories with the whole family – explore the Italian Festival at Joe Palaia Park, taking place from August 6th through 11th at various times. It wouldn’t be an Italian festival without the chance to sample traditional foods, enjoy wholesome family fun, and immerse yourself in Italian-American heritage and culture – and this festival offers exactly that. There is no entry fee to attend. There will be food and ride tickets available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

August 8

Sidewalk Sale (Red Bank) – The pavement isn’t only sizzling from the heat of the sun – there’s also hot bargains at the Annual Sidewalk Sale, taking place August 8th through 10th from 10am-6pm. The Sidewalk Sale will get you strolling along the sidewalks of Red Bank to shop and support local businesses at the same time. There is no entry fee to attend, but we can’t promise you won’t shell out your wallet for something that catches your eye! Learn more here.

August 10

Funky Flea Market (Long Beach Island) – Calling all thrifters, vintage-lovers, and garage-salers – come on down to the St. Francis Community Center Gym from 9:30am-3pm for an event that is part garage sale, part craft show, and all treasure hunt! Whether you are drawn to garage sales for the charm, craft fairs for the creativity, or thrifting for the vintage finds – the Funky Flea Market promises to help you find your next favorite thing or inspiration for your next project. Admission is $3. Click here for more information.

August 13

Summer Concert Series (Howell) – Catch the final performance of Howell Township’s Summer Concert Series at Soldier Memorial Park, beginning at 5pm. A DJ will be spinning tracks to enjoy as you arrive, check out the food vendors and beer & wine garden (for those ages 21+), and gear up for the band to take stage at 7pm. The final performance is by Garden State Radio, who promises a night that feels more like a stadium concert than a local cover band in the park. The concert ends with a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food and alcoholic beverages (for those ages 21+) for purchase. Click here to see how you can enjoy a fun-filled night of music.

August 15

Feel Good Fest (Toms River) – Feel Good Fest is bringing “feel good” vibes at Brew Grounds Café from 4pm-8pm. We mean it when we say Feel Good Fest has something for the whole family to enjoy – it’s not every day you come by a festival that has a car show, farmers market, family-fun activities, food trucks, yoga & wellness, massages, and more – all in one place! There is no entry fee to attend. You can find additional information here.

Sunflower Festival (Lacey) – The Sunflower Festival has bloomed at Argos Farm, open select Fridays through Sundays from 3pm-8pm between August 15th and 31st. The fields are budding with photo opportunities and sunflowers to be picked and displayed – or given to someone special. There will also be live music, farm-fun activities, and tasty treats to enjoy as you stroll through the fields. General admission is $12.95 in advance and $21.95 at the gate, children ages 2 and under are free to attend. You can learn more here.

August 16

Butterfly Tent Event (Toms River) – Fly over to the Butterfly Tent Event at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County from 11am-3pm if you want to incorporate science into your summer fun. You will have the chance to walk through a display tent and learn about everything butterflies. There will also be activities and educational stations for children of all ages. There is no entry fee to attend, but donations are welcome. You can find additional information here.

August 19

Summer Concert Series (Toms River) – Bring a blanket or a chair to rock out to some tunes at this installment of Toms River’s Summer Concert Series at Shelter Cove Beach at 7pm. You will enjoy the musical talents of The Benjamins, followed by a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information and the list of bands you can enjoy through August 26th.

August 23

Kidchella by the Monmouth Moms (Holmdel) – This family-friendly spin on the Coachella Music Festival is kicking off at Bell Works at 5pm. Kidchella is replacing the beer gardens with inflatables and the fashion with face painting – but staying true to its name with a DJ, live music, and a dance party. There will also be a petting zoo, crafts, lawn games, and an indoor night market with bites, sips, and activities from local vendors for the whole family to enjoy. Tickets are $20 per person, and children ages 2 and under are free to attend. Click here to see how you can give a kid-friendly Coachella experience to your little ones.

August 24

Movies on the Beach (Seaside Heights) – Enjoy the last installment of Seaside Heights’ Movies on the Beach at 8:30pm. Audience members will be seated on the beach in the vicinity of Beach Patrol North Headquarters for a free showing of Sonic 3. Viewers are welcome to bring snacks. Learn more here.

August 28

Kites and Castles (Lavallette) – Head over to Philadelphia Avenue at 7pm if you have sand castle skills or kite flying that you want to show off. Whether you’re building a sand fortress, taking your kite soaring high into the sky, or simply spectating – this event will bring out the whole family’s competitive edge as you compete for the grand prize. There is no entry fee to attend, but you must bring your own sand castle building materials, props, or kite. Click here to learn more about this family-fun evening.

August 30

BBQ & Craft Beer Festival (Oceanport) – Saddle up for a weekend of barbecue and craft beers at the Monmouth Park Racetrack, taking place August 30th through September 1st from 11am-5pm. There will be over 40 craft beers and 20 barbecue food vendors to peruse – oh, and there will be horse racing, too! If there are too many craft beers to choose from, you can partake in beer sampling if you are 21 or older. There will also be family-fun activities to enjoy like live music, face painters, pony rides, and a bounce house. Tickets for beer sampling and general admission to the racetrack can be purchased in advance for $18, or on the day of ($15 for beer sampling and $6 for general admission) to the racetrack. Children ages 12 and under are free to attend. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets online.

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

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Business Development Rep Samantha

Summer is in full swing, so in addition to celebrating Independence Day – we hope you can celebrate the sunshine and long days of July with these free and inexpensive activities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

July 1

Festival of the Sea (Long Beach Island) – Celebrate at the Festival of the Sea, taking place at the St. Francis of Assisi Parish & Center parking lot from Tuesday, July 1st through Saturday, July 5th from 6pm-10pm. The festival has something for everyone, from games and rides the whole family will love to classic carnival fare. Unlimited ride bracelets are $45, and the fairground games and food service have varying prices. You can find more information here.

Pre-Teen Tuesdays (Long Beach Island) – Boredom doesn’t stand a chance with those ages 10-14, taking place at Bayview Park Pavillion on select Tuesdays from 7pm-8pm through August 19th. Each week offers a new chance for your pre-teen to participate in a different activity – such as a murder mystery, bingo, and trivia – and will give your wallet a break. There is no entry fee to attend. For additional information, click here.

July 2

Ice Cream Social & Magic Show (Toms River) – You may be able to easily convince the whole family to attend something if ice cream is involved, and magic shows are no exception! Bring everyone down to Mathis House for an ice cream sundae building buffet and a magic show by Mr. Ron Owens, beginning at 6:30pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

Independence Day Celebration (Howell) – Let freedom ring at Soldier Memorial Park from 5pm-9:30pm. From free family-friendly games, rides and activities, to a live band and a DJ providing round-the-clock entertainment and fireworks at dusk – there’s no better way to celebrate Independence Day in Howell. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food and alcoholic beverages (for those ages 21+) for purchase. Click here for more information.

Free Movies on the Beach (Belmar) – Beginning on July 2^nd through August 27^th, there will be a free family movie on 7^th Avenue Beach which begins at dusk. Be sure to bring your blankets or chairs and snacks, and sit back and relax. Shrek will be shown on July 2^nd. View more details and the rest of the summer movie line-up here.

4^th of July Celebration (Ocean Township) – This annual celebration will take place from 6pm-10pm at Joe Palaia Park. There will be food trucks, activities for kids, live music by the Eddie Testa Band, and fireworks will begin at 9:30pm. You won’t want to miss it! Find out more.

July 3

Independence Day Celebration (Colts Neck) – Make your way to Bucks Mill Park at 6pm to celebrate the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. There will be tunes from the Colts Neck Community Band, an apple pie contest, a flag ceremony with the Colts Neck ROTC Color Guard, and classic Fourth of July food favorites (think hot dogs, hamburgers, and cotton candy). There is a $10 donation/cost for parking. Click here for additional information.

Independence Day Fireworks (Hazlet) – Celebrate freedom and free fun at the Independence Day fireworks at Veterans Park from 6pm-10pm. You are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets, and enjoy the free fireworks and live entertainment. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food for purchase. You can find more information here.

Independence Day Fireworks (Lacey) – There is another chance to enjoy stars, stripes, and fireworks at Lacey High School – beginning at 7:30pm. There will be a free fireworks display and live entertainment, along with food available for purchase. Click here to learn how you can join in on the patriotic fun in Ocean County.

July 4

Fourth of July Parade (Pine Beach) – If you don’t have plans for the Fourth of July, look no further – head down to Pine Beach Chapel for a Fourth of July parade, beginning at 9am. Aside from an array of floats and a ceremony at Vista Park, there will be races and games for the whole family to join in on. For additional information, as well as instructions on pre-registering for the events you wish to partake in – click here.

Oceanfest (Long Branch) – Head down to the Promenade Boardwalk from 1pm-10pm to join in on what is widely regarded as the biggest Independence Day celebration at the Jersey Shore. This family-friendly festival is a melting pot of Fourth of July activities – from performances by dancers and musicians, to a smorgasbord of food vendors. There will also be a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9pm. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food available for purchase. You can find more information here.

Independence Day Fireworks (Pt. Pleasant Beach) – Celebrate Independence Day at Jenkinson’s spectacular fireworks show on the beach at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk at 9:30pm. Be dazzled with the stunning views of the fireworks from the boardwalk or the beach. This Independence Day fireworks display is an experience that the whole family can enjoy! Learn more.

July 6

Movies on the Beach (Seaside Heights) – Seaside Heights will turn the beach into a movie theater every Sunday through August 24th at 8:30pm. Audience members will be seated on the beach in the vicinity of Beach Patrol North Headquarters for a free showing of various movies the whole family will love. The first movie showing will be Jaws. Viewers are welcome to bring snacks. Click here to view the summer schedule of selected movies.

July 9

Ocean County Fair (Berkeley Township) – Come see what Ocean County is all about at the Ocean County Fair, held at Robert J. Miller Air Park from Wednesday, July 9th through Sunday, July 13th at various times. This five-day celebration features something for everyone – from livestock displays and 4-H showcases, to thrilling rides and live music. There is an entry fee of $10 per person, with ride wristbands available for purchase. Pre-sale wristbands are $35 through July 8th and regular price wristbands are $45 on-site. Click here to see how you can experience the fun, spirit, and community of Ocean County.

July 10

Movies Under the Stars (Howell) – Bring your family and friends to the Howell Library hill for free showings of family-friendly movies select Thursdays this summer. There will be activities beginning at 6:30pm and the movie will begin at dusk. All you need to enjoy the movie are lawn chairs and blankets – and some snacks. The first movie showing will be Ghostbusters. Click here to view the summer schedule of selected movies.

July 12

Concerts in the Park (Bradley Beach) – Bring a seat to rock out to some tunes at this free concert series at Riley Park, every Saturday through August 30th from 6pm-8pm. You will hear the sounds of local talent, playing a mix of musical favorites that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Click here for more information and the list of the bands that will be playing each week.

Freehold Township Day – Don’t miss this annual fun-filled festival from 4pm-11pm at Michael J. Tighe Park. There will be free rides for kids, a free teen center with a DJ, live performances throughout the day, food trucks & local vendors with items for purchase, and a free fireworks display starting at 9pm. Learn more here.

July 15

Pirate School Family Show (Seaside Heights) – Your little buccaneers will learn how to talk, laugh, and act like a pirate, and most importantly – sail a ship without sinking your budget at Pirate School. This free show takes place on Pier Stage on Tuesday, July 15th and Wednesday, July 16th – with two shows each night beginning at 6pm and 7pm. A swashbuckling adventure is promised, along with audience participation, exciting props, and magic. Click here for additional information.

July 19

Summer Stroll (Ocean Grove) – Take a stroll through stunning fine art pieces in Ocean Grove’s Business District, along Main Avenue between Central and New York Avenues – from 4pm-8pm. The sidewalks will be lined with art that is on display and for sale. There will also be live jazz music and refreshments to enjoy. There is no entry fee to attend, but you may purchase any of the art that is for sale. Click here for additional information.

July 20

Family Nature Day (Middletown) – You can explore more and spend less at a Family Nature Day held at Huber Woods Park Environmental Center from 10am-11:30am. You will enjoy an animal presentation, a guided nature walk, and a craft suited for children of all ages. You can visit this webpage to learn about the Environmental Center or call (732) 872-2670 (ext. 0336) for information regarding the event.

July 23

Monmouth County Fair (Freehold) – If you didn’t quite get your fill of fairs for the summer, the Monmouth County Fair is taking place from Wednesday, July 23rd through Sunday, July 27th at various times at the East Freehold Showgrounds. There will be unique exhibits, thrilling rides, classic games, live music, food vendors, and more. There is an entry fee of $10 per person – and children ages 12 and under, veterans, and active military with ID – are free to attend. Ride wristbands are available for purchase at $30 Wednesday-Friday, and $35 Saturday & Sunday. You can find more information here.

July 26

Italian Festival & Wine Tasting (Oceanport) – Say ciao to a taste of Italy without leaving the Jersey Shore – at Monmouth Park on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27 from 11am-5pm. Along with the chance to purchase mouth-watering Italian favorites of the area, you can also partake in an Italian wine tasting if you are 21 or older. There will be family-friendly activities in the picnic area, as well as races on the racetrack. Wine sampling tickets are $15, and general admission to the racetrack is $6 the day of the event – and children ages 12 and under are free to attend. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets online.