Events in Monmouth County today

Get ready for a full-day ride with THE WILEST RIDE, starting with the group kicking things off at Six Flags and ending with FUNPLEX AFTER DARK. The experience is for ages 21+ and includes snacks, drinks, and an all-day meal ticket, with additional food after Six Flags. There are designated buses for smokers and non-smokers. Doors open at 7:00 AM, and the schedule runs through the day with an overnight finish at Funplex.

This event celebrates the legacy of Dr. George Sheehan, the Running Doctor, who had a significant influence on health and fitness at the Jersey Shore and beyond. The Sheehan Classic 5K concludes on the Asbury Park Boardwalk and honors him and his family. Registration is limited.

Enjoy a full day that brings out your inner child at Grown-Up Camp, with camp-style activities, live music, and plenty of water fun including swimming and boating. You’ll also find multiple food trucks on site, plus craft beers and seltzers from Needle Creek Farm Brewery. Tickets are required for admission, and a rain date is set for August 9, 2026. No refunds are available after purchase.

Get ready for a fun day of cornhole at the Bags, Boards & Bands Cornhole Tournament at Monmouth Park. You can compete in either the Social Players Tournament or the Competitive Players Tournament, with prizes ranging from trophies and restaurant gift cards to cash and other goodies in the competitive category. The day includes check-in from 11 AM to noon, with games starting at noon, plus live entertainment and thrilling horse racing throughout the event. Registration is for ages 18 and up, with online registration ending the day before, and limited cash-only walk-up registration available starting at 11 AM on the event day.

Get ready to jump, groove, and celebrate health and fitness at the Capital City Double Dutch Competition. This is a family-friendly event for all ages and skill levels, with a community walk hosted by Trenton Run Club, followed by yoga and a high-energy workout session. The main event features double dutch competition with jumpers taking part for prizes, plus music, games, bounce houses, food, giveaways, and more. Health and Human Services will also be on site with information about local resources for individuals and families.

The date has been updated due to weather. Enjoy a relaxed day on the sand at Asbury Park 5th Avenue Beach near Convention Hall, followed by happy hour at a nearby beach bar and dinner at Porta. A beach badge is required and costs $10, with credit cards accepted. Asbury Park regulations prohibit alcohol on the beach and boardwalk, and open containers in public spaces are not allowed, with enforcement by the beach patrol and local police. Travel options include taking the train from Newark Penn or arriving by car. For questions, contact nonskicoordinator@hobokenskiclub.com.

Enjoy an entry-level kayak camping overnighter with paddling on the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers. Participants set up camp around noon at a cabin in Hartshorne Woods, decide on afternoon paddling plans, then split into groups to explore the Twin Rivers. After sunset, everyone meets back at the cabin to cook dinner, talk about the day around a fire, and sleep out in the woods. The cabin can accommodate about 6 to 10 people, with plenty of space for tents in the field. In the morning, have breakfast and head out for more paddling. The trip requires JSSKA membership, waivers, and PFDs, and it is capped at 20 people. Bring your own food and beverages. Paddling options vary in length and difficulty. Vehicles can remain at the cabin site, and launching will involve moving boats on top of cars to various put-in sites.

Join the India Foundation of Metropolitan Princeton (IFMP) for a family-friendly picnic day at Mercer County Park in Princeton Junction. The event is geared for all ages, with outdoor games and activities, team fun, and a chance to relax and connect with the community. There will also be music, dance performances, food and drink options, and an exhibition, bringing a lively mix of culture to the park.

Sail the Bay Day 2026 is a free afternoon of sailing and beach fun around Sandy Hook Bay. You’ll board Hobie catamarans with experienced skippers for short sailing jaunts, plus there will be hot dogs and burgers for attendees. The event runs for about three hours and is open to all ages, with anyone under 18 needing to be with a parent or legal guardian. The activity is weather-dependent, so it’s a good idea to check for last-minute event alerts before heading over.

Long Branch Historic House & Farm hosts a community dog show alongside terrier races, sponsored by Blue Ridge Hunt and Long Branch Historic House & Farm in Boyce, Virginia. This community gathering showcases dogs in a historic house and farm setting.

Families and friends can learn to craft their own soap at Sensorium Emporium in Red Bank during weekly Saturday sessions. This kid friendly workshop invites everyone to get creative together. Participation is $25 per person, and class size is limited to 20 to keep things cozy. You can secure a spot by RSVPing and paying in advance on Eventbrite, or try for a walk in seat on a first come basis. For questions, the organizers are available by direct message, email, or phone. Be cautious about third party ticket resellers, as scam accounts have appeared in earlier posts.

Enjoy the New Brunswick Heart Festival, a free, outdoor, family-friendly celebration of the arts, culture, and history of New Brunswick and Middlesex County. Expect live music and dance performances, plus free kids dance classes, craft and visual art vendors, face painting, henna, balloon animals, and a health and wellness area. There will also be food vendors and chances to win ticket and swag giveaways.

Celebrate Jouvert Day with a lively party featuring Caribbean vibes, nonstop music, and plenty of energy. You can expect great food, drinks, and an all-afternoon atmosphere where you can dance, celebrate, and represent your culture. The dress code is summer fresh.

Brody Schenk and Jack West perform live at Transparent Clinch Gallery, a welcoming stage for both touring and local artists. A suggested minimum donation of $10 is requested at the door unless stated otherwise. Plans can change, so check the gallery's social media and website for the latest updates.

Enjoy an evening of live music at Hopewell Valley Vineyards. This event is free and runs from early evening into the night, with live music happening throughout the weekend.

Catch The Dear Hunter on their Road to Sunya Tour 2026 with Closure in Moscow. The show takes place at House of Independents in Asbury Park.

Fortune Feimster brings her Takin’ Care of Biscuits national tour to the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre on the Basie Center campus. An actress, comedian, writer, and host, she has a trio of Netflix specials, with Crushing It following Good Fortune and Sweet & Salty, the latter two earning Critics Choice nominations. Recent screen work includes season two of the Netflix comedy Fubar alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, plus roles in Chelsea Lately, The Mindy Project, Kenan, Office Christmas Party, and Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. She is in production on Will Ferrell’s untitled Netflix golf comedy series and will voice Nibbles in Disney’s Zootopia 2. Her audio projects include the podcast Handsome with Tig Notaro and Mae Martin, as well as What A Joke with Papa and Fortune on SiriusXM.

Join ComedySportz for an energetic, interactive improv comedy show where performers create everything on the spot using audience suggestions. Expect a fast-paced, competitive format, and a family-friendly experience rated E for Everyone. It’s a fun night out that works for date night, groups, or a get-together with friends.

At The Vogel on the Basie Center Campus in Red Bank, Early Elton Trio celebrates the stripped down power of Elton John’s 1970 to 1972 trio tours with bassist Dee Murray and drummer Nigel Olsson. The lineup features Jeff Kazee of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Rich Pagano of The Fab Faux, and John Conte of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. In those early years Elton toured without a full band, reworking songs and vocals to suit a lean trio, which created a sound that felt both gritty and heartfelt. Drawing on rare videos, bootleg recordings and even home demos, the group blends close attention to detail with fresh spark while staying true to the spirit and drive of those shows. The set draws from highlights like Take Me To The Pilot, Levon, Amoreena, Indian Sunset, Burn Down The Mission, Country Comfort and Madman Across The Water, and they sometimes present complete albums such as Tumbleweed Connection, Madman Across The Water and the live concert 11-17-70. The project is dedicated to carrying forward a chapter widely regarded as a peak for material, production and performance.

Admission is limited to ages 21 and over. Steely Dead, a Denver-based national touring quartet, blends the meticulous arrangements of Steely Dan with the Grateful Dead’s melodic improvisation and flowing song transitions, creating original jam moments that link familiar tunes. The lineup features Dave Abear on guitar, Matt Abear on bass, Chris Sheldon on drums, and Dylan Teifer on keys. Known for high-energy shows and heartfelt takes on classic material, they have built a devoted community of fans who come to dance, celebrate the music they love, and leave with lasting memories.

Too Many Zooz takes the stage at Asbury Lanes for a live concert open to all ages. Doors will open before the performance so guests can get settled and ready for the music.

Get ready for a high-energy tribute show that brings Selena’s biggest hits to life. “512: The Selena Experience” features an all-star group of musicians performing fan favorites like “Como La Flor,” “Amor Prohibido,” “Si Una Vez,” and “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” plus more. The show runs about 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission, and you can expect plenty of chances to sing along and dance. Concessions are available, free parking is offered, and the venue is wheelchair accessible with assisted listening devices.

Explore the Howell Farmers Market at Echo Lake Park, featuring fresh-from-the-farm produce, fresh-baked treats, handcrafted items, and other beloved local picks. New finds appear each week, making it a welcoming spot for a family outing while supporting local businesses. Enjoy a relaxed market day and see what is new this week.

Kick off your Sunday with live music at Stratosphere Brewing Company, part of the Sundays Live Music Series. Expect laid-back vibes, talented solo artists, and cold beer in a relaxed setting. The event runs from midday through late afternoon, making it an easy way to close out the weekend.

A lively pool party with a Rock Bottom twist puts dancing front and center. Attendees are encouraged to bring flip flops made for moving so they can dance poolside.

Pokemon Open Play welcomes participants at every skill level. New and curious players can receive guidance, and weekly Discord posts share details about entry, format, prizes, and promos.

As part of the Westside Jazz Concert Series, the Eddie Allen Quintet performs at Johnny Jazz Park. Organized by The Jazz Arts Project alongside the Red Bank Division of Parks and Recreation, this free concert welcomes the community. Support is provided in part by Monmouth Arts, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners.

Catch the premiere of "The Girl We Let In" at Basie Center Cinemas. After adopting her family's longtime babysitter Sophie, Hope starts to suspect the teenager is hiding a deadly secret. This is an in-person screening experience running from mid-afternoon into early evening.

Get dressed for an all-green-and-black formal night at EUROGALLERY, an in-person showcase featuring artwork from featured artist EuroArtVision along with live music, food, and drinks. Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the event runs for three hours.

New York stand-up Dovi Neuburger brings his sharp, personal comedy to The Vogel at the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank. An up-and-coming voice in Jewish comedy, he frequently opens on Elon Gold’s theater tours, playing to sold-out crowds nationwide, and has built a social following of more than 57,000 on Instagram. His set draws on a Jewish upbringing to explore family expectations, the pull between tradition and modern life, plenty of guilt, faith, dating, and the knack for turning anxiety into a personality trait. With a mix of keen observation and candid storytelling, he balances warmth with bite for a set that feels familiar yet freshly honest. Laughter is a mitzvah... and he treats it like serious business.

Matisyahu brings an all ages show with special access available through two VIP options. The Ultimate VIP Experience includes one general admission ticket, a private backstage hang and Q&A with Matisyahu, opportunities for exclusive photos and autographs, a Matisyahu VIP merch package, an exclusive poster signed by the artist, first access to merchandise shopping where available, and early venue entry where available. The Meet & Greet Experience includes one general admission ticket, a meet and greet with Matisyahu, an individual photo opportunity, an exclusive signed poster, first access to merchandise shopping where available, and early venue entry where available. Ticket availability includes a public onsale along with venue, Live Nation, artist, and VIP package presales.

Join a week of hands-on discovery at Plainsboro Preserve, exploring how animals and plants adapt to challenges like finding food and avoiding predators. Campers will dig into topics such as frog eating habits, the changing colors of maple leaves, and what turtle shells are made of, then wrap it up with learning through games plus arts and crafts. This program is for kids ages 6 to 12 and runs weekdays during the week of August 10.

Children ages 6 to 12 can explore farm life at G&G Stables through a hands-on camp that mixes learning with plenty of fun. Participants meet and learn about barn animals, practice basic horse care and grooming, enjoy guided lead-line rides, pitch in with chores, and make creative crafts. Days are planned to encourage responsibility and curiosity in a safe, welcoming setting. Two four-day sessions are available. Families can pay $80 per day or $300 for the complete four-day session, with optional early drop off and late pick up for an added fee. Group sizes are intentionally small for individual attention, and spots are limited. For registration or more details, email gandgstables@yahoo.com.

Get moving with a fun Zumba workout led by fitness instructor Aldona. Zumba blends different dance moves for an aerobic workout that helps you build and tone muscles, improve cardio, boost flexibility, and reduce stress. This is a great option for anyone looking to get a healthy dose of exercise while having fun.

Join a hands-on two-night stained glass workshop where you will learn the basics of design and create your own stained glass piece from start to finish using the copper foil method. You’ll be able to choose from a selection of patterns, work directly during the sessions, and leave after the second night with a finished creation.

Catch Bobby Brooks Wilson and Les Chiclettes live at Woodbridge High School. The show starts at 7:30 PM, featuring a billed lineup of these two artists.

Join Trivia, AD for a fun General Trivia Night at Deal Lake Bar + Co. Expect a friendly competition with plenty of opportunities to put your knowledge to the test, plus beers and time to hang out with other trivia fans. Seating is first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive a little early.

Join this kids’ art program with four different arts and crafts stations. There will be painting, so dress for a mess. Each child needs to be registered individually, and the program is for ages 4 to 9.

Explore Murray Pond with a hands-on nature activity that invites participants to discover what lives beneath the surface. Nets are provided to gently scoop up tadpoles, small fish, aquatic insects, and other critters, and there will be chances to spot frogs, turtles, and snakes. Expect to get muddy and dress accordingly. Every child must be accompanied by an adult. This program is designed for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. The cost is $5 per child and it takes place at Poricy Park Nature Center.

The Red Bank Division of Parks & Recreation presents a screening of Superman at Riverside Gardens Park in Red Bank. Before the film, the Red Bank Charter School PTO will lead activities for kids. Admission is free for everyone.

Open to all skill levels, with friendly teaching for new and curious players. Weekly updates on Discord outline entry information, event format, prizes, and promotional offerings.

Tempo Alegre takes the stage at the Broadway Band Shell as part of the City of Long Branch Free Concert Series. This installment of the 2026 Tuesdays On Broadway lineup highlights one of the summer’s featured bands, with other weeks showcasing artists such as Tito Puente, Jr., Almost Santana, David Cedeno & Orchestra, El Grupo K’ndela, Xol Azul, Rumbaile, and Grupo Warachando, and one Tuesday set aside with no performance. If the weather turns, the concert will be relocated to the Long Branch Senior Center.

The AP Concert Band performs in the bandshell with live music and no cover charge. Make it a relaxed night out by enjoying dinner during the show.

Questions will fly and answers await at General Trivia Night at Black Swan Public House. Form a team and take on five rounds of wide-ranging trivia that covers entertainment, history, sports, music, current events, and a few surprises. Seating is first come, first served and could be at the bar, along the rail, or at a table. RSVPs may close before things get underway, and an RSVP does not reserve or guarantee seating. To secure a table, make a reservation directly through OpenTable. Eat, drink, think, and aim for the win.

Explore a noninvasive way to better understand what your body needs. A full body thermography scan provides visual insight into hormone health, circulation, the lymphatic system, and more, helping reveal areas of inflammation as well as places that are in balance. Whether you are navigating perimenopause, managing stress, or working toward personal health goals, this approach offers clear information so you can make informed choices that align with your wellness journey. Make this your season of intentional wellness.

A farmers market will be held at Tall Oaks Brewery.

Kids ages 6-12 can practice their reading skills alongside gentle therapy dogs. The program uses four separate 15-minute time slots, with one slot per family. Registration is required, and families are instructed to call the Jackson Branch Children’s line to check availability.

Everyone is welcome to gather for a monthly game night. A selection of games will be available, and participants are encouraged to bring their own to play and share.

This adult summer basketball program offers weekly play on Wednesdays at Croydon Hall Gym. Participants can choose to pay $40 per session or use the $5 weekly drop-in option. Registration is available through the organizer.

Red Bank Division of Parks and Recreation and The Y partner to offer Zumba in Riverside Gardens Park in Red Bank. This outdoor session is led by Lilian and is part of a rotating series that also includes instructors Cindy and Aleta. Enjoy a fun workout in the fresh air.

The conversation centers on Holding It Together by Jessica Calarco.

Bendigo Fletcher takes the stage at Wonder Bar for an event limited to guests 21 and older. Tickets will be available through a public onsale, along with a venue online presale and a Live Nation presale.

Enjoy an upbeat evening at Habitat ReStore Asbury Park that blends community, pizza, and playful prizes while benefiting two local nonprofits. Expect laughter, good food, and a game that brings people together, with quirky rewards along the way. Every round supports Rainbow Quest!, which champions a more inclusive, joyful, and compassionate world, and Habitat for Humanity, which works to ensure everyone has a safe and welcoming place to call home. A $10 to $20 suggested donation is encouraged to support the impact. This gathering takes place on the second Wednesday of each month, offering regular chances to have fun and make a difference.

Mercer Has Talent is a variety show packed with local performers from around Mercer County, with something for everyone whether you’re taking the stage or cheering on from the audience. The house band for the night is Ernie White and Tommy Reock, and the house opens at 7:00 PM. Please note, alcohol is not allowed on campus.

Todd Rundgren is coming to the Count Basie Center For The Arts for an evening concert. Tickets are currently on sale, with other ticket options available if the specific selection you want is sold out.

Excitement is building for the market. Anticipation is high.

Held on Thursdays at West End Park, this farmers market highlights locally grown and locally made foods. Look for organic, locally grown Jersey Fresh produce, plus flowers, jams, baked treats, cheeses, salsas, soups, and other seasonal fare. Fresh finds are added every week, and operations depend on weather and the availability of produce.

N&D return to The Cabin in Freehold for their annual show. Reservations can be made by calling (732) 462-3090.

Presented by Jazz Arts Project in collaboration with the Red Bank Division of Parks and Recreation, this Jazz in the Park performance features The Rhythms of the Heart Band at Riverside Gardens Park in Red Bank. Spread out a picnic and relax in a scenic setting with views of the Navesink River as the music fills the park. Admission is free for everyone.

An all ages show with doors open for entry. Ticket access includes a public onsale along with artist and venue presales.

Mark Diomede and Dan Donovan keep the OVP party going with a summer run of Thursday shows at Olde Village Pub. Expect sets with special guests that explore the music of the Grateful Dead and more. Enjoy tasty food and drink specials, and there is no cover charge. Bright tie-dye fits the vibe for this easygoing celebration of the season.

2026 Thursdays By The Sea presents live music on the Great Lawn Stage as part of the City of Long Branch Free Concert Series. This show features 80s Revolution. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the Long Branch Senior Center.

Swing by the Bridal Show at Buttonwood Manor to get inspired for your wedding with the latest trends and plenty of bridal ideas from local vendors. It’s an in-person event that’s great whether you’re just starting your planning or you’re polishing the final details.

Catch Neal Francis with Pearl Charles at The Wonder Bar in Asbury Park for an evening of live Americana, pop rock, and funk rock. The show kicks off at 7:00 PM, and tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Catch Rudy Nuño for a live performance at Asbury Park Brewery in Asbury Park. The show is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM.

Get ready for a high-energy live show from The Cliffs, a band known for electrifying performances and genre-defying set lists. Expect multiple powerhouse vocalists, a tight rhythm section, and a fiery horn ensemble blending rock, soul, funk, and pop into a one-of-a-kind experience where every performance feels fresh with new music debuts and surprises.

The Lemon Twigs bring their live show to Asbury Lanes for an all ages event. Doors open before the performance so guests can get settled ahead of the set.

Captain Cream & The Forest Fires return for a mid-August Thursday night free concert on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. The band will perform on the beachfront stage starting at 8:00 PM, and there is no cover charge.