School is out and summer is here, now is the perfect time to plan some quality time with your family. If you live in or around Monmouth County, you may be wondering what there is to do locally that won’t break the bank this season. We have compiled a list of some local events that provide fun for all ages without having to spend the whole day in the car traveling or spending your hard-earned money.
44th Annual Monmouth County Fair – July 25-29th
Located at the East Freehold Showgrounds, the annual summer fair has fun for the entire family! There is live musical entertainment scheduled each night in addition to rides, fireworks and 4-H exhibitions to capture the attention of the younger fair-goers. The county fair is a great time to support local vendors whether they are selling food items or handmade crafts. In addition, there is a featured “Home and Garden Competition†which showcases local bakers, gardeners and crafters as they show off their hard work in hopes of earning a blue ribbon.
Monmouth Park
While horseracing may not be the first thing that comes to mind for a family fun activity, the events held at Monmouth Park during racing season draw crowds of all ages. Themed weekends including the Surf & Turf Seafood Festival, the Italian Festival, BBQ & Craft Beer Festival, and even a Cornhole Tournament prove that the “shore’s greatest stretch†has more to offer than just thoroughbreds. Monmouth Park has activities running through early September and admission is $5 per person.
Local Bands and Movie Nights
One of the greatest perks about summer in Monmouth County is the plethora of outdoor activities within local communities. From Long Branch’s featured “Bands on the Beach†on Sundays, to Keansburg’s movies on the beach on Tuesdays, there are activities almost nightly to plan for the family. Monmouth County’s calendar of events showcases some of the more popular ones, but make sure you check out your local municipality for events in your own backyard!
While the weather is nice make sure you take time to enjoy all Monmouth County has to offer!