Are you looking for local activities and events to make your holiday season a little more exciting this year? In this episode of Monmouth Redefined, I’m going to show you a few of our area’s holiday events that you don’t want to miss. We’ll explore everything from tree lightings to a Christmas village so you can start planning this season’s calendar.
Tree Lightings
It seems like it was just summertime and we were celebrating the Fourth of July—my favorite time of year. Time goes by so quickly, and the holiday season is right around the corner. To make the festivities more exciting, be sure to fill your calendar with these Monmouth County activities. After all, we’ve all been dealing with a pandemic now for close to two years. It’s more important than ever that we get out and enjoy these holiday activities for both our health and our sanity.
The first events you’ll want to check out are Monmouth County’s tree lightings. Freehold is having its tree lighting on December 7 at 5:00 pm at the Hall of Records. They’ll have the Rock and Roll Choir singing and the Court Jester giving out hot cider for all to enjoy. As a bonus, I also heard that the Fire Department may be showing up with a special guest.
Marlboro Township is also having their holiday tree lighting on December 11 at 6:00 pm This is a free annual event where they’ll be lighting both a Christmas tree and a menorah. There will be food provided and music by the Marlboro High School Band and Chorus.
Plays, A Christmas Village, And The Holiday Bazaar
If you’re looking to catch a Christmas play but don’t feel like schlepping to New York City, the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank offers great holiday plays. Shows include Elf The Musical or the beautiful Carole King The Musical. And if you’re out and about in Red Bank, don’t forget to do some shopping; the Holiday Harmonies will also be out every Saturday afternoon following Thanksgiving.
Beginning December 4, you can spend an evening strolling through the historic village of Allaire in Farmingdale. There, you can enjoy the history of Christmas in the 1800s. Don’t miss the 60-minute Christmas Lantern Tour or the VIP option—which includes holiday music and a gift bag.
If you enjoy shopping, don’t miss Long Branch’s Holiday Bazaar every Saturday and Sunday beginning on November 27. You can enjoy shopping under a tent for handmade items, home goods, vintage items, and much much more. Asbury Park also features a holiday bazaar that begins November 28 and runs every Sunday through the holiday season. You can shop for your favorite items while enjoying holiday photo stations, craft workshops, and entertainment.
Laurita Winery And The Magic of Lights Holiday Art Show
Another wonderful venue to enjoy is the Laurita Winery in New Egypt. I have been here several times and it is such a wonderful, unique place to go with friends and family. This family-friendly event includes several food truck festivals throughout the year. If you’ve never been to one, it’s a great experience that you won’t forget. From the end of November into mid-December, you can also visit Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Last but not least—and one that I have been wanting to go to for years—is the Magic of Lights Holiday Art Show. It’s located at the PNC Art Center in Holmdel. This two-and-a-half-mile display is put up on Friday, November 19 and runs through January 2. You can enjoy all the lights while driving through in the comfort of your own car. It’s is a very popular event and, while I have heard that it can get congested at times, they say they keep it moving fairly quickly.
Holiday Fun In Monmouth County
I hope this gave you some ideas on how to redefine your holiday season this year and make it one that you will always remember. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me and I’d be happy to guide you further.
Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel so you never miss an episode of Monmouth Redefined, my show all about living in Monmouth County. Stay tuned to see what I feature next, I wish you and your family a very happy holiday season. Cheers to the upcoming year 2022!
