Ocean Senior Scoop: June Fun, Smart Tips & Weekend Plans

June is rolling in with a little bit of everything: farmers markets, outdoor concerts, library programs, local history, summer safety tips, Pride celebrations, garden help, tasty treats and a few smart reminders for seniors to keep life running smoothly.

🎟️ Events Around Town — Resource fair, farmers markets, Summerfest, book show, flea market and more
📚 Beyond the Books — American Bandstand memories, shore art, state fair crafts and CPR know-how
📌 More Library Events — Memory Café, caregiver support, Cricut time, Mah Jongg, gardening help and tech help
🛡️ Senior Smart — Medicare Fraud Prevention Week: how to guard your card
🌍 Wanderlust Weekly — River cruise rankings, Disney weather help and off-season Europe
👧 Take the Grandkids — Great Wolf Lodge’s Summer Camp-In
🍽️ In the Kitchen — Grilling ideas, fermented pickles and Freddy’s custard tour
🎵 Weekend Notes — Barnegat Pride, Jenkinson’s Aquarium anniversary, Albert Music Hall and more

Up first…

Medicare scams are still big business — and seniors are often the target. That’s why the fifth annual Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, beginning Monday, June 1, is putting the spotlight on a simple but important message: people with Medicare are often the first and best line of defense against fraud.

The awareness week is led by Senior Medicare Patrol, a national program of the U.S. Administration for Community Living that helps Medicare beneficiaries, families and caregivers spot possible fraud, billing errors and scams.

“Medicare fraud is big business for criminals,” said Brandy Bauer, director of the SMP Resource Center. She said Medicare Fraud Prevention Week is a chance to remind people that they can take steps to prevent, detect and report fraud.

Senior Medicare Patrol advises people with Medicare to be careful with their personal information and to watch for suspicious billing or too-good-to-be-true offers.

A few key tips:

Never share your Medicare number with anyone except trusted health care professionals.

Hang up on unsolicited calls claiming to be from Medicare. Medicare generally will not call out of the blue asking for your number.

Review your Medicare Summary Notices and Explanation of Benefits for charges you do not recognize.

Keep track of appointments and services so you can compare them with your Medicare statements.

Report anything suspicious to your local Senior Medicare Patrol by calling 1-877-808-2468 or using the online suspected fraud form.

Bauer also warned that scammers may offer “free” products such as back braces, knee braces or genetic tests — or claim that your doctor asked them to call. As the old saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Senior Medicare Patrol programs operate in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The program offers free, unbiased, one-on-one assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers.

Local SMP team members can help people review billing concerns, identify possible scams and report suspected fraud to the proper agencies.

For more fraud prevention tips, recent scam alerts and help finding your local SMP program, visit the SMP Resource Center or call 1-877-808-2468.

The bottom line: guard your Medicare card like a credit card, read your statements carefully and don’t be rushed by anyone on the phone. A little caution can save a lot of trouble.

Summer grilling season is here, and pitmaster Erica Roby is serving up a little confidence with the cookout. In partnership with the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand, funded by beef farmers and ranchers, Roby shared three new recipes designed to help home cooks feel more comfortable at the grill.

Ababa Street Beef Bowls are inspired by East African flavors, with ribeye steak, berbere spice, garlic, ginger, lemon, peppers, onions and tomatoes served over rice. Louisiana One Pan Beef goes Cajun-style with ribeye, red potatoes, peppers, onions, corn, smoked paprika, lemon and herbs — and it can be made in the oven if rain crashes the cookout. And for hot days, Summer Beef Cups keep things fresh with seasoned ground beef tucked into crisp lettuce cups with carrots, cucumbers, herbs and a tangy lime dressing.

For more grilling ideas and beginner tips, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com and check out the Grilling Favorites and Grilling Basics sections.

Ocean County Library has a little something for every kind of curious mind this week — rock ’n’ roll nostalgia, coastal art, Americana crafts and a practical safety class that could truly matter in an emergency.

🎶 Relive the Days of American Bandstand
Wednesday, June 3, 6:30 p.m. | Toms River Branch, 101 Washington St.

Take a trip back to the days when teens danced across TV screens and Dick Clark introduced the soundtrack of a generation. Rick Feingold will present “American Bandstand: Philadelphia 1957–1963,” a multimedia program featuring original live performances of classics including “Rock Around the Clock,” “Mack the Knife,” “Tears on My Pillow,” “Charlie Brown,” “Great Balls of Fire” and “Rock ’n’ Roll Is Here to Stay.”

Feingold teaches American Business History at Bergen Community College and brings both history and music together in this nostalgic look at one of television’s most beloved eras. Registration is required for this free program.

🌊 Washed Upon the Shore Art Exhibit
June 3–July 31 | Long Beach Island Branch, 217 South Central Ave., Surf City

Let the tides bring a little art your way. The Long Beach Island Branch will host “Washed Upon the Shore,” an exhibit featuring the work of Coastal Luck Studio artist Alexander Taylor. Taylor’s work is inspired by the ocean, marine life and the idea that where there is water, there is life and renewal. The exhibit is free and open to the public during normal branch hours.

🎡 Learn All About Crafts at State Fairs
Wednesday, June 3, 2 p.m. | Virtual Program

State fairs are about more than funnel cake and Ferris wheels. Join Mary Savig, author of State Fairs: Growing American Craft and Smithsonian curator, for a virtual talk about the history and meaning of craft at state and tribal fairs. The program will explore needlework, basketry, jewelry, ceramics, crop art, butter sculpture, saddles and other creative traditions that help tell the story of American life. Ocean County Library cardholders can borrow State Fairs for free through the library. Registration is required for this free program. To register, call 732-349-6200.

❤️ Become a Lifesaver: Hands On CPR
Thursday, June 4, 6:30 p.m. | Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road

A cardiac or choking emergency can happen fast, and this free program is designed to help participants feel more prepared. Cherie Garrison Horhay, owner of Ocean County-based Hands On CPR Training, will lead a video-driven course with hands-on practice using manikins. Participants will learn CPR basics and choking-relief techniques for adults, children and infants, plus become familiar with how to use an automated external defibrillator, or AED. Please note: this is not a CPR certification course, but attendees will receive a course manual with a participation card. Registration is required and space is limited. To register, call 732-477-4513, or stop by the Brick Branch.

☕ Shore Memory Café
Thursday, June 4, 10 to 11 a.m. | Manchester Branch
A relaxed, supportive gathering for people experiencing early cognitive decline or early-stage memory loss, along with their care partners. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater New Jersey in partnership with the Ocean County Library.

💙 Caregiver Support Group
Thursday, June 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Barnegat Branch
Caregiving can be a lot. This support group, presented in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health, offers a chance to talk, learn and connect with others who understand the balancing act.

🎬 Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom
Thursday, June 4, 11 a.m. to noon | Jackson Branch
In honor of Juneteenth, the library will screen this documentary about Harriet Tubman’s life as an Underground Railroad conductor, Civil War scout, nurse and spy. Narrated by Alfre Woodard. Rated TV-14.

🇺🇸 A Revolutionary Government
Thursday, June 4, 11 a.m. to noon | Plumsted Branch
Historian and archivist Mickey DiCamillo explores how the United States and New Jersey functioned under the Articles of Confederation during and after the Revolutionary War — basically, how the country tried to run itself before the Constitution showed up with better paperwork.

✂️ Quiet Cricut Morning
Thursday, June 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Toms River Branch, Sparks’s Lab
Bring your Cricut projects and enjoy a calm makerspace morning. Help is available if needed. Space is limited and first come, first served.

🀄 Mah Jongg
Thursday, June 4, 1 to 4 p.m. | Berkeley Branch
Weekly open play for adults. Players should bring their own set and current card.

🐦 Southern Ocean Birding Group: Terns of the Mid-Atlantic Region
Thursday, June 4, 7 to 8 p.m. | Barnegat Branch
Jason Denesevich presents a photo-filled look at the 10 species of terns found annually in New Jersey, including field identification, aging and habitats. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

🚗 NJ Motor Vehicle Commission Mobile Unit
Friday, June 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Manchester Branch
The NJ MVC Mobile Unit visits the library. Appointments are required for most services through the MVC Mobile Unit scheduler; choose Ocean / Manchester as the location. No appointment is needed for handicap, veteran or Purple Heart placards, or to surrender license plates.

🎲 Games for Adults
Friday, June 5, 1 to 3 p.m. | Point Pleasant Borough Branch
Bring a friend and enjoy an afternoon of board games.

📖 The History of Slavery in New Jersey
Friday, June 5, 2 to 3 p.m. | Toms River Branch, Mancini Hall
Author Rick Geffken discusses New Jersey’s overlooked history of enslavement, from the 1600s through the Revolutionary War, including the stories of Lewis Morris and Colonel Tye.

🧘 Mindfulness Meditation: Regulating Emotions
Saturday, June 6, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Jackson Branch
Certified mindfulness meditation teacher Shazia Zaman leads a session on recognizing, acknowledging and releasing difficult emotions through guided meditation. Open to beginners and experienced practitioners.

🦟 Make-and-Take Bug Spray Workshop
Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Waretown Branch
Herbalist Vee leads a hands-on workshop on making natural bug spray with essential oils. Participants will learn basic safety tips and take home their own blend. Potential allergen.

🎲 Bunco Fundraiser
Saturday, June 6, 1 to 3 p.m. | Point Pleasant Borough Branch
The Friends of the Point Pleasant Boro Branch host a Bunco fundraiser. Tickets are $20, with proceeds benefiting the library. Light refreshments served. For tickets, contact [email protected].

🦟 Make-and-Take Bug Spray Workshop
Saturday, June 6, 2 to 3:30 p.m. | Jackson Branch
Another chance to make natural bug spray with Herbalist Vee, using simple ingredients and essential oils. Potential allergen.

🌿 Ask a Rutgers Master Gardener
Monday, June 8, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Barnegat Branch
Bring your gardening questions — and photos or specimens of insects, plants, shrubs or trees — for help with identification, diagnosis and recommendations.

🛍️ DIY Farmer’s Market Tote
Monday, June 8, 10 a.m. to noon | Brick Branch
Get ready for farmers market season by painting a canvas tote with fruit and veggie stencils. All materials are provided.

💻 Digital Literacy Crash Course
Monday, June 8, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Plumsted Branch
Olga Polites of Media Literacy Now explains how online information is created, shared and monetized — and how to better spot what is useful, reliable or just plain suspicious.

🀄 Mahjongg Mondays
Monday, June 8, noon to 3 p.m. | Upper Shores Branch
Come play Mah Jongg at the library.

🧶 Knitting and Crocheting at the Beach
Monday, June 8, 1 to 3 p.m. | Point Pleasant Beach Branch
Knitters and crocheters of all skill levels are welcome to work on individual projects, share tips and enjoy a little conversation.

☀️ Summer Safety: Get Ready for Fun in the Sun
Monday, June 8, 2 to 3 p.m. | Manchester Branch
A Hackensack Meridian Health educator shares tips on heat-related illness, stings and bites, and water safety.

🧶 Beginner Crocheting Class
Monday, June 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. | Toms River Branch, Sparks’s Lab
Absolute beginners can learn how to get started, including basic stitches, yarn, tools and pattern reading. Yarn and hooks will be available, or bring your own. Registration is required.

🪡 Stitch It Club
Tuesday, June 9, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Lacey Branch
Knit, crochet, sew or embroider with fellow stitchers. All skill levels are welcome.

🏠 Foreclosure Program
Tuesday, June 9, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. | Waretown Branch
Rebecca Kolas, managing attorney and advocate with the Community Health Law Project, discusses types of foreclosure, the court process and ways to avoid foreclosure.

💪 Exercise and Strength Training for Our Aging Body
Tuesday, June 9, 1 to 2 p.m. | Barnegat Branch
Health experts from Hackensack Meridian Health discuss the benefits of starting an exercise routine, including flexibility, strength, stress reduction, mood, blood sugar, heart rate and sleep.

📱 Tech Help Tuesday
Tuesday, June 9, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Waretown Branch
Get one-on-one help with smartphones, the OCL website, digital materials, email, computer basics and more. Registration is required by calling 609-693-5133.

🌱 Ask a Master Gardener
Wednesday, June 10, 2 to 4 p.m. | Point Pleasant Borough Branch
Drop in and talk with a Rutgers Master Gardener about horticulture, pest management, wildlife control and other environmental concerns. Garden mystery samples welcome.

🎨 Masterpieces & Mocktails: Pride Edition
Wednesday, June 10, 3 to 5 p.m. | Berkeley Branch
Enjoy a relaxed painting session and mocktails while learning about an LGBTQ+ artist and trying techniques inspired by their work. No experience necessary. Please register each participant individually.

🎵 Documentary: Janis Ian: Breaking Silence
Wednesday, June 10, 6 to 8 p.m. | Lakewood Branch
Celebrate Pride Month with a documentary about singer-songwriter Janis Ian, from “Society’s Child” to “At Seventeen” and a six-decade career. Rated TV-14.

📜 New Jersey’s Revolutionary Rivalry
Wednesday, June 10, 7 to 8 p.m. | Upper Shores Branch
Author and historian Rick Geffken shares the little-known Revolutionary War story of Colonel Tye, a runaway slave who fought for the British, and militia Captain Joshua Huddy — a local conflict that became an international incident.

Norwegian Cruise Line is adding a major new attraction to its private island in the Bahamas. Great Tides Waterpark is set to open Sept. 4, 2026, at Great Stirrup Cay, giving cruise guests a new way to turn a beach day into a full-on water adventure.

The nearly six-acre waterpark will feature 19 slides, including the 170-foot Tidal Tower, water coasters, racing slides, tube slides and plenty of “hold onto your sun hat” moments. Other highlights include Cliffside Cove, home to the industry’s first and highest cliff jumps; The Great Slide, billed as the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide; Fearless Falls racing slides; and a hidden Grotto Bar tucked beneath the action.

Younger guests can splash through Splash Cay, a 9,000-square-foot kids’ zone, while adventure seekers can float along the Wandering River, an 800-foot, high-energy twist on the classic lazy river. The waterpark is part of a larger refresh of Great Stirrup Cay, which also includes the expansive Great Life Lagoon with a beach-style entry pool, swim-up bars and plenty of ocean-view lounging. Guests can also check out the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, family-friendly Splash Harbor and the island’s new tram system for easier exploring.

Travelers can visit Great Stirrup Cay year-round, with seasonal sailings from convenient homeports including New York and Philadelphia, as well as Florida ports in Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando/Port Canaveral and Miami.

For families cruising with grandkids, this could be a big selling point — just be warned: once the kids hear “19 water slides,” your quiet beach chair plans may need a backup plan.

Planning a Disney trip now comes with a little extra help from the forecast. AccuWeather and Disney Experiences have teamed up on Disney Weather Check, powered by AccuWeather, a new weather forecasting and alert system designed just for Disney parks and resorts.

Guests can use the customized mobile app to get real-time forecasts and location-specific weather alerts while visiting Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Aulani, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort. The idea is simple: help visitors better plan their day, whether that means packing ponchos, shifting plans around a storm or knowing when to head for that indoor show.

For grandparents traveling with family, this could be especially handy. A little weather warning can go a long way when you’re juggling park tickets, dinner reservations, tired feet and very strong opinions about one more ride.

Holland America Line is giving travelers more ways to see Europe without the summer crowds. The cruise line is expanding to year-round cruising in Europe for its 2027–2028 season, with Nieuw Statendam staying in the region through winter.

The new schedule adds a dozen cruises across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, including more than 70 additional port days, plus longer stays and more overnights in select cities. That means travelers can enjoy a slower, more relaxed version of Europe — think Christmas markets glowing after dark, cooler Mediterranean days, fewer crowds and more time to wander.

Holiday sailings include festive itineraries through Scandinavia, the Baltic region, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Helsinki and Stockholm, with some overnight stops built in. Later in the season, the ship heads south for Mediterranean cruises that offer a calmer way to experience some of Europe’s most popular ports.

For older travelers who prefer a gentler pace — and don’t mind trading peak-season heat for cozy markets, mild weather and a little extra elbow room — this could be a very tempting way to do Europe.

Bubbies, known for its refrigerated fermented pickles, is rolling out its biggest jar yet — a Costco-exclusive 40-ounce jar of Kosher Dill Pickles now available in Costco clubs in the Southeast region.

Unlike many shelf-stable pickles, Bubbies’ Kosher Dill Pickles are made without vinegar. They ferment naturally in salt and water, creating that cloudy brine, crisp crunch and tangy sour flavor pickle fans know and love. The company says the pickles contain live cultures and are part of the growing interest in fermented foods and gut-friendly eating.

The new Costco size is larger than Bubbies’ current 16-ounce, 25-ounce sliced and 33-ounce jars, and it comes in a BPA-free, shatter-resistant plastic container designed for families, fridge raids and anyone who believes one pickle is really just a warm-up.

Bubbies has been using traditional fermentation methods since 1982, starting with a 100-year-old kosher pickle recipe. So yes, the pickle jar just got bigger — and somewhere, a sandwich is already celebrating.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is kicking off summer with a sweet little road trip — no suitcase required. Starting June 1, the chain will launch its Summer Custard Tour, featuring a new Custard of the Week for 13 consecutive weeks.

The treats will be available in restaurants, at the drive-thru, and through pickup or delivery using the Freddy’s mobile app or website.

The first few flavors sound like a dessert lover’s calendar: Rocky Road Sundae from June 1–7, with chocolate custard, marshmallow, chocolate chips and pecans; Bananas Foster Shake from June 8–14, with vanilla custard, fresh banana, caramel and cinnamon streusel; Cookie Dough Overload Concrete from June 15–21; and a Latte Shake made with OREO® from June 22–28, mixing vanilla custard, OREO cookies and cold brew coffee.

And just in time for the Fourth of July, Freddy’s will serve a Red White & Blueberry Concrete from June 29–July 5, made with vanilla custard, strawberries and blueberries.

Basically, it’s summer in a cup — with whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Ocean County is rolling into June with a full calendar — resource fairs, farmers markets, book browsing, summer festivals, music, history and enough outdoor shopping to justify bringing the big tote bag.

Thursday, June 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Ocean County Mall, Center Court, Toms River

Meet representatives from local nonprofit organizations and Ocean County government departments, and learn about programs and services available to residents. For more information, contact the County Connection at 732-288-7777.

Thursday, June 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | 134 Route 166, South Toms River

The Mathis Plaza Farmers Market continues Thursdays through Sept. 10, featuring local vendors, fresh finds and community flavor.

Thursday, June 4, 2 p.m. | Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven

Surflight Theatre presents this fresh take on the Rodgers & Hammerstein songbook, featuring favorites such as “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,” “Shall We Dance” and “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria.” For details, visit surflight.org or call 609-492-9477.

Friday, June 5, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | J Street Marina Lawn, Seaside Park

Shop local at the Seaside Park Farmers Market, held every Monday and Friday through Sept. 7.

Friday, June 5, 6 to 9 p.m. | TRAC, 40 Main St., Downtown Toms River

Meet about two dozen authors selling their books at the third annual Toms River Book Show. The free event takes place during Downtown Night Out, when Washington Street closes to vehicles and visitors can enjoy outdoor dining, live music and downtown atmosphere.

Friday, June 5, 6 to 10 p.m. | Point Pleasant

Point Pleasant kicks off Summerfest ’26 with live music, a beer and wine garden and plenty of good summer energy. The main festival continues Saturday, June 6, with food trucks, market and craft vendors, kids’ inflatables, activities and live entertainment. Admission is free; kids’ activity wristbands are $10 all day. Rain date is Sunday, June 7.

Saturday, June 6, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Little Egg Harbor Community Center, Mystic Islands

Treasure hunters can browse rare finds, unusual items, art, home décor, jewelry and more at the annual flea market benefiting the Great Bay Democratic Club scholarship fund. Free donuts, hot dogs, coffee and soft drinks will be available, with donations accepted.

Saturday, June 6, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Windward Beach Park, Brick

The Brick Farmers Market continues Saturdays through Oct. 3 at Windward Beach Park.

Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Little Borough Hall/Tuckerton “Crik” Museum

The Tuckerton Historical Society’s museum and gift shop will be open during the town-wide yard sale, with antique, vintage and craft vendors on the grounds. Ebenezer Tucker — Tuckerton’s namesake, former postmaster, judge and Revolutionary War soldier — will mingle with visitors and give a presentation at 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 6, 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. | Cedar Bridge Tavern Historic Site, Barnegat

Kids ages 5–10 can hear a story, create a special commemorative 250th anniversary art piece and explore what it means to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The program is free, but registration is required through oceancountyparks.org or by calling 732-506-9090.

Saturday, June 6, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 382 N. Main St., Barnegat

Barnegat Pride presents its second annual Pride Festival with live music, drag shows, food trucks, vendors, a beer and wine garden, Zumba, a kid zone and a dance-off with Buster from the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. A $5 suggested donation and nonperishable, kid-friendly food donations are requested.

Saturday and Sunday, June 6–7, noon to 4 p.m. | Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach

Jenkinson’s Aquarium celebrates 35 years of wonder with entertainment and activities all weekend long. Festivities are included with general admission.

Saturday, June 6, 1 to 4 p.m. | Sea Pirate Campground, West Creek

Beer, music and chili come together for a fundraiser benefiting the Eagleswood Volunteer Fire Company. Tickets are $40 for beer and chili, $15 for chili, and $5 entry without beer or chili. Children 5 and under are free.

Saturday, June 6, 2 p.m. | Little Borough Hall, Tuckerton

Learn about Ebenezer Tucker’s life and contributions to the United States, New Jersey and Tuckerton, including his service under General George Washington. The museum and gift shop will be open, with refreshments and vendors on site.

Saturday, June 6, 5:30 to 9 p.m. | Albert Music Hall, Waretown

Enjoy a classic Saturday night of live Bluegrass, Country, Folk, Americana, Old-Timey and Pinelands music. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., music runs 6:30 to 9 p.m., and admission is $6 for adults and $1 for children under 12, cash only. The Pickin’ Shed and porch open at 5:30 p.m. for informal jam sessions.

Saturday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. | 427 E. Bay Ave., Barnegat

Barnegat Recreation’s dock concert series begins with Joey D’s Rockin’ Oldies Band. All concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., with more shows planned throughout the summer.

Saturday, June 6, 7 to 11 p.m. | Laurita Winery, New Egypt

Dust off the boots for country line dancing at Laurita Winery. Beginner lessons run from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $11 online and $12 at the door. Adults 21 and older only.

Sunday, June 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Lacey Elks Lodge, Forked River

Shop local at this Sunday market featuring produce, eggs, baked goods, pierogies, stuffed cabbage, sauces, juices, handmade items, pet treats, plants, jewelry and more.

Sunday, June 7, 4 p.m. | Waretown United Methodist Church

The Island Singers present “United Through Song,” a free choral concert celebrating American folk songs, hymns, African-American spirituals, songs of the Civil Rights Movement and modern gospel music. Admission is free; donations are appreciated.

The 2026 Princeton Festival opens June 5–21 at Morven Museum & Garden, bringing a packed lineup of Broadway favorites, opera stars, ballet, Baroque music, jazz, rock and family-friendly fun to one of New Jersey’s prettiest cultural settings.

Opening weekend starts Friday, June 5, with Sierra Boggess, Broadway’s original Little Mermaid, in a cabaret-style evening of Broadway songs and personal stories. On Saturday, June 6, opera lovers can hear Metropolitan Opera star Sondra Radvanovsky perform arias by Verdi and Puccini with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra, joined by tenor Victor Starsky.

Sunday, June 7, is Community Day, with free morning yoga in the garden, an instrument petting zoo, musical story time, a quilting exhibition and a 30-minute Swan Lake experience with audience participation. The day wraps up with An Evening of Dance, featuring American Repertory Ballet and the Princeton Symphony Orchestra.

The festival continues with Baroque concerts, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, Queen tribute band Queen Nation, genre-blending trio Time for Three, and a final “Celebrating America at 250” weekend featuring Great Ladies of Jazz, The Bacon Brothers and an American Fanfare concert with vocalist Julie Benko.

Picnic boxes from Jammin’ Crepes can be pre-ordered for many mainstage performances, which means you can make an afternoon or evening of it — music, gardens and dinner without having to hunt for a parking-lot snack.

Tickets are available by phone at 609-497-0020 and online at princetonsymphony.org/festival.

Paper Mill Playhouse’s historic F.M. Kirby Carriage House has reopened after an $8.5 million renovation, expanding from a small 124-seat restaurant into a 228-seat, multi-level dining and event space open to both theatergoers and the general public.

The restaurant will continue offering themed prix-fixe dinners tied to Paper Mill productions, including a West Side Story-inspired menu during the show’s run through June 28. Chef Jacques Marra remains in charge of the kitchen, with a focus on immersive pre-theater dining as well as à la carte meals.

The expanded space includes a new first-floor dining room, bar seating and an upstairs Club Room for private events, performances and community gatherings. The renovation is part of Paper Mill’s larger $48.7 million Next Act Campaign to upgrade its campus.

Paper Mill Playhouse will close after June for theater renovations and is expected to reopen in November with Mary Poppins, but the Carriage House will remain open and host its own programming, including murder mystery nights, trivia, live music, comedy and more.

That’s it for this week’s Ocean Senior Scoop. Thanks for reading, sharing and helping us keep Ocean County seniors connected to what’s happening close to home.

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Until next time, stay curious, stay connected and enjoy the week.

— The Ocean Senior Scoop team