Ocean Senior Scoop: Weekend Events, Library Music & What to Do Next Week

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👋 Hello, Ocean friends!

The weekend has arrived, and Ocean County is not easing into it quietly. We’ve got garage sales, soccer watch parties, outlaw country, card shows, patriotic crafts, Sinatra, sitcom trivia, baby animals and a full lineup of library programs waiting for next week. Hydrate accordingly.

🌊 Ocean County Events
🐐 Take the Grandkids
🩺 Take Care of Yourself
🏛️ History Buffs
✨ Try Something New
🧶 For Crafters
🎶 Entertainment
🌿 Green Thumb
🗺️ Statewide Weekend Roundup

Up first…

Ocean County is keeping the weekend calendar full, with townwide treasure hunting, World Cup fun, concerts, card collecting, patriotic crafts and live music.

When: Saturday, June 13, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Rain date: Sunday, June 14
Where: Seaside Heights
Info: Seaside Heights BID, 732-830-3700

Seaside Heights is turning into one big bargain hunt with its townwide garage sale. If you want to participate as a seller, permits are $5 and must be purchased from Borough Hall, 100 Grant Ave., by noon on Friday, June 12.

When: Saturday, June 13
Doors open: 10 a.m.
Live music: 4 p.m.
Match: Brazil vs. Morocco at 6 p.m.
Where: The Dome at Adventure Crossing, 515 Monmouth Road, Jackson
Info: 888-494-2770

World Cup energy comes to Jackson with youth soccer activities, live music, a DJ, cultural food and music, giveaways and more.

When: Saturday, June 13, noon–5 p.m.
Where: Franklin Avenue Stage and Seaside Heights Boardwalk, 410 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights
Info: 732-830-3700

Live performers will take the stage and march the boardwalk in Seaside Heights. It’s an afternoon of music, movement and boardwalk atmosphere.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2 p.m.
Where: Community Reformed Church, 36 Lacey Road, Whiting
Admission: Free; donations appreciated
Info: islandsingersnj.com, [email protected], 609-879-9340

The Island Singers present “United Through Song,” a choral concert celebrating the unifying power of music. The program includes American folk songs, American folk hymns, African-American spirituals, songs of the Civil Rights Movement and modern gospel music about unity. A beautiful reminder that music has always known how to bring people together.

Additional performance: Friday, June 19, at 7 p.m. at Manahawkin Baptist Church, 400 Beach Ave., Manahawkin.

When: Saturday, June 13
Doors open: 5 p.m.
Music starts: 6 p.m.
Where: Albert Music Hall, Waretown
Admission: $6 adults; $1 children under 12; cash only
Info: alberthall.org

Dust off your boots for a night of outlaw country inspired by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard and Willie Nelson. Six bands are scheduled to perform, including The Pine Nuts, Dan Whitley, Pitch Pine, Basement Musicians, Thomas Ryan and Granny & The Boys.

There will be food, desserts, drinks, a gift shop, a 50/50 drawing and free parking. The pickin’ shed will also be open for jamming, so bring an instrument if you want to join in. Basically, if your weekend needs more twang, here you go.

When: Saturday, June 13, 6:30 p.m.
Where: 427 East Bay Ave., Barnegat
Performer: Sky’s the Limit — Duprees Tribute Band
Info: Barnegat Township Recreation, 609-698-0080 ext. 130

Barnegat’s dock concert series continues with Sky’s the Limit, a Duprees tribute band. Bring a chair, enjoy the evening and let the oldies do what the oldies do best.

When: Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Toms River Elks Lodge, 600 Washington St., Toms River
Admission: $5; kids 10 and under free
Info: jerseyshorecomicbookshow.com/jersey-shore-card-show

Card fans, this one is for you. The first-ever Jersey Shore Card Show will feature sports cards, non-sports cards, Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, Lorcana, Marvel/DC, Star Wars, Star Trek, TV, movies and more. Special guest actor and TV producer Corey Sosner is also scheduled to appear. Fun for the whole family, with free parking.

When: Sunday, June 14, 10:30–11:45 a.m.
Where: Cedar Bridge Tavern Historic Site, 200 Old Halfway Road, Barnegat
Ages: 5–10
Cost: Free; registration required
Info/Register: oceancountyparks.org or 732-506-9090

This patriotic children’s program invites kids to read a story, make a craft and add their ideas to a special commemorative 250 art piece. A good pick for grandparents looking for something meaningful, hands-on and not involving another screen.

When: Sunday, June 14
Doors open: 2 p.m.
Youth soccer activities: 4 p.m.
Match: Netherlands vs. Japan at 4 p.m.
Where: LBI National Golf & Resort, 99 Golf View Drive, Little Egg Harbor

The World Cup fun continues in Little Egg Harbor with outdoor big screens, indoor viewing, youth soccer activities, giveaways and more.

When: Sunday, June 14, 6 p.m.
Where: Beach Haven Moose Lodge, 120 Route 72 West, Manahawkin
Tickets: $30
Benefit: Hearts of Mercy
For tickets: Kristen Santorelli, 908-783-0269; Angelo Sammartano, 609-457-0491

Dinner, Sinatra music and a good cause? That’s a strong Sunday night. This fundraiser features live Sinatra music by Dave Sodano, with proceeds benefiting Hearts of Mercy. Open to the public.

When: Sunday, June 14, 7 p.m.
Where: Seaside Social House, 116 Sumner Ave., Seaside Heights
Hosted by: Shoreline Trivia Co.
Info: 732-592-9366

Think you know your sitcoms? Prove it at TV Sitcom Trivia Night, with food and drink specials available. Prizes include a $50 gift card for first place and a $25 gift card for second place, plus raffles for everyone else. Finally, all those hours of classic TV may pay off.

If the grandkids are visiting and you need a plan that does not involve another trip to the snack cabinet, Argos Farm in Forked River has you covered.

The farm’s Baby Animal Fest runs Fridays through Sundays, June 12–28, with baby animals, photo ops, tasty treats and fun farm attractions. Translation: tiny goats, cute pictures and at least one child asking if they can bring something home. Stay strong, and don’t forget a camera.

When: Fridays–Sundays, June 12–28
Time: 1–6 p.m.
VIP Experience: Starts at noon
Where: Argos Farm, 1250 Lacey Road, Forked River
Tickets: Visit Argos Farm online

Next week brings several helpful health programs at Ocean County Library. Some are practical, some are supportive, and all of them beat Googling symptoms at midnight.

When: Saturday, June 13, 10–11 a.m.
Where: Toms River Branch, Bishop Room, upstairs
Info: 732-349-6200

Join yoga and Pilates instructor Belle Burns for an hourlong gentle yoga class that’s great for beginners. Please bring a mat. A waiver must be signed before participating. Sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.

When: Monday, June 15, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Where: Manchester Branch, Manchester Meeting Room
Reserve a spot: Call Julia at 732-505-2273
Branch info: 732-657-7600

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, in partnership with Ocean County Library, is offering a support group for caregivers and their loved ones experiencing memory loss. Caregivers can receive support from a licensed clinical social worker while loved ones take part in socialization led by a certified dementia practitioner. A little support, a little breathing room, and yes, both matter.

When: Monday, June 15, 2–3 p.m.
Where: Manchester Branch, Manchester Meeting Room
Register: Call 609-488-2650 or email [email protected]

This program is designed to help people with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders improve communication skills. Licensed providers from Speech Pathology Solutions, LLC will focus on exercises for speech and vocal quality, including strategies to improve voice loudness, clarity and speaking with intent. New members are welcome.

Upcoming meetings are also scheduled for September 21 and December 14 at 2 p.m. at the Manchester Branch.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 10 a.m.–noon
Where: Whiting Reading Center
Registration: Not required
Info: 732-849-0391

Stop by for a free health screening provided by Deborah Heart & Lung Center nursing staff. Screenings include blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels. Drop in, get checked, carry on with your day.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 2–3 p.m.
Where: Point Pleasant Borough Branch, Point Pleasant Borough Meeting Room
Info: 732-295-1555

Presented with Age-Friendly Ocean County, this program covers the latest research on lifestyle choices that may help keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Participants will use hands-on tools to turn the recommendations into a healthy aging plan.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 2–3 p.m.
Where: Brick Branch, Brick Meeting Room
Info: 732-477-4513

A nurse educator from Hackensack Meridian Health will share practical tips for staying safe in the sun, identifying early signs of heat exhaustion, managing stings and practicing water safety.

Ocean County Library is leaning into America’s 250th with a lineup for anyone who likes their history with drama, complicated characters and the occasional international incident.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2–3 p.m.
Where: Brick Branch, Brick Meeting Room
Info: 732-477-4513

Historical interpreter Stacy Roth portrays Molly Pitcher, also known as Mary Hays McCauley, in this storytelling presentation about her adventures from her husband’s enlistment to the Battle of Monmouth on June 28, 1778.

Dressed in Revolutionary War attire and sharing the story from the perspective of 1822 — the year Molly receives a pension for her service — Roth brings to life the legend of the woman who assisted her husband and his artillery crew during battle. Basically, she was not there to hold anyone’s coat.

This program is part of Ocean County Library’s celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and is made possible through the support of the Ocean County Library Foundation.

When: Monday, June 15, 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Where: Brick Branch, Brick Meeting Room
Info: 732-477-4513

Author Rick Geffken explores New Jersey’s often-overlooked history of enslavement, from the 1600s through the Revolutionary War. The program includes stories of Lewis Morris, who brought enslaved people to his Monmouth County estate in 1675, and Colonel Tye, an escaped slave from Rumson who joined the British and led raids near his former home.

It is a difficult but important part of New Jersey history — and one that did not get nearly enough attention in the textbook version.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 11 a.m.–noon
Where: Offsite at Beachwood’s Mayo Park Center, 501 Beacon Ave., Beachwood
Branch: Beachwood Branch
Registration: Please register each adult individually
Info: 732-244-4573

This program tells the little-known story of Colonel Tye, a runaway slave who fought for the British, and his Patriot foe, militia captain Joshua Huddy. Huddy’s extralegal hanging in Highlands created an international incident when George Washington resolved to hang a British prisoner of war in retaliation.

The whole episode threatened the success of the Paris Peace Treaty talks, which were ultimately helped along by the intervention of Marie Antoinette. So yes, this local story somehow involves George Washington, Highlands, France and a Revolutionary War grudge match. History really does know how to escalate.

This program is presented in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary and is sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 2:30–4 p.m.
Where: Jackson Branch, Jackson Meeting Room
Registration: Required
Info: 732-928-4400

Wills are important, but they are only one piece of the estate-planning puzzle. Attorney Tina M. James, Esq., a member of the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, will explain wills, trusts, special needs trusts, probate and other planning basics in plain English.

James focuses on estate planning, guardianship and special needs planning, especially for families navigating caregiving and long-term decision-making. Translation: this is the kind of program you attend now so future-you is not sorting through paperwork muttering, “Why didn’t we figure this out sooner?”

Ocean County Library has a busy week ahead crafters and stitchers.

When: Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m.–noon
Where: Barnegat Branch, Barnegat Meeting Room
Info: 609-698-3331

Drop in with your own supplies and spend the morning knitting, crocheting and chatting with fellow yarn people. No overthinking required — just bring the project that has been patiently judging you from the tote bag.

When: Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Waretown Branch, Waretown Meeting Room
Info: 609-693-5133

Want to learn how to knit socks? The Waretown Woolies are here for it. Basic knitting skills are required, so this is best for crafters who already know their way around the needles.

When: Monday, June 15, 10 a.m.–noon
Where: Jackson Branch, Makerspace
Info: 732-928-4400

Bring your own project — knitting, crocheting, sewing, drawing, coloring or whatever creative thing you’re currently pretending is “almost finished.” You can also help make donated items for local organizations that support people in need. Community service hours are available.

When: Monday, June 15, 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Where: Toms River Branch, Mancini Hall
Registration: Required
Info: 732-349-6200

Learn the basics of basket weaving in this beginner-friendly class with Mary May. Participants will make a small traditional-style round basket with a hard handle, perfect for summer berry picking. Sponsored by the Jersey Shore Folklife Center at Tuckerton Seaport.

When: Monday, June 15, 12:30–2:30 p.m.
Where: Little Egg Harbor Branch, Living Room Area
Info: 609-294-1197

Relax and chat with other yarn enthusiasts, work on your knit or crochet projects and swap patterns. Basically, it’s a support group for people with unfinished projects, and honestly, we respect that.

When: Monday, June 15, 1–3 p.m.
Where: Waretown Branch, Waretown Meeting Room
Info: 609-693-5133

Bring your latest knitting, crochet or fiber-related project and enjoy time with fellow fiber friends. The group shares ideas, support and new techniques.

When: Monday, June 15, 6:30–8 p.m.
Where: Island Heights Branch
Info: 732-270-6266

Work on your current fiber arts project while sharing tips and tricks with others. All skill levels and fiber arts are welcome, including knitting, crochet, embroidery, macrame and more. Bring the project. Bring the supplies.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Where: Plumsted Branch, Plumsted Meeting Room
Registration: Required; seating is limited
Info: 609-758-7888

The library provides the supplies; you provide the imagination. Adults and seniors can make beaded wind chimes in this relaxing craft program sponsored by The Friends of the Plumsted Library.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Brick Branch, Brick Meeting Room
Info: 732-477-4513

Technically, this one is more kitchen than craft table, but making dips for Dino chicken nuggets absolutely counts as creative work. Learn how to make a variety of classic, bold and surprising dips. Potential allergens.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Lakewood Branch, Lakewood Meeting Room
Registration: Required; space is limited
Info: 732-363-1435

Celebrate the season with Art with a Heart as you create a 3D cherry blossom painting. Step-by-step instructions will guide you through the project, and you’ll add your own details and flair to make it uniquely yours.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 6–8 p.m.
Where: Point Pleasant Borough Branch, YA Floor
Info: 732-295-1555

Drop in and join the Twisted Stitchers. If you need help from an experienced knitter, email [email protected] ahead of time so the instructor can be prepared.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 6–7:30 p.m.
Where: Toms River Branch, Sparks’s Lab/Makerspace
Registration: Required; space is limited
Info: 732-349-6200

BYOCP — Bring Your Own Crochet Project. Adults with crochet experience can meet new friends, get help with a tricky project or help someone else untangle theirs. There is no instructor for this event, so bring your project and your know-how.

Ocean County Library has a couple of musical treats coming up, from high-energy bluegrass to the kind of singer-songwriter tribute that may have you quietly mouthing every lyric. No Ticketmaster drama, no giant parking lot hike — just music at the library. We love a civilized night out.

When: Monday, June 15, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Toms River Branch, Mancini Hall
Info: 732-349-6200

Fish & Whistle brings a lively mix of bluegrass, acoustic rock and more to the Toms River Branch. The band features multiple lead singers and impressive guitar flat-pickers, with members ranging in age from 20 to 70. Translation: this is a true all-generations jam, and they are not here to gently hum in the corner.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 7–8 p.m.
Where: Upper Shores Branch, Upper Shores Main Floor
Info: 732-793-3996

The Rave On Duo pays tribute to favorite singer-songwriters, including Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Diamond, Paul McCartney, James Taylor, Cat Stevens, Carole King and more. Basically, it is one hour of “oh, I love this one” energy.

This program is presented as a Friends Event.

Ocean County Library has a few helpful programs for anyone who loves digging in the dirt, fussing over flowers or wondering what exactly is eating the leaves this time. Bring your questions, your curiosity and, if needed, your most suspicious garden sample.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 1–3 p.m.
Where: Manchester Branch
Info: 732-657-7600

Got a garden problem? Bring it to someone who actually knows what they’re looking at. A Rutgers Master Gardener of Ocean County will be available to answer questions about horticulture, Integrated Pest Management, wildlife control and other environmental concerns. You may also bring a sample of a garden problem for diagnosis.

When: Tuesday, June 16, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Where: Jackson Branch, Jackson Meeting Room
Registration: Required
Info: 732-928-4400

Learn which native plants grow best in Ocean County with a volunteer from the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County. Topics will include local soil, salt and wind conditions, plus native species such as Foxglove Beardtongue, Butterfly Weed, Ninebark and Joe-Pye Weed.

When: Wednesday, June 17, 6–7 p.m.
Where: Little Egg Harbor Branch, Little Egg Harbor Meeting Room
Info: 609-294-1197

Want to make your yard more welcoming for feathered visitors? Girl Scout Gold Award candidate Lucia Street will share tips on bird feeders, bird seed, native plants and how to care for a bird-friendly backyard habitat. You’ll also learn how to support birds on their migratory journey — because apparently even birds appreciate good hospitality.

When: Saturday, June 13, 4–9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Hammonton, Atlantic County

Food trucks take over downtown Hammonton, which means dinner is handled.

When: Saturday, June 13, 1–5 p.m.
Where: Seaside Heights, Ocean County

Pizza at the Shore. That’s it. That’s the event. No further argument needed.

When: Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Taylor Avenue Waterfront, 325 Taylor Ave., Beach Haven, Ocean County

Hot sauce, food, craft beer and live music hit Beach Haven. Great for people who believe “mild” is a missed opportunity.

When: Saturday, June 13; starts at 10 a.m.
Where: Stafford Township, Ocean County

Stafford celebrates Founders Day with hometown pride, a parade and community festivities.

When: Saturday & Sunday, June 13–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Burlington County Fairgrounds, 1990 Jacksonville Jobstown Road, Columbus, Burlington County

Knights, costumes, performances and ye olde weekend fun return to Burlington County. Huzzah, but make it New Jersey.

When: Sunday, June 14, 2 p.m.
Where: State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, Middlesex County

Ben Folds joins the New Jersey Symphony for an afternoon concert.

When: Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Smithville & Village Greene, 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Galloway, Atlantic County

GM and GM-powered vehicles take over Smithville.

When: Sunday, June 14, 3–5 p.m.
Where: Princeton Battlefield State Park/Clarke House area, Princeton, Mercer County

Princeton leans into America 250 with a guided Revolutionary War-inspired art and history experience.

When: Sunday, June 14, 9 a.m. start
Where: Joe Palaia Park, 240 Whalepond Road, Ocean Township, Ocean County

Runners and walkers come together for a meaningful 5K supporting cancer-related care and research.

When: Sunday, June 14; check event listing for time
Where: Princeton Battlefield, Princeton, Mercer County

Artists head outdoors to paint at Princeton Battlefield.

When: Sunday, June 14
Doors: 12:30 p.m.
Concert: 2:30–4 p.m.
Family day: Runs until 6 p.m.
Where: Sports Illustrated Stadium, 600 Cape May St., Harrison, Hudson County

Kidz Bop, soccer activities and family fun take over the stadium.

When: Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Middlesex County Fairgrounds, 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, Middlesex County

East Brunswick celebrates Polish culture with food, music, heritage and community. Pierogi possibilities should never be ignored.

That’s the weekend, friends.

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Have a great weekend, see you Monday!
Ocean Senior Scoop

Disclaimer: As always, event details can change. Please check with organizers before heading out. Ocean Senior Scoop is here to keep you informed and entertained, but we’re not your doctor, lawyer, financial adviser or GPS.😊