Ocean Senior Scoop: What’s Happening This Week

👋Hey, Ocean friends!

Spring’s in full swing—and so is Ocean County. We’ve rounded up the best local events, easy outings, and just-enough inspiration to get you out (or happily staying in). No digging, no scrolling—just the good stuff, right where you need it.

🌿 Green Thumbs & Garden Help
🎉 Just for Fun (yes, karaoke included)
🧺 Farmers Markets & Local Finds
🌤️ Get Outside (good causes + fresh air)
📚 Library Picks Around Town

Up first…

Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi and a long list of music heavyweights are coming to Monmouth University for a two-night concert celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music announced that “Music America: The Songs That Shaped Us” will take place June 4 and 5 at the OceanFirst Bank Center in West Long Branch, just days before the center officially opens on June 7. The lineup also includes Kenny Chesney, Mavis Staples, Public Enemy, Jackson Browne, Rosanne Cash, Gary Clark Jr., Stevie Van Zandt and more, with each artist performing landmark songs from American music history. Organizers say the concerts will span blues, bluegrass, rock, hip-hop, folk, jazz, country and gospel, with narration before each performance to add context. Get tickets at springsteencenter.org.

A new 299-unit luxury rental building in Long Branch is now accepting applications for 30 affordable apartments, with rents ranging from $489 to $1,705 a month depending on unit size and income category. Livana Long Branch, a $130 million development at 118 Broadway, is just a block from the boardwalk and beach. Apartments include modern finishes, a dishwasher, and an in-unit washer and dryer, while building amenities include a fitness center, pool, roof deck, theater room, pet spa, teen game room, coworking lounge, and coffee lounge. Applications are due online by July 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., with a lottery set for Aug. 1, 2026. The project is part of Long Branch’s Lower Broadway redevelopment zone and is expected to include a Superfresh grocery store and café.

See what’s happening around Ocean County this week.

🥕 Tuckerton Farmers Market
📍 Outside Union Market & Gallery, Tuckerton
🗓️ Friday, April 24 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Local and producer-only vendors serving up fresh goods and small-town charm. Info

✨ Night Market at New Egypt Flea Market Village
📍 933 Route 537, Cream Ridge
🗓️ Friday, April 24 | 5–9 p.m.
An evening market moment—shopping, strolling, and everything glowing under the lights. Info

🏡 Giant Yard Sale at Havens Homestead Museum
📍 Brick
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
Treasure hunting meets bake sale. Shop everything from household finds to homemade treats. Info

🛍️ Pine Beach Community Yard Sale
📍 Pine Beach (town-wide)
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, April 25–26 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
A full town of yard sales. Translation: this is not a quick stop. Sponsored by the Pine Beach Volunteer Fire Company. Info

🎡 Spring Fling Extravaganza
📍 A Sweet Memory Cake Shoppe, Waretown
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, April 25–26 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Part vendor market, part family fest—think crafts, treats, bounce house, and enough sugar to keep the grandkids very happy. Info

🥓 Bacon Fest at Laurita Winery
📍 New Egypt
🗓️ Saturday & Sunday, April 25–26 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
Food trucks, live bands, fire pits—and yes, a lot of bacon. Fireworks Saturday night. ($16 online | $18 at the gate | under 21 free) info

🌽 Lacey Elks Farmers & Vendor Market (Opening Day!)
📍 900 Beach Blvd, Forked River
🗓️ Sunday, April 26 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Fresh produce, baked goods, pierogies, handmade crafts, dog treats—you name it. A classic local market with a little bit of everything. Info

A few solid reasons to step away from the couch this weekend.

🎣 Eagleswood Volunteer Fire Company Perch Derby & Fish Fry Fundraiser
📍 219 Railroad Ave., West Creek
🗓️ Captains meeting: Friday, April 24 | 6 p.m.
🗓️ Tournament: Saturday, April 25
Fishing, competition, and a fish fry for a good cause? That’s a strong weekend combo. The 6th annual Perch Derby & Catfish Tournament benefits the Eagleswood Volunteer Fire Company, with cash prizes, youth awards, and a fish fry to follow. Teams of two can register for perch or catfish, and all anglers must be signed up by April 24. Rod and reel only, and yes—there are rules, so maybe leave the tall tales for after weigh-in. Info

🧤 Little Egg Harbor Community Wide Clean-Up
📍 Little Egg Harbor Municipal Building
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 9 a.m.
If you’ve been meaning to do something good for the planet, here’s your moment. Little Egg Harbor’s Environmental Commission is looking for volunteers for its community-wide cleanup, with lunch served afterward at the community center. You can volunteer solo or with a group, and community service hours are available too. Info

🌊 Township of Ocean Beach Clean-Up
📍 Waretown Community Center, Barnegat
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
This beach cleanup starts at the Waretown Community Center, where volunteers can head out to cleanup sites or help at the nearby park. Supplies, restrooms, and parking will all be available. A nice way to do some good and get a little fresh air in the process. Info

🦀 Earth Day Celebration at Cattus Island
📍 Cooper Environmental Center, Cattus Island County Park, Toms River
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
This free all-ages event has a little bit of everything: seining, kayak tours, live animal talks, the great bug race, crafts, nature games, lectures, and environmental groups on site. Info

In Beachwood, the Ocean County Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will continue the Easter season on Sunday, April 26, with a member recital titled “And Again I Say, Rejoice!” The performance begins at 3 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 130 Cable Ave. Instead of a set ticket price, a donation of whatever amount you choose for admission will be accepted, and a reception will follow the recital. Info

Then in Jackson, the Diocese of Trenton will present Franz Joseph Haydn’s Mass in Time of War and Symphony No. 92 in G Major at 3:30 p.m. at St. Aloysius Church, 935 Bennetts Mills Road. The concert on Sunday, April 26, will feature the Diocesan Festival Choir, the Oratory Choir of St. Anthony of Padua, and the Orchestra of St. Cecilia. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and free for children under 8. Info

Cruising is back in Philly. Norwegian Cruise Line has returned to the city for the first time in 15 years, with Norwegian Jewel now sailing a season of voyages to Bermuda and Canada & New England from Philadelphia through Oct. 7, 2026. Seven-day Bermuda cruises include an overnight at Royal Naval Dockyard plus a stop in either Charleston or Halifax, while longer fall sailings feature scenic Canada and New England ports that are perfect for leaf-peeping season. Starting in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will take over and continue sailing from Philadelphia through April 2028, with additional itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas. It’s a big win for Mid-Atlantic travelers who’d rather skip the flight and sail closer to home.

See what’s happening at Ocean County libraries this week, all for free!

💡 Lower Your Gas Bills: Assistance Programs That Work
📍 Manchester Branch
🗓️ Wednesday, April 22 | 10–11 a.m.
Struggling with high energy costs? You’re not alone—and there’s help. New Jersey Natural Gas breaks down grants, payment assistance programs, income eligibility, and how to apply. You’ll also get tips to keep your home energy-efficient and save money year-round, plus a chance to ask questions live.

🚶 Walk with Mayor Vitale
📍 Borden’s Parking Lot, River Avenue (Point Pleasant Beach)
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 10–10:30 a.m.
Start your morning with a community walk as part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, then stick around for a library tour and overview of services. No registration needed—just show up and stroll.

📦 De-Cluttering & Depersonalizing: Living with Less Can Be Good
📍 Long Beach Island Branch
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 1–3 p.m.
Thinking about downsizing—or just tired of your stuff staring back at you? Mike Ivankovich shares 100+ practical (and surprisingly entertaining) tips to help you lighten the load.

📱 Tech Help Tuesday
📍 Waretown Branch
🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
One-on-one help with smartphones, email, computers, and digital library tools. No question too small, no tech frustration too big. Call to register: (609) 693-5133.

🦴 Osteoporosis Jeopardy
📍 Long Beach Island Branch
🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 2–3 p.m.
Yes, it’s Jeopardy—but make it bone health. Learn how to prevent, test, and treat osteoporosis in a fun, interactive format with the LBI Health Department.

🌐 Web Wonders: Click-Worthy Websites
📍 Manchester Branch
🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 2–3 p.m.
A guided tour of reliable, easy-to-use websites that can actually make your life easier—from learning tools to everyday resources. Because the internet shouldn’t feel like a maze.

Your garden called… it would like a little attention this week.

🌱 Ask a Master Gardener
📍 Manchester Branch
🗓️ Wednesday, April 22 | 1–3 p.m.
Drop in and chat with a Rutgers Master Gardener about anything from pests to plants to “what on earth is happening in my yard.” Bring a sample if you’ve got one—answers included.

🌸 Hydrangeas: When, Why, and How?
📍 Upper Shores Branch
🗓️ Thursday, April 23 | 2–3 p.m.
There are 500+ types of hydrangeas (who knew?), and this session breaks down which ones like sun, shade, or a little of both—plus how to plant and care for them like a pro.

🪴 Houseplant Hospital
📍 Stafford Branch
🗓️ Monday, April 27 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Bring your struggling plant—or just a photo if bugs are involved—and let the experts diagnose the drama. Droopy leaves, mystery spots, full-on plant rebellion… they’ve seen it all.

🌼 Ask a Rutgers Master Gardener – Diagnostic Clinic
📍 Stafford Branch
🗓️ Monday, April 27 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Another chance to get answers to your gardening questions. Bring photos or samples for ID and advice.

🥕 Starting a Vegetable Garden: Let’s Proceed
📍 Point Pleasant Beach Branch
🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 3–4 p.m.
Thinking about growing your own veggies? Learn where to plant, what to pick, and how to actually get from seed to salad.

🌿 Houseplant Swap
📍 Brick Branch
🗓️ Wednesday, April 29 | 2:30–3:30 p.m.
Bring a healthy plant (or cutting), take home something new, and trade tips with fellow plant people. It’s part swap, part social hour!

🍹 30th Anniversary Mocktail Party with NGXB
📍 Little Egg Harbor Branch
🗓️ Thursday, April 23 | 2:30–4 p.m.
They’re throwing it back to 1996—and yes, you’re invited. Expect live ‘90s hits, mocktails, appetizers, and a full-on nostalgia moment to celebrate the branch’s 30th anniversary.

🛍️ Books, Bling, Bags & Bake Sale
📍 Brick Branch
🗓️ Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
A little shopping, a good cause, and possibly a few impulse cupcakes. Browse books, costume jewelry, handbags, and baked goods—all to support the Friends of the Brick Library.

🕵️ Tea & Twists: An Agatha Christie Afternoon
📍 Brick Branch
🗓️ Monday, April 27 | 2–4 p.m.
Tea, treats, and Murder on the Orient Express. A cozy afternoon where everyone’s a suspect.

🎤 Golden Grooves Karaoke
📍 Waretown Branch
🗓️ Monday, April 27 | 6–8 p.m.
Take the mic—or just cheer from your seat. This lively senior social is all about music, laughs, and maybe discovering your inner Sinatra.

🎶 Vinyl Record Nights
📍 Toms River Branch
🗓️ Tuesday, April 28 | 6:30–8 p.m.
Unwind with curated vinyl and a room full of fellow music lovers.

The latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

The Boomers Are Turning 80. Now They Want to Change Old Age: The number of octogenarians is growing and they have big ideas for spending, healthcare and housing. Wall Street Journal, April 13.

Small Ships, Big Luxury: 5 Boutique Yacht Cruises Retirees Should Book in 2026: The new way to sail: Why boutique yacht cruises are the ultimate retirement reward. Kiplinger, April 18.

Should Retirees Sell Now? High Prices and Mortgage Rates Can Complicate Downsizing: You may be sitting on a lot of home equity – but deciding to sell isn’t so simple. U.S. News & World Report, April 13.

4 Financial Scams Targeting Seniors to Watch For: Swindlers have stepped up their game with artificial intelligence and deepfakes to steal older Americans’ money and personal information. Wall Street Journal, April 19.

Here’s what’s new on streaming platforms this week.

🍿 “Marty Supreme” (HBO Max, April 24)
Nine Oscar nominations, $179 million at the box office—and now it’s headed to your living room. Timothée Chalamet stars as a scrappy ping-pong hopeful in 1950s New York in this high-energy drama that critics call a “nerve-busting adrenaline jolt.”

🏃‍♀️ “Apex” (Netflix, April 24)
Charlize Theron heads into the wilderness for healing… and finds herself in a full-blown survival nightmare instead. Add a menacing Taron Egerton and you’ve got a tense, edge-of-your-seat thriller.

🏀 “Running Point” Season 2 (Netflix, April 23)
Kate Hudson is back as a pro basketball team president trying to prove she belongs at the top. Think family drama meets front-office chaos—with a courtside view.

😂 “Funny AF with Kevin Hart” (Netflix, April 21)
Kevin Hart hits the road scouting the next big stand-up star—with help from a killer lineup of comedy judges. Even better? The final rounds stream live, and viewers can vote. Your couch just became part of the show.

No local birthdays submitted this week 🥲 but there are a few legends, and a former bionic man, celebrating birthdays this week.

April 22: Actor Jack Nicholson turns 89. Singer Mel Carter is 87. Director John Waters turns 80. Singer Peter Frampton is 76. TV personality Sherri Shepherd (“The View”) is 59.

April 23: Actor Lee Majors (“The Six Million Dollar Man”) turns 87. Actor Joyce DeWitt (“Three’s Company”) is 77. Director Michael Moore is 72. Actor Judy Davis is 71. Actor Valerie Bertinelli is 66. Comedian George Lopez is 65.

April 24: Actor Shirley MacLaine turns 92. Actor-singer-director Barbra Streisand is 84.

April 25: Actor Al Pacino turns 86. Bassist Stu Cook of Creedence Clearwater Revival is 81. Actor Talia Shire is 81. Singer Bjorn Ulvaeus of ABBA is 81.

That’s your Ocean County game plan for the week—now go make it a good one.

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See you next week 😎
The Ocean Senior Scoop Team

Disclaimer: It’s always smart to double-check event details before heading out. And as always, this newsletter is here to keep you informed and entertained, not to replace medical, legal, or financial advice.