Christmas In Barnegat And Stafford: Celebrate, Give Back

BARNEGAT-MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Although with the weather it might not feel like it, the holidays are rapidly descending on us.

There are plenty of ways to get in the Christmas spirit around Barnegat and Manahawkin. And for those looking to help those in need, there are plenty of ways to get involved with that as well.

Here are holiday events; some currently happening and some to look forward to. And don't miss when Santa comes to your neighborhood in Barnegat.

Donation Drives

Stafford PBA Local 297 and Stafford Recreation are hosting a toy drive from Nov. 3 to Dec. 23. Bring your new, unwrapped gifts for those from newborns to age 18. These don't have to be toys - they can be movie tickets, craft kits, coats, gift cards and more. You can bring them to the following areas:

• Bay Avenue Community Center (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) Also, bring new, unused winter apparel for babies to adults here
• Pine Street Recreation Building (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)
• Stafford Twp. Municipal Building (Anytime, day or night)
• Also, look for collection boxes at local businesses.

Christmas Tree Lightings

Stafford is hosting their Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m. on Dec. 2 at the Township Building. There will be hot cocoa and entertainment. Barnegat holds their tree lighting at Fred Watts Gazebo Park on Dec. 3.

Christmas Market

Enjoy a holiday wonderland at Heritage Park in Manahawkin on Dec. 10. From 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., there will be food trucks, vendors, fire pits, ice sculptures, entertainment and more. You can even get your family photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. No need to struggle with parking - park at Town Hall and let a shuttle bus take you to the market.