Warm Up With Chili Cookoff & More This Weekend In Ocean County

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Winter is definitely in full swing here in Ocean County, with freezing temperatures and plenty of snow.

But there's still plenty to do. Warm up with a chili cookoff, check out a new eatery or learn all about penguins.

Here are five fun events this weekend in Ocean County.

Penguin Awareness Day at Jenkinson's Aquarium

Learn all about these adorable flightless birds through crafts, activities and keeper chats. This runs from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 20 and is included with admission.

Ship Bottom Chili Cookoff

Head to Ship Bottom Brewery to sample some delicious chili, with all proceeds going to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. with a $10 entry fee for cooks.

Saladworks and Frutta Bowls Grand Opening

Celebrate the opening of Waretown's newest eateries on Jan. 20 with a local radio station and fun activities for children. Read more here.

Book Signing in Toms River

Meet Gregory Andrus, the man behind Portraits of the Jersey Shore, at TRAC Gallery from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 20. Book copies will be available for purchase.

Comic Book Show

The Toms River Elks Lodge hosts the Jersey Shore Comic Book Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 21. With comics, crafts, toys, collectibles and more, there's fun for the whole family.