Kids & Family

All The December Events In Monmouth County Parks

The Monmouth County Parks System has you covered thanks to the array of family-friendly activities offered this December. What's planned:

Enjoy the beauty of nature in wintertime.
Enjoy the beauty of nature in wintertime. (Monmouth County Parks System)

LINCROFT– Whether you’re looking for some holiday cheer or an escape from the madness of the season, the Monmouth County Park System has you covered thanks to the array of family-friendly activities offered this December. Here’s what is planned:

Wondrous Winter Walk

Wednesday, December 1 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Find out what's happening in Middletownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Huber Woods Park, Middletown - Meet in the Environmental Center parking lot.

Wednesday, December 8 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Find out what's happening in Middletownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Big Brook Park, Marlboro - Meet in the Lower Pond parking lot.

Toss on your winter gear and tag along with a Park System Naturalist as you explore nature in the wintertime. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Please note that sturdy footwear recommended; trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. FREE!

Yarn Bee

Saturday, December 4 from 12-2:30 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Whether just starting a new hobby or working on an old project, all are welcome to this gathering! The relaxed atmosphere means no pressure - you can knit or crochet at your own pace, and farm staff will be on hand to assist those needing a little extra help. Bring your own supplies. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $5 per person; cash or check only.

The Creative Arts Center Exhibit

Saturday, December 4-Saturday, December 11 from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, Lincroft

Celebrate the original artwork of the Creative Arts Center's students and instructors during this show. Many pieces are available for sale. Admission and parking are free.

19th Century Christmas Ballads

Saturdays, December 4 & 11 from 1-3:30 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Enjoy 19th century Christmas ballads played on the piano. FREE!

Winter Beach Walk

Tuesday, December 7 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan

Take a guided walk with a Park System Naturalist along the beach while collecting and identifying some of the ocean’s natural treasures. Be sure to dress in warm clothing and bring along something to carry shells. FREE!

Casual Birder

Tuesday, December 7 at 9 a.m.

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan

Tuesday, December 21 at 9 a.m.

Thompson Park, Lincroft - Meet at Marlu Lake.

Join a Park System naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk and meander through the park for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can find. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. FREE!

Cookstove Demonstration

Saturday, December 11 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

See what's cooking on the woodstove and discover how recipes, cooking techniques and kitchens have changed since the 1890s. FREE!

Edible History Series: Coffee Cake

Saturday, December 11 from 2-3 p.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Drop in for a cup of coffee and a piece of coffee cake made from a 19th century recipe. Learn about the history and evolution of America’s favorite “pick-me-up” and the tasty crumb-topped treat that accompanies it. FREE!

The Sounds of Christmas

Sunday, December 12 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Celebrate the holidays by listening to Larry Moser and Mary Nagin play Christmas carols on the hammered dulcimer and fiddle. FREE!

Nature Lecture Series: Seals of the Jersey Shore

Thursday, December 16 from 7-8 p.m.

Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth

Join a Park System Naturalist for this talk on the different species of seals that call the Jersey Shore home during the colder months. FREE!

Stockings Hung with Care

Sunday, December 19 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Decorate and "sew" your own paper stocking to take home. FREE!

Clear the House Stroll

Friday, December 24 at 10 a.m.

Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown

Clear the house by sending family and guests on a stroll with a Park System guide. This stroll takes place on even paths and at a slow pace, perfect for enjoying Deep Cut’s winter splendor. FREE!

Nature on the Move: Winter Days

Wednesday, December 29 at 3 p.m.

Holmdel Park, Holmdel – Meet in the Shelter Building parking area.

Look for our colorful Nature on the Move van and join one of our Park System Naturalists for a 45-60-minute hands-on interactive program. FREE!

To learn more about these Park System activities, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System TTY/TDD number is 711. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks, and Recreation agency.

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