Tree Lighting 2025
2025-12-05 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | NJ
December 5th, 2025: Join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM @ 33 Washington St. Downtown Toms River NJ: Live entertainment, Family activities and… SANTA!!

Winter Wonderland 2025
2025-12-06 11:00 - 16:00 | Downtown Toms River, Washington St,., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
December 6th 11AM – 4PM – Washington St. – Downtown Toms River will be a Winter Wonderland! – Gifts, district businesses, family activities, carols, holiday music, face painting, ornament painting, holiday story time and more! –

Stay tuned: Follow our Facebook: www.facebook.com/downtowntomsrive Instagram: www.instagram.com/downtowntomsriver/ for updates and info.

🌲Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop Vendor Market🌲
2025-12-07 12:00 - 16:00 | Garden State Distillery, 13 Washington Street, Toms River, 08753, United States
This FREE Local Craft & Vendor Market is hosted by Jenn Zazzara, Shore Crafted, bringing together local makers, artisans and small businesses. Enjoy an intimate setting and shop unique, one-of-a-kind items while sipping craft drinks!
🎁Sip & Shop Local Craft & Vendor Market🎁
Let’s sleigh the season! Join us for an afternoon of sipping, shopping, and holiday magic. Sip festive drinks, shop unique gifts, and soak up the merry vibes. From handmade goods to gourmet treats and stocking stuffers – we’ve got something for everyone on your list!
Sip & Shop Vendor Market: Sunday, December 7th | 12-4 pm at Garden State Distillery, 13 Washington Street, Toms River, NJ
Come for the cheer, stay for the finds – and let’s jingle all the way!
Questions? Contact Jenn Zazzara at shorecraftednj@gmail.com
For more details please visit: Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop | Facebook

Sketchbookers Club 2nd Thursday Every Month @ TRAC
2025-12-11 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-01-08 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-02-12 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-09 18:00 - 20:00 | NJ

Beach Snow man Paint party at TRAC
2025-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | TRAC GALLERY, 40 Main St, Right Side, TOMS RIVER, NJ, 08753, United States
FRIDAY, DEC 12, 6:00-8:00 PM

40 main St Toms River, NJ 08753
Toms River arts community
TRAC.
Come join the fun at our Holiday Paint Party! Paint Sandy the Snowman! Add cool beachy touches like palm trees, a tiki hut, or even the Barnegat Lighthouse. Give Sandy a fun holiday!
If you’d like a pre-drawn canvas, select that option — it’s just $5 extra.
Get your tickets early! All ages welcome. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks and drinks. Let’s get creative and celebrate the season together!

Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop
2025-12-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
A cozy night of gingerbread house decorating is calling – come create some holiday magic with us!
Friday 12/12, 6:30–8:00PM, $55 per person
Here’s what’s included:

A pre-assembled, medium-sized homemade gingerbread house ready for you to decorate
Step-by-step decorating tips & tricks taught by @coastalconfectionsnj (perfect for beginners!)
A full spread of festive accents and candy décor—gumdrops, icing, sprinkles & more
A to-go box to safely bring home your holiday masterpiece
Complimentary seasonal sips + light bites to enjoy while you decorate

Psychic Readings at TMI
2025-12-13 12:00 - 16:00 | Trinity’s Magickal Intentions, 40 Main St, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Join us on Psychic Saturday for readings with psychic intuitive, Sharon O’Brien (at 40 Main St) in Downtown Toms River!
Sharon was born into a family of intuitives and mediums. She got her first Tarot deck at 15 and has been reading ever since. Through the years she has added other tools to her belt and tailors each session to the individual. She has a strong connection with Spirit and Nature, bringing balance to her sessions. Her hope is that you walk away inspired and feeling lighter.
Sharon is best known for Tarot and Lenormand card readings, Celtic readings (ogham) and pet readings (you can bring a picture of the pet or an item of theirs). She also uses intuition and connects to Spirit. She is a Reiki Master Teacher and a board certified Holistic Health and Life Coach. Sharon was a co-founder and Elder in The Song of Avalon Grove until it closed in 2017. She is an ordained minister, teaches various workshops and classes, as well as providing Spiritual Guidance and coaching.
15min for $2530min for $50
Walk-ins welcome, or you can claim your spot here –https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D48A4AC2CA4FE3-psychic#/
Psychic readings must be considered as entertainment. Any health or medical advice should always be checked out by a licensed medical practitioner.

Celebrate OCHS's 75th Anniversary!
2025-12-14 12:30 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the
Ocean County History Society
Location: 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025 @12:30 PM
Please visit the Ocean County Historical Society on Sunday, December 14, 2025, as we proudly celebrate our seventy-fifth anniversary. Our day will commence with a guided tour at 12:30 pm of our Elizabeth Sculthorp Force house and museum. You will be able to view our new display commemorating seventy-five years of OCHS history. Cordially join us for a birthday cake at 1:30 pm. Next, starting at 2:00 pm we will have renowned musicians, Anne and Ridley Enslow, performing a concert of Revolutionary War music. This is part of OCHS’s commitment to celebrating the 250th Anniversary of American Independence.
This event is free. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, telephone number and the name and date of the program (December 14, 2025) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com.

Holiday Decorating Contest 2025
2025-12-19 17:00 | NJ
Which house in the Downtown will shine the brightest? – Our annual Holiday Decorating contest is open to all of Downtown – No registration required. – Get out your garland, your lights and all your festive decorations. – The Downtown Business Improvement District crew will be on the lookout for their favorite, most creative, most exciting, home and business holiday displays. – Spread Holiday Cheer! Will your display outshine the others this year? –

JUDGING, for the Holiday Decorating Contest will occur on December 19th @ 5PM, so have your displays ready! –

Stay tuned: Follow our Facebook: www.facebook.com/downtowntomsrive Instagram: www.instagram.com/downtowntomsriver/ for updates and info.

Most Wonderful Crime of the Year Murder Mystery Dinner Show
2026-01-03 19:00 - 21:30 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Join us at the Mathis House for a Most Wonderful Time of the Year Murder Mystery Dinner Show!
Come celebrate the season with us tonight at 7:00 PM! Dress in your holiday dinner best and get ready to enjoy a beautifully decorated Inn with over 35 Christmas Trees.

Dinner includes: Mini Charcuterie Cups Chicken Picatta Penne Vodka, sautéed vegetables, & a fresh green salad Warm bread with herb butter Assorted Teatime Desserts to end on a sweet note
Plus coffee or tea (BYOB welcome)
Tickets:$75 per person10 Percent off for Seniors and MilitaryPlus tax & gratuityLimited seating – reservations required!Parties of 2 or 3 may be grouped with other teams of 2 or 3.
Call 732-818-7580 for more information or to reserve your spot Visit: www.mathishouse600main.com Buy tickets on: [Eventbrite], RESY, or at 732-818-7580. Location: The Historic Mathis House, 600 Main Street, Downtown Toms River Parking located directly behind the Inn
Don’t miss out on a festive night full of mystery, delicious food, and holiday cheer!

New Years Brunch
2026-01-04 10:00 - 12:00 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Kick off 2026 with a delicious, laid-back brunch and even better company. Join us for a cozy morning filled with freshly prepared favorites. Whether you’re toasting new beginnings, reconnecting with friends, or bringing the whole family out for a special treat, this brunch is the perfect way to start the year on a high note. Spend time sipping tea, enjoying delicious gourmet food, and listening to live piano music. Get ready to enjoy a beautifully decorated Inn with over 35 Christmas Trees.
The Brunch Menu will include your traditional home-cooked style breakfast choices. Live entertainment and a complimentary glass of champagne.
Spots are limited—reserve early and make the first weekend of the year one to remember.
The cost is $50 per person plus tax and a cash gratuity. 10% off for Seniors and Military. Cancellations with 24 24-hour notice will result in a credit to the Mathis House for 2 years.
Please call 732-818-7580 to purchase tickets or visit RESY or Eventbrite

Most Wonderful Crime of the Year Murder Mystery Dinner Show
2026-01-09 19:00 - 21:30 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Join us at the Mathis House for a Most Wonderful Crime of the Year Murder Mystery Dinner Show!
Come celebrate the season with us tonight at 7:00 PM! Dress in your holiday dinner best and get ready to enjoy a beautifully decorated Inn with over 35 Christmas Trees.

Dinner includes: Mini Charcuterie Cups Chicken Picatta Penne Vodka, sautéed vegetables, & a fresh green salad Warm bread with herb butter Assorted Teatime Desserts to end on a sweet note
Plus coffee or tea (BYOB welcome)
Tickets:$75 per person10 Percent off for Seniors and MilitaryPlus tax & gratuityLimited seating – reservations required!Parties of 2 or 3 may be grouped with other teams of 2 or 3.
Call 732-818-7580 for more information or to reserve your spot Visit: www.mathishouse600main.com Buy tickets on: [Eventbrite], RESY, or at 732-818-7580. Location: The Historic Mathis House, 600 Main Street, Downtown Toms River Parking located directly behind the Inn
Don’t miss out on a festive night full of mystery, delicious food, and holiday cheer!

Chef's Night Out: Italian Dinner
2026-01-10 19:00 - 21:30 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Chef’s Night Out: Italian Dinner Saturday, January 10th7:00 PM
Join us for a special Chef’s Night Out featuring an Italian dinner you won’t forget. Settle in for an evening of rustic flavors and elevated favorites Whether you’re a longtime Italian-food lover or just looking for a cozy night of great cooking and great company, this dinner is your excuse to indulge.
Come hungry, stay awhile, and let the chef take you straight to Italy—one course at a time.
The cost is $50 Adults and 10% off for Seniors and Military.Please call 732-818-7580 to make reservations or visit RESY to purchase online.Cancellations will receive a credit at the Mathis House for up to two years. We are a BYOB

The Battle of Springfield
2026-01-11 14:00 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Ocean County Historical Society
Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM
The Battle of Springfield – presented by Bob Gula
Join us for a talk by Bob Gula, who will be portraying Revolutionary War soldier Jehiel Day (his 5x great grandfather!) as he discusses the Battle of Springfield. The Battle of Springfield in 1780 was the last major fighting of the American Revolution in the Northeast United States. The Continental Army and local NJ militia successfully repelled British forces looking to capture George Washington and his army in Morristown.
Bob Gula is a retired senior finance executive. He is an active member/officer in the Mayflower Society of New Jersey, Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War and the Forgotten Victory Trail Association.
This event is free, but your donation in support of our program is appreciated. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, telephone number and the name and date of the program (January 11, 2026) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com.

Princess Tea Party with Elsa
2026-01-14 18:30 - 20:00 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Bring your little princess to join the Winter Ice Queen for a special tea time at the Historic Mathis House Victorian Tea Room. The tea time includes an appearance from our Princess, who will sing songs, read a story, and take pictures with your children.
Enjoy warm scones with clotted cream and homemade cupcakes with cold and hot tea. The mansion is perfectly decorated and a place that brings smiles and memories.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Please call 732-818-7580 for more information or visit www.mathishouse600main.com to buy direct online.
Located at 600 Main Street in Downtown Toms River. Parking located directly behind the Inn. Please no early birds. Feel free to come dressed in your princess outfits and bring your camera.

Princess Tea Party with Elsa
2026-01-28 18:30 - 20:00 | The Mathis House at 600 Main, 600 Main St., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Bring your little princess to join the Winter Ice Queen for a special tea time at the Historic Mathis House Victorian Tea Room. The tea time includes an appearance from our Princess that will sing songs, read a story and take pictures with your children.
Enjoy warm scones with clotted cream and homemade cupcakes with cold and hot tea. The mansion is perfectly decorated and a place that brings smiles and memories.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Please call 732-818-7580 for more information or visit www.mathishouse600main.com to buy directly online.
Located at 600 Main Street in Downtown Toms River. Parking is located directly behind the Inn. Please, no early birds. Feel free to come dressed in your princess outfits and bring your camera.

Puppy Love Pop-Up
2026-02-07 14:00 - 17:00 | NJ
A Valentine’s Day pop-up event hosted by Canine Aesthetic. Professional Pet photo op by Chelsea Rose Photography. Vendors include Spire Coffee, Gifted on Washington and Craft and Carry Custom.

"A Titanic Loss for New Jersey" - by Robert DeSando
2026-02-15 14:00 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
“A Titanic Loss for New Jersey” by Robert DeSando
Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM
Meet Robert DeSando as he discusses his newest book ” A Titanic Loss for New Jersey” on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Learn about how the sinking of the Titanic impacted New Jersey from both a personal and economic perspective. The program will be followed with a book signing by Robert. His book will be available for purchase that day.
Robert is a former journalist, lobbyist, and public servant. For more than 16 years, he held a variety of positions with the Asbury Park Press from reporter to bureau chief. He served as communications director and deputy executive director for the New Jersey State General Assembly. Also, he was a special assistant to the state education commissioner and assistant commissioner for the Department of Transportation.
This event takes place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, phone number, and the name and date of the program (February 15, 2026) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com.

Black History Month Celebration with Toms River Area NAACP and Dave Revels
2026-02-21 12:00 - 15:00 | The Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Come celebrate Black History Month with musical entertainment and great food.

Celebrate Black History Month with a food tasting* prepared by members of the Toms River Area NAACP and a musical performance by Dave Revels.
Dave Revels is a veteran singer, producer, and songwriter known for his work with legendary groups like The Drifters and as lead singer/producer for the acclaimed a cappella group The Persuasions. He has also created the popular Motown tribute show Shadows of the 60s, blending decades of soul, R&B, and classic hits with his own compositions. Mr. Revels has worked across genres (reggae, country, rock, soul) and toured globally.
Sponsored by the Toms River Area NAACP and the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.
Please register.
*Potential allergens.

Concert with the Briar Connection Band
2026-03-04 18:30 - 19:30 | The Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Join us as local band Briar Connection performs Classic Rock, Motown, Blues, Jazz, Country, and Oldies.

This ensemble of accomplished musicians shines brightly, drawing from their experiences in various bands. Since their inception, Briar Connection has captivated audiences, whether in grand arenas or intimate gatherings, enchanting all with their performances. Be sure not to miss this memorable concert.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River.

St. Patrick's Day Themed Charcuterie Board Workshop!
2026-03-05 18:00 - 19:30 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
A little bit of luck, a whole lot of delicious! ☘️
Join us for a hands-on charcuterie board workshop hosted by @anchorgrazecharcuterie!
You’ll learn how to style a beautiful board, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day! Think: shamrock-shaped cheese, gold chocolate coins and sour rainbow gummies 🌈
Thursday 3/5, 6:00PM
$55 per person ticket includes all necessary ingredients and tools to make your own personal charcuterie board 🧀 Bring your completed board home to enjoy or take it across the street to @battleriverbrewing to enjoy while pairing it with their seasonal sips!
Have dietary restrictions? No problem! Let us know when you purchase your ticket and we’ll happily accommodate your needs.
Grab tickets here: https://square.link/u/CWjExBak

"Gravesites of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence"
2026-03-15 14:00 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
“Gravesites of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence” presented by TJ Fallon
Sunday, March 15, 2026 – 2:00 PM
TJ Fallon returns to the Ocean County Historical Society on Sunday, March 15, 2026, with a PowerPoint presentation on the gravesites of the fifty-six signers of the Declaration of Independence. Back in 2020, TJ was furloughed from work at the start of the coronavirus pandemic. He decided to spend that time traveling the nation, visiting the gravesites of former presidents, vice presidents, signers of the Declaration of Independence and baseball Hall of Famers. To accomplish this feat, he traveled more than 20,000 miles through thirty-three states. His adventures are extremely entertaining and informative.
This event takes place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, phone number, and the name and date of the program (March 15, 2026) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com.

Rescheduled Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Ocean County Historical Society
2026-03-28 12:30 - 16:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Rescheduled Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the
Ocean County Historical Society
Location: 26 Hadley Avenue, Toms River
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026 @12:30 PM
Please visit the Ocean County Historical Society on Saturday, March 28, 2026, as we proudly celebrate our seventy-fifth anniversary. Our day will commence with a guided tour starting at 12:30 pm of our Elizabeth Sculthorp Force house and museum. You will be able to view our new display commemorating seventy-five years of OCHS history. Next, starting at 2:00 pm we will have renowned musicians, Anne and Ridley Enslow, performing a concert of Revolutionary War music. This is part of OCHS’s commitment to celebrating the 250th Anniversary of American Independence. Cordially join us for coffee and a celebratory cake after the performance.
This event is free. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, telephone number and the name and date of the program (March 28, 2026) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com.

Waves of Hope: The Inspirational Story of Agnes Negra
2026-04-01 18:30 - 19:30 | The Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Meet the Author of an Inspiring WWII Tale at Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library
During World War II, a tech-savvy New Jersey woman took it upon herself to be a priceless information provider for families of captured U.S. service members. Agnes Joan Negra’s exploits are chronicled in the book Waves of Hope. Meet her son Ronald Edward Negra, the author, at several branches of the Ocean County Library this April.
Ronald and his wife Valerie will discuss his mother’s inspirational tale, lovingly written from her own vivid recollections in Waves of Hope, available at the Ocean County Library.
Then as now, parents, spouses, children, and relatives sought any information they could find about their men and women in uniform – whether they were safe, or even alive. This newly married wife and mother was no different. Her husband August suffered wounds in the Battle of the Bulge and was Missing in Action.
Sitting by her shortwave radio in her Nutley home, Agnes monitored Radio Berlin’s nightly recitation of captured US military members. She sought news of her husband – but listened for more than that. She began notating all the names. Then she personally contacted the families of each one by mail. Often, her letters were the first word that families received.
In Ronald’s book, she recounts the turmoil of families on the home front, the spirit of hope they gained from her messages, and the exhilaration of reuniting with her husband. Autographed copies of Waves of Hope will be available for purchase following the program.

Who Were New Jersey's Pine Robbers?
2026-04-12 14:00 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Who Were New Jersey’s Pine-Robbers?
Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM
The title of Robert Cobb’s presentation will be Who Were New Jersey’s Pine-Robbers? The notorious Pine-Robbers were a legendary fixture of New Jersey history during the American Revolution. However, how accurate have they been portrayed? While addressing this question, the talk will provide a brief introduction to the overall subject.
Robert Cobb recently published a book entitled Privateers and Pine-Robbers – Coastal New Jersey During the American Revolution. The purpose of the book is to take stories rooted in New Jersey’s folklore and place them within a historical narrative based on facts. Following the event, Robert will be available for a book signing. A retired college administrator, he now lives in Barnegat.
This event takes place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. To reserve your seat early please send your name, zip code, email address, phone number, and the name and date of the program (April 12, 2026) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com

The 1950s Experience
2026-04-13 18:30 - 19:30 | The Ocean County Library, 101 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Come rock the night away with Kevin Grace’s one-man musical performance that will take you back to the Doo-Wop era! Audiences have been raving about Kevin Grace’s one-man show “The 1950’s Experience”. With his amazing and stylistically spot-on vocals, highly professional musical skills, and visual presentation highly accurate to the era, Kevin is sure to transport you right back to that golden era of Doo-Wop harmonies and Rock and Roll hits. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ocean County Library – Toms River. Registration is required. Please register at the link.
