"A Titanic Loss for New Jersey" - by Robert DeSando
2026-02-15 14:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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
2026-01-03 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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

🌲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

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.

Tree Lighting 2025
2025-12-05 17:30 - 19:30 | 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!!

Home Alone Movie & Craft Night!
2025-12-04 18:30 - 20:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
We’re back with another in-store movie & craft night – this time, it’s Home Alone! Join us Thursday, 12/4 at 6:30PM for the ultimate holiday hangout.
$55 ticket includes:
– All materials needed to create 2 beaded icon glasses (inspo = Anthropologie icon juice glasses)
– All materials needed to decorate a wooden ornament
– A popcorn & seasonal candy bar to snack on while you craft and enjoy watching Home Alone
PJs or holiday fits are encouraged!
Spots are limited, tickets must be purchased in advance.

Wreath Walk 2025
2025-12-02 - 2025-12-31 | Downtown Toms River, Washington St,., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
December 2nd – December 31st: Visit Downtown Toms River to experience the arts and Holiday cheer! – Our annual Wreath-Walk and competition is fun for the whole family. –
Grab something hot to drink from one of our fabulous Downtown eateries. Take a stroll, admire, and choose your favorite wreath–be sure to vote! –
All wreaths are handcrafted. Registry is FREE. – Drop off your ballots to The Downtown Shops @ 53 Main or Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library. –
Call or email the BID for more info: 732 – 341 – 8738 or info@downtowntomsriver.com
For more fun and events, follow our Facebook: www.facebook.com/downtowntomsrive Instagram: www.instagram.com/downtowntomsriver/ for updates and info.

Small Business Saturday Shopping at Gifted on Washington!
2025-11-29 11:00 - 19:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
Our favorite weekend of the whole year is right around the corner, and we can’t wait to share it with you! 🎁✨
11/29 Small Business Saturday (11AM-7PM):
• Spend $75 → Get $10 off
• Spend $150 → Get $25 off
• Spend $225 → Get $45 off
Plus, snack with @anchorgrazecharcuterie, who will be popping up in store & offering delicious charcuterie cups for purchase – the perfect way to fuel your shopping 🧀
When you shop small, it makes a REAL difference. We’re so excited to kick off the holidays with you!! ♥️
16 Washington St. Toms River NJ

Victorian Holiday Open House with Santa and Mrs. Claus
2025-11-29 10:00 - 15:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Ocean County Historical Society
Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Date: Saturday, November 29th, 2025

The Ocean County Historical Society is pleased to announce our fifth annual Victorian Style Open House to be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Bring your children and grandchildren to meet Santa Claus. Bring your camera to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Santa will be visiting us from 11:00 to 2:00. Tour our Victorian-style house and museum complete with holiday music and decorations and enjoy holiday refreshments and gifts for the children. Best of all, the event is free! Enjoy a fun filled event with the whole family. For additional information, please call Jeff at 609-339-9134 or email: jeffschenker@myyahoo.com

Small Business Saturday 2025
2025-11-29 | Downtown Toms River, Washington St,., Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
The Holidays are upon us! This year, remember to shop small and support your local businesses! Downtown Toms River supports Small Business Saturday –
Restaurants – Gifts – Art – Novelties – Collectibles – Sports – Dance – Downtown has it all –
Saturday, November 29th, 2025 – See what’s in store, updates to come.
For more info follow our Facebook: www.facebook.com/downtowntomsrive Instagram: www.instagram.com/downtowntomsriver/ for updates and info.

Black Friday Shopping Event at Gifted on Washington!
2025-11-28 11:00 - 19:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
Our favorite weekend of the whole year is right around the corner, and we can’t wait to share it with you! 🎁✨
11/28 Black Friday (11AM–7PM):
Spend $75 and get a complimentary cocktail infusion kit (a $25 value!), the perfect little treat for yourself or an easy gift to tuck under the tree🍸
When you shop small, it makes a REAL difference. We’re so excited to kick off the holidays with you!! ♥️
16 Washington St. Toms River NJ

Nora Flemming - Paint Your Own Mini Party: Holiday Edition!
2025-11-16 15:00 - 17:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
Nora Fleming Paint Your Own Mini Party – Holiday Edition!
Enjoy cheerful sips, sweets and holiday music while decorating your very own nora fleming deck the halls ornament-shaped mini!
$55 per person ticket includes:
– One blank ornament-shaped mini to decorate
-️ All materials needed to decorate your mini (we’ll be using paint pens!)
– One Nora Fleming dainty dish to add your completed mini to take home

Native American Wisdom –Presented by Ande Three Ravens
2025-11-16 14:00 - 17:00 | Ocean County Historical Society, 26 Hadley Ave, Toms River, NJ, 08753, United States
Sunday, November 16th—Native American Wisdom –Presented by Ande Three Ravens
Three Ravens is an Indigenous American artist of Misikita Black Foot and Mandan ancestry. He is an expert flute player, instrument maker, percussionist, and vocalist who specializes in the rich, ancient Indigenous traditions of South, Meso, and North American Native Indian music and storytelling.
Three Ravens along with Little Hawk did over two hundred Native American cultural, historical, and interactive programs in the New York City public schools. In addition, he worked at the NYC Department of Education and retired after 47 years of service focusing on youth development, conflict resolution and building bridges.
These events take place at our museum at 26 Hadley Avenue in Toms River. These events are free, but your donations in support of our programs are appreciated.
SEATING IS LIMITED so reserve your seat early by sending your name, zip code, email address, telephone number, and the name and date of the program (Nov. 16, 2025) to: oceancountyhistory.programs@gmail.com
Location: Ocean County Historical Society
Time: 2:00 PM

Make Your Own Perfume Workshop
2025-11-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Gifted on Washington, 16 Washington St, Toms River, NJ, 08753-8709, United States
Join us for a Make Your Own Perfume Workshop on Saturday 11/15 at 12PM — led by @thescentsocial_ ✨
$50 per person ticket includes:
💖 A 30ml bottle for your own custom fragrance
🎀 Access to a decoration station — change the color, add charms, and design your own label
🎨 All supplies included
Come create a dupe of your favorite scent or design something totally new that’s 100% you!

Garden State Distillery Paint n Sip night
2025-11-13 18:30 - 20:30 | Garden State Distillery, 13 Washington Street, Toms River, 08753, United States
Another fun event Coming to Garden State Distillery!
Wednesday November 12th at 6:30pm
In downtown Toms River!
We will be making these beautiful 12-in wooden pumpkins that come with a bow and a hanging mechanism. 👻🎃🎨🖌️

Or!!!
If you were getting into the holiday spirit already and would like to paint a Snowman.
We have a rustic snowman option for canvas. Just let the artist know when you book
You must book in advance due two limited seating though. ☃️

You’ll be taught step by step on how to paint the pumpkin with shading etc.
🍹🍂🎃
And your first alcoholic drink is on us for FREE!!
$40 per person painting.

You must sign up for this event in advance due to limited seating.
To sign up contact Jessica at
“JesSea’s Crafty Beaches” Mobile Paint Parties.
732-581-7115

Downtown Toms River Garden State Distillery Company Toms Riverlocal

Garden State Distillery Company
“JesSea’s Crafty Beaches” Mobile Paint Parties.
