Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

Renting Your First Apartment: The Process, Costs, and Everything in Between

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If you’ve decided that you’re ready to rent your first apartment, you might be excited – but you might be equally as nervous. With the number of factors there are to consider, even seasoned renters should brush up on the steps to take before they begin the search for a new place to call home. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to secure your first apartment, from start to finish.

1. Create a Budget

Whether you’re going out on your own or renting with a roommate, it’s time to crunch the numbers. Creating a budget before searching for an apartment – is important for a few reasons. You’ll first want to find an apartment that you can currently (and hopefully continue to) comfortably afford. This will also help during your search by setting parameters and narrowing down your options. If the maximum rent you can afford to pay is $1,800 per month, you wouldn’t tour a unit that’s going for $2,500 a month. Many landlords also have income requirements that must be met to be approved for a rental. A common income requirement is the tenant(s) having a combined monthly income of at least three times the monthly rent. For example, if you are renting a $1,500 per month apartment by yourself – you would need a monthly income of at least $4,500 to qualify. However, just because you meet the landlord’s income requirements doesn’t mean the apartment is a good financial fit for you – only your budget can tell you that. Aside from the cost of rent, also consider your new monthly expenses like utilities and groceries.

If this is your first time creating a budget, check out our recent blog post on how to get started with one. We also have a fillable PDF budgeting worksheet if you’re ready to jump right in.

2. Consider Any Additional Upfront Costs

You will have certain expenses you can expect to pay each month such as your rent, utilities, and groceries. Aside from your recurring expenses, you’ll also want to prepare for those one-time costs that are unique to moving into a rental unit.

  • Application Fee. This is collected when you apply for a rental and covers the landlord’s costs associated with making sure you meet the requirements to be a tenant. They will often check your credit and perform a background check.
  • Security Deposit. This is usually collected prior to moving in and is held by the landlord to cover any damages you may cause to the unit during your lease. It is usually returned in full if you left the rental in reasonably good shape.
  • Pet Fee/Deposit. For those of you who have (or will have) furry friends – a pet fee is usually non-refundable and typically applies to cats and dogs to cover any potential damages they may cause in the rental.
  • Pet Rent. The monthly fee you may be asked to pay on top of your rent if you have a pet.
  • Renters Insurance. This is renewed annually (and usually paid upfront or in monthly installments) and protects you from a wide range of covered problems.
  • Moving Expenses. This includes the cost to move your belongings to your apartment.
  • Unless your rental comes fully furnished, you will need to plan to buy furniture.

3. Check Your Credit Score

Aside from income, your credit score is another factor that landlords will consider when deciding whether to approve you. A general rule-of-thumb is to have a credit score of 600 or higher in order to be approved to rent an apartment. This varies based on landlord, location, and rental type – but the higher your score, the better. There are ways to boost your chances of approval if your score doesn’t quite meet the mark, such as getting a co-signer or offering to pay a larger security deposit.

4. Make a List of Your Requirements and Narrow Down Your Search

Once you have your budget and expenses planned out, it’s time to make a list of apartments that meet your requirements. Do you want in-unit laundry or an on-site laundry facility? Which floor do you want to live on? Once you know the things you can’t compromise on, start making a list of rental units that check off all your boxes. The hunt for an apartment is conducted almost entirely online now, and websites like Apartments.com and Zillow.com are good places to start.

5. Begin Touring and Applying for Apartments

When you have a shortlist of units to tour, begin scheduling appointments with the landlord or property management team. Come prepared with a list of questions to ask on tour day, especially if you were unable to find the answers online. For example, you’ll want to know how you would pay rent and how you would request maintenance.

Once you found the “one,” start the application. Landlords may have different application processes – some may conduct the application entirely through an online portal, and others may only have the good-old-fashioned way – on pen and paper. Aside from the application fee, you will typically also need to provide proof of income and identification.

6. Congratulations! You’re Ready to Sign a Lease

If your rental application gets approved – congratulations! Once you decide to move into a particular apartment, you will receive the lease. It is always recommended to review the lease prior to signing, as it is a contract between you and the landlord. It will outline what is expected of you during your time occupying the unit. Not abiding by the conditions within the lease could impact you later, such as not receiving your security deposit back.

This is also the time when many of those upfront expenses start coming due. For example, many landlords will require that you purchase renters insurance prior to moving in.

7. Move-in Day

Once the big day arrives, make sure you come prepared. Many people like to deep clean their apartment before moving any belongings in. You can also hire a company or individual to do this for you. The landlord or property management team will usually meet you on move-in day to wrap up any loose ends like providing you with keys, instructions for portal setup, or sometimes even a small welcome gift.

First Financial wishes you the best of luck if you are embarking on this new journey. Should you wish to talk to one of our financial experts to review your budget before you get started, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit your local branch.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this September 2025

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We hope these free or inexpensive happenings in Monmouth and Ocean Counties will pumpkin spice up your September!

September 3

Fall Concert Series (Freehold) – All you need is a lawn chair to enjoy free outdoor concerts at the Hall of Records every Wednesday through October 15th from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Each week will bring different voices the whole family will love, from widely known groups to local talent. Check out the schedule and voices you can look forward to hearing here.

September 6

Bugs, Birds, and Beyond Children’s Festival (Freehold) – Bring the whole family to the Monmouth County Agricultural Building from 12pm-4pm for an afternoon crawling with fun. This festival brings nature’s wonders to Monmouth County – giving you the chance to experience a nature scavenger hunt and story time under the trees, crafts, exciting experiments, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Neptune Day – Come see what makes Neptune great at Neptune Day, taking place at the Neptune Middle School Parking Lot from 12pm-5pm. There will be carnival games, a petting zoo, vendors, festival fare, and more. There is no entry fee, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Sailfest (Toms River) – Bring your family and friends to Sailfest for a boatload of fun on River Avenue from 10am-10pm. Known as the largest sailing festival in New Jersey – it attracts thousands from all over the East Coast to spectate Sail Race Regattas, enjoy live music and family activities, visit food trucks, shop local vendors, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be various goods available for purchase. Click here to learn how you can say “Ahoy!” to this fun-filled festival.

September 13

Fall Festival (Lacey) – If you’re looking for a day that looks like it’s straight out of a movie, check out the Fall Festival at Argos Farm – happening on select dates at various times through November 1st. You can stroll through the pumpkin patch in search of the perfect pumpkin, find your way through a corn maze, sample tasty seasonal treats, and enjoy fun farm attractions. For those looking for a picture-perfect photo op, you’ll find it here! General admission pricing will become available in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for additional information here.

Ocean County History Day (Toms River) – The Ocean County Historical Society will be bringing Ocean County’s rich history to life from 10am-3pm. There will be reenactments, displays from various local historical organizations, and a tour of the Elizabeth Sculthrop House and Museum. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information.

The Feast of San Gennaro (Belmar) – Enjoy a slice of Italy right in the heart of the Jersey Shore at the Feast of San Gennaro between 11am and 6pm. The festival begins with a special mass presented in Italian at St. Rose Catholic Church at 10am for those who are interested. Immediately after, there will be a procession down Main Street – taking you right into Italian food, live music, and vendors. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be Italian cuisine available for purchase. Learn more here.

September 14

Jackson Day – Celebrate the town of Jackson at Johnson Memorial Park from 11am-8pm. This community celebration includes carnival rides and games, giveaways from sponsors, a drone show, sky divers, an ATV and dirt bike exhibition, food, a craft and flea market, and more! Although there is no entry fee to attend or to partake in most activities, there will be food and vendor items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

Oakley Farm Fall Festival (Freehold) – You don’t have to wait until the official start of fall to get in the spirit – head over to Oakley Farm to celebrate the unofficial start of autumn from 11am-4pm. There will be live music, family-friendly activities and crafts, vendors, a bake sale, and more. Plus, all buildings will be open for tours – so it’s the perfect opportunity to check out this historical gem of Freehold if you haven’t already done so. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. You can find additional information here.

September 19

Fall Festivities (Cream Ridge) – Stone Tavern Orchards is serving up the fall spirit every weekend from 9:30am-4:30pm, through mid-November. Your experience will begin with a hayride that takes you to a fork in the road – where you will decide if you want to start with the orchards, pumpkin patch, flower patch, corn maze, or corn pit. Admission is $9 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-11, with children 3 and under being free to attend. You will have to pay for what you pick. See how you can fall in love with fall at Stone Tavern Orchards.

September 20

Fall Harvest Festival (Wall) – Head over to the Historic Village at Allaire if you want to experience all things autumn, taking place from 11am-4pm both Saturday and Sunday. From apple cider pressing and pie baking contests, to vendors and on-site shops selling fall-themed goods – this festival is autumn all wrapped up in a little bow. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 to 12, with children 3 and under being free to attend. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

Howell Day & Green Fair takes place at Soldier Memorial Park from 3pm-8pm. This free, fun for the whole family event will get everyone outdoors and soaking up the last official days of summer. There will be inflatables and mechanical rides, live music and entertainment, demonstrations, vendors, and more. The day ends with a fireworks show at dusk. Learn how to get in on the fun!

Oktoberfest (Highlands) – Highlands is bringing Germany to the Jersey Shore at Oktoberfest, taking place in Veterans Park from 12pm-7pm. The park will come alive with traditional German cuisine, polka music and traditional German dances, a beer stein holding contest, craft and specialty vendors, and more. And of course, it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without an array of beer for those ages 21+. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here for more information.

Wind & Sea Festival (Port Monmouth) – Head over to Bayshore Waterfront Park from 11am-5pm to celebrate all things water. You can enjoy various coastal activities such as kayaking, fishing, crabbing, sandcastle building, children’s crafts, naturalist activities, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. You can learn more here.

September 26

Greek Festival (Toms River) – Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church is hosting a festival all weekend long, beginning Friday at noon and running through Sunday at 6pm. Sprawling both indoors and outdoors – there will be an outdoor food court and indoor dining room selling authentic Greek cuisine, traditional Greek dances, music performed by GOYANS and youth groups, games and entertainment, vendors, and more. There is parking at Ocean County College Lot #2 with a free shuttle service to the festival. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. You can find additional information here.

September 27

Fall Craft and Vendor Show (Wall) – Two worlds collide at the Fall Craft and Vendor Show at the Historic Village at Allaire, happening from 10am-4pm. Perfect for those who enjoy both history and all things homemade – there will be over 140 vendors displaying and selling their works, while the village will be conducting historical demonstrations and showcasing exhibits. Admission is $10 for those ages 10 and up, with children under 10 being free to attend. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets to shop and soak up the beginning of fall.

Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy and Gunning Show (Tuckerton) – The Decoy and Gunning show will give you a taste of folk life at Stanley “Tip” Seaman County Park on Saturday from 7am-5pm and Sunday from 7am-4pm. This weekend-long event is jam-packed with activities like archery, drop-in weaving classes for adults and children, carving and folk-art demonstrations, and boat rides. There will also be various exhibits like dock dog demonstrations, new and antique decoys, and musical performances. For our more competitive folks – various contests will be taking place throughout the weekend. There is no entry fee to attend and there will be free shuttles to the show from various locations. Click here to learn more.

September 28

Harvest Home Festival (Holmdel) – No time machine is needed to experience a country fair from the 1890s at Historic Longstreet Farm from 11am-5pm. The whole family is sure to enjoy the games, craft demonstrations, wagon rides, live entertainment, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn how you can celebrate fall like it’s the 1800s.

SPUR Family Barn Dance (Lincroft) – Come learn to line dance with the family while benefitting Special People United to Ride (SPUR) at Thompson Park Activity Barn from 1pm-4pm. Line dance your heart away, no matter your experience level. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child ages 10 and under. You can get additional information and purchase tickets online here.

How Small Businesses Can Stand Out This Back-to-School Season

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Businesses that take advantage of holidays and key seasons where shopper demand tends to increase, typically see more shoppers and in turn – more sales. Customers are already shopping for back-to-school, so using strategies that will propel your business into the spotlight can help you earn a slice of that spending pie – which is estimated to reach $39 billion this year. And the best part is, your business doesn’t have to sell school supplies or first day of school outfits to join in. Here are five strategies your small business can use this back-to-school season.

1. Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways are typically a win-win for both you and your customers. Your customers will have the chance to engage with your business and potentially receive a prize in return, which will help get the word out about your business and hopefully attract new patrons. One contest idea for this time of year, might be entering all who make a purchase and post a photo using a specific hashtag – into a drawing for a free backpack filled with school supplies. If you’re looking to connect with a specific type of customer, such as a teacher – think about offering a gift card for classroom supplies to an educator who posts their classroom, again using a specific hashtag. #PeopleLoveFreeStuff.

2. Create In-Store Experiences

If you have a storefront, you have a unique opportunity to create in-store back-to-school themed experiences for your customers. For example, you could invite a local teacher or school administrator to host a session for parents and students. Or, you could set up a back-to-school themed photo op within your store for customers to take pictures. Bonus points if they post the pictures and tag your business! Whether your customers didn’t know you had these experiences until they were already in the door, or they came to your business knowing you did – this shows your clientele that you care and are community focused too.

3. Offer Discounts

Back-to-school shopping is typically a family’s second-largest annual spending event and parents are understandably looking to save where they can. That’s where your business comes in – even if you don’t directly offer school essentials. You can encourage first-time shoppers to return to your store a second time, by offering them a back-to-school seasonal discount. For example – try using email or social media to offer a percentage or dollar amount off the next purchase, or a free product or service if they bring in their receipt from the last purchase. If you are targeting parents, show them how the savings they may get by shopping with you – can be put back into their budget elsewhere.

4. Special Bundles

Messaging is key. You might be thinking, “What does my pool cleaning company have to do with back-to-school?” The answer is everything – kind of.

If your business offers a product that is needed by parents, children, or educators during back-to-school season – offer them a bundle on your services. This can add value when you show your potential customers that you can save them money or trips to the store, just by choosing your business. Going back to our original example, if you own a pool cleaning company – offer a discounted bundle on early September pool skimming and equipment maintenance to save busy working parents from having to do it themselves. It’s all about how you market your business, and show how it’s relevant – in any season.

5. Don’t Forget Your Existing Customers

As a small business, your repeat customers are some of your best advocates. You have already earned their trust, they spend money at your business, and they promote your brand to others free-of-charge – so be sure to thank them for it! Offer special discounts or deals for returning customers as a way to say thank you for supporting your business, and showing them that you want to make back-to-school season a little easier on their wallets.

The excitement and nerves of back-to-school season are feelings that many people resonate with all-too-well. If your business can lean into the excitement and ease some of those nerves by offering shoppers what they need when they need it, you may be able to capitalize on back-to-school season and continue building a loyal customer base well into the future.

Learn more about how First Financial can help support your small business by emailing us at business@firstffcu.com. Be sure to check out all of our small business services on our website. For better business banking, Think First!

Summer 2025 Newsletter

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We’re adding one more item to your summer reading – because the First Financial Summer Member Newsletter has arrived!

In a continued effort to go green, we’re publishing our quarterly member newsletter electronically – it can also be found on our website and social media sites. Paper copies will be available in our branches.

The Summer First Edition Member Newsletter features the following articles:

To view a copy of the newsletter, click here.

We hope that you enjoy making memories with your loved ones before the sun sets on summer!

How to Budget After College: A Guide to Adulting with Your Money

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As you move the tassel on your cap from the right side to the left on graduation day, it might feel like just yesterday that you were setting foot in your first college class. Moving the tassel at graduation is a right of passage – it signifies successfully completing the requirements of your degree, beginning a new chapter in your life, and hopefully starting to receive a steady paycheck. Although creating a plan for your new post-grad income and the expenses that come along with it, might seem overwhelming – it is a practice that will lay the groundwork for continued financial success. Here’s how you can create your first post-college budget to help you stay on track, reach your monetary goals, and feel confident about your financial future.

Step 1: Look at Your Paystub

When you accepted your first job offer, you were likely told a gross salary or hourly wage that you could expect to receive. The keyword is gross – that is, the amount of money you earn before any deductions are subtracted. The amount that you make and the amount that will be deposited into your bank account are two very different things. Your pay stub should break down every item that is taken out of your gross pay. Some of those items are taxes, social security, and health insurance premiums. It’s a good idea to look at your paystub from time-to-time to ensure that everything you don’t see in your bank account looks correct.

Step 2: Identify Your Monthly Take Home Pay

Once you’ve found your way out of the “deductions jungle,” you will arrive at your net or take home pay. If this isn’t the first paycheck you have received from this employer, this number should look familiar – it’s what gets deposited into your bank account every payday. If you are paid semi-monthly (the 1st and 15th or the 15th and last day of the month), you can multiply this number by two to get your monthly take home income. If you are paid bi-weekly, you can generally do the same – though there are typically two months a year in which you will get three paychecks.

Step 3: Figure Out Your Fixed and Variable Expenses

There are various factors that will impact what your fixed and variable expenses are as a recent graduate. Will you be living with your parents, living with a roommate, or living on your own? Are you expected to be working in-person or remotely? Do you have student loans? Fixed expenses are those that are predictable in frequency and cost and can include rent/mortgage, student loan payments, insurance premiums, and phone bills. Variable expenses are those where frequency and cost change based on your consumption or usage and can include utilities, groceries, entertainment, and gas. Expenses can be necessary, necessary periodic, and optional. While a vet bill for your sick puppy might be a necessary periodic expense (you aren’t expecting your puppy to get sick regularly), a concert ticket is probably optional (yes, even if you have FOMO). Make a list of your necessary fixed and variable expenses, as well as what their costs might be, to begin constructing your budget.

Step 4: Crunch the Numbers

Subtract all of your necessary fixed and variable expenses from your monthly take home income. One of two scenarios will be true – your expenses will cost more than your income or you will have extra money after your necessary expenses are paid. Ideally, we hope that your situation is the latter. If your expenses cost more than your income, you will want to consider ways that you can cut expenses, find a part-time job, or start a side hustle to bridge the gap. If you have money leftover after your expenses are paid, consider some of your short and long term financial goals. If you don’t have an emergency fund, which experts recommend should cover approximately 3-6 months of living expenses – that’s a good place to start.

If you’re looking for a straightforward budget that breaks down your monthly income and expenses, check out our fillable budget worksheet.

New Expenses to Expect After College

If you recently graduated and are looking at your budget wondering where all of the expenses are – don’t worry, they’re coming. On a more serious note, there will be new expenses that you can expect to appear now that you are out of college. If you took out student loans, you may have to begin repayment in the months following graduation depending on your situation and your lender. If you shared a family car or didn’t have a car in college, you may be considering an auto loan or lease to have reliable transportation to and from your job. If you haven’t started saving for your retirement, your first job is an ideal time to start – so that you make saving for your financial future a habit early on.

If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and finding a reliable financial institution to bank with is on your post-grad to-do list, consider a credit union like First Financial. Becoming a member is as easy as depositing $5 in a base savings account and entitles you to a wide range of financial solutions from low-rate loans to everyday checking accounts – all equipped with personalized service.*

*A First Financial membership is required to obtain any account or loan and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. A $5 deposit in a Base Savings Account is required to establish membership prior to opening any account/loan.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this August 2025

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August is packed with free or inexpensive activities to help you soak up every last bit of the summer sun without draining your wallet!

August 1

Clamfest (Highlands) – If you want to feel like you’re at the beach without all the sand in your shoes, head over to Clamfest at Huddy Park – taking place from August 1st through August 3rd at various times. Though the name might suggest otherwise, you don’t have to be a self-proclaimed seafood lover to enjoy the weekend. In addition to the array of seafood offerings – there will be food trucks selling festival favorites, a beer, wine, and sangria garden (for those ages 21+), live music, and a fireworks display on Saturday. There is no entry fee to attend. You can find more information here.

August 2

Latino Festival (New Egypt) – Bring your friends and family to Laurita Winery to enjoy a weekend of Latin culture and cuisine, taking place from 12pm-9pm on Saturday and 12pm-7pm on Sunday. There will be an array of food trucks, live music, and local vendors to enjoy all weekend – with a side of wine (for those ages 21+). Supervised children are welcome and can enjoy a clown and facepainting artist, as well as an outdoor playground. Admission is $14, and there will be various wine and dine options available for purchase. Click here to learn more and to buy tickets online.

August 5

Cardboard Boat Regatta (Manahawkin) – See how far cardboard, tape, and creativity can take you at Manahawkin Lake Park beginning at 4pm. Your vessel (constructed only of cardboard and tape), will be put to the test to make a successful voyage across Manahawkin Lake. Boats will be inspected at 4pm and sailing will begin at 5pm. There is no fee to race or spectate, but you must register before the event to participate. Click here to learn how to register your boat and make a prize (and bragging rights) yours.

National Night Out (Howell) – Join Howell Township Police Athletic League for National Night Out at Soldier Memorial Park from 5pm-8pm. National Night Out is an annual event celebrated across the United States to promote safety and foster positive connections between citizens and local law enforcement – and an easy way to keep your young ones busy and having fun on a summer night. There will be live demonstrations, music, giveaways, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

National Night Out (Little Egg Harbor) – National Night Out is also making its way to Little Egg Harbor, taking place at Pinelands Regional High School from 6pm-9pm. There will be a K-9 demo, live music, food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

August 6

Family Movie Night (Freehold) – There is a free family movie to enjoy every Wednesday through August 20th at the Hall of Records, beginning at 8:30pm. All you need is a lawn chair or blanket! This movie showing will be The Lion King 1 & 1/2. Click here to see the rest of the movies you can catch this summer.

Italian Festival (Oakhurst) – If you’re looking to mangia, mingle, and make memories with the whole family – explore the Italian Festival at Joe Palaia Park, taking place from August 6th through 11th at various times. It wouldn’t be an Italian festival without the chance to sample traditional foods, enjoy wholesome family fun, and immerse yourself in Italian-American heritage and culture – and this festival offers exactly that. There is no entry fee to attend. There will be food and ride tickets available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

August 8

Sidewalk Sale (Red Bank) – The pavement isn’t only sizzling from the heat of the sun – there’s also hot bargains at the Annual Sidewalk Sale, taking place August 8th through 10th from 10am-6pm. The Sidewalk Sale will get you strolling along the sidewalks of Red Bank to shop and support local businesses at the same time. There is no entry fee to attend, but we can’t promise you won’t shell out your wallet for something that catches your eye! Learn more here.

August 10

Funky Flea Market (Long Beach Island) – Calling all thrifters, vintage-lovers, and garage-salers – come on down to the St. Francis Community Center Gym from 9:30am-3pm for an event that is part garage sale, part craft show, and all treasure hunt! Whether you are drawn to garage sales for the charm, craft fairs for the creativity, or thrifting for the vintage finds – the Funky Flea Market promises to help you find your next favorite thing or inspiration for your next project. Admission is $3. Click here for more information.

August 13

Summer Concert Series (Howell) – Catch the final performance of Howell Township’s Summer Concert Series at Soldier Memorial Park, beginning at 5pm. A DJ will be spinning tracks to enjoy as you arrive, check out the food vendors and beer & wine garden (for those ages 21+), and gear up for the band to take stage at 7pm. The final performance is by Garden State Radio, who promises a night that feels more like a stadium concert than a local cover band in the park. The concert ends with a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be food and alcoholic beverages (for those ages 21+) for purchase. Click here to see how you can enjoy a fun-filled night of music.

August 15

Feel Good Fest (Toms River) – Feel Good Fest is bringing “feel good” vibes at Brew Grounds Café from 4pm-8pm. We mean it when we say Feel Good Fest has something for the whole family to enjoy – it’s not every day you come by a festival that has a car show, farmers market, family-fun activities, food trucks, yoga & wellness, massages, and more – all in one place! There is no entry fee to attend. You can find additional information here.

Sunflower Festival (Lacey) – The Sunflower Festival has bloomed at Argos Farm, open select Fridays through Sundays from 3pm-8pm between August 15th and 31st. The fields are budding with photo opportunities and sunflowers to be picked and displayed – or given to someone special. There will also be live music, farm-fun activities, and tasty treats to enjoy as you stroll through the fields. General admission is $12.95 in advance and $21.95 at the gate, children ages 2 and under are free to attend. You can learn more here.

August 16

Butterfly Tent Event (Toms River) – Fly over to the Butterfly Tent Event at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County from 11am-3pm if you want to incorporate science into your summer fun. You will have the chance to walk through a display tent and learn about everything butterflies. There will also be activities and educational stations for children of all ages. There is no entry fee to attend, but donations are welcome. You can find additional information here.

August 19

Summer Concert Series (Toms River) – Bring a blanket or a chair to rock out to some tunes at this installment of Toms River’s Summer Concert Series at Shelter Cove Beach at 7pm. You will enjoy the musical talents of The Benjamins, followed by a fireworks display. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information and the list of bands you can enjoy through August 26th.

August 23

Kidchella by the Monmouth Moms (Holmdel) – This family-friendly spin on the Coachella Music Festival is kicking off at Bell Works at 5pm. Kidchella is replacing the beer gardens with inflatables and the fashion with face painting – but staying true to its name with a DJ, live music, and a dance party. There will also be a petting zoo, crafts, lawn games, and an indoor night market with bites, sips, and activities from local vendors for the whole family to enjoy. Tickets are $20 per person, and children ages 2 and under are free to attend. Click here to see how you can give a kid-friendly Coachella experience to your little ones.

August 24

Movies on the Beach (Seaside Heights) – Enjoy the last installment of Seaside Heights’ Movies on the Beach at 8:30pm. Audience members will be seated on the beach in the vicinity of Beach Patrol North Headquarters for a free showing of Sonic 3. Viewers are welcome to bring snacks. Learn more here.

August 28

Kites and Castles (Lavallette) – Head over to Philadelphia Avenue at 7pm if you have sand castle skills or kite flying that you want to show off. Whether you’re building a sand fortress, taking your kite soaring high into the sky, or simply spectating – this event will bring out the whole family’s competitive edge as you compete for the grand prize. There is no entry fee to attend, but you must bring your own sand castle building materials, props, or kite. Click here to learn more about this family-fun evening.

August 30

BBQ & Craft Beer Festival (Oceanport) – Saddle up for a weekend of barbecue and craft beers at the Monmouth Park Racetrack, taking place August 30th through September 1st from 11am-5pm. There will be over 40 craft beers and 20 barbecue food vendors to peruse – oh, and there will be horse racing, too! If there are too many craft beers to choose from, you can partake in beer sampling if you are 21 or older. There will also be family-fun activities to enjoy like live music, face painters, pony rides, and a bounce house. Tickets for beer sampling and general admission to the racetrack can be purchased in advance for $18, or on the day of ($15 for beer sampling and $6 for general admission) to the racetrack. Children ages 12 and under are free to attend. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets online.