Author Archives: VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

Save Money on Your Water Bill and Other Utilities This Summer

Posted on by
Reply

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and often higher utility bills. With the increased use of water, air conditioning, and overall energy consumption – managing these costs is crucial. First Financial is dedicated to helping you enjoy a cost-effective and comfortable summer. Here are some practical tips to save on your water bill and other utilities this season.

Understanding Summer Utility Costs

Summer utility bills can spike due to increased water usage for gardening, lawn upkeep, washing cars, outdoor activities, frequent showers, and more. Similarly, electric bills rise with the use of air conditioning. By making a few adjustments, you can keep these expenses in check.

Water Saving Tips

  1. Check for Leaks Regularly: Even a small leak can waste significant amounts of water. Regularly check your faucets, toilets, and hoses for leaks and repair them promptly.
  2. Water Wisely: Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation. Consider using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, which delivers water directly to the roots, minimizing waste.
  3. Install Water Efficient Fixtures: When it’s time to replace old, inefficient fixtures – opt for water saving alternatives. Low flow toilets, aerated faucets, and high efficiency showerheads can reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. Look for fixtures with the WaterSense label, indicating they meet EPA water efficiency standards.
  4. Use Mulch: Mulching around plants retains moisture, reduces the need for frequent watering, and helps maintain soil temperature.
  5. Don’t Pre-rinse: Instead of pre-rinsing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, scrape or wipe them into the trash. Modern dishwashers are designed to handle dirty dishes without the need for excessive water use. Ensure your dishwasher is fully loaded before running it to maximize efficiency. The same goes for your summer laundry – there isn’t really a need to pre-soak your clothing before a regular washing machine cycle.

Energy Saving Tips

  1. Optimize Air Conditioning:
  • Use a Programmable Thermostat: These devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, reducing energy use when you’re not home.
  • Clean and Replace Filters: Dirty filters reduce efficiency. Regularly clean or replace them to keep your system running smoothly.
  1. Use Fans:
  • Ceiling Fans: Run ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze, which can make you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
  • Portable Fans: Place portable fans strategically to enhance airflow and reduce the need for air conditioning.
  1. Block the Heat:
  • Close Blinds and Curtains: During the hottest parts of the day, close blinds and curtains to block out the sun’s heat.

Long-Term Solutions

  1. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances: Consider replacing old appliances with energy efficient models, which use less water and electricity.
  2. Improve Home Insulation: Proper insulation keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
  3. Install Solar Panels: While it is an upfront investment, solar panels can significantly reduce your energy bills and even allow you to sell excess power back to the grid.

Financial Assistance for Utilities

Many states including New Jersey, offer programs to help lower income households with utility costs. Check with local government or your utility provider for available assistance programs.

By implementing these summer utility savings tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and budget-friendly season. Remember, small changes can lead to significant savings.

For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

Free Outdoor Summer Activities in Monmouth & Ocean Counties

Posted on by
Reply

The Jersey Shore is one of the best places to be in the summer. There are so many great outdoor activities for all ages, and many of these things to do are free! Keep reading to discover some no-cost family fun ideas within Monmouth and Ocean Counties, that you can enjoy all summer long.

Free Outdoor Movies

  • Movies on the Beach in Belmar on Wednesday nights at 7th Avenue Beach through 8/28/24.
  • Family Movie Night in Downtown Freehold on Wednesday nights (8:30pm) at the Hall of Records through 8/21/24.
  • Movies on the Beach in Pleasant at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk (300 Ocean Ave.), Tuesday nights through 8/27/24.
  • Movies on the Bay in Lavallette (the gazebo at Philadelphia Avenue & Bay Blvd.) on Tuesday nights through 8/20/24.

Exploring Parks & Nature

  • Did you know the Borough of Tinton Falls in Monmouth County has a waterfall you can visit? Check out the overlook by the falls at 741 Tinton Avenue.
  • Allaire State Park in Wall (4265 Atlantic Avenue), features many historic buildings which include a museum, blacksmith shop, a chapel, and a carpenter’s shop. There are also beautiful grounds you can stroll and view lots of birds and other wildlife.
  • Ocean County Park in Lakewood (659 Ocean Avenue), offers a bike trail, fishing, a driving range and 18 hole disc golf course, a walking trail, large picnic area, playgrounds, softball fields, a swimming lake, and tennis and pickleball courts.
  • Maclearie Park in Belmar (Rt. 35 Marina) boasts a transportation themed playground for kids. There are also tennis courts and outdoor grills available for use.
  • John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park in Berkeley Township, has a great (free) view of Barnegat Bay. It also features a spray park, playground, walking paths, small picnic areas and a crabbing and fishing pier. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day sunning, fishing or crabbing from the pier.
  • Heritage Park and Butterfly Garden in Allentown (off of Gordon Street) is open daily and offers a paved walking path, wooded walking trails, a pedestrian walking bridge, picnic tables, a pollinator garden, and a grilling area and benches.

Beach & Boardwalk

  • Wake up early one morning (or several) and take in the sunrise at your favorite Monmouth or Ocean County beach.
  • Stroll the boards in your favorite beach town. It’s great exercise too!
  • Fly a kite at your favorite beach in the late afternoon, just before sunset.
  • Did you know there are a few free Monmouth and Ocean County beaches? Be sure to visit Ideal Beach or Leonardo Beach in Middletown, Jennifer Lane Beach in Manahawkin, and Keansburg Beach.

Free Concerts

  • The Freehold Raceway Mall’s free summer concert series happens every Tuesday night in July and August through 8/20/24. The concerts take place outside in the Outdoor Village near LL Bean and the Cheesecake Factory from 6:30-8pm. There are also games and vendor booths. Don’t forget your lawn chair!
  • If you’re in Ocean County, don’t miss out on the Barnegat Dock Concert Series every Saturday throughout the summer until 8/31/24 at 6:30pm at the Barnegat Municipal Dock (427 East Bay Avenue).

We hope you enjoy the rest of summer with family and friends, enjoying the many free things to do in our beautiful area of New Jersey!

Article Source: NJFamily.com

Managing a Budget During Retirement

Posted on by
Reply

Very few people can retire without the stress of worrying about money. If you’re like most people, you’ll face a critical task when you reach retirement to make sure that your assets are able to support you through your lifetime.

Cash flow is king here. Quite simply, you must have enough income to pay for your living expenses. This is no easy task, especially as people are living longer today than ever before.

To help keep you on track and get you to a positive cash flow, there are a few key steps to keep in mind.

First, make a plan. You want to get a clear picture of your financial situation, which includes your projected income and expenses. Start by creating a detailed net worth statement, which will give you a comprehensive overview of your assets, debt, and cash on hand.

Next, assemble an accurate budget that itemizes your income and expenses. If you anticipate any major lifestyle changes after retirement, make these notations. Include your anticipated income during retirement, such as Social Security, pension, and other income streams. Include all of your expenses, prorating them on a monthly basis. When you finish creating your statement, look for any cash flow issues that might arise, and then find areas that will help you improve your income/expense balance.

Revisit your planning tool regularly and readjust the figures if your actual income and expenses change. As you monitor your finances, there are several items that could impact your cash flow in profound ways, including interest rates, tax rates, healthcare costs, and life events. Continually assess and revise your plan as necessary to account for their impact.

By developing and monitoring a budget during retirement, you minimize the possibility of cash flow issues that could otherwise constrain your lifestyle expectations.

For help in planning carefully, look to your financial professional for assistance.

Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534 to speak with professionals who can help steer your finances in the right direction.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.

This material was prepared by LPL Financial, LLC

Tracking #1-05363561

Kickstart Your Child’s Financial Future: Essential Tips for Parents

Posted on by
Reply

There’s no better time than now to start teaching kids about financial responsibility. At First Financial, we are committed to nurturing financial literacy and growth from a young age. Here are some practical tips to help your children develop strong financial habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.

1. Start by Including Them in the Conversation

You may not think to discuss money and finances with your children, but opening up these conversations early can help them grasp the importance of financial literacy and health. Start by teaching them the value of currency by having them earn money through simple tasks. Set savings goals and when they’ve reached a goal, discuss whether to spend the money earned on something they want now or to save it for the future. Pose the discussion around wants and needs and let your kids think through what is more important. This simple practice can instill lasting financial insights and habits. As your children get older, bring new topics into the conversation such as large purchases like cars, bills and expenses, as well as credit card use and debt. The more you discuss with them, the more prepared they will be for the financial realities to come.

2. Open a Savings Account and Encourage Financial Goals

Opening a savings account provides a safe place for your child to store their money, and helps them learn about interest and savings growth from a young age. For a great start, consider our First Step Kids Savings Account designed for Monmouth and Ocean County NJ children up to 18 years old, with no minimum balance requirements or fees and an opening deposit savings match of up to $25.* Once you’ve opened a savings account, set savings goals that can be tied to something your child can look forward to – a new toy, a special outing, or future education costs. Creating a visual savings chart can make this process engaging, and it’s also a good idea to plan monthly check-ins so your kids can watch the money grow in real-time.

3. Teach Budgeting Basics

Introduce the concept of budgeting by helping your child create a simple budget. This could include tracking their allowance, gift money, and any small earnings from chores or part-time jobs. Come up with some small ‘expenses’ so they can understand cash flow, and how to ensure you always have enough money to cover expenses, add to savings accounts, and have some left for miscellaneous spending and emergencies too. As kids reach their teenage years and beyond, our First Financial Student Checking Account for ages 14 to 23 – can facilitate this process with online banking features and electronic statements to make tracking easy.

4. Reward Academic Achievement

Incorporating financial rewards for academic success can motivate children to excel in their studies while learning the value of hard work. Our Dollars for A’s Program rewards Monmouth and Ocean County kids for getting A’s on their report cards, by depositing $1 for each “A” received into their First Step Kids Account.** These rewards keep kids focused on the importance of education and financial growth, while also ensuring their milestones are acknowledged and celebrated.

5. Make Learning Fun

Turn financial education into an engaging activity through contests and challenges. Every summer, our Reader Rewards Summer Reading Contest encourages kids to read books and earn rewards, making learning about finances more enjoyable. From now until the end of August, First Financial kids can earn $1 per book this summer – up to 10 books!+

First Financial is dedicated to fostering financial literacy and independence in young people. Our children and student accounts offer the perfect blend of education, practicality, and fun to help your kids develop strong financial habits. Start their journey to a secure financial future today! For more personalized assistance and tailored solutions call 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online.

*Parent or guardian must bring both the child’s birth certificate and social security card when opening a First Step Kids Account at any branch location. Parent or guardian will be a joint owner and must also bring their identification. A First Financial Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Must open a new First Step account to receive piggy bank, passbook, and to qualify for initial account opening savings match up to $25. The credit union reserves the right to change or cancel this offer at any time. See credit union for details. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account.

**Available for First Financial members between 1st and 12th grades. Child must be present and a deposit to a First Step Kids Account is required to receive the Dollars for A’s incentive. Offer applies only to report cards for most recent school terms. Qualifying report cards must be submitted within 45 days from the date of issue. No back rewards available for prior semesters or marking periods. Letter grade “A” (or school district’s equivalent) or 90%+. Limit of $10 will be rewarded for A’s per each marking period, not to exceed $40 in Dollars for A’s deposited per school year or calendar year.

+First Financial Kids up to age 18 are eligible to participate in our Summer Reading Contest each July and August. Credit Union membership and First Financial Savings Account are required to participate. Participants will earn $1 per book read, up to 10 books. Each book requires a separate entry form to be filled out online using our electronic entry form. Only completely filled out entry forms will be eligible for reader rewards. Participants will earn 1 entry per book read in our prize drawing of three Barnes & Noble® Gift Cards in the amount of $75, $50, and $25. If the parent/guardian prefers – Reader Rewards can be electronically deposited to the child’s First Financial Savings Account when a confirmation email for each book read (up to 10 books), is received and reviewed by the Marketing Department upon completion of a digital entry form. Reader Rewards can also be redeemed in person in any First Financial branch by displaying the confirmation email(s) to a branch employee on a mobile phone or printed out.​ The 3 prize winners will be drawn at random and will be contacted by the First Financial Marketing Department by September 15th.

First Financial Employee Spotlight: Issa Stephan

Posted on by
Reply

Issa Stephan, the President and CEO of First Financial – has been instrumental in our institution’s growth and success for the past 19 years. In this employee spotlight, we are highlighting his incomparable impact. Issa brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his role, as well as a genuine dedication and care for the credit union’s work and the employees. His commitment to integrity, honesty, and respect has shaped First Financial’s culture, fostering a supportive environment for both the staff and members. Under Issa’s guidance, the credit union continues to leverage all resources to provide personalized service and remains dedicated to the financial well-being of the Monmouth and Ocean County community.

How long have you worked at First Financial? What was your background/work or education experience in your field before you began working at the credit union? I joined First Financial 19 years ago as the 4th President & CEO. I have been involved with credit unions since 1995. Prior to that, I was in the information technology field. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Information Systems with a minor in Finance.

Can you walk us through one of your most important tasks and explain why it’s significant for our members? I oversee all aspects of the credit union’s operations. My focus is to drive the resources of the credit union toward our short and long-term strategic goals. I am also the main point of communication between the board of directors and credit union operations.

What personal values do you bring to your role here at the credit union? How do you see these values reflected in the work of First Financial? I bring integrity, honesty and respect to the credit union culture. These values are crucial to create an environment where the staff can connect with each other and with every member of First Financial in an honest and respectful manner.

How do you personalize your service to meet the diverse needs of our members? We leverage our technologies to understand our members’ needs and provide personal touches to their experience with First Financial.

Can you describe the team you work with and how you collaborate? I have an excellent team at First Financial. My team collaborates and communicates in a positive way to provide all the necessary tools for our staff to deliver superior member service.

What’s the best thing about being part of the team at First Financial? It is the ability to help one member at time – to work toward achieving his/her financial goals.

In your opinion, what sets First Financial apart from other financial institutions? We are local and all of our employees live in our service area. Credit union decisions are made locally since our headquarters is based in Freehold, NJ. We pride ourselves on resolving any issues in a timely and fair manner.

What’s something unique or surprising about you that members or other co-workers might not know? I collect scale diecast model cars. I also enjoy cooking.

What message would you like to share with the members of First Financial? The credit union’s ultimate and most important goal, is to give our members a better future in their financial lives.

If you could give one piece of financial advice to our members, what would it be? Pay yourself first through a savings account supported by an achievable budget.

Issa’s dedication and leadership continue to propel First Financial forward, ensuring it remains a pillar of support for its members and the local community. His strategic vision and clear communication help the credit union provide exceptional service and build a brighter financial future for our members. We are proud to have Issa behind the wheel, guiding and steering us toward continued success and growth. Visit our website to discover the First Financial difference.

Want to join the team at First Financial? Check out our careers webpage and apply online for current employment opportunities.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this July 2024

Posted on by
Reply

It’s time for some fun in the sun! Enjoy the weather and the sights and sounds the summer season brings. Check out these local activities happening this month in a town near you, as well as all the great Independence Day fireworks displays – there are lots available to attend all month long!

July 2:

Howell Township Independence Day Fireworks and Summer Concert Series will begin at 5pm and end at 9:30pm. There will be a free concert, cornhole tournament, rides and activities for kids, food vendors and more, followed by fireworks at dusk. The event will be held at Soldier Memorial Park on Lakewood-Farmingdale Road in Howell Township. Learn more here or call 732-938-4500.

Ocean Township Independence Day Celebration will begin at 6pm and end at 10:30pm at Joe Palaia Park. There will be food trucks, activities, music, and fireworks at dusk. Don’t forget to bring a lawn chair! Learn more at https://www.oceantwp.org/ or call 732-531-5000.

July 3:

Asbury Park Fireworks will take place at 9pm at Second and Fourth Avenue beaches. Rain date is July 5th. Learn more here, or call 732-775-2100.

Colts Neck Fireworks and Independence Day Celebration begins at 6pm at Bucks Mill Park (137 Bucks Mill Road). There will be music, an apple pie contest, food and refreshments, a flag ceremony, sweet treats and more! Fireworks will go off at dusk. There is a requested $10 parking donation. Learn more here.

Freehold Borough Fireworks and Celebration will take place from 5:30pm-9:30pm at the Freehold Raceway (130 Park Avenue). There will be food trucks and a DJ. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. Backpacks, coolers and pets will not be permitted at the event. Call 732-462-4200 to learn more, or visit Freehold Borough’s website.

Manasquan Fireworks will kick off at 7:30pm at Main Beach with a concert, followed by fireworks at dusk. Call 732-223-0544 to get more details or click here.

July 4:

Brick Summerfest begins at 7pm with a concert at Windward Beach Park (265 Princeton Avenue). Fireworks will take place after the concert at dusk. A food, beer and wine garden will be available for purchases. Complimentary shuttle buses will also be available. Learn more here or call 732-262-1044.

Long Branch Oceanfest begins at 1pm in Pier Village with musicians, dancers, crafters and sculptures, clowns, food vendors and fun! Fireworks will go off at 9pm. Learn more here, or call 732-222-0400.

Pt. Pleasant Fireworks will take place from 9pm-10pm at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. Get more information by calling 732-892-0600 or visit jenkinsons.com

Seaside’s Coca-Cola Fireworks Extravaganza will be happening at 9:30pm on the Boardwalk Promenade in Seaside Heights. Don’t miss it! Find out more here or call 732-793-9100.

July 5:

Barnegat Fireworks and Celebration will begin at 5pm at Barnegat High School (180 Bengal Avenue). There will be a DJ, food trucks, facepainting and more! Fireworks to follow at dusk. Rain date is July 12th. Call 609-548-6319 or visit barnegat.net

Bradley Beach Fireworks will be taking place at dusk (8pm-10pm) on the beachfront. Call 732-776-2999 for more details, or visit bradleybeach.gov

July 6:

Belmar Fireworks will begin at 8:30pm with a concert in front of Taylor Pavilion, followed by a fireworks display at 9pm and then a computerized lightshow. Donations are recommended, and go to supporting veterans through Rebuilding Warriors. Call 732-681-3700 to get more information, or click here.

Ocean Grove Independence Parade begins at 10:30am rain or shine, and in the evening at 7:30pm there will be a patriotic concert at the Great Auditorium (21 Pilgrim Pathway). Both events are free to attend, however any offerings given at the concert will be gratefully accepted. Call 732-775-0035 to learn more, or click here.

July 7: Marlboro Fireworks and Summer Concert will begin at 7:30pm at the Marlboro Recreation Center Lawn (1996 Recreation Way). There will be live music, concessions, ice cream, and fireworks at dusk. Bring your own chairs and blankets, free admission. Get more information about this event.

July 9: Red Bank Free Movies in the Park takes place from 8pm-10pm at Riverside Gardens Park on West Front Street by the Navesink River. There will be a free showing of Jurassic Park. Call 732-530-2782 to get more details, or click here. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs!

July 10:

Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of Encanto. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Bring your own blankets and chairs and enjoy a free movie under the stars and fun for the whole family! Learn more here or call 732-681-3700.

Freehold Free Family Movie Night begins at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of Men in Black II. Don’t forget to bring your snacks and lawn chairs and enjoy a fun outdoor night with your family! Get more details here.

The Ocean County Fair (Bayville) begins at 5pm to 11pm and will run through Sunday, July 14th at 5pm at Pinewald-Keswick Road/Route 530 and Mule Road. Admission is $10 per person, and parking is free. There will be plenty of food, rides and entertainment available for the whole family for the duration of the five-day event! Get more details here, or call 732-914-9466.

Sip and Shop (Toms River) will take place at Garden State Distillery at 13 Washington Street from 5pm-9pm. There will be local craft vendors selling jewelry, crystals, candles, apparel, soaps, beauty products, handcrafted gifts, décor and more. Admission is free, must be 21+ to drink at the distillery. The Cruisin’ Downtown Toms River event will also be taking place outside from 6-9pm. Get more information.

July 13: Freehold Township Day will take place from 4pm-11pm at Michael J. Tighe Park (65 Georgia Road). There will be rides for kids, a DJ, live performances, food trucks, local vendors and a gorgeous fireworks display at 9pm. Learn more here, or call 732-294-2199.

July 16: Red Bank Free Movies in the Park takes place from 8pm-10pm at Riverside Gardens Park on West Front Street by the Navesink River. There will be a free showing of Finding Nemo. Call 732-530-2782 to get more details, or click here. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs!

July 17:

Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of Despicable Me. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Learn more here.

Freehold Free Family Movie Night begins at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Don’t forget to bring your snacks and lawn chairs and enjoy a fun outdoor night with your family! Get more details here.

July 20:

Summer in the Street (Toms River) takes place at 101 Washington Street in Downtown Toms River from 2pm-8pm. There will be vendors, live music, family fun, games for kids, food trucks, and local businesses. Find out more here.

Boots on the Bay (Seaside Park) will take place from 3pm-8pm at J Street and Central Avenue at J Street Marina. Don’t miss this fun country music and food truck festival! There will be live country music, craft vendors, a kids’ zone with a petting zoo and inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden for those 21+ and more. Get more information.

July 23: Red Bank Free Movies in the Park takes place from 8pm-10pm at Riverside Gardens Park on West Front Street by the Navesink River. There will be a free showing of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Call 732-530-2782 to get more details, or click here. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs!

July 24:

Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of Elf. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Learn more here.

Freehold Free Family Movie Night begins at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Don’t forget to bring your snacks and lawn chairs and enjoy a fun outdoor night with your family! Get more details here.

The Monmouth County Fair (Freehold) begins at the East Freehold Showgrounds at 1500 Kozloski Road from 4pm-11pm. The fair will last until Sunday, July 28th at 6pm. There will be tons of rides, games, animal races, touch-a-truck, displays and exhibits, food vendors, live music and lots of fun for the whole family. Admission is $10 per person, kids 12 and under are free. Learn more and see the full fair schedule here, or call 732-842-4000 extension 4312 with questions.

July 27 and 28: Italian Festival at Monmouth Park Racetrack (Oceanport) takes place each day from 11am to 5pm. Enjoy mouth-watering Italian favorites from over a dozen of the area’s top restaurants, deli’s, and food trucks. Pair your favorite dish with a sampling of great wines at an Italian wine tasting, for guests ages 21 and up. General admission is $6, parking is free, and if you purchase Italian Festival tickets in advance online you’ll save some money and get them for $13. Purchase in advance today, or call 732-222-5100 for more information.

July 30: Red Bank Free Movies in the Park takes place from 8pm-10pm at Riverside Gardens Park on West Front Street by the Navesink River. There will be a free showing of Godzilla vs. Kong. Call 732-530-2782 to get more details, or click here. Don’t forget your blankets and chairs!

July 31:

Belmar Free Movie on the Beach begins at 7:30pm with a showing of Frozen. The movie will be shown at 7th Avenue Beach. Learn more here.

Freehold Free Family Movie Night begins at 8:30pm at the Hall of Records at 1 East Main Street. There will be a showing of The Lion King 1 & 1/2. Don’t forget to bring your snacks and lawn chairs and enjoy a fun outdoor night with your family! Get more details here.

We hope you have a great July – there’s so much to do in Monmouth & Ocean Counties!