13 Events To Check Out This Month
Looking for a reason to get out of the house? These activities are the perfect way to celebrate spring.
Spring has officially arrived in Monmouth County, and April is packed with ways to get out and enjoy the season. From festive family-friendly activities to live entertainment to outdoor adventures, there’s something happening for every interest and every age group.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed day with the kids, looking to explore something new or just want an excuse to make the most of the season, this month’s lineup has you covered. Here’s your go-to guide for what’s happening around town:
April 17
- Rock legend Melissa Etheridge stops by the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank for a night of incredible music. Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has been a staple on the rock scene and one of its leading vocalists for more than two decades. The concert starts at 8 p.m., and tickets are available online.
April 18
- Join an early celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary during Kids Fest: America’s Birthday Bash at the Manalapan Recreation Center. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., visitors can enjoy music, entertainment, a touch-a-truck event and more.
- It’s not summer yet, but you can take a dip in the water during the Shillelagh Plunge for Autism 2026 in Belmar. Proceeds from this event will be donated to several local organizations, including POAC Autism Services and Autism NJ. Stick around after your ocean splash for a party at D’Jais Bar & Grill. The event starts at 10:30 a.m.
- Throw your arms around the world during an Earth Day Open House at Huber Woods Environmental Center in Middletown. Stop by between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for live animal shows, guided nature and special history walks. You can also bring along a gently used nature book and exchange it for something new.
- Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience comes to the Algonquin Theater in Manasquan for an evening of storytelling and great music. More than a tribute act, the show allows audience members to help create the set list, choosing their favorite Beatles songs. This matinee begins at 2 p.m.
April 19
- Do your part to keep Monmouth beautiful at Bayshore Waterfront Park in Port Monmouth, where you can take part in an Earth Day Beach Cleanup. Help clear the coastline of trash and plastic debris while enjoying the beauty of the Sandy Hook Bay. Make sure you bring your own gloves—all other materials will be provided. Meet near the entrance to the fishing pier at 10 a.m.
April 25
- Lace up your running shoes and register for the Step Up for the Arc Walkathon. The fundraiser at Dorbrook Park in Colts Neck will benefit The Arc of Monmouth, which is dedicated to inclusion, opportunity and belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Monmouth. Check-in starts at 10:30 a.m., and the walk begins at 11 a.m.
- For a day of friendly competition, sign up for Monmouth Habitat for Humanity’s Hitting Close to Home Pickleball Tournament! This event takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. at the New Shrewsbury Racquet Club in Tinton Falls and raises funds for some of Habitat’s most critical projects. Beginners are welcome, and you’re guaranteed to play in six or seven games.
- One of the best Bruce Springsteen tributes returns to Asbury Park’s Stone Pony for an unforgettable show. See Tramps Like Us as they celebrate their 35th anniversary. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m.
April 26
- Find new treasures at the Red Bank Street Fair & Craft Show, happening from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Monmouth and Broad streets. This year’s event will feature some of the area’s best artists, crafters and vendors as well as live music, food and games for all ages.
- Want to try the very best of Asbury Park’s culinary scene? Join the 13th annual Asbury Park Restaurant Tour, a tasting event that will let you take a bite at restaurants, bars, lounges, juice shops, cafes—and that’s just the start. This tour starts at noon and is self-guided.
April 30
- Perfect ambience, a full-sensory experience and classic songs as you’ve never heard them before—that’s what awaits you at the Candlelight Concert Tribute to Queen and The Beatles, happening at Monmouth University’s Pollak Theatre in Long Branch. Listen to hits like “Here Comes the Sun,” “Yesterday,” “I Want to Break Free” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” played on classical instruments, illuminated by candles. The show starts at 6 p.m.
- Celebrate some of the best theater Monmouth has to offer in Oceanport, where the Two River Theater hosts its Spring Gala at the Park Loft! This evening will include a cocktail hour, dinner, live entertainment, dessert and a ceremony presenting the theater’s annual Community Spotlight Award. The program begins at 6 p.m.
What events are you attending this month? Share your favorite photos with us on Instagram @monmouthmagazine.
