12 Events To Kickstart Spring

These family-friendly activities will get the whole crew excited and out of the house.

March in Monmouth is proof that cabin fever doesn’t stand a chance. As winter starts loosening its grip and hints of spring pop up along the Shore, the calendar fills with reasons to get out of the house. From hands-on activities and high-energy shows to outdoor adventures (weather permitting!), there’s no shortage of ways to keep the kids and the crew entertained.

So grab the jackets (just in case), round up the squad and start penciling in some memory-making moments—we’ve got your go-to guide right here.

March 14

• You can decorate Easter eggs at home, but head to Freehold Raceway Mall for a Paint A Peep Party. From 10 a.m. to noon in the JC Penney wing, participants can paint ceramic “Peeps” courtesy of Color Me Mine and the 94.3 Point Crew. Stop by early, as the event takes place while supplies last.

March 15

• Molly Pitcher is one of the most legendary figures of the American Revolution. She’s famous for carrying water from a well to soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth and for taking her husband’s place at a cannon when he fell. The Friends of the Monmouth Battlefield host a Tour of Possible Sites of Molly Pitcher’s Well, allowing visitors to explore the heart of the battlefield and learn more about both legend and history. This event starts at 1:30 p.m.

March 16

• At Skinny Flowers Brewing in Oceanport, take part in some fun and friendly competition during Trivia Night. Show off your knowledge, team up with your friends (or compete against them!) and enjoy some good brews while doing it. The fun starts at 6:30 p.m.

March 17–18

• She’s simply the best! Enjoy the uplifting story of the Queen of Rock n’ Roll during Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at Count Basie Center for the Arts. The hit musical takes the Red Bank stage for two showstopping performances filled with Turner’s most beloved hits. The curtain goes up at 7:30 p.m. each night.

March 19–29

• For a musical of biblical proportions, look no further than the Spring Lake Community House & Theatre, which is staging Jesus Christ Superstar. One of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s best-loved scores, this rock opera reimagines the final days of Jesus through a bold modern lens and an unforgettable rock score. Multiple shows are available, including matinees.

March 20-29

• What a way to make a living! The dynamic 9 to 5: The Musical comes to the Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan. Featuring an unforgettable score by Dolly Parton, this comedy follows three women as they team up to turn the tables on their tyrannical boss. Stop by for nonstop laughs. Multiple seatings are available, including matinees.

March 26

• Australian indie rockers Last Dinosaurs come to the iconic Stone Pony in Asbury Park on their 10-year anniversary tour for their album Wellness. This show will include a full playthrough of the album, including dancefloor staple track “Apollo.” Expect wall-to-wall energy, nostalgia and a guarantee good time. The show starts a 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, check out Stone Pony online.

March 26-29

• The Garden State Film Festival returns to Monmouth County for another year. This event gathers thousands of creative professionals, emerging talent, industry leaders and passionate film enthusiasts for a four-day celebration of the best of movies—and the best of New Jersey. Come see new movies, listen to artist talks, stop by happy hours, attend meet-and-greets and much more. Check out the festival’s website for the full schedule, venues and tickets.

March 27–29

• Join the Cat in the Hat as he tells the story of Horton in Seussical the Musical at the Bell Theater in Holmdel. Performed by members of the Axelrod Performing Arts Center, the show is suitable for all ages and features the beloved Dr. Seuss characters come to life. Showtimes are Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. Get your tickets online.

March 28

• See the wonders of the sea during a Seal and Winter Waterfowl Walk, hosted by the American Littoral Society in Highlands. Let an expert guide you on an exploration of the shores to catch a glimpse of the waterfowl and seals that spend the colder months here. Take in incredible views, learn some new facts and get to know our animal neighbors. Remember to check the weather and dress appropriately. The walk begins at 10:30 a.m.
• Hopping rabbits are cute, but a skydiving bunny—that’s worth seeing! Head to the Monmouth Jet Center in Wall for a family friendly Easter Egg Hunt and Bunny Skydive Spectacular. The event starts with the air-arrival of the Easter Bunny at 10:30 a.m., followed by a festive egg hunt for kids of all ages.

March 31

• At Long Branch’s Monmouth University, you can learn all about Pysanky, Ukrainian egg decorating. An expert will present the history and traditions surrounding Pysanky, demonstrate how to create one and then set you up with materials, including eggs, wax and dyes, for an independent practice session. You’re sure to create and take home a masterpiece! Beginners are welcome. Sign up today online!

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