Thanksgiving in Monmouth County 2026

Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 26, 2026. Turkey trots, parades, dinner out, Small Business Saturday and the whole long weekend, as local calendars list them. Updated every day.

Turkey trots · Dinner out · Small Business Saturday · Holiday kickoff · Weekend by day

Turkey trots & 5Ks

Run (or walk) before the feast. Most races want you to register ahead, so check the listing.

• Howell Turkey Trot 5K & 2-Mile Run/Walk

  Sun, Nov 15 · 9:00 AM · Oak Glen Park, 300 Preventorium Rd, Howell Township, NJ 07731 · Howell

  Lace up your sneakers it's Turkey Trot time! Get ready to gobble, wobble, and trot your way to the finish line. It's a fun way to kick off the holiday season, get…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• The NJ Fall Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K Races - Manalapan

  Sun, Nov 22 · 9:30 AM · 20 NJ-33 Business, Manalapan Township, NJ · Manalapan

  ​To race on a course on the Monmouth Battlefield is to run through the site of the Battle of Monmouth fought on June 28, 1778, a pivotal engagement in the Revolutionary…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Navesink Challenge 12K & 5K

  Sun, Nov 29 · 10:00 AM · Navesink, Middletown Township, NJ · Middletown

  Come and be part of this Thanksgiving weekend tradition! Afterparty at Birdsmouth Brewing. One complimentary beer to runners and/or volunteers only. There will be food…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

Thanksgiving dinner out

Restaurants and venues with Thanksgiving dinners, buffets or parties on local calendars. Reservations are usually needed.

• Mercy Center Thanksgiving Distribution Day!

  Mon, Nov 23 · 8:30 AM · Mercy Center, ASbury Park · Asbury Park
  Also Nov 24 and Nov 25

  Mercy Center’s annual Thanksgiving distribution will be held on November 23, 24, and 25. November 23rd – 8:30am – 12:30pm, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm November 24th – 8:30am –…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

  Thu, Nov 26 · 6:00 AM · Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  The Chamber wishes the members of our community a very Happy Thanksgiving! A special day to appreciate family, friendship, kindness, good food, and the many blessings…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• AP Rooftop Thanksgiving at AP Rooftop

  Thu, Nov 26 · 11:00 AM · AP Rooftop, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  on the boardwalk AP Rooftop Thanksgiving Day Reservations: https://cdn.mcloones.com/pdf/ap-rooftop/holidays/2026/AP-Rooftop-2026-Thanksgiving-Day.pdf

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• Thanksgiving Buffet at Palmetto

  Thu, Nov 26 · 12:00 PM · Palmetto, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at Palmetto Thanksgiving Buffet

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• Thanksgiving at Avenue

  Thu, Nov 26 · 1:00 PM · Avenue, Long Branch · Long Branch

  Celebrate Thanksgiving by the sea at Avenue in Pier Village, where holiday tradition meets contemporary coastal dining. Gather with family and friends for a…

  via Pier Village

Small Business Saturday & holiday markets

Shop local on Small Business Saturday (Saturday, November 28) and at the season’s first holiday markets.

• Holiday Art Market - Jersey Shore Arts Center

  Sat, Nov 28 · 10:00 AM · Jersey Shore Arts Center, 66 S Main St, Ocean Grove, NJ 07756 · Neptune Township

  Come enjoy over 30 local artists and crafters, open artists' studios, food and beverages, holiday music, free parking and free admission. ​Shop unique, handcrafted…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Small Business Saturday - Ocean Grove

  Sat, Nov 28 · 10:00 AM · Ocean Grove Business District, Ocean Grove, Neptune Township, NJ · Neptune Township

  Shop small and support local businesses. Give something unique this year! Support local artists, shop owners, and restaurants in the quaint, Victorian town of Ocean…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Small Business Saturday - Lincroft

  Sat, Nov 28 · 11:00 AM · Colonial Nursery, 1124 W Front St, Lincroft, NJ 07738 · Middletown

  Support local. Shop small. Celebrate community. We can’t wait to see you at Colonial Nursery this Small Business Saturday!

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Bell Works Fresh Holiday Markets

  Sat, Nov 28 · 11:00 AM · Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733 · Holmdel
  Also Nov 29

  Come for the region's largest series of shopping events featuring a curated collection of 75 local handmade artists and makers coming together for a holiday…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Small Business Saturday - Spring Lake

  Sat, Nov 28 · 12:00 PM · Spring Lake, 3rd Avenue, NJ · Spring Lake

  Come to this annual local shopping event that is traditionally known for kicking off the holiday season. Visit the local boutiques, shops and restaurants as they open…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Holiday Market - Alternate Ending Beer Co.

  Sat, Nov 28 · 12:00 PM · Alternate Ending Beer Co., 1057 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747 · Aberdeen

  Alternate Ending Beer Co. is excited to announce they will once again be kicking off the holiday season with a Small Business Saturday marketplace Mark your calendars…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

The holiday season kicks off

Tree lightings, Santa and light shows starting Thanksgiving week.

• Magic Lights - PNC Bank Arts Center

  Nov 20–Jan 3 · PNC Bank Arts Center, 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel, NJ 07733 · Holmdel

  Magic of Lights is a dazzling, drive-through holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Breakfast with Grinch

  Fri, Nov 27 · 9:00 AM · doggie sweets, Long Branch · Long Branch

  This holiday season, treat your pup to a one-of-a-kind experience! Join us at Doggie Sweets for Grinch pictures that’ll make your heart grow three sizes. Each dog will…

  via Pier Village

• Photos with the Grinch

  Fri, Nov 27 · 12:00 PM · doggie sweets, Long Branch · Long Branch

  The Grinch is coming to Pier Village—and he’s ready for his close-up! 💚🎄 Bring the family, grab your favorite four-legged friend, and head to Doggie Sweets for a…

  via Pier Village

• Breakfast with Santa

  Sat, Nov 28 · 9:00 AM · doggie sweets, Long Branch · Long Branch

  It’s time to celebrate the holidays with your best furry friend! Bring your pup to an unforgettable Breakfast with Santa where they’ll be treated like royalty with…

  via Pier Village

• Santa Breakfast with Pictures - Doggie Sweets

  Sat, Nov 28 · 9:00 AM · 15 Morris Ave Unit 119, Long Branch, NJ · Long Branch

  ​It's time to celebrate the holidays with your best furry friend! Bring your pup to an unforgettable Breakfast with Santa where they'll be treated like royalty with…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Photos with Santa

  Sat, Nov 28 · 12:00 PM · doggie sweets, Long Branch · Long Branch

  The big man in red is coming to Doggie Sweets! Gather your furry friend and join us for a jolly good time, complete with unlimited pictures with Santa! It’s the perfect…

  via Pier Village

• Brunch with Santa - The American Hotel

  Sun, Nov 29 · 10:00 AM · The American Hotel, 18 E Main St, Freehold, NJ 07728 · Freehold Borough

  Bring your wish list and your appetite to The American Hotel’s famous Sunday Brunch with Santa. Enjoy their brunch specialties and grab a photo with Santa!

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Annual Tree Lighting Celebration

  Sun, Nov 29 · 4:00 PM · Long Branch

  Annual Tree Lighting Celebration Make your way to the Shore for one of Pier Village’s most anticipated holiday traditions—the Annual Tree Lighting Celebration, where…

  via Pier Village

Thanksgiving weekend, day by day

The best of everything on local calendars from Wednesday, November 25 through Sunday, November 29.

Wednesday, November 25

• Bell Works Fresh Wednesday Farmers & Makers Market

  Wed, Nov 25 · 11:00 AM · Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733 · Holmdel

  Stop by and shop every Wednesday at Bell Works for the 2026 Farmers and Makers' Market. Shop fresh, locally grown produce and unique handmade goods from your favorite…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Girl Dinner at Avenue

  Wed, Nov 25 · 11:00 AM · Avenue, Long Branch · Long Branch

  Girl Dinner at Avenue — Pier Village Gather your girls and indulge in the ultimate Girl Dinner at Avenue in Pier Village, where effortless coastal chic meets your…

  via Pier Village

• Open Gym at the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center

  Wed, Nov 25 · 12:00 PM · Tinton Falls

  Stop by the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center, Tinton Falls, and play basketball in our climate controlled, indoor gymnasium! The cost is $8 per person per day; cash,…

  via Monmouth County & Parks

• Wine Down Wednesday

  Wed, Nov 25 · 5:00 PM · The Bar at Wave Hotel, Long Branch · Long Branch

  Join us every Wednesday for Wine Down Wednesdays, at The BAR at Wave Resort featuring curated wine flights, ocean views, and beautifully crafted pours from standout…

  via Pier Village

• Bingo & Brews - Twin Lights Brewing

  Wed, Nov 25 · 6:00 PM · Twin Lights Brewing, 4057 Asbury Ave, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753 · Tinton Falls

  Stop in every Wednesday for Bingo Night, hosted by the man behind the curtain Mark! Enjoy a fun-filled evening of exciting bingo games, prizes, and great company. Grab…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Trivia Night - Wild Air Beerworks

  Wed, Nov 25 · 7:00 PM · Wild Air Beerworks, 801 2nd Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 · Asbury Park

  Get ready for an evening filled with excitement, camaraderie, and a whole lot of fun! This event promises to be the perfect way to unwind with friends while testing…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Nova Drones at Wonder Bar

  Wed, Nov 25 · 7:00 PM · Wonder Bar, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at the Wonder Bar NOVA DRONES Thanksgiving Eve Party with special guest The Guzzlers Two of Asbury Park’s newest rising bands Nova Drones and The Guzzlers rock a…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• Fantastic Cat at The Stone Pony

  Wed, Nov 25 · 7:00 PM · The Stone Pony, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at The Stone Pony Fantastic Cat Fantastic Cat returns for a special Thanksgiving Eve show with special guest James Felice. Dubbed “the Harlem Globetrotters of…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

Thursday, November 26 · Thanksgiving

• Yoga

  Thu, Nov 26 · 9:30 AM · West Long Branch NJ 07764 · West Long Branch

  https://www.westlongbranch.org/calendar.aspx?EID=1017

  via West Long Branch

• Chair Yoga with Meryl Hayton

  Thu, Nov 26 · 10:00 AM · Borough Hall Gym, Belmar · Belmar

  [vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″ icons_position=”left”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″ icons_position=”left”][vc_column_text css=””] CHAIR YOGA with Meryl Hayton Every…

  via Belmar Library

• Bubbles & Pearls

  Thu, Nov 26 · 11:00 AM · Long Branch

  Bubbles & Pearls at AvenuePier Village, Long Branch Every Thursday Elevate your week with Bubbles & Pearls at Avenue. Indulge in the perfect pairing of crisp sparkling…

  via Pier Village

• Mat Yoga with Michele Dougard

  Thu, Nov 26 · 11:30 AM · Taylor Pavilion, Belmar · Belmar

  [vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″ icons_position=”left”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″ icons_position=”left”][vc_column_text…

  via Belmar Library

• Trivia Night Thursdays - Beach Haus Brewery

  Thu, Nov 26 · 7:00 PM · Beach Haus Brewery, 801 Main St, Belmar, NJ 07719 · Belmar

  Compete in 5 rounds of trivia hosted by Quizzoholics. Categories change weekly and always include 4 rounds of Q & A style trivia, and one "Name that Tune" style audio…

  Freevia Monmouth County Tourism

• Trivia on Tap - Twin Lights Brewing

  Thu, Nov 26 · 7:00 PM · Twin Lights Brewing, 4057 Asbury Ave, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753 · Tinton Falls

  Join in every Thursday for Trivia Night, hosted by Trivia Revolution! Test your knowledge, compete for prizes, and enjoy a night of fun and friendly competition. Grab…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

Friday, November 27

• Sip & Shop - Proving Ground Waterfront Dining

  Fri, Nov 27 · 11:00 AM · 56 Shrewsbury Ave, Highlands, NJ 07732

  Sip, shop, and support local vendors! Proving Ground is brining together local vendors, unique finds, holiday gifts, good drinks, and great company for a festive day by…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Friendship Fridays at Asbury Park Art Club

  Fri, Nov 27 · 12:00 PM · Asbury Park Art Club, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at Asbury Park Art Club Friendship Fridays 2 art a la carte projects and 2 mocktails $99/pair

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• The Wizard of Oz - Axelrod Performing Arts Center

  Fri, Nov 27 · 2:00 PM · 100 Grant Ave, Deal, NJ 07723

  We're off to see the Wizard! ​​ Ruby slippers, wicked witches, and a yellow brick road - oh my! The beloved story of a purehearted Kansas farm girl who is swept…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• 6 Week Poetry Writing Course at Asbury Book Cooperative

  Fri, Nov 27 · 6:00 PM · Asbury Book Cooperative, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  This poetry writing course is an in-person six week series at the bookstore starting on Friday, November 6th 6pm-7:30pm. This is a wonderful chance to work on your…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• Dave Hause and the Mermaid at The Stone Pony

  Fri, Nov 27 · 7:00 PM · The Stone Pony, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at The Stone Pony DAVE HAUSE AND THE MERMAID “As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be in a rock and roll band.” Dave Hause had an epiphany rewatching…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• Nicole Atkins at Wonder Bar

  Fri, Nov 27 · 7:00 PM · Wonder Bar, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at the Wonder Bar NICOLE ATKINS ISTA John Gallagher Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm 21+ “This whole album is almost like my fight against loneliness,” says Nicole Atkins of her…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

Saturday, November 28 · Small Business Saturday

• Asbury Park Sunset Farmers Market

  Sat, Nov 28 · 8:00 AM · Fireman’s Park, Asbruy Park · Asbury Park

  Community farmer’s market featuring seasonable fresh fruit and vegetables, cut flowers. Bread, cheese and Italian pastries and stuffed breads,

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• Community Sale & Swap - Avon-by-the-Sea

  Sat, Nov 28 · 11:00 AM · The Holding Space, 304 Main St, Avon-By-The-Sea, NJ 07717 · Avon-by-the-Sea

  Join this community event on small business Saturday. Skip the big box stores and shop in an environmentally friendly way that supports the community. Sell, Buy, or…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage - Count Basie Center for the Arts

  Sat, Nov 28 · 12:00 PM · Hackensack Meridian, 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701 · Red Bank

  Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the touring production A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage! Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• The Jerry Go Round featuring Brian Murray at the Wonder Bar

  Sat, Nov 28 · 6:00 PM · The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  The Jerry Go Round – Jerry Garcia Tribute featuring Brian Murray from Dogs in a Pile on guitar The Jerry Go Round, with Brian Murray from Dogs in a Pile on guitar, is a…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• Super '70s Rock Show at The Stone Pony

  Sat, Nov 28 · 7:00 PM · The Stone Pony, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at The Stone Pony THE SUPER ’70s ROCK SHOW featuring Super Trans Am The Super ’70s Rock Show brings a super holiday party to the Pony on Thanksgiving Saturday, Nov. 28.…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

• Social Saturdays at Asbury Social!

  Sat, Nov 28 · 10:00 PM · Asbury Social, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  Asbury nights are going to get a lot more social! Every Saturday starting at 10pm, Asbury Social will have “Social Saturdays” Drink • Dance • Be Social ***Starts…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

Sunday, November 29

• Classic Radio Road Show at Two River Theater

  Sun, Nov 29 · All day · Two River Theater · Red Bank

  November 29, 2026 = Gift of the Magi and The Bickersons Christmas Eve in Studio B 3pm-4:30pm selling own tickets SOLD OUT October 3, 2026 = Sleepy Hollow and The…

  via Two River Theater

• Jetty Surf Club

  Sun, Nov 29 · 8:00 AM · jetty, Long Branch · Long Branch

  Jetty Surf Club isn’t just about catching waves — it’s about plugging into a curated community, coastal culture, and a lifestyle rooted in connection, movement, and…

  via Pier Village

• A Jazz Tribute to Vince Guaraldi's a Charlie Brown Christmas - Alternate Ending Beer Co.

  Sun, Nov 29 · 11:45 AM · Alternate Ending Beer Co., 1057 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747 · Aberdeen

  Vince Guaraldi's timeless "A Charlie Brown Christmas" soundtrack is brought to life in this special live performance. The CB Quintet puts its own spin on Guaraldi's…

  via Monmouth County Tourism

• Drag Brunch at Georgie’s Bar

  Sun, Nov 29 · 1:00 PM · Georgie’s Bar, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  Every Sunday! 1pm – 5pm Hosted by Divinity Banks With Special Guest Cobruh Kai Music By DJ Mick Hale $6 Sangrias +Bloodys, $3 Mimosas, Special Brunch Menu NO COVER FREE…

  via Asbury Park Chamber

• The Jerry Go Round at Wonder Bar

  Sun, Nov 29 · 4:00 PM · Wonder Bar, Asbury Park · Asbury Park

  at the Wonder Bar The Jerry Go Round – Jerry Garcia Tribute featuring Jimmy Law from Dogs in a Pile on guitar The Jerry Go Round, with Jimmy Law from Dogs in a Pile on…

  via Asbury Park Boardwalk

Pies & sides from local spots

Places in our guide known for their pies. We don’t list holiday hours or order deadlines, so call ahead before Thanksgiving week.

• Delicious Orchards

  Colts Neck · Bakery & country market · Monmouth County institution for pies and cider donuts

  Beloved country market with an on-premises scratch bakery famous for seasonal fruit pies and apple cider donuts.

• Jameson's Southern Cooking

  Neptune City · Southern, soul food · 4.6 stars across 200+ reviews; catering available

  Southern comfort-food spot on Route 35 known for barbecue ribs, fried chicken, baked mac and cheese with cornbread, and sweet potato pie.

Quick answers

More seasonal guides

• Christmas & holiday eventsTree lightings, Santa, markets & lights
• Tree lightings by townDates & times
• Events this weekendUpdated daily
• Best restaurantsMonmouth County

Listings come from town, library, venue and county calendars and can change, so check with the organizer before you go.