Happy Tuesday, Monmouth County. While some people meal-prepped for the week, I was busy double-fisting pasta and cannoli at the Feast of San Gennaro. It was worth every bite (and every nap that followed).

On the docket:

• Sea Bright Day is Back and It’s Packed!

• Sip, Paint & Unwind at Pier Village

• A Taste of Atlantic Highlands — Back for Seconds

• Live Music Lowdown

Sea Bright Day is Back and It’s Packed!

Sea Bright Day returns on Saturday, September 27th from 2-7pm with a full lineup of family fun, food, and live music. Kids can enjoy touch-a-truck, inflatables, arts & crafts, and even a chance to win a new bike thanks to Bain’s Hardware. Adults can browse craft vendors, check out local businesses, and test their trivia skills with the Historical Society.

Expect plenty of eats including Mrs. Rooney’s Hot Dog Cart plus a dunk tank, plant sale, shred truck, and a 50/50 raffle. Sports fans can hit the pickleball and basketball courts or catch a free surf lesson from Lucky Dog Surf School.

Live music runs all afternoon with Beyond Blue, capped off by a beach bonfire at 6 PM with acoustic sets from Meg Cannon.

Sea Bright Day is fun for all ages — see you there!

Sip, Paint & Unwind at Pier Village

If you’ve been looking for a night that’s more fun than folding laundry but less chaotic than a Friday night out, this one’s for you. On September 24th from 6–8 PM, The Robinson Ale House in Pier Village is hosting a cozy fall Sip & Paint night. For $35, you’ll get all the supplies and step-by-step help to paint a farmhouse-style pumpkin tablescape (translation: it’ll actually look cute enough to hang in your house).

No painting skills required — just show up, sip something good, and enjoy a couple hours of grown-up time while still feeling productive. Food and drinks are available to order, so you can make it a full night out.

Spots fill up quickly, so if this sounds like your kind of reset, snag your ticket below!

A Taste of Atlantic Highlands — Back for Seconds

Mark your calendars, food lovers: the Taste of Atlantic Highlands is serving up its annual feast on Sunday, September 21, from 12–4 PM. Set against the harbor, this is Monmouth County’s ultimate foodie day, with samplings from the town’s best restaurants and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Think lobster bisque from On The Deck, Thai favorites from Kunya Siam, Carton Brewing’s craft pours, Monty’s BBQ, Julio’s legendary pickle pizza, Nicholas Creamery ice cream and that’s just a taste of what’s on the menu.

Last year sold out with over 300 guests, so be sure to buy your ticket in advance! Prices are $45 for adults, $40 for seniors (70+) & military, and $15 for kids under 12.

Come hungry and leave happy — this is one Bayshore tradition you don’t want to miss.

Live Music Lowdown

Friday, September 19
The Sandbox, Highlands | Vinyl Traction | 2-4 PM
The Sandbox, Highlands | Not Leaving Sober | 7-10 PM
Red Rock Tap & Grill, Red Bank | The Cliffs | 7-11 PM

Saturday, September 20
AVA Beach Bar | San Noche Reggae | 4–8 PM
AVA Beach Bar | The Pickles Band | 2–6 PM
The Sandbox, Highlands | John Rafferty | 3-6:45 PM
The Sandbox, Highlands | Strumberry Pie | 7-10 PM
Red Rock Tap & Grill, Red Bank | The Haven | 7 PM

Sunday, September 21
The Sandbox, Highlands | Dunesday with Brian Kirk & the Jirks | 11AM - 8PM