Happy Tuesday, Monmouth County! Thanksgiving’s almost here, which means there’s only two things to talk about…pie and football. Let’s dive into what’s going on around town this week before the feast begins.

On the docket:

• Winter Wonderland & Tree Lighting

• Brunch with Santa at the American Hotel

• Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge

• Live Music Lowdown

Winter Wonderland & Tree Lighting

Ready to kick off the holiday season with all the festive feels (and maybe a little frosty fun)? Head to Keyport’s Winter Wonderland on Saturday, November 29th from 12 PM to 8 PM at MiniPark on West Front Street.

Hop aboard the Candy Cane Express, yes, it’s a train and it’s as sweet as it sounds, glide your way around the synthetic ice rink (no skating skills required, just enthusiasm), and take a scenic spin on the Keyport Princess boat. Bonus points if you sing along with the live chorus performances!

Santa makes his grand entrance at 5:45 PM, so have your wish lists ready and your smiles prepped. Then gather ‘round for the tree lighting at 6 PM, guaranteed to brighten even the Grinchiest of moods.

Eat, shop, stroll, and celebrate, because downtown Keyport knows how to do holidays right!

Brunch with Santa at the American Hotel

Santa is making his annual stop at the American Hotel for a festive Brunch Buffet the whole family can enjoy. Guests can dig into a spread of holiday breakfast and lunch favorites while Santa greets kids and poses for photos in the hotel’s lobby winter wonderland.

Brunch will be held on November 30th, December 7th, December 14th, and December 21st. Pricing is $49 for adults and $27 for children 12 and under, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required by calling 732-431-3220.

It’s a cozy, family-friendly way to kick off the holiday season and snag that perfect Santa photo. Check out the website below for more information on reservations!

Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge

Looking for a post-Thanksgiving thrill? The Doggy Paddle Polar Plunge returns to D’Jais in Belmar on Saturday, November 29th, bringing together animal lovers, brave swimmers, and plenty of pups for a chilly morning at the beach. Participants will hit the ocean for the annual plunge, all to support the Monmouth County SPCA and the thousands of animals they care for each year.

Festivities kick off at 10:00 AM with music, food, contests, kid-friendly activities, and a special dog zone where pups can hang out while their humans take the icy dip. Dogs aren’t allowed in the water during the plunge, but they’re welcome to join the fun along the sidelines.

It’s a feel-good way to close out Thanksgiving weekend and give back to a local cause. Registration, event details, and fundraising info can all be found at the link below.

Live Music Lowdown

Friday, November 28
The Proving Ground, Highlands | Skinny Amigos | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Moroccan Sheepherders | 7 PM

Saturday, November 29
The Proving Ground, Highlands | The Sundries | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Fungkshui | 8 PM

Sunday, November 30
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | The Jerry Go Round | 6:30 PM