Happy Tuesday, Monmouth County! Let’s just say, attempting air travel during a snowstorm was definitely not my brightest idea. Between the airport chaos and trying to find my frozen suitcase at baggage claim, winter definitely made its grand entrance here.

But we survived, the flights eventually took off, and snow season is officially here.

On the docket:

• Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium

• Winter Solstice Celebration in Rumson

• Ring in the New Year at The Proving Ground’s New Year’s Eve Ball

• Countdown by the Coast: Pier Village’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks

• Live Music Lowdown

Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium

Santa ditched the sleigh and grabbed a scuba tank. Christmas Underwater is back at Adventure Aquarium in Camden, NJ, turning a classic aquarium visit into a full-on holiday spectacle. Families can watch Scuba Santa swim alongside sharks and sea turtles, admire the world’s tallest underwater Christmas tree, and soak in festive décor sprinkled throughout the exhibits.

There are indoor snow flurries, holiday photo ops, and plenty of “did that just happen?” moments for kids who’ve never seen Santa underwater before. The event runs through December 24th, so you’ve still got time to squeeze in one more festive family outing before Christmas officially arrives.

Winter Solstice Celebration in Rumson

Before the holidays fully take over, Waterspirit’s Winter Solstice Celebration in Rumson offers a chance to pause and embrace the quiet magic of the season. Marking the longest night of the year, this reflective gathering blends music, gentle movement, and moments of contemplation to honor the turning of the calendar and the gradual return of light.

Taking place on December 20th, the evening invites the community to slow down, breathe, and connect in a calm, welcoming setting. It’s a refreshing reminder that winter doesn’t have to be rushed.

Ring in the New Year at The Proving Ground’s New Year’s Eve Ball

Ring in the New Year in style at The Proving Ground’s New Year’s Eve Ball on Wednesday, December 31st. Whether you’re starting early or going all in at midnight, the night is designed for celebrating however you like.

Enjoy dinner seatings at 5, 7, or 9 pm, then let the real party begin at 9 pm with live music from Guns 4 Hire. Expect great food, high energy, and a lively crowd ready to toast to 2026. The celebration runs all night, so come hungry, stay festive, and count down surrounded by good vibes.

Reservations are highly recommended. Call 732-872-2266 to secure your spot. Cheers to a memorable New Year’s Eve!

Countdown by the Coast: Pier Village’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Celebrate the New Year oceanside at Pier Village’s New Year’s Eve Firework Spectacular on December 31 at 9:00 PM. As the clock winds down, the sky above the Atlantic will light up in a dazzling display that beats watching the ball drop from your couch.

Turn it into a full night out by arriving early for New Year’s Eve dinners, parties, and festive specials at Pier Village’s restaurants. Do a little last-minute shopping, grab a cocktail, or roll a few frames at Pier Pins to kick off the celebration before heading outside.

When it’s time, bundle up, grab your crew, and line the boardwalk as fireworks sparkle over the ocean and the New Year officially begins. A Jersey Shore tradition that never gets old.

Live Music Lowdown

Friday, December 19
The Proving Ground, Highlands | The Sundries | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Catch 22 | 7 PM

Saturday, December 20
The Proving Ground, Highlands | Big Hix | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Meraki | 7 PM

Sunday, December 21
The Proving Ground, Highlands | BD Lenz | 5 PM
Reef & Barrel, Manasquan | Mushmouth | 3 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Sandy Mack’s Wonder Jam | 5 PM