Happy Tuesday, Monmouth County! Bruce Springsteen showed up at The Stone Pony last weekend like it was just another casual Thursday down the shore. Only in Jersey can a legend drop in unannounced and make the whole town feel like it’s the best party ever.

On the docket:

• Midnight Is Overrated: Celebrate New Year’s at Noon

• Run (or Walk) Your Way Into the New Year

• Ready to Freeze for a Cause? The Polar Bear Plunge Hits the Shore

• Rock the Holidays and Help Fight Hunger

• Live Music Lowdown

Midnight Is Overrated: Celebrate New Year’s at Noon

If midnight feels way past your kid’s bedtime (and yours), Noon Year’s Eve at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is the move. On December 31, families can ring in 2026 early with a full afternoon of fun from 12:00–4:00 PM…no yawning required.

Expect swimming mermaids, animal shows, penguin meet-and-greets, and a Mini Princess Palooza, all building up to the ultimate kid-friendly countdown: a 4:00 PM balloon drop that feels just as exciting as midnight…just sunnier.

All of the entertainment in the Aquarium is included with aquarium general admission, making this the perfect way to celebrate the New Year, keep the kids happy, and still be home before bedtime.

Run (or Walk) Your Way Into the New Year

If your New Year’s resolutions include moving more and recovering from the last two weeks of holiday eating, this one has your name on it. The 22nd Annual JSRC New Year’s Eve Twilight 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk & Party is back because nothing says “fresh start” like squeezing in a little cardio before the champagne comes out.

This Jersey Shore Running Club tradition takes place along the Manasquan beachfront and local streets with a 4:00 PM start time, giving you just enough time to break a sweat and still be home in time to start your late-night celebrations.

After the run or walk, head straight to Leggett’s Sand Bar for the real finish line: a post-run party with a free buffet for all participants. Proceeds from the event support The Rae of Light Foundation and Kindness Café, so every step you take helps make a difference.

Run it, walk it, or casually jog it. Then eat, celebrate, and ring in the New Year on the right foot.

Ready to Freeze for a Cause? The Polar Bear Plunge Hits the Shore

If easing into the New Year isn’t really your thing, the Polar Bear Plunge has a bolder plan. On January 10, brave or slightly unhinged participants will charge into the icy Atlantic in the name of charity, adrenaline, and very quick decision-making.

Hosted by Save Coastal Wildlife, this inaugural Jersey Shore plunge brings together costumed plungers, enthusiastic spectators, and people who are about to feel their entire body go numb, all to support marine wildlife conservation.

Yes, it’s freezing. Yes, you’ll regret it for about five seconds. And yes, you’ll weirdly want to do it again next year. Start 2026 with a shock to the system, a great cause, and an excellent excuse to immediately find something warm afterward.

Rock the Holidays and Help Fight Hunger

Get ready to turn up the holiday cheer at the Asbury Sunset Annual Holiday Benefit Event. A night of great music, good vibes, and giving back. Happening at the legendary Wonder Bar on Friday, December 26, the show kicks off at 7:30 PM and features a stacked lineup with Billy Walton Band, Sharon Lasher & the Flashers with JT Bowen, Anthony Krizan, Eric Mason Band, Johnny Kasun, Mother Hubbard, and some surprise special guests to keep things spicy.

This isn’t just a party, it’s a chance to help Fulfill NJ, the Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean. Bring along canned or non-perishable food donations to drop off at the show and help spread some warmth this season.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door, and we recommend grabbing yours early to secure your spot for a night packed with soulful rock and holiday spirit. Rock out, give back, and start your holiday right. Grab your tickets below!

Live Music Lowdown

Friday, December 26
The Proving Ground, Highlands | Carl Gentry Band | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | Rock for Hunger | 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 27
The Proving Ground, Highlands | Nine Deeez Nite | 8 PM
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | What a Wonderful Year Music Fest | 5:30 PM
Reef & Barrel, Manasquan | Brian Kirk & the Jirks | 8 PM

Sunday, December 28
The Wonder Bar, Asbury Park | What a Wonderful Year Music Fest | 5:30 PM