As a travel expert and a resident of Monmouth County, New Jersey, I can confidently say that this county is a hidden gem in the Garden State. With its stunning beaches, charming towns, and rich history, it's no surprise that Monmouth County is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. But what truly sets this county apart are its annual celebrations that bring the community together and showcase the unique culture and traditions of the area.
The Monmouth County Fair
One of the most highly anticipated events in Monmouth County is the annual Monmouth County Fair. This beloved tradition has been around for over 40 years and takes place every July at the East Freehold Showgrounds.It's a week-long celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit. The fair offers a wide range of activities and attractions for people of all ages. From thrilling carnival rides and games to live music performances and mouth-watering food vendors, there's something for everyone to enjoy. One of the highlights of the fair is the 4-H tent, where visitors can learn about different farm animals and even interact with them. But what truly makes the Monmouth County Fair special is its focus on promoting local agriculture. The fair hosts various competitions such as baking contests, livestock shows, and vegetable growing contests.
It's a great opportunity for farmers to showcase their hard work and for visitors to learn more about where their food comes from.
The Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival
Another popular annual celebration in Monmouth County is the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival. This event takes place in September in downtown Red Bank and celebrates two things that New Jersey is known for - oysters and beer. The festival features live music, craft vendors, and of course, plenty of oysters and Guinness. Local restaurants compete for the title of "Best Oyster" and visitors can sample a variety of oyster dishes from different vendors. There's also a shucking competition where participants race to shuck oysters in record time. But the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival is not just about food and drinks.It also raises money for a good cause, with a portion of the proceeds going towards local charities. It's a fun and delicious way to support the community.
The Asbury Park Zombie Walk
For those who love all things spooky and Halloween-related, the Asbury Park Zombie Walk is a must-attend event. Held in October, this annual celebration is a fun and unique way to celebrate the holiday. The Zombie Walk started in 2008 with only a handful of participants, but it has since grown into one of the largest zombie walks in the world. Thousands of people dress up as zombies and parade through the streets of Asbury Park, creating a truly eerie and unforgettable experience. In addition to the walk, there are also live music performances, zombie-themed vendors, and a costume contest with prizes for the best costumes.It's a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and have some fun with friends and family.
The Monmouth County St. Patrick's Day Parade
Every March, Monmouth County celebrates St. Patrick's Day with a lively parade that attracts thousands of spectators. The parade starts in Freehold Borough and ends in downtown Freehold, with marching bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers, and more making their way through the streets. The Monmouth County St.Patrick's Day Parade is not just about celebrating Irish culture, but also about honoring the contributions of Irish-Americans to the community. It's a family-friendly event that brings people together to enjoy the festive atmosphere and show their Irish pride.
The Monmouth County Italian Festival
Monmouth County is home to a large Italian-American community, and the annual Italian Festival is a celebration of their heritage and culture. Held in August at the Monmouth Park Racetrack, this festival features live music, traditional Italian food, and various activities for all ages. One of the highlights of the festival is the grape stomping competition, where participants compete to see who can stomp the most grapes in a given time. There's also a cannoli eating contest, bocce ball tournament, and a fireworks display to end the festivities.In Conclusion
Monmouth County, New Jersey is a vibrant and diverse community that knows how to celebrate.From traditional agricultural fairs to unique events like the Zombie Walk, there's always something exciting happening in this county. So if you're planning a trip to New Jersey, make sure to check out these popular annual celebrations in Monmouth County for an unforgettable experience.
