Five Ocean County Events To Check Out This Weekend

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — Families, shoppers and movie fans will have several options around Ocean County this weekend, with events ranging from educational activities and craft shows to live entertainment and a free movie under the stars.

Here are five events happening Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, listed in chronological order:

Penguins & Pajamas

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 9-10 a.m.
Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach

Kids can start the weekend with a pajama-clad visit to Jenkinson's Aquarium for Penguins & Pajamas. The program includes penguin-themed storytelling, a craft and a special meet-and-greet with one of the aquarium's African penguins.

The program is open to children of all ages. Pre-registration is required. Admission is $25 per participant ages 3 and up, while children 2 and under are free. The program also includes admission for the day.

Blue Claw Craft Show

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sunset Park, Harvey Cedars

The Harvey Cedars Activity Committee will host the Blue Claw Craft Show, featuring more than 40 craft vendors. Visitors can browse a variety of handmade items and find something for just about everyone, with food available for purchase.

Butterfly Tent Event

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, 1623 Whitesville Road, Toms River

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County will invite visitors to walk through a butterfly display tent and learn about the butterfly life cycle, pollinators and native plants.

The free event will also feature activities and educational stations for children of all ages. Pets are not permitted.

The event's rain date is Sunday, Aug. 16. Visitors can pre-register and have the option of ordering a commemorative T-shirt. Donations are welcomed to help support future educational events.

First Annual Summer Fest

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 11 a.m.
All Wars Memorial Ball Field, 310 Bay Ave., Tuckerton

The Tuckerton Chamber of Commerce will celebrate its first annual Summer Fest at a new location. The free-admission event will feature live rock 'n' roll, a classic car show, craft vendors, food trucks and ice cream.

The event's rain date is Sunday, Aug. 16.

Movies on the Beach: "E.T."

Sunday, Aug. 16 | 8:30 p.m.
Seaside Heights Beach, Fremont Avenue Beach Entrance

Cap off the weekend with a free showing of "E.T." on the sand in Seaside Heights.

Moviegoers are encouraged to bring blankets and beach chairs and enjoy the film with the ocean as a backdrop. The family-friendly movie begins at dusk, with the Ocean County Tourism calendar listing an 8:30 p.m. start time. The event is weather- and conditions-permitting.