ACUA Food Drive
Our community is in need now more than ever. Because of COVID-related hardships, Atlantic County is on track to be the most food insecure county in New Jersey this year. You can help. You can support your neighbors in need by placing a bag of non-perishable food items out on the curb on your recycling day during the dates listed online at acua.com/fooddrive. Our recycling collections team will collect and deliver your donations to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Egg Harbor Township location, for distribution to community members in need.
Operation Warm 2020
Rotary Club of Ocean City – Upper Township has announced the kick-off for this year’s 2020 “Operation Warm” project here in South Jersey to raise funds for purchasing new winter coats for economically disadvantaged children in our local communities. Rotary notes the campaign is for monetary donations to fund the initiative and this is not a coat drive. Donate online at operationwarm.org/ocutrotary. For more information, contact Randi Scheck at Randisue62@gmail.com or call 609-412-3459.
Quarantine Claus
Scullville Auxiliary will be selling 9 inch Christmas stockings full of holiday surprises customized by the Scullville Elves for your child. Stockings are $12 each. There are a limited amount of stockings and yours will not be reserved until payment is received. If you live in the Scullville area there is an option to have Santa deliver your stocking the weekend of December 18th. For those who do not live in the Scullville area, the pick up date will be December 18th from 5-7pm at the fire house on Somers Point Rd. Visit the event page at facebook.com/ScullvilleFireCo and click on the link to sign up.
Holiday Light Show on the Lake
Thursday-Sunday from 5:30-8:30pm starting Thanksgiving
Historic Smithville 615 E. Moss Mill Rd.
Christmas Trees made from over 50,000 Christmas lights magically float over Lake Meone in the center of Historic Smithville. The moment darkness falls, an orchestrated show of lights and music is played out across the lake. The lights dance and chase each other to the music all the while reflecting of the water’s surface. The show can be seen from either side of the village as well as the bridge. The show runs in loops of about 30 minutes, so anytime you arrive from 5:30-8:30, you will be able to catch the entire show.
Somers Point Christmas Parade
Friday, December 4th at 6:30pm
The City of Somers Point will have its annual Christmas Parade this Friday, December 4th. There will be changes to this years event. There will be no gathering for the tree lighting at City Hall or visiting with Santa. All spectator and participants must adhere to all CDC protocols. The parade will feature many of our first responders along with our emergency response equipment. The parade will cover much of the town, traveling west of Route 9 for the first time. To view the parade map, visit facebook.com/SomersPoint.
Upper Township Annual Tree Lighting
Friday, December 4th at 6:30pm
Amanda’s Field 1091 Route 50 Petersburg
Join Upper Township for their 2020 Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, with a special guest appearance by Santa (socially distanced) and seasonal songs by the UpTown Singers and Upper Township Middle School Band. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ocean City – Upper Township. Special thanks to Sue Bailey for the donation of the Upper Township Christmas trees. Attendees are required to wear a Face Covering
Atlantic County Holiday Craft Bazaar
Saturday, December 5th & Sunday, December 6th from 9am-4pm
Atlantic County Fairground 3210 Route 50, Mays Landing
The Atlantic County Fair Association presents their 2020 Holiday Craft Bazaar, featuring appearances by Santa, Holiday Videos for the Kids, Holiday Train Display and Refreshments for Sale.
Josie Kelly’s Christmas Market
Saturday, December 5th from 2-5pm
908 Shore Rd. Somers Point
Join Josie Kelly’s for their Christmas Market and shop for gifts from local artists and merchants. Josie Kelly’s Food Truck will serve up holiday cheer with warm treats, hot cocoa and Irish coffee. Expect a visit from Santa. This event will follow social distancing guidelines and face coverings will be required. This event is first come, first served.
Somers Mansion Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 5th at 5pm
1000 Shore Rd. Somers Point
The 2nd Annual Tree Lighting and Holiday Reception will feature musical entertainment and the lighting of a permanent, historically accurate tree. Although guests cannot go inside of the Mansion, this festive occasion will be held entirely outdoors. Free admission, and t-shirts will be sold for great holiday gifts. Masks and social distance guidelines will be in effect.
Porch Performances: A Christmas Carol
Saturday, December 5th at 6pm
The Somers Point Unique Experiences Club hosts a Porch Performance of A Christmas Carol. Please follow COVID Guidelines and gather at 37 Somers Avenue for Act One. Following Act One, we’ll walk to three other porches in the Bayfront Historic District for the remaining acts. The evening will end at Gregory’s Restaurant, where light refreshments will be served outside.
Christmas on the Farm at Winding Creek Alpaca Farm
December 12th, 13th, 19th & 20th
1148 Somers Point Rd. Egg Harbor Township
Santa Claus is coming to town. Come visit for the farm this holiday season for photos opportunities around the farm and hand feed the alpacas. Bring a letter for Santa and place it in the mailbox for the North Pole. You will be able to visit Santa COVID style. Hand feed the alpacas. The mama and baby pen will be open for hand feeding if you wish. Take lots of fun photos at staged photo stations. Keep toasty with complimentary hot cocoa. To purchase tickets, visit facebook.com/windingcreekalpacas.
Art
Online Contemporary Art Class
Thursday, December 3rd & 10th at 2pm
Join Ocean City Free Public Library for a Contemporary Art Class, December 3rd & 10th. In this class, we will learn technology, identity, and performance, themes that are often used in the work of inventive and exciting living artists. We will discuss our reactions to different works of art, and learn the terminology associated with contemporary art. To register or learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.
DIY Wreath Decorating Online Video
Monday, December 7th at 4pm
Watch this quick video live on Monday, December 7th, to learn how to make your own seasonal wreath with items from the dollar store. This event is of no-cost to participants and open to all families living in Atlantic County. For more information or to sign up, please email inlandfsc@gmail.com.
Monica Nask Art Exhibit (Virtual)
Now – November 30th
Visit Longport Public Library’s website to view artwork by this month’s featured artist, Monica Nask. This exhibit is only available online at longportpubliclibrary.org.
Kids
Snowmen at Night StoryWalk
December 4th – January 31st
Lake Memorial Park 407 Wesley Ave. Ocean City
You’re invited to Ocean City Public Library’s Storywalk. The pages of Snowmen at Night, written by Caralyn Buehner and illustrated by Mark Buehner, have been transformed into signs, allowing you to read the story while you walk through the park. Ater you read the story, find the winter-themed items in the park. Complete the scavenger hunt and a survey for your chance to win a special prize. For more information, please visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Preschool Storytime
Fridays at 10:30am
Ocean City Library hosts Virtual Preschool Storytime on Fridays. For more information or to register, please visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Children’s Story Time
Saturdays at 11am
Tune in to hear prerecorded Story Times. Crafts can be picked up at the Otto Bruyns Public Library of Northfield’s circulation desk for the *almost* full experience. Watch online at facebook.com/nflibrary.
Virtual Young Adult Digital Game Night
Saturdays from 7-8:30pm
Ocean City Library hosts Virtual Dungeons & Dragons for grades 6-8. For more information, e-mail sara@oceancitylibrary.org or visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Toddler Time
Tuesdays at 10:30am
Ocean City Library hosts Virtual Toddler Time for preschoolers on Tuesdays. For more information or to register, please visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Rhythm & Rhymes
Wednesday, December 9th at 10:30am
Ocean City Library hosts Virtual Rhythm & Rhymes for preschoolers on Wednesdays. For more information or to register, please visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Online Kids Crafts at Longport Public Library
Wednesdays and Saturdays
2305 Atlantic Ave. Longport
Longport Public Library has a new, free kid’s craft kit available for pickup each Wednesday and Saturday. Craft kits are intended for ages 3-8 and contain everything you need for a fun activity each week. Call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org to learn more.
Virtual Young Adult Movie Streaming
Wednesdays at 4pm
For more information, e-mail sara@oceancitylibrary.org or visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Book Surfers Club
Wednesday, December 2nd at 3pm
Join Book Surfers Club, a monthly book club for 4th – 6th graders. Participants receive a book to read each month. To learn more or to register, visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Lectures and Workshops
Virtual Positivity Project
Thursday, December 3rd at 10:30am
Join JFS Wellness Coordinator Mary Jean Arreola and Village Membership Director Tina Serota to discover ways to boost your wellness – mind, body and soul. Each month features a new topic including self-care, mindfulness gratitude, meditation, resiliency, and more. RSVP by November 30th by calling Tina Serota at 609-287-8872 or tserota@jfsatlantic.org.
Rotary Club of OC-UT Online Program
Thursday, December 3rd at 6:30pm
The Rotary Club of Ocean City-Upper Township Online Program for this Thursday will be Jackie Meiluta, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) South Jersey. Organized in 2001, ViM operates two free clinics in South Jersey to serve the needs of the uninsured and underserved. To RSVP for this Rotary program, visit bit.ly/Rotary03DecVIM.
Greta Garbo: Silver Screen Legend
Thursday, December 3rd at 7pm
Greta Garbo .The name alone conjures Hollywood mystique at its highest. Join guest speaker Tom Celandine for a virtual discussion as we talk about Greta’s amazing but brief career as one of the silver screen’s greatest stars. Atendees are encouraged (but not required) to watch her films “Ninotchka” or “Grand Hotel” and to read about her ahead of time..To learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Online Financial Workshop with Primerica
Friday, December 4th at 4pm
Please join this workshop and get some useful tips that will help you save money during these hard times. This event is of no-cost to participants and open to all families living in Atlantic County. For more information or to sign up, please email inlandfsc@gmail.com.
Online Job Search Q&A Session
Friday, December 4th at 4pm
Finding it hard to keep up with the changing job market in 2020? Join Tutor.com for a special Professional Job Search Series Q&A session, where they’ll answer your most pressing questions about everything from online applications to resume building to the interview process, and more. Come prepared with questions, or just listen in to see what others are curious about – and learn how to set yourself up for success on the job front. Register online at facebook.com/atlanticlibrary and click on Events.
Mindful Ways Online Workshops with Kate Lutz
Monday, December 7th from 1-3pm
Kate Lutz’s Mindful Ways Workshops offer easy ways to practice meditation and experience mindfulness. Now is the perfect time to learn how to grow your emotional resilience, feel more centered, engage your inner awareness and peace of mind, and shift out limiting beliefs. Enjoy this friendly online setting to nurture your well-being. Register online at oceancitylibrary.org.
Healthy Soup Mug Treats Online Video
Tuesday, December 8th at 5pm
Need something to warm you up after shoveling the snow? Always busy running around and want a quick and easy snack? Are the kids at home for school and you want an easy lunch that they can make for themselves in the microwave? This event is for you. New Day Family Success Center will be hosting Health Soup Mug Treats. For more information, visit facebook.com/newdaygalloway.
The Why’s and When’s of Car Maintenance Virtual Program
Wednesday, December 9th at 7pm
This virtual program will help you get an overview of car maintenance from Chaya Milchtein of Mechanic Shop Femme. Learn when to perform specific maintenance tasks, and of course why, including changing fluids and filters, tire upkeep, air conditioning recharges, and much more. This class helps you be a more educated consumer so you can protect your infestment. To learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Book Club
Tuesday, December 15th at 6pm
OCFPL Virtual Book Club is back. Join the librarians for a fun discussion on this month’s book, How to Start a Fire by Lisa Lutz. A trio of former college friends reunite twenty years later to share the stories of their adventures , rivalries, secrets and losses while reevaluating the events of a single night that shaped all of them. To learn more, visit oceancitylibrary.org.
Virtual Trivia Night
Thursday, December 17th from 7-9pm
Are you a Jeopardy fan? Random fact enthusiast? Come test your skills with six rounds of virtual Trivia hosted by the Library via Zoom. Bring a team or make new friends (a maximum of 4 people per team). This trivia will be general knowledge, so anyone can be an expert. Registration is required, so please email jhoward@oceancitylibrary.org.
Tech
Virtual Tech Help
Friday, December 4th from 11am-12pm
Struggling to download an app to your cell phones or tablets? Trying to figure out how to read e-books on your Kindle? Longport Public Library Staff are excited to bring back Friday Tech Help. Registration is required. Help will be provided virtually via GoToMeeting. Visit longportpubliclibrary.org to request a 15-minute time slot. Please fill out the form completely and our staff will confirm your appointment via e-mail.
Atlantic County Fairgrounds Electronic Recycling Fundraiser
Saturday, December 19th from 9am-12pm
3210 Route 50, Mays Landing
Drop off old electronics at the recycling barn. Computers, home appliances, office equipment and more. Check out our website for more info. ac4hfair.org/electronic-recycling or email ac4hfairgrounds@gmail.com.
Health and Wellness
Fall Yoga Session
Thursdays at 9:30am
Join Longport Public Library for their 2020 Fall Yoga Session. Classes will be held each week at the Gazebo behind Borough Hall and Virtually through December 17th. Spaces are limited and registration is required. In the event of inclement weather, this event will only be held virtually. Call 609-487-7403 or visit longportpubliclibrary.org to learn more.
Warriors Welcome Online Veterans Support Group
Thursdays at 5pm
The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County hosts a peer-run veteran’s support & discussion group every week on Zoom. This is a no-cost, judgment-free, veteran-facilitated zone with discussions on self-care and wellness, family and relationships, adjusting to civilian life and employment. For more information, contact Jaime Angelini at jangelini@mhaac.info or visit mhaac.info.
Virtual Tai Chi/Qigong
Fridays at 11am
Tai Chi/Qigong Class participants will learn the ancient mind, body, spirit practices of Qigong and Tai Chi. These gentle practices help relieve stress, improve balance and flexibility and enhance the immune system. Class is open to adults at all fitness levels. No experience required. Visit acfpl.org to register.
Virtual LGBTQ+ Discussion Group
Fridays at 2pm
A group for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families and friends (18+) to come together, share experiences, learn about the community, find support and discuss relevant topics. This virtual group meeting is hosted by the Mental Health Association of Atlantic County. For more information, please visit mhaac.info or dial-in at 609-241-9388 and use the Conference ID: 149330.
Community Yoga at the Arts Garage
Saturdays at 10am
Sign up for a free Yoga Class at the Noyes Arts Garage in Atlantic City. Classes are every Saturday now though December 5th. Masks are required and please bring your own mat. Parking is $4 in the Wave Garage. Sign up at leadershipstudioac.com.
Virtual Mind & Body Workshop
Wednesdays at 11am
The Mental Health Association of Atlantic County hosts a weekly Zoom meeting for those living with a disability. For questions, contact Bernadette at btrendler@mhanj.org, call 609-652-3800 ext. 303 or visit mhaac.info.
Mental Health Association Virtual Meetings
The Mental Health Association has moved all services to virtual for the health, afety and well-being of all. If you have questions or concerns (including help using Zoom or the conference calling feature), you can call 609-652-3800 or visit our website at mhaac.info.