On Saturday, July 26th, the Jersey Shore Chapter hosted its 19th Annual Family Day at the Beach in Asbury Park, a cherished event that brings the community together for a day of fun and education. The event offers free access to the beach (during the summer season, most beaches in New Jersey charge a fee) and is packed with activities for kids and families, including surf lessons, an educational scavenger hunt, water safety instruction, arts and crafts, food, and live music.
Since Family Day is completely free, it provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the beach, especially those from low-income families who might not otherwise have access to their local shoreline. This inclusive spirit is rooted in Surfrider Jersey Shore's work, dating back to 2003 when they successfully advocated to make surfing legal in Asbury Park. Called Asbury Park Surf Camp back then, the initiative aimed to encourage local residents, many of whom had never experienced the joy of surfing, to connect with the ocean.
The event's continued success is thanks to a collaborative, community-led effort. The chapter extends its heartfelt thanks to Family Day’s co-host, the Asbury Park Mayor’s Wellness Committee for their continued support; to the Asbury Park Beach Patrol and its chief, Joe Bongiovanni, for keeping us safe and sharing beach safety tips; and to the Asbury Park Department of Public Works for their essential services, especially providing reusable, branded water bottles for all the participants. Every year, the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth brings a van of kids and lots of fun. A special shoutout goes to Summertime Surf and The Asbury Park Surf Club for donating their time and talent to teach the city's children the joy of surfing.
The chapter also thanks TJ's Pizza and The Galley Pizza and Eatery for their delicious pies, and Marilyn Schlossbach for her outrageously yummy brownies. Wegmans of Ocean also generously contributed to the event. The live music by local favorite, Stringbean Blues, added to the vibrant atmosphere.
We are grateful to all our volunteers, supporters, and participants for making the Asbury Park Family Day at the Beach an unforgettable experience. Here's to many more years of community, fun, and surfing!
All photos my Michael McKenna (@michaelmckennaphoto)