Things are heating up in Monmouth County parks this winter

MONMOUTH COUNTY – It may be cold outside, but the Monmouth County Park System is heating up with its great winter offerings, including a shark talk, a nightly bonfire, a whimsical children's theater class and more.

Interested?

Here are the details:

• Pine Barren Bonfire from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, Jan. 13, at Turkey Swamp Park, Freehold. Gather around the campfire for games, s'mores, and a full moon! Please dress appropriately for the weather. Open to all ages; under 18 years with adult. The cost is $15 per family of four; Cash or check only.

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• Night vigil in the magical maple forest from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays, January 16th to February 16th. 20 at the Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center, Aberdeen. Tell the story of the magical maple forest in this performing arts class for ages 8 to 12. The highlight is a performance for family and friends. Advance registration and fee required.

• Eco-Sphere: Life in a Jar from 11 a.m. to noon Sunday, Jan. 19, at the Manasquan River Greenway Winter Run Activity Center, Howell. Build your very own self-contained ecosystem and learn about the complex systems that support life. Open to children ages 8 and up; under 18 years with adult. Advance registration and fee required.

For more information about Monmouth County parks and programs, visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000, ext. 4312. The park system can also be contacted by email at info@monmouthcountyparks.com.