Easter Brunch, Bunny Sightings & Spring Is Officially On

👋Hey, Monmouth friends!

This week’s lineup is stacked: Easter brunch spots worth booking now, egg hunts for the grandkids, park events, camping season kickoffs, a job fair if you’re feeling ambitious, and one surprisingly helpful AI story involving colonoscopy reminders — because apparently even the robots are looking out for us now. Or… you can just scroll straight to TV Time. No judgment.

Let’s get into it!

🐣 Easter Brunch Guide (where to go Sunday)
🐰 Easter Fun Around Town (bunnies, boats & egg hunts)
🏕️ Camping Season Begins
🌽 History in Motion at Walnford
🍳 In the Parks: Cookstove Days
🐚 Take the Grandkids: Seashore Open House
💼 Job Fair in Lincroft
📚 Beyond the Books (library picks)
🐰 Tasty Treat: Bunny Cake
📺 TV Time
🎂 Celebrity Birthdays

Up first…

Whether you’re planning a big family gathering, treating the grandkids, or just skipping the dishes (highly recommended), Easter brunch is on across Monmouth County this Sunday, April 5. Buffets, waterfront views, egg hunts — it’s all happening. Here’s where to grab a table:

🥂 Colts Neck Inn (Colts Neck) — A go-to for a traditional Easter brunch buffet with all the classics. Info
🥂 618 (Freehold) — Stylish setting meets a full Easter brunch buffet spread. Info
🥂 Buttonwood Manor at MJ’s (Matawan) — Big buffet, big crowd, big holiday energy. Info
🥂 The Molly Pitcher (Red Bank) — Elegant riverside brunch buffet — a longtime favorite. Info
🥂 Amelia’s By The Sea (Spring Lake) — Ocean views + buffet = a pretty perfect combo. Info

🌅 The Avenue (Long Branch) — Brunch and dinner with those boardwalk views. Info
🌅 Drifthouse (Sea Bright) — Choose brunch or dinner, both served with serious coastal vibes. Info
🌅 26 West on the Navesink (Red Bank) — Upscale dining with waterfront scenery. Info

🍷 Laurita Winery (New Egypt) — Brunch in a vineyard setting? Yes, please. Info
🍳 Cross & Orange (Asbury Park) — A creative, chef-driven brunch if you want something less traditional. Info
🍽️ The Squire (West Long Branch) — Offers both Easter brunch and dinner options. Info

🥚 Bar Anticipation (Belmar) — Not your typical brunch stop — but worth a mention for its kid-friendly Easter egg hunt, perfect if you’re making a day of it. Info

Reservations for all of these restaurants are strongly recommended — these fill up fast. Bottom line: whether you’re in it for the waffles, the mimosas, or just a table you don’t have to clean — there’s a spot with your name on it this Easter.

🐣 Eggs, Bunnies and a Bubble Magician at Allaire
This one’s shaping up to be an Easter crowd-pleaser. The Historic Village at Allaire in Wall will host its Easter Celebration on Saturday, April 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a full day of spring fun packed into the village.

Expect egg collecting stops throughout the grounds, live chicks and bunnies, a roaming Easter Bunny, bonnet decorating, glitter tattoos, crafts, storytelling, a village scavenger hunt, historical Easter egg-dyeing demonstrations, music, selfie stations, and even a Bubble Magician. Guests can also catch 19th-century demos like blacksmithing, woodworking, and hearth cooking, so it’s part Easter outing, part step-back-in-time adventure.

Bring your own Easter basket for collecting eggs, and come hungry — there will be two food trucks on site, plus Easter goodies at the Village Bakery and shopping at the General Store.

Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Admission is $12 per person for ages 4 and up. Organizers note that all sales are final, with no refunds or exchanges, and the event is held rain or shine unless otherwise noted.

The Easter Bunny is making serious rounds this week — farms, boats, vineyards… even the marina. Here are a few fun stops to add to your weekend lineup:

🌸 Easter Bunny Photos at Twin Pond Farm
📍 Twin Pond Farm Garden Center, Howell
🗓️ Friday, April 3 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
🗓️ Saturday, April 4 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
A classic spring photo op in a charming farm setting. Bring the kids (or the grandkids), snap some sweet Easter Bunny pics, and soak in those early spring vibes. Info

🚢 Easter Bunny Brunch Cruise
📍 Seastreak, Highlands
🗓️ Saturday, April 4 | 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Brunch + boat + Bunny = a pretty great combo. Enjoy a full spread (from mac & cheese to frittatas), NYC skyline views, kids’ activities, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Bonus: full-service bar for the grown-ups. Info

🍷 Easter Cork Hunt at Fox Hollow Vineyard
📍 Holmdel
🗓️ Saturday, April 4 | 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
This one’s for the adults. Hunt for hidden corks (yes, really) and win prizes like wine tastings, chocolate pairings, and more. Live music kicks in at 2 p.m., and one lucky hunter scores the Golden Cork grand prize. Info

Ready for a low-key getaway without leaving Monmouth County? The family campground at Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold opens for the season on Wednesday, April 1, and it’s a pretty great excuse to swap screens for campfires.

The campground features 64 wooded campsites, including 52 reservable sites and 12 first-come, first-served spots. All are pull-through and come with water and electric hookups. Campers also get access to modern restrooms with hot showers, laundry, drinking water, a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings for charcoal cooking and campfires. Quiet hours run from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Rates are $45 per night for a tent or RV/trailer site.

Not into sleeping on the ground? There are also three cabins, each with two rooms, a double bed, two sets of bunk beds, lights, electrical outlets, air conditioning, an outdoor water spigot, and a picnic area with a fire pit. One cabin is ADA accessible. Cabins cost $85 per night or $430 per week.

And the park itself brings plenty to do once you’ve unpacked. There’s a lake for canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and paddleboating — bring your own or rent one. Rentals are available weekends starting May 2 and daily starting June 20. There’s also fishing, picnic areas with charcoal grills, four playgrounds, more than eight miles of multiuse trails, and lots of open space.

Reservations are available through the Campgrounds page at MonmouthCountyParks.com, in person at the Campground Office in the Oak Point Shelter Building, or by calling 732-462-7286.

The old gristmill is waking back up for the season. Starting Saturday, April 4, visitors to Historic Walnford in Upper Freehold can once again catch the rumble, clack, and whoosh of the site’s 19th-century gristmill during free weekend demonstrations from 1–4 p.m.

The short demos — held at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m. — last about 15 minutes and show how corn was ground into meal in the 1800s. While you’re there, you can also explore the pre-Revolutionary Walnford House, an 1879 carriage house, and other historic buildings on the property, which are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Step into the kitchen, 1890s-style. Free Cookstove Demonstrations are set for Saturdays, April 4 and April 18, and Sunday, April 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel.

Stop by to see what’s cooking on the woodstove and get a taste of how recipes, kitchen setups, and cooking techniques have changed since the late 1800s. It’s part history lesson, part comfort-food time machine.

Got a little beach lover, shell collector, or future marine biologist in the family? The Monmouth County Park System’s annual Seashore Open House is back on Wednesday, April 1, from 1–4 p.m. at the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park Activity Center in Long Branch.

Expect hands-on activities, up-close looks at small aquatic animals, and plenty of chances to learn about the shore and sea from Park System Naturalists. It’s the kind of outing that feels equal parts fun, fresh air, and sneaky science. Admission and parking are free.

Polish up that resume and head to Lincroft. Monmouth County’s 2026 Workforce Development Spring Job Fair is set for Thursday, April 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookdale Community College Robert J. Collins Arena, 765 Newman Springs Road.

More than 100 employers are expected, with opportunities ranging from full-time and part-time jobs to internships. There’s also an early access period from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. for veterans and individuals with disabilities. Translation: get there early, bring plenty of resumes, and be ready to make the rounds.

A full list of participating businesses is posted at workinmonmouth.com/jobfair. Free parking will be available in Parking Lot 7.

The latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

Regret Your Move to Medicare Advantage? Two 'Safety Nets' Can Help: But Act Fast: Discover the federal protections (one expires on April 1) and state-level hurdles you’ll face when switching from Medicare Advantage back to original Medicare. Kiplinger, March 24.

Medicare Is Denying More Claims Than Ever -- Here's How to Fight Back: The appeals process may seem daunting but can be highly effective. The Motley Fool, March 23.

The Divorced Spouse's Guide to Social Security Benefits in 2026: Understanding these rules will help you get the most money from the program. The Motley Fool, March 23.

How to Retire in Canada: The second-most popular destination for U.S. travelers is also a top contender for retirees. U.S. News & World Report, March 23.

Your Monmouth County library card is working overtime this week — from tax help to trivia, games to gentle yoga. Here’s what’s on the schedule at local libraries.

💼 AARP Tax-Aide (Multiple Branches)
📍 Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury | Marlboro | Wall
🗓️ Ongoing through April 11
Free tax prep help is back — and yes, it’s popular. Appointments are strongly recommended (some limited walk-ins available depending on location). Bring your paperwork and let the pros handle the rest.

🀄 Game Day: Mahjongg & Bridge
📍 Holmdel Library
🗓️ Thursday, April 2 | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Casual, player-led games with no registration required. First come, first seated — and yes, they mean it (no saving seats!).

🀄 Mah Jongg Club
📍 Holmdel Library
🗓️ Thursday, April 2 | 1–4 p.m.
Afternoon play for experienced players. Friendly, casual, and a great way to sharpen your skills.

🧘 Chair Yoga Series with Stacy Newfeld
📍 Holmdel Library
🗓️ Monday, April 6 | 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Gentle movement, breathwork, and a calming reset to start your week. All levels welcome.

🧾 SHIP Medicare Help (One-on-One)
📍 Library Headquarters, Manalapan
🗓️ Monday, April 6 | 2:30–4 p.m.
Free, unbiased guidance on Medicare and health insurance options. Walk-ins welcome.

🧘 Chair Yoga with Lisa Broad
📍 Library Headquarters, Manalapan
🗓️ Tuesday, April 7 | 10–10:45 a.m.
A seated-friendly yoga session focused on flexibility, balance, and relaxation. No experience needed.

♠️ Bridge Meetup
📍 West Long Branch Library
🗓️ Wednesday, April 8 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Intermediate players welcome. First come, first dealt.

🇺🇸 All History is Local: George Washington’s Sense of Humor
📍 Hazlet Library
🗓️ Wednesday, April 8 | 7–8 p.m.
A fun, eye-opening look at Washington beyond the “marble man” image, presented by historian Dr. David Martin.

This one is almost too cute to cut. An Easter Bunny Butt Cake from Culinary.net brings all the holiday cheer with fluffy cake, buttercream frosting, shredded coconut, chocolate candy eggs, and tiny chocolate-chip toes. Yes, bunny toes. It’s bright, playful, a little over the top in the best way, and exactly the kind of dessert that gets a laugh before it gets devoured. The full recipe includes step-by-step instructions for shaping and decorating the cake, so ambitious Easter bakers can go all in.

Fresh couch content is rolling in this week, with a little something for every mood — prestige drama, zombies, Broadway, reality chaos, and one very twisty box office hit. Here’s what’s landing on your screen:

🎬 “The Testament of Ann Lee” (Hulu, Tuesday) — Amanda Seyfried stars as Shakers founder Ann Lee in this bold, unusual musical that earned major critical praise.

🧟 “28 Years Later: The Bone Temple” (Netflix, Tuesday) — The latest zombie installment brings Jack O’Connell, Ralph Fiennes, and plenty of mayhem to Netflix.

🧹 “The Housemaid” (Starz, Wednesday) — Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney lead this glossy, twist-filled thriller about wealth, secrets, and bad behavior.

🍿 “The Valley,” Season 3 (Peacock, Thursday, April 2) — More suburban drama from the former Vanderpump Rules crew, now with kids, divorces, and a whole lot of mess.

🏘️ “Your Friends & Neighbors,” Season 2 (Apple TV+, Friday, April 3) — Jon Hamm is back as the man who keeps swiping from the rich folks next door.

🍸 “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” (Peacock, Friday, April 3) — A new Housewives city enters the chat, and yes, the drama is coming with it.

🎭 “Merrily We Roll Along” (Netflix, Saturday, April 4) — The hit Broadway production starring Jonathan Groff and Daniel Radcliffe finally makes its streaming debut.

Another week, another excuse for cake! No local birthdays this week 🥲but here are a few celebrities blowing out the candles.

April 1 – Actor Don Hastings turns 92, actor Ali MacGraw is 87, and singer Susan Boyle hits 65.

April 2 – Singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris turns 79, actor Pamela Reed is 77, and actor Christopher Meloni hits 65.

April 3 – Actor Marsha Mason and singer Wayne Newton both turn 84, singer Tony Orlando is 82, actor Alec Baldwin turns 68, actor David Hyde Pierce is 67, and comedian-actor Eddie Murphy hits 65.

April 4 – Actor Craig T. Nelson turns 82, singer Steve Gatlin is 75, actor Robert Downey Jr. hits 61, and actor Nancy McKeon celebrates 60.

If your phone rings and a very polite robot reminds you it’s time for your colonoscopy… don’t hang up 😄

Thanks to New Jersey’s Atlantic Health teaming up with Artera, AI is now making those awkward-but-important calls — walking patients through prep, answering questions, and gently nudging you to show up.

Is it a little weird? Sure.
Is it also potentially life-saving? Absolutely.

The AI agents call patients about a week before their procedure to confirm appointments, review prep instructions, and help clear up confusion around the many steps involved, Atlantic Health said in a recent press release. Early results are promising: 43% of patients answered the calls, 39% confirmed their appointments, and some even used the AI to ask questions about the procedure.

As Dr. Ravish Parekh, a gastroenterologist with Atlantic Health, put it: “We have, within our power, the ability to protect many patients from colorectal cancer, but that starts with screenings, specifically with a colonoscopy. By delivering personalized, easy-to-understand guidance, we hope to see better patient adherence and more effective exams. This initiative highlights Atlantic Health's dedication to patient-centered care through innovation.”

So, a friendly robocall about a colonoscopy may not be anybody’s idea of a dream conversation — but if it helps save lives, that’s one call worth taking.💙

That’s your scoop for the week — a little fun, a little fresh air, and plenty of reasons to get out (or stay in with something good on TV).

⁉️Questions, comments or news to share? We’d love to hear from you! Just hit reply to this email.

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😎See you next week!

The Monmouth Senior Scoop team

⚠️ A Little Heads-Up Before You Head Out…
Event details can change faster than an Easter Bunny on espresso — times shift, tickets sell out, and the occasional rain cloud may crash the party. Always double-check with the venue before you go.

And just to keep things official: this newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not medical, legal, or financial advice. For those matters, it’s best to consult a qualified professional (not us… we’re still deciding how many jellybeans is one too many).