👻 This Week in Monmouth: Ghost Tours, Sweet Treats & Fall Fun!

👋 Welcome to this week’s Monmouth Senior Scoop!
Fall fun is in full swing here in Monmouth County! Whether you’re planning a day out with the grandkids, hunting for Halloween thrills, or craving a new autumn treat, this week’s lineup has you covered. Let’s dive in to all the ghost tours, park adventures, and delicious seasonal happenings lighting up our corner of the Garden State.

👀What’s on tap this week

👻 Allaire After Dark – Haunted tours, trick-or-treating & Halloween fun
🌳 In the Parks – Fall walks, farm demos & crisp autumn air
📚 Beyond the Books – Talks, tunes & spooky stories at the library
🍩 Tasty Treats – Paris Baguette’s boo-tiful new Halloween sweets
🎭 Events Around Town – Fests, music, markets & more close to home
📺 TV Time – What to watch this week (John Candy & more!)
✈️ Wanderlust Weekly – Florida escapes, Alaskan adventures & fall color trips
🍲 What’s Cookin’ – Cozy new McCormick recipes for chilly nights
🏡 Downsizing Dreams – 55+ Monmouth homes worth a peek
🎂 Birthday Wishes – Celebrating local readers & famous faces
🧶 One Last Thing – Dark academia goes senior chic

Up first…

🎃 Halloween at Historic Allaire: A Trio of Spooky Adventures! 

If you’re looking for a Halloween outing that mixes history, haunts, and just the right amount of spooky fun, the Historic Village at Allaire has you (and the grandkids!) covered. This year, they’re rolling out three different Halloween adventures — all family-friendly, all memorable.

👻 Allaire Ghost Tours
Sunday, Oct. 12 & Sunday, Oct. 19 | 6 PM & 8 PM
Step behind the velvet rope and into the off-limits corners of Allaire Village to hear tales of ghostly encounters. Perfect for older grandkids (ages 12+). Limited tickets — and they go fast!
💵 $50 per person

🧛 Night of Frights
Fridays & Saturdays: Oct. 10–11, Oct. 17–18, Oct. 24–25 | 6–9 PM
Monsters, ghouls, and things that go bump in the night… wander the historic village under the moonlight if you dare! Great for teens and brave grandparents alike.
💵 $20 adults | $15 kids (ages 4–12)

🍬 All Hallows’ Eve Trick-or-Treating
Sunday, Oct. 26 | 11 AM–4 PM
Bring the little ones in costume for old-fashioned trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, scavenger hunts, a bubble magician, and more! A sweet, not-too-scary way to enjoy Halloween traditions together.
💵 $10 adults | $5 kids (ages 4–12)

📍 All events at Historic Village at Allaire, 4263 Atlantic Ave, Farmingdale, inside Allaire State Park.

🎟️ Tickets & details: allairevillage.org

🍴 Where to Refuel Nearby: Harvest Restaurant (Farmingdale) — Laid-back spot for burgers, wraps, and hearty comfort food. Accessibility: Step-free entrance and easy parking right out front. Info

🗑️ Shred It, Don’t Regret It!

Before the holidays hit, let’s clear some clutter and protect our info. Monmouth County’s final free paper shredding events of 2025 are coming up:

• Oct. 18 – Red Bank, Middle School

• Nov. 1 – Allenhurst, Beach Club

• Nov. 15 – Middletown, High School North

🕘 9 AM – 1 PM (or until the trucks fill). Limit: 100 lbs per person.
More info: visitmonmouth.com

🌳 In the Parks: October Adventures

Fall is the perfect time to soak up crisp air, crunchy leaves, and some good old-fashioned fun in Monmouth County’s parks. Here’s what’s on tap for October — and the best part? They’re all FREE!

🎶 Accordion Melodies of the 1890s
Saturday, Oct. 11 | 1–3 PM | Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Step back in time with the charming sounds of the accordion — straight out of the 1890s. Perfect for history buffs or anyone who loves a good toe-tapper.

🍳 Cookstove Demonstrations
Saturdays, Oct. 11 & 25 | 11 AM–3 PM | Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See what’s cooking on the old woodstove! Learn how folks whipped up meals more than a century ago (hint: no microwaves).

🐦 Casual Birder Walk
Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 9 AM | Tatum Park, Middletown (Holland Rd lot)
Grab your walking shoes and join a Park Naturalist for a relaxed bird stroll. Binoculars are available if you need them — no experience required.

🍂 Awesome Autumn Amble

• Wed, Oct. 15 | 10–11:30 AM | Huber Woods Park, Middletown

• Wed, Oct. 29 | 10–11:30 AM | Big Brook Park, Marlboro
  Take in fall’s colors and critters on an easygoing nature walk. A great way to enjoy the season and stretch your legs with others.

📰Prime Time News

Links to the latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

Heart Attack, Stroke Almost Always Foreshadowed: Nearly everyone who suffers a heart attack, stroke or heart failure had at least one warning sign that cropped up years before. HealthDay News, Sept. 30.

How Medicare Is Affected by a Government Shutdown: A look at how Medicare is affected by a government shutdown, as well as other government-related health care. Kiplinger, Oct. 1.

3 of the Biggest Financial Surprises in Retirement: The following list of the most common financial surprises in retirement won't prevent bad things from happening, but they can help you prepare. Motley Fool, Sept. 30.

Age 62, 67 or 70? Here's the best time to claim Social Security: There are pros and cons to (claiming Social Security at) each age. USA Today, Oct. 5.

📚 Beyond the Books

Forget the hush-hush — Monmouth County libraries are where the fun’s happening. From spooky talks to toe-tapping tunes, it’s story time for grown-ups! Get registration info here.

👒 Geraldine Livingston Thompson: A Gilded Age Trailblazer
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 1:30–3:30 PM | Library HQ, Manalapan
Professor Jane Scimeca dives into the fascinating life of Geraldine Thompson — philanthropist, reformer, and Monmouth legend. Learn why she’s still relevant today. No registration needed.

🌿 The Poetry of Mary Oliver
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 2–3:30 PM | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Celebrate the beauty of nature through the beloved poems of Mary Oliver, with readings and discussion led by Evelyn Hampton and Flora Higgins. Register to guarantee a seat.

🌱 Garden Q&A Thyme! (Virtual)
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 3–4:30 PM | Online
Got plant questions? Rutgers Master Gardener Diane Larson has answers. Submit your questions in advance and join the live Zoom.

🧶 Knit Wits: Craft Night
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 6:30–8:30 PM | Library HQ, Manalapan
Bring your knitting, crochet, or needlework project and connect with fellow crafters. Supplies not provided, but the good company is free.

✍️ Creative Writer’s Workshop
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 7–8:45 PM | Allentown Branch
Share your writing (bring copies!) and swap feedback in this supportive writers’ circle led by local author Michael Pedowitz.

💜 Caring for Carol by Caring for Me
Friday, Oct. 10 | 10:30–11:30 AM | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Author Anthony P. Mauro, Sr. shares his moving caregiving journey through dementia, mindfulness, and compassion. A heartfelt talk for caregivers and families.

🎷 Concert: JoBonanno & The Godsons of Soul
Sunday, Oct. 12 | 2–3:30 PM | Library HQ, Manalapan
Turn up the volume! This Jersey Shore favorite brings high-energy soul and rock to the library.

🪦 Old Cemeteries of Eastern Monmouth County
Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 6–7 PM | Wall Township Branch
Local historian Greg Caggiano shares stories from our oldest cemeteries — from Lincoln’s ancestors to shark attack victims — spooky, fascinating, and full of history.

🏠 Don’t Toss These! 10 Things to KEEP When Decluttering (Virtual)
Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 7–8 PM | Online
Author Jamie Novak shows you what not to throw away when tidying up. Includes a live guided mini-task to jumpstart your decluttering.

⚾ The Greatest Baseball Player of All Time
Tuesday, Oct. 14 | 7–8 PM | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Discover the story of Pop Lloyd, Negro League legend, with historian Dr. Lawrence Hogan and Kevin Kane. A must for baseball fans.

📜 Weird NJ in and Around Monmouth County
Wednesday, Oct. 15 | 6–7:30 PM | Marlboro Branch
The Weird NJ guys are back! Expect haunted tales, local legends, and plenty of eerie NJ lore just in time for Halloween.

🕯️ Tell-Tale Poe
Wednesday, Oct. 15 | 6:30–7:30 PM | Howell Branch
An evening of Edgar Allan Poe’s darkest tales, performed live by Helen McKenna-Uff. Best for ages 10+. Light refreshments follow.

🎃 Boo-licious Bites

Halloween Gets Delicious at Paris Baguette

Here’s something to sink your fangs into! Paris Baguette has rolled out a lineup of spooky desserts that are scary good — like the Dirt & Worms Chocolate Chiffon Cake, Vanilla Scream Ghost Cake, and Spider Mochi Donut (complete with chocolate “legs”).

PB Rewards members can even score bonus points and free pastries on select days — talk about treat yourself! 🍩Find the full Halloween lineup at parisbaguette.com or stop by their Monmouth County shops in Red Bank and Holmdel before these ghostly goodies disappear. 👻

Seen any boo-tiful bakes or ghoulish goodies around town? 👻 Drop us a note at [email protected] — we love local tips!

🎟️ Out & About

The weekend called — it wants you out of the house!

📜 Drive By History with Ken Magos
Thu, Oct. 9 | 7–8 PM | Oceanport Historical Committee
Meet the host of NJ PBS’s Drive By History as he shares fascinating stories behind Monmouth’s historical markers. Free event — bring a canned food donation for the local pantry! Info

🎥 Drive-In Movie: Hocus Pocus
Fri, Oct. 10 | 7:15 PM | Long Branch Municipal Lot, Ocean Ave
Pack the car, grab some snacks, and enjoy the Sanderson sisters under the stars. Sponsored by Long Branch Library & City. Info

👻 Brookdale Haunted Theater
Oct. 10–Nov. 2 | Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Celebrating 22 years of scares, this student-run haunted house is packed with frights around every corner. Not for the faint of heart! (Pro tip: they also offer a “Lights On, Scares Off” version for little ones on select Sundays.) Info

🎶 The Docksiders: Yacht Rock Tribute
Fri, Oct. 10 | 7:30 PM | Axelrod Performing Arts, Deal
Sail away with the smooth sounds of Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates, and Olivia Newton-John. Soft rock never sounded so good. Info

💃 Grease
Oct. 10–26 | Spring Lake Community House & Theatre
Hand-jive your way back to Rydell High in this classic rock ‘n’ roll musical. Perfect for a nostalgic night out. Info

🎸 Frank Fotusky: Blues Rags & Originals
Fri, Oct. 10 | 8 PM | Belmar Arts Center
Local favorite Frank Fotusky brings blues guitar magic with a side of vintage rags and originals. Info

🧛 The Rocky Horror Show
Oct. 10–19 | Algonquin Theatre, Manasquan
Do the “Time Warp” with this cult-classic rock musical. Costumes encouraged — audience participation guaranteed. Info

🧙‍♀️ Witches of Spring Lake Paddle
Sat, Oct. 11 | 10 AM–2 PM | Spring Lake
Witches and warlocks take to the water — in full costume — all for a cause. A sight to see! Info

🎃 Pumpkin Patch Day
Sat, Oct. 11 | 10 AM–1 PM | Spring Lake, Morris Ave
Bring the grandkids — they’ll love decorating pumpkins to take home. Info

🐾 Catsbury Park Cat Convention
Sat & Sun, Oct. 11–12 | 11 AM–5 PM | Bell Works, Holmdel
Shop 50+ cat-themed vendors, hang out with adoptable kitties, and enjoy workshops and art. Info

🍴 Fall Taste of Highlands
Sat, Oct. 11 | 12–5 PM | Huddy Park, Highlands
Food and cocktail tastings from 18 local restaurants with a Seastreak shuttle to get you around town. $45 ticketed event. Info

🍺 Red Bank Oktoberfest
Sat, Oct. 11 | 12–5 PM | Edmund Wilson Plaza, Red Bank
Beer, wine, food, music, and a kids zone! Free admission, tasting packages available. Info

🕯️ Candlelight Concert: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons
Sat, Oct. 11 | 6–8:30 PM | Pollak Theatre, West Long Branch
Experience chart-topping hits performed by string quartet under a sea of glowing candles. Magical. Info

🚶 Breakthrough T1D Walk
Sun, Oct. 12 | 8:30 AM–1 PM | Avon-by-the-Sea
Join the community walk to raise awareness and funds for type 1 diabetes. Info

🛍️ Asbury Park Vintage Market
Sun, Oct. 12 | 12–5 PM | The Stone Pony
Shop vintage fashion, vinyl, jewelry, and décor at this retro market by the sea. Info

🍂 Beyond Our Backyard

🐦 Cape May’s Big Bird Show

From Oct. 14–20, the skies above Cape May fill with migrating birds by the thousands. It’s one of the best fall migration spectacles in the U.S.—and you don’t even need a passport! Visit the Cape May Bird Observatory for prime viewing.

📺 TV Time: What to Watch This Week

Grab your popcorn and remote — there’s plenty of new entertainment to stream this week, from heartfelt documentaries to mystery thrillers and a touch of Hollywood nostalgia.

🎬 A Tribute to John Candy
More than 30 years after his passing, comedy legend John Candy is getting a well-deserved love letter in John Candy: I Like Me (Friday, Oct. 10, Prime Video). Directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, the film celebrates the beloved star of Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Uncle Buck, and Stripes. Expect laughs, tears, and cameos from Bill Murray, Mel Brooks, and more.

🛥️ The Woman in Cabin 10
Set sail on a luxury yacht where nothing is as it seems. In this stylish thriller based on Ruth Ware’s bestselling novel, Keira Knightley plays a journalist who witnesses a woman go overboard — but no one believes her. Directed by Simon Stone (The Dig), it streams Friday, Oct. 10 on Netflix. Mystery, suspense, and a touch of glamour? Yes, please.

👻 The Master of Movie Mayhem: John Carpenter Collection
If you love a good October scare, skip the remakes and head straight to the classics. The Criterion Channel’s new collection, Directed by John Carpenter, gathers the filmmaker’s greatest chills — including The Fog, Escape from New York, and They Live. Perfect for a weekend fright night marathon.

👑 Victoria Beckham: The Docuseries
After her husband’s Emmy-winning docuseries last year, it’s Posh Spice’s turn in the spotlight. Victoria Beckham (Thursday, Netflix) is a three-part series following the pop-star-turned-designer as she opens up about fame, fashion, and family. We’ll see if David makes a cameo — but the real star here is Victoria herself.

⚖️ Kathy Bates Returns in Matlock
She may not have taken home the Emmy this time, but Kathy Bates is back in fine form for Season 2 of Matlock (Friday, Oct. 10, Paramount+). The legal drama that reimagined the beloved series continues with sharp wit and courtroom intrigue. Also streaming the same day: Season 3 of Elsbeth — another favorite for mystery lovers.

☀️ Snowbirds, Start Your Engines! ✈️

If you’re packing up for Florida this winter, The Palm Beaches have rolled out plenty of reasons to get excited. This stretch of the Sunshine State from Jupiter to Boca Raton is buzzing with new hotels, hot restaurants, spa indulgences, and cultural happenings.

🏨 Hotels making headlines: The historic Gulfstream Hotel in Lake Worth Beach is getting a glamorous revival, while Palm Beach welcomes the chic new Vineta Hotel with Mediterranean dining at Coco’s. West Palm Beach’s trendy Nora District is adding The Nora Hotel, complete with a Parisian-style brasserie. Plus, the Four Seasons Palm Beach now has pickleball courts, bocce, and family-friendly fun in its new Palm Pavilion.

🍴 Foodie delights: This winter brings the highly anticipated Eataly West Palm Beach, along with Nobu Manalapan opening at Eau Palm Beach Resort. Already open: Tex-Mex at Austin Republic, creative fusion at Pubbelly Sushi, and tiki-inspired fun at Roka Hula in Delray Beach.

💆 Spa escapes: Treat yourself at the Eau Palm Beach Resort’s Eau Spa with the brand-new Psammo Quartz Ritual (think warm quartz, sound bowls, and ancient healing), or try the luxe HydraLuxe Facial at the Four Seasons.

🎭 Culture & events: From the Festival of the Arts BOCA and Broadway hits at the Kravis Center, to polo season in Wellington and LagoonFest on Nov. 1, the calendar is jam-packed. And don’t miss the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival (Dec. 12–15) for celebrity chefs and unforgettable tastings.

Whether you’re into fine dining, seaside spa days, or just a sunset stroll, The Palm Beaches are ready to welcome snowbirds in style. ✨ Plan your season at ThePalmBeaches.com

✈️ Wanderlust Weekly

Here’s what’s new in the world of travel — whether you’re planning a trip soon or just love to dream:

🍂 Montana’s Golden Glow
Peak fall foliage is sweeping Montana, from golden larches in the Rocky Mountain Front to striking grasslands in the east. Top spots include Seeley Lake, Bannack State Park, and Jewel Basin. The annual elk rut is also underway — listen for the bugling males at Yellowstone and the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge. As nights grow longer, stargazing shines at Medicine Rocks State Park and Makoshika State Park, both International Dark Sky destinations. Plan your trip at visitmt.com.

🌌 Auroras, Ice & Adventure in Fairbanks
Explore Fairbanks just dropped its 2025–26 Winter Guide — a free 32-page booklet spotlighting the best of Alaska in winter. Expect bucket-list adventures like chasing the aurora borealis, dog mushing, and ice sculpture festivals, plus indoor finds like museums, cozy cafés, and breweries. The guide also features nearby escapes like Denali and the Arctic Circle. Download it at explorefairbanks.com/guide.

🐺🎃 Howl-O-Ween at Great Wolf Lodge
Every Great Wolf Lodge across the U.S. is in full Halloween mode through Oct. 31. Families can hit the Trick-or-Treat Trail, join a Monster Bash Dance Party, and get crafty with pumpkin origami and seasonal beads. New this year: Poconos, Grapevine (TX), and Naples (FL) locations feature the bubbly Spookeasy, where kids make sparkling “potions” and parents sip themed cocktails. Seasonal eats include the Howlin’ Wagyu Burger and a Pumpkin Pie Caramel Swirl Shake. Info

💀🌸 San Antonio’s Spirit Season
San Antonio is declaring October its “Spirit Season”—a month-plus celebration of Día de los Muertos running Oct. 3–Nov. 14. Highlights include the Day of the Dead River Parade (Oct. 24), Muertos Fest at Hemisfair (Oct. 24–26), and the Altares y Ofrendas altar exhibit at Centro Cultural Aztlán (Nov. 2–13). The season also overlaps with the monarch butterfly migration, honored during the Oct. 18 Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival. Info

💆‍♀️ Spa Escape in Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, VA (yes, the “Dirty Dancing” filming site!) has opened its brand-new Spa at Mountain Lake. Nestled in a 2,600-acre preserve, the spa offers mountain-inspired massages, aromatherapy, halotherapy, facials, and pedicures with natural polish. Guests can book special spa-day packages or overnight retreats that mix treatments with farm-to-table dining and live mountain music. This fall, the lodge also hosts its Magical Christmas Village & Marketplace from Nov. 22–Jan. 3. Info

🛫 JFK’s New Terminal 6 Welcomes Icelandair
Icelandair has become the 15th airline to sign on for JFK’s brand-new Terminal 6, opening in 2026. The $19 billion airport overhaul promises a boutique, digital-first experience with NYC-inspired shopping, public art, and short walks to all gates. Info

🚢Star Princess Sets Sail! 
All aboard! Princess Cruises has just launched its newest Sphere-Class ship — the Star Princess — and she’s already dazzling guests on her maiden voyage from Barcelona through the Western Mediterranean. The ship is the 17th in the Princess fleet and one of the largest ever built, designed to blend high-seas adventure with all the comfort and sparkle of a luxury resort. After a transatlantic trip, she’ll debut in Fort Lauderdale this November for her official naming ceremony — just in time for her first Caribbean season. Next summer? She heads to Alaska for breathtaking Inside Passage cruises. Learn more or book your voyage at princess.com.

🏡 Dreaming of Downsizing?

Looking for a fresh start in an affordable 55+ community? Here are three Monmouth County homes for sale this week — complete with the numbers you need to know. Whether you’re after golf course views, a cozy ranch, or a lively clubhouse scene, there’s something for every stage of your “second act.”

• $299,900 — Covered Bridge (Manalapan)
  Taxes: $3,957/yr · HOA: $286/mo
  ✨ Easy living with shops, dining, and Route 9 just around the corner — plus a bustling clubhouse scene to keep your social calendar full. Info

• $415,000 — Shadow Lake Village (Red Bank/Middletown)
  Taxes: $5,072/yr · HOA: $558/mo
  ✨ A golfer’s dream — this guard-gated community has its own 9-hole course, plus tennis, pool, and walking trails all near Red Bank’s artsy downtown. Info

• $379,000 — The Villages (Howell/Freehold)
  Taxes: $5,055/yr · HOA: $441/mo
  ✨ Cozy ranch living with modern updates and a community pool — perfect if you want low-maintenance living. Info

🎂 Birthday Wishes This Week

Sending the happiest of birthday wishes to three wonderful Monmouth County residents: Eleanor P. of Red Bank, 81, Frank D. of Freehold, 77, and Marjorie S. of Middletown, 85. May your week be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of cake! A few other famous people celebrating birthdays this week include:

• Oct. 6: Singer Thomas McClary of The Commodores (76), singer Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon (74), guitarist David Hidalgo of Los Lobos (71), and actor Elisabeth Shue (62).

• Oct. 7: TV personality Joy Behar (“The View”) (83), actor Jill Larson (“All My Children”) (78), musician John Mellencamp (74), guitarist Ricky Phillips of Styx (74), cellist Yo-Yo Ma (70), and TV judge Simon Cowell (66).

• Oct. 8: Actor Paul Hogan (86), singer Fred Cash of The Impressions (85), comedian Chevy Chase (82), author R.L. Stine of Goosebumps fame (82), actor Sigourney Weaver (76), and singer Robert “Kool” Bell of Kool and the Gang (75).

🎉 If it’s your birthday too, we hope it’s a sweet one!

🌟 One Last Thing

🎓 Dark Academia Goes Senior Chic

Turns out you don’t need to brood on a college quad to rock this trending look.

🧶 Irish fisherman sweater? Check.
🧥 Peacoat? Still hanging by the door.
👞 Oxford shoes? Perfectly broken in.
👟 Mary Janes? Ask for them back from your granddaughter.

Congratulations — you were dark academia before it was cool.

🎬That’s A Wrap for this Week’s Monmouth Senior Scoop!

⁉️Questions, comments or news to share? Email us at [email protected]

👀First time reading? Join thousands of Monmouth County seniors. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.

See you next week, Monmouth County! 🧡

— The Better With Age NJ Team