Stafford Historical Society

08/24/2026

It’s hard to believe…just two more summer concerts left!

Tonight, Monday August 24, we welcome back everyone's favorite “Old Guys”, Joey D - Johnny B - Rockin Oldies Band.

These Old Guys really Rock. Playing great party and dance tunes from the 50's. 60's and 70's! Come on out and see why they are rated "New Jersey's Favorite Doo W*p and Dance Band!"

Be sure to arrive early as the Stafford Recreation pop-up market begins at 5 pm and concludes at dusk.

The wide variety of vendors will offer everything from Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh cut flowers, kettle corn, baked goods, handmade items and so much more! There will also be tastings from Manafirkin Brewery and Cream Ridge Winery.

Then at 6:30 pm Joey D - Johnny B - Rockin Oldies Band hit the stage at Manahawkin Lake Park on Monday for a free summer night of music under the summer sky and sunsets over the lake.

Bring your blankets or beach chairs, coolers, and family to enjoy an evening of oldies with the best sunsets in town...we have a feeling tonight's is going to be epic!

The fun doesn't end after the summer concert series...we've got an exciting Autumn of historical activities for everyone. Monthly meetings resume September 23 with a tour of The Barnegat Historical Society & Thrift Shop village and museums!

https://www.staffordnj.gov/430/Summer-Concert-Series
http://staffordhistory.org/

08/20/2026

More treasures of what life looked like in Stafford in the 1970s, rescued by the late Tim Rogers. We are so grateful for this act of preservation. Tag friends and share your stories!

08/19/2026

Save the dates!

There's still two more concerts and lots of summer fun to be had, but we are looking forward to one fantastic Fall with Stafford Historical Society events.

More details will follow on each individual event shortly and stay tuned for the reveal of a very special new program addition for the holiday season we know you're going to love!

08/17/2026

Gorgeous night for Michael Patrick & The Margarita Thrills…see you there!

08/13/2026

08/10/2026

We’re closely monitoring the weather but as of now, the Monday August 10 Pop-Up Market and Summer Concert with EPIC SOUL BAND is on as scheduled at Manahawkin Lake Park.

We will post here if anything should change.

Monday August 10 we welcome back the Epic Soul for the third time!

They are a New Jersey based Soul, Funk, R&B, and Pop Band. Epic Soul plays all the great classic soul songs you remember plus today's current top R&B and Pop Hits.

Come out early as Stafford Recreation pop-up market begins at 5 pm and concludes at dusk.

Our wide variety of vendors will offer everything from Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh cut flowers, kettle corn, baked goods, handmade items and so much more!
There will also be tastings from Manafirkin Brewery and Cream Ridge Winery.

Then at 6:30 pm Epic Soul hits the stage at Manahawkin Lake Park on Monday for a free summer night of music under the summer sky and sunsets over the lake.

Bring your blankets or beach chairs, coolers, and family to enjoy an evening of music with the best sunsets in town!

http://www.staffordhistory.org/

https://www.staffordnj.gov/430/Summer-Concert-Series

08/03/2026

The pop-up market and concert with The Kootz. Rock and Roll with FIBER. is still on tonight, Monday August 3. Pop-up market at 5, concert at 6:30 pm. There may be one last shower coming through shortly and then we're ready to rock!

07/31/2026

We’re kicking off the August concerts with the return of an old favorite to the pavilion at Manahawkin Lake Park!

Monday August 3 we welcome back the The Kootz. Rock and Roll with FIBER.

For nearly twenty five years and still going-strong, The Kootz band has accrued a time-tested, experienced track-record, delivering a musical-menu of Classic 60s-thru-90s' pop, rock, R&B and blues-music.

Come out early as Stafford Recreation pop-up market begins at 5 pm and concludes at dusk.

Our wide variety of vendors will offer everything from Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh cut flowers, kettle corn, baked goods, handmade items and so much more!

There will also be tastings from Manafirkin Brewery and Cream Ridge Winery.

Then at 6:30 pm Glenn 'Kootz' Taylor hits the stage at Manahawkin Lake Park on Monday for a free summer night of music under the open sky.

Bring your blankets or beach chairs, coolers, and family to enjoy an evening of music with the best sunsets in town!

http://www.staffordhistory.org/

https://www.staffordnj.gov/430/Summer-Concert-Series

07/30/2026

On Wednesday, July 15th, George Washington (portrayed by historical actor David Emerson of History on the Hoof) came to Stafford to reminisce about his service during the Revolutionary War in New Jersey.

He reflected on his greatest victories and deepest despairs during the wartime campaigns throughout the state, which he named the “Cockpit of the Revolution.”

The program George Washington Remembers New Jersey at the Old Baptist Church was sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation and hosted by the Stafford Branch Library in partnership with the Stafford Township Historical Society. Over 90 people were in attendance including many Friends of the Stafford Library.

We value the wonderful partnership we have had with the Stafford Branch of the Ocean County Library and the Friends of the Stafford Library - Manahawkin, NJ for many years and were excited to host "George" in our historic cultural center!

07/27/2026

Join us for the first special event this season in conjunction with our Summer Concert Series☀️

This Monday, July 27th will feature the Stafford Township New Jersey Green Fair, Stafford Stafford Recreation Summer Pop-Up Market and the Stafford Historical Society concert at Manahawkin Lake Park!

The Green Fair and the pop-up market both kick off at 4 pm and run until 7 pm with The Lunch Wagon food truck on site.

This event is about discovering real ways to improve everyday life right here in Stafford. 🌎💡
🌱 Connect with local organizations
💰 Learn how to save on utilities and household costs
🌼 Explore gardening tips and sustainable living ideas
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Discover family resources and community programs
🎉 Enjoy interactive activities for kids and adults
Whether you’re looking to save money, learn something new, or just enjoy a great night out, there’s something here for everyone.
Check out the event website here: https://www.staffordnj.gov/675/Green-Fair

Our pop-up market includes a wide variety of vendors will offer everything from Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh cut flowers, books, baked goods, handmade items and so much more! There will also be tastings from Manafirkin Brewery and Cream Ridge Winery.

The concert kicks off at 6:30pm with music by everyone’s favorite, ThePickles Nation at the pavilion!

The Pickles have been a staple of the Jersey Shore music scene for over 15 years. Playing weddings, private parties, Township concerts, clubs and bars! Their goal is to provide the perfect music for every type of event, from coffee shop acoustic to party time dance your face off!

So, come out for a great time, awesome food, and amazing vendors. Be sure to bring your blankets or beach chairs, coolers, and family and friends to enjoy an evening of music with the best sunsets in town!

(Pop Up vendors are subject to change & availability