In thePress

What are you doing right now? Do you want coffee or hot chocolate? Excuse me, FREE coffee or hot chocolate. Come hang out with me and Alex this afternoon! Fan Theory will be at Booskerdoo Coffee at Pier Village in Long Branch from 4 to 6 p.m. today.

Callie Nurum, 6, of Howell tries to skate. Jamila Robinson, regional features strategist for the Asbury Park Press, gives ice skating lessons at Pier Village ice skating rink, Ice at the Pier.

You can shop ’til you drop at the outlets or guzzle a beer at the Biergarten after running a 5K or ice skate at the new Pier Village rink.

Here are our favorite local Shore spots that will offer special hours and holiday happenings on the New Year:

Now that it’s officially winter, New Jersey has plenty of seasonal fun to enjoy with family and friends. The newest outdoor ice rink in NJ is in Monmouth County, a few “glides” away from the ocean!

LONG BRANCH: Santa Claus arrived at Pier Village on Sunday, Nov. 27 on a bell-ringing fire truck with the help of the fire department who are always ready to help.

Waiting for Santa was a huge gathering of children with eyes aglow and smiles to match.

The Long Branch High School Band, Twirlers and the Wave Dancers were at Patriot Square in the Village Center to entertain as Santa was on his way.