February may be the shortest month of the year, but the Monmouth County Park System packs it with fun activities for residents to enjoy. From open ceramics to the blacksmith demonstration, there’s plenty to do in the parks. Don’t worry about planning ahead since these programs allow visitors to just stop by and enjoy. No registration is required; fees only where noted. The schedule is as follows:
Open Ceramics, Sundays, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Feb. 6, 13 and 27 at Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, Newman Springs Road, Lincroft. Drop in for an hour or two and choose from a large selection of bisque-fired pieces to glaze and make your own. Leave your piece to be fired and pick up in a week or so. The cost is $6 per person per hour plus cost of bisque-ware. All ages welcome, children 12 and under with an adult.
Blacksmith Demonstration, 1-3 p.m. Feb. 13 at Historic Longstreet Farm, Longstreet Road, Holmdel. See what the blacksmith is making in his workshop.
Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, 1-4 p.m. Feb. 13 at Historic Walnford, Walnford Road, Upper Freehold. See samples of beautiful 19th-century valentines and create your own token of affection.
Common Winter Birds of the Reservoir, 2-3 p.m. Feb. 19 and 20 at the Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Georgia Tavern Road, Howell. Join a park naturalist and learn about common winter birds that visit our reservoir.
To learn more about these activities, visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the TTY/TDD number is 711.