TOMS RIVER, NJ — November is bringing plenty of reasons to get out of the house and enjoy the community! As fall transitions into the holiday season, Toms River and surrounding Ocean County communities are getting ready for craft fairs, holiday shopping events, family celebrations, and festive activities.

Whether you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids, hoping to get a head start on Christmas shopping, or simply want to support local businesses, there are several upcoming events to add to your November calendar.

Here are some events happening in and around Toms River this November 2026.

1. Toms River Veterans Day Parade – November 11

Toms River will honor the brave men and women who have served our country during its annual Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, November 11.

Residents are encouraged to come out, show their support, and recognize the sacrifices made by America’s veterans.

The annual parade is a meaningful community tradition and an opportunity for families to teach younger generations about the importance of honoring those who have served.

2. Toms River East Marching Raiders Craft & Vendor Fair – November 21

Get an early start on holiday shopping at the Toms River East Marching Raiders Craft & Vendor Fair.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 21, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1225 Raider Way in Toms River.

Visitors can browse a variety of local vendors, discover unique gifts, and support the school’s marching band while enjoying a day of shopping.

3. Thanksgiving Homecoming & Harvest Celebration – November 21

Families can celebrate the season together at the South Toms River Thanksgiving Homecoming and Harvest Celebration.

The free community event will take place Saturday, November 21, from noon until 6 p.m. at 1 Drake Lane in South Toms River.

The celebration will feature family-friendly activities, food, and firepits where visitors can roast marshmallows. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy an afternoon outdoors and spend time with neighbors before Thanksgiving.

4. Holiday Shopping Event at Toms River Country Club – November 22

Those looking for unique holiday gifts can check out a special shopping event hosted by Extended Arms on Sunday, November 22.

The event will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Toms River Country Club, located at 419 Washington Street.

Shoppers can browse crafts, culinary gift baskets, and other holiday finds. A bake sale and 50/50 raffle are also planned.

Admission is $5, and lunch will be available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit Ocean’s Harbor House and CONTACT of Ocean and Monmouth Counties.

5. Sip, Shop & Share the Love – November 27–29

A holiday shopping weekend with a charitable twist is coming to Spire Coffeehouse at 1922 Hooper Avenue in Toms River.

Sip, Shop & Share the Love will take place November 27 through November 29, featuring local vendors, drinks, live music, and family fun.

The event will also benefit Ocean of Love for Children with Cancer, giving shoppers an opportunity to support a local organization while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

6. Small Business Saturday in Downtown Toms River – November 28

Small Business Saturday takes place Saturday, November 28, and it’s a perfect opportunity to show support for the locally owned shops and businesses that make Toms River special.

Residents can head downtown, browse local stores, find holiday gifts, and support the small businesses that contribute to the community.

Shopping locally is a great way to keep the holiday season close to home while helping neighborhood businesses thrive.

7. Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair – November 28

Another opportunity to shop local arrives Saturday, November 28, with the Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair hosted by American Legion Unit 129.

The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at 2025 Church Road in Toms River.

Visitors can browse holiday crafts, gifts, and vendor merchandise. The first 200 shoppers who make a purchase will receive a free shopping tote.

8. Pictures With Santa in Downtown Toms River – November 28–29

It’s almost time for holiday pictures! Families can make plans to visit the Toms River Artist Community for its Pictures with Santa event.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 28, and Sunday, November 29, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at 40 Main Street in downtown Toms River.

A minimum donation of $25 per family is requested, with proceeds benefiting children’s classes at Toms River Artist Community.

Professional photographer Peter Dant will take the portraits, and families will receive their pictures digitally.

Make November a Month to Get Out and Explore Toms River

From honoring local veterans to shopping at holiday craft fairs and taking pictures with Santa, November offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the community.

With Thanksgiving approaching and Christmas just around the corner, the final weeks of November are a great time to support local businesses, attend community events, and make memories with family and friends.