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Ocean Fun Days 2026

A free outdoor event for all ages to celebrate our coasts and ocean. There will be games, prizes, and opportunities to connect with New Jersey's environmental organizations. Join us for a fun day and learn about how you can help our planet!
Outreach Event |
New England/Mid-Atlantic

About

A blue foam board sign sits propped up against a table. The Sign has an icon of a green sea turtle with a blue shell. In its blue shell are outlines of a sun, a fish, and waves in white. Below the turtle, it says “Ocean Fun Days!” in blue and green lettering. In the background are volunteers in purple Ocean Fun Day t-shirts assisting visitors as they enter the event.
The welcome table at the entrance of Ocean Fun Days. Here you can get information on event day maps, scavenger hunt, and more! Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Heather Soulen

Join us for the James J. Howard Lab’s 23rd annual Ocean Fun Days! This free, in-person event takes place Sunday, May 17 at NJ Sea Grant Consortium, Sandy Hook from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. The celebration will be held outdoors, rain or shine. The location has parking and is wheelchair accessible. Food is available for purchase.

Remember to keep our park clean and leave only footprints! 

At Ocean Fun Days you can:

  • Learn about our environment through fun activities and giveaways
  • Chat with NOAA scientists and staff about how our research helps protect our oceans
  • Connect with academics and professionals
  • Learn how you can begin your NOAA career
  • Complete a scavenger hunt and win prizes
  • Use marine trash to help build a statue

Local environmental organizations presenting speakers include:

From using nets to capture and release beach creatures to discovering ways to be more eco-friendly, this event is educational and entertaining for all ages. Don’t miss the FREE outdoor fun! Join us to learn how to protect our ocean for generations to come.

For online resources and classroom activities, check out the Ocean Fun Days Teacher's Corner website.

Please see the official Ocean Fun Days website or reach out to John Rosendale for further information about this event. 

Schedule

Day 1

Day 1

Sunday, May 17

NJ Sea Grant Consortium
22 Magruder Road
Sandy Hook, NJ 07732

11:00 a.m.  - 3:00 p.m.

See Ocean Fun Days welcome table for event map and more information. 

Last updated by Northeast Fisheries Science Center on 08/31/2026