BERKELEY TOWNSHIP – As the summer gets underway, Ocean County residents and visitors are invited to get outside and celebrate the start of the season at the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation's Summer Picnic Party.

The picnic is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m., June 29 at the John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island, 399 Brennan Concourse, here.

"As the days get warmer and longer, this is the perfect way to start one of the best seasons in Ocean County," said Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, Chairwoman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. "There will be something for everyone to enjoy."

The rain or shine event includes live music and entertainment by the Lenny Davis Band and Ken the Magician. In addition, there will be food trucks, arts and crafts and games for families to enjoy and the spray park will be open as well.

"John C. Bartlett Jr. County Park at Berkeley Island is a beautiful park to spend a summer evening and watch the sunset and enjoy views of the Barnegat Bay," Haines said. "I encourage everyone to come out and participate in this great event at one of our premier County Parks."

After being damaged by Superstorm Sandy, the 25-acre park at Berkeley Island reopened in 2018 and was redesigned to include a spray park, playground, picnic areas, bocce, corn hole and horseshoe courts and a new fishing/crabbing pier.

"This park is unique because of its location on the Barnegat Bay," said Haines. "It highlights the importance of the Bay in our communities and truly shows the best views of the Bay in Ocean County."

The Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation hosts events throughout the summer at many of the 27 county parks located in Ocean County.

"Our parks system is a great way for residents and visitors to do something free and local," said the Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Joseph H. Vicari. "Taking advantage of the events and programs that are hosted by the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation is an easy way to have some summer fun."

Information regarding events can be found on the Ocean County Parks and Recreation's website http://www.oceancountyparks.org/, its Facebook page "Ocean County Parks & Recreation," or the free Ocean County Parks and Recreation app which is available in the app store. Additionally, all the programs and associated information can be found in the Ocean County Parks, Recreation and Natural Lands Trust Newsletter, which is available online or it can be mailed to residents who request it by calling the park's department at 732-506-9090.