On a winter Sunday morning when the Jersey Shore is usually quiet, the West Long Branch Community Center will be transformed into a lively undersea playground filled with music, motion, and purpose. On February 22, 2026, Clean Ocean Action will mark its 42nd anniversary by hosting Waves of Wonder, an inventive Bubbly Brunch and Marine Carnival that blends family-friendly fun with environmental education in a way that feels celebratory rather than instructional.
From 10 a.m. through early afternoon, the event is designed to welcome everyone from toddlers to grandparents, offering an atmosphere that is equal parts coastal brunch, interactive carnival, and community gathering. Rather than a traditional fundraiser, Waves of Wonder functions as a shared experience, one that invites attendees to enjoy themselves while learning why New Jersey’s ocean and waterways matter so deeply to the state’s identity and future.
The morning unfolds with a mix of marine-inspired activities created to spark curiosity and creativity. Children can rotate through hands-on craft stations, educational games, and themed challenges that introduce ocean science concepts in ways that are approachable and memorable. These experiences are intentionally tactile and engaging, encouraging kids to ask questions and make connections that extend beyond the event itself. Live music adds to the energy, creating a festive soundtrack that keeps the space buzzing without overwhelming younger guests.
For adults, the brunch component offers its own appeal. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated spread of beachy bites alongside coffee, tea, and celebratory bubbly options, making the event feel more like a coastal social gathering than a conventional family outing. Parents can relax, mingle, and take part in the festivities while still being close to their children as they explore the carnival-style activities.
One of the defining features of Waves of Wonder is its token-based carnival system. Activities are powered by tokens, allowing families to choose how they want to spend their time and tailor the experience to their interests. Those who plan ahead can pre-purchase discounted token packages, maximizing both value and participation. Additional tokens will also be available on-site, ensuring flexibility throughout the morning.
Beyond the fun, the event carries a clear mission. Proceeds directly support Clean Ocean Action’s hands-on education and outreach programs, which connect New Jersey residents to the ocean in meaningful, lasting ways. By funding interactive learning opportunities, the organization continues its work of fostering environmental stewardship at an early age, helping children understand that caring for the ocean is not an abstract idea but a shared responsibility rooted in everyday choices.
Clean Ocean Action’s long-standing credibility adds weight to the celebration. Founded in 1984, the nonprofit has spent more than four decades advocating for clean water, healthy ecosystems, and informed public policy across the state. Its reputation for transparency and effectiveness has earned national recognition, but events like Waves of Wonder highlight another side of the organization: its ability to bring people together around joy, learning, and community.
The setting itself plays an important role in the experience. Located in West Long Branch, just minutes from the coast, the community center provides a comfortable indoor venue that keeps the event accessible regardless of February weather. Its central location makes it an easy trip for families across Monmouth County and beyond, reinforcing the event’s role as a regional gathering rather than a hyper-local affair.
Waves of Wonder also fits seamlessly into New Jersey’s broader calendar of family-oriented experiences, offering something that stands apart from standard weekend activities. It is not simply an outing, but a chance to participate in a shared celebration of the state’s coastal culture. Families looking to build a day around the event can explore other nearby attractions and experiences highlighted in Explore New Jersey’s activities and fun coverage, turning the brunch into part of a larger Shore-side adventure.
Tickets are structured to remain accessible, with pricing that reflects the event’s dual purpose as both a celebration and a fundraiser. Adult tickets include the brunch experience, while child tickets open the door to a morning of discovery and play. Sponsorship opportunities and underwriting options further allow businesses and individuals to support specific elements of the event, from live music to marine activities, deepening their connection to the cause.
As Clean Ocean Action celebrates another year of impact, Waves of Wonder stands out as a reminder that advocacy does not have to feel heavy to be meaningful. By combining education, entertainment, and community spirit, the event creates space for families to connect with the ocean in ways that are joyful, memorable, and lasting. For those who attend, it is not just a brunch or a carnival, but an invitation to be part of New Jersey’s ongoing commitment to protecting the waters that define the state.
