As the holiday season approaches, the Jersey Shore BlueClaws are once again inviting families to ShoreTown Ballpark for their 26th annual Christmas with the Claws, taking place on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This cherished community event brings together fans, families, and local organizations for a festive morning of giving, holiday cheer, and memorable baseball experiences.
Santa Claus will be on hand for photos, and Buster, the BlueClaws’ beloved mascot, will join the festivities, entertaining children of all ages. In addition to capturing holiday memories, attendees are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys or non-perishable food items. Donations will directly benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County and its annual Holiday Toy Shop, helping local families enjoy a joyful season. Guests who contribute will also receive a ticket to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026, giving them a head start on the upcoming baseball season.
The event is designed to support the community in multiple ways. Any ticket sold for the event, including the BlueClaws Holiday Package, contributes to the team’s Kids Night Out program, allowing underserved children and families to attend BlueClaws games for free. Children attending the event can also participate in a special activity, writing letters to Santa that will be sent to the North Pole in time for Christmas, and fans will receive goody bags upon entering the ballpark. For holiday shoppers, the Claws Cove will be open for gift purchases, and raffle tickets for the BlueClaws Charities Luxury Suite will be available.
Jim McNamara, Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities, shared his excitement about the event: “As we get set for another holiday season, we are very much looking forward to welcoming everyone to ShoreTown Ballpark for our 26th annual Christmas with the Claws. Santa and Buster make for a great day while supporting a great cause and a BlueClaws partner.” Major Jeffery Bassett, Corps Officer of the Salvation Army Ocean County Citadel, emphasized the impact on local families: “Christmas With the Claws helps us provide gifts and non-perishable food items to a number of families in Ocean County. We are thrilled to collaborate once again with the BlueClaws on this meaningful holiday event.”
Beyond holiday festivities, the Jersey Shore BlueClaws are already looking ahead to their 25th anniversary season in 2026. Single-game tickets, mini-season plans, and group packages are available now, with Opening Night at ShoreTown Ballpark set for Tuesday, April 7, against the Aberdeen IronBirds. The organization has also announced exciting offseason events, including the arrival of the Savannah Bananas and their “Banana Ball” series for three games in June 2026.
The BlueClaws organization continues to make headlines beyond fan events. Mackenzie Bourke, the team’s Home Clubhouse Manager, was named South Atlantic League Home Clubhouse Manager of the Year, marking the first time a female has held such a distinction in Minor League Baseball. On the field, several former BlueClaws players have been promoted to the Philadelphia Phillies’ 40-man roster, including pitchers Alex McFarlane and Andrew Painter, as well as outfielder Gabriel Rincones, Jr. Additionally, top prospects like Andrew Painter (#8), Aidan Miller (#27), and Justin Crawford (#64) are gaining national attention, while eight former BlueClaws participated in the Arizona Fall League, further highlighting the organization’s role in developing elite talent.
The BlueClaws’ combination of community engagement, family-friendly entertainment, and player development continues to make ShoreTown Ballpark a centerpiece of the Jersey Shore experience. Fans interested in attending Christmas with the Claws or securing tickets for the 2026 season can visit the team’s Jersey Shore BlueClaws page or call 732-901-7000, option 3, to plan their visit. This annual holiday tradition not only spreads cheer but also underscores the BlueClaws’ dedication to giving back to the Ocean County community while celebrating America’s favorite pastime.
