FREEHOLD – Conventional wisdom might say summer begins on Memorial Day, but Monmouth County residents – and visitors – know better.

“Look at the county’s calendar of events and see how many outdoor activities there are,” said Jeanne DeYoung, the county’s tourism representative. “There are tours, art shows, races, walks, flea markets, exhibitions, festivals and even concerts in May. It’s a great month to be out and about.”

Indoors or out, Monmouth County is coming alive with events for friends, families and visitors. The Jersey Shore Marathon is becoming one of the nation’s largest and is hosted by Long Branch. Spring Lake has a weekend flower show, and Historic Allaire Village in Allaire State Park in Wall has its flea market and annual crafters’ market. The 39th Annual Manasquan River Canoe and Kayak Race begins in Howell and the Red Bank farmers’ market opens for the season.

Mother’s Day offers special treats. Ocean Grove holds its Mother-Daughter Weekend; Four JG’s Orchards & Vineyards in Colts Neck has wine tasting, and Monmouth Park Racetrack has a special brunch at the Turf Club and Dining Terrace. The track opens on May 9.

There’s Weekend in Old Monmouth, a free, self-guided walking tour of more than 30 historic sites; a tour of one of Rumson’s most fabulous and historic estates, Sheep’s Run, featuring more than 60 interior and landscape designers; the Freehold Township Heritage Society’s will hold its third annual Art Exhibition at the Spring Festival, and Asbury Park’s famed First Saturday always has something unusual.

Keyport’s Twilight Concert Series is every Saturday through June in the town’s Waterfront Mini Park. The Monmouth County SPCA Casino Night features music by Tim McLoone and the Shirleys and Phantom of the Opera. It will be held at the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel.

“These are just some of the highlights,” DeYoung said. “World-renowned performers such as Richie Havens, Roger McGuinn, John Sebastian, the B-52s, Chris Botti and Martin Short will be here. Plays, recitals, lectures and charity events make our calendar a must-use resource for entertainment, education and shopping. That’s why it’s so popular.”

The Calendar of Events at the tourism department’s Web site, www.visitmonmouth.com/tourism, is updated daily. Residents and visitors can also receive a complete packet of activities by calling 1-800-523-2587, or writing to the Monmouth County Department of Economic Development and Tourism, 1 East Main St., Freehold, NJ 07728, or by stopping in and browsing an extensive literature library. All requests by mail or telephone are filled within 24 hours.

“May is one of the best months of the year in Monmouth County,” DeYoung said. “Spring is in full bloom, the weather is warm and there are lots of activities. Many of them are free, and they all provide the opportunity to explore the county’s great assets.”

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