Tourism is a major source of revenue for Ocean County during the summer, but what about the rest of the year?

Ocean County Freeholder Director Joe Vicari says the fun doesn't limit itself to the days on the calendar between memorial day and labor day nor does the great places to shop.

"(For) 12-months a year the local businesses in our county, in all 33-towns, need the support of the people to buy things in local stores," Vicari said.

He adds that everything from attending the Columbus Day parade or St. Patrick's Day parade to shopping locally, taking a walk with the family to one of Ocean County's parks or a drive to the Jenkinson's Boardwalk aquarium are all part of the year round fun.

Vicari says their goal is to let everyone know Ocean County is a year round tourist attraction.

"We want people to come into the county continuously, especially in the winter time," Vicari said. "There's a lot of great things that are happening here from the aquarium to just taking a walking in Island Beach State Park sometimes. It's a great thing."

He also encourages residents and visitors in ocean county to shop locally and help support all the small businesses, whether it's for holiday shopping or everyday necessities.

Ocean county is a tourist destination for many people during the summer months with all of its parks, boardwalks, rides and of course the beach.

Vicari says a big reason why stems from all the advertising they do.

"We try to advertise not just in New Jersey, but outside New Jersey and even as far as Canada to bring the people in," Vicari said.

Vicari says Ocean County officials are constantly turning the wheels on new ideas to try and keep business thriving here year round.

"We have a tourism advisory board where we bring people in," Vicari said. "We're one of the few counties that do that because we listen to what has to be done."

More From WOBM:

More From Beach Radio