38th annual Monmouth arts festival

The 38th annualMonmouth Festival of the Arts, New Jersey's largest art invitational, will take place April 5-9 at Monmouth Reform Temple, 332 Hance Ave., Tinton Falls.

The event will begin with the Artists Gala Reception at 7:30 p.m. April 5 - an opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy a catered cocktail party, and browse the various works in all media by more than 200 artists.

Visitors to the Saturday night gala will also receive a ticket to attend all other festival activities, including artist demonstrations, children's performances, workshops and educational symposiums from Sunday through Wednesday. The cost for the gala is $50 in advance, $55 at the door, and may be reserved by calling (732) 747-8278 or (732) 747-9365.

Michael P. Murray of Highlands is returning as the show's designer.

Pre-arranged group tours, led by artists or trained docents, can be prearranged forMonday, Tuesday orWednesday, and are available for schools (with adult supervision), seniors or other groups.

On Sunday, parents can browse the galleries while their children enjoy a special kids program. Throughout the Festival, Le Petit Café will provide fare to hungry patrons.

For a complete schedule of events and times, call (732) 747-8278, visit www.monmouthfestivalofthearts.com, or e-mail festival@monmouth.com. Daily admission to all events is $8 for adults, and $5 for seniors (65 and over) and students (through high school). Series tickets (Sunday through Wednesday) are $18.