Hot Air Balloon Festival NJ at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair will be held from Saturday, July 28 – Saturday, Aug. 4. Admission is affordable at $7 per adult and $4 for children ages 5-12, children 4 & under free and parking is also free. Admission is for the Fair and Balloon Festival, so you get two events for the price of one! This year the Fair celebrates 81 years of affordable family fun. The Balloon Festival is celebrating it’s 18th year at the Fair. The event is two events in one – a balloon festival and a county fair and a great adventure for the entire family. Click on the link above to explore what is happening during the entire week of the Fair and Balloon Festival. Check out the Kids Corral. The Fair officially opens at 12 noon on Saturday. Opening Day Saturday kicks off a little early, at 8 am, with the Invitational Wrestling Tournament and Miniature Horse show (but please note food, vendor booths and exhibit buildings may not be open until the official open time.) If you have never been to a Hot Air Balloon Festival. There will also be mass hot air balloon launches each […]

FilmOneFest 2018 will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 21 Founded in 2008, the festival takes place on the third Saturday of July at the Atlantic Highlands Marina in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey. Films (under 2 minutes in length) are projected on a giant screen under the stars on the historic shores of Sandy Hook Bay. Enjoy music played by Cranston Dean,  Inner Gypsy, and Elastic Waist Band, the magic of the clown, stilt walker, and the princesses while visiting the food and craft vendors. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Atlantic Highlands Food Pantry as FilmOneFest supports the Food Pantry at all its events. At 9:00 PM the main screening will take place under the evening stars! Bring a lawn chair. In the event of rain or high winds the rain date for the festival will be on July 22. Follow on Facebook for weather updates. General admission is free. Parking is free in adjacent lots.

From Aspire Performing Arts Company: Aspire Performing Arts Company is taking it back to the 1920’s jazz era with its upcoming production of the Thoroughly Modern Millie, kicking up its heels from July 20-22 at the Barn Theatre in Montville, NJ.  Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Thoroughly Modern Millie was the 2002 season’s most awarded new show on Broadway. Set in the height of the Jazz Age in New York City, when “moderns” – including a young flapper named Millie Dillmount – were bobbing their hair, raising their hemlines, and rewriting the rules of love. This high-spirited musical romp is a delightful valentine to the long-standing spirit of New York City and the people who seek to discover themselves there. Aspire PAC’s production of Thoroughly Modern Millie is directed by Aspire PAC Artistic Director, Lisa Beth Vettoso, and features musical direction by Charles Linnell and choreography by Jaimie Michelle Bass. Cheryl Wilbur serves as Production Manager and Robert Scharf is the Stage Manager.   Performances will take place on Friday, July 20 at 8:00pm, Saturday, July 21 at 3:00pm and 8:00pm, and Sunday, July 22 at 3:00pm at the Barn Theatre, located at 32 Skyline Drive in […]

Hang up your apron! Hudson Restaurant Week takes place July 23 – Aug. 3. Take a look at these mouth-watering options, arranged by restaurant name, location, lunch, and dinner pricing. Enjoy! Amanda’s Hoboken n/a $40 M T W Th F Su(7/29) Amelia’s Bistro Jersey City $17 M T W Th F $30 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) Ani Ramen Jersey City $20 M T W Th $20 M T W Th Anthony David’s Hoboken n/a $38 M T W Th Su(7/29) Barbes Hoboken n/a $35 T W Th Su(7/29) Barge Inn Jersey City $15 M T W Th F $35 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Bin 14 Hoboken n/a $30 M T W Th Su(7/29) Birch Hoboken Hoboken n/a $25 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) Bistro La Source Jersey City $20 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) $30 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) Brass Rail Hoboken $20 M T W Th F $29 M T W Th F Buddy Who’s Jersey City $12 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) $25 M T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) Cadillac Cantina Hoboken $12 T W Th F Sa(7/28) Su(7/29) $25 M T W […]

Calling all nature enthusiasts! August is Monarch & Meadow Month at Duke Farms. The Hillsborough leader in environmental stewardship pays tribute to the winged creatures in all their symmetrical and colorful splendor by offering events and workshops for all ages to enjoy. Some events repeat, so don’t worry if you miss them the first time around. Take a look at this list of offering and prepare to pay homage to these migrating marvels: Teaching and Learning with Monarch Butterflies August 2 – August 3, 2018 | 8:30am-4pm $50.00 per attendee Each fall, monarch butterflies from the U.S. and Canada begin a 2,000 mile migration to Mexico; in following spring, their great grandchildren return.  ‘Teaching and Learning With Monarch Butterflies’ is a two-day workshop combining classroom and field experiences where participants are taught by a team of experienced educators that provide participants with the knowledge, skills, materials and confidence to raise monarchs on their own. This workshop enables pre-K through 12th grade educators to teach essential skills in literacy, math, science, geography, technology, Spanish, the arts and social studies… through the captivating story of monarchs (but isn’t limited to educators). Each participant receives: Hands-on instruction by experienced teachers; Rearing cages, books, posters, […]

Summertime is synonymous with festivals and fairs. From the guilty pleasure of carnival food to taking a spin on a thrill ride or two, there’s something all ages can enjoy. Take a look at the upcoming events, organized by date, that will keep you entertained no matter where you live in the Garden State. Burlington County Farm Fair July 17-21 Get Ready for the 2018 BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR — “The Family Fun Fair” — located on the beautiful Burlington County Fairgrounds in Springfield Twp, NJ. The 2018 Fair runs from Tuesday, July 17 through Saturday, July 21. Mark your calendars! The Burlington County Farm Fair, Inc. is a non-profit organization. Our mission is to promote agriculture, social life, and youth as well as educating the general public by conducting a yearly agricultural fair with exhibits, livestock, and farm products. Located on the beautiful Burlington County Fairgrounds in Springfield Township, NJ, the fair offers a variety of activities to the tens of thousands of visitors that attend each year. Cape May County 4-H Fair July 19-21 Cape May County 4-H Fair July 19-21 For more information, visit the website. 2018 Monmouth County Fair Wednesday-Sunday, July 25-29 The 2018 Monmouth County […]

As a forward-thinking hotel, conference and event facility, it’s no surprise Hilton Short Hills, a AAA Four Diamond-rated property, has opened a modern casual outdoor dining and lounge experience that’s a cut above the rest – literally. The Retreat, an all-new open-air rooftop expansion, added as part of a $9 million hotel transformation project, is the perfect space for locals and hotel guests to enjoy handcrafted cocktails, small plates, daily Happy Hours and Thirsty Thursdays with live music, lounge décor, and fire pits. ‘Retreat’ feels like the perfect name for this seasonal spot as even before your first cocktail, you’ll feel the serenity of the space start to seep in. Visit at dusk and unwind amid this woodland setting that feels so charmingly rustic, you’ll forget Routes 24 and 78 lie just beyond the bar. Strung garden lights add to the ambiance and create a tranquil vibe, as if you’ve wandered into someone’s well-appointed backyard and don’t have to lift a finger. In addition to live music events, The Retreat hosts Trivia Nights, as well as Tap Takeovers, featuring local craft breweries. During my visit, Ridgefield Park’s Bolero Snort was in the house, pouring unique brews including OVB, an orange cream pop IPA, […]

Cheers in Chester pours into town Saturday, July 21 from 3 to 7 p.m. Morris County’s first Craft Beer & Wine Festival takes place in beautiful Historic Chester Borough outside and under tents at Municipal Field at 134 Main St. in Chester. This four-hour session features over 100 styles of craft beer & wine, fantastic music, delicious food & wonderful vendors. Plus it’s a Benefit for the Chester First Aid Squad! Great music provided by the fantastic Luke & The Troublemakers Many New Jersey Breweries featured including Angry Erik Brewing, Czig Meister Brewing Company, Jersey Girl Brewing Company, 902 Brewing Co. Man Skirt Brewing, Cypress Brewing Company, Two Ton BrewingBolero Snort Brewery, Dark City Brewing CompanyFlying Fish Brewing Company, River Horse Brewing Co.., “Senor Sangria” plus many more. Continue to check back for an updated list of breweries, wineries & styles. Delicious food offered (Check back for list of food vendors) Morris County’s Only Craft Beer & Wine Festival! Must be 21 & over with Picture ID for entry. Chairs, blankets & pop up tents are welcome. No kids, strollers, outside food or drink, large bags or knapsacks. Save $20 on GA Tickets with code: EARLYBIRD Click here to buy your tickets […]

Summit celebrates Restaurant Week July 19 -29. Starts: July 19, 2018, 5 p.m. Ends: July 29, 2018, 11 p.m. Description: A week of prix fixe menus and specials at Summit restaurants! Enjoy a summer evening in downtown Summit.  Many restauarants offer outdoor seating. The week begins with a Kickoff Celebration on Thursday, July 19 with live music throughout downtown from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and prize drawings at participating restaurants. Performers and locations for July 19, 5:30-8:30pm Promenade (Next to MONDO, 426 Springfield Avenue) – David Heffernan, classic rock hits performed on keyboard Lyric Park (Corner of Bank Street + Beechwood Road) – Narrow Escape Duo, smooth jazz on guitar and vocals Horse Trough (By Pizza Vita, 7 Union Place) – The Covergirls, covering the classic American songbook Starbucks (2 Beechwood Road) – Matt Mattheiss, country, rock, and contemporary DUE 360 (Corner of Union Place + Maple Street) – Dan Rufolo, jazz piano Restaurants offering $25 prix fixe menus: The Committed Pig, Jenny’s Japanese Cuisine, Fiorino Ristorante (lunch), La Focaccia (lunch), La Pastaria, Negeen Persian Grill, Pizza Vita, Summit Diner (per 2 people), and Summit House (until 6pm) Restaurants offering $35 prix fixe menus: Batavia Café ($35 for 2 people), […]

From Red Bank RiverCenter: Ringing in its 64th year, the annual Red Bank Summer Sidewalk Sale will once again set up streetside in the town’s vibrant downtown district.  A staple of the summer season, the event invites the savviest of shoppers to enjoy the season’s best deals and most fashionable finds from Red Bank’s beloved retail businesses. Beginning Friday, July 27 and continuing through Sunday July 29, the Sidewalk Sale will feature an impressive array of local retailers and purveyors, including handcrafted gourmet stores, small boutiques and antique shops to big-name retailers. From dazzling gems at Jace Jewelers to locally made products at All Things Local, attendees can find hidden treasures for remarkable prices throughout Red Bank’s charming downtown. A slate of street artists and musicians will bring their talents to the event, too. It all adds up to the perfect backdrop for a leisurely summer stroll. A full schedule of evening festivities and performances during the Sidewalk Sale is currently available on the Red Bank RiverCenter website. The individual businesses participating in the Sidewalk Sale may have varying store hours throughout the weekend and shoppers are encouraged to check the hours of operation for their retailers of choice. A […]

Enjoying an outdoor concert is one of the highlights of summer and if you can listen without paying a fortune per ticket, even better! Fortunately, free concert series are taking place on boardwalks, in parks, and on bandstands throughout the Garden State this summer. From Broadway to blues and everything in between, you’ll find music filling the area every night of the week. Check out some of the offerings and add a cool new soundtrack to your summer nights: Summit: Presented by Investors Bank, the Hot Summer Nights Concert Series has become a favorite summertime tradition in the City of Summit. Every Tuesday night, thousands gather on the Village Green to enjoy some of the best bands of the East Coast as well as food trucks and free ice cream, courtesy of Investors Bank. All Concerts begin at 7:00 PM July 10 – Exit Row July 17 – Radio Nashville July 24 – Total Soul July 31 – Mahoney Brothers August 14 – Brian Kirk & The Jirks Livingston: Bring a beach or folding chair to the Gazebo, Memorial Oval, Robert Harp Drive, Livingston. (Concerts Proudly Sponsored by Regal Bank, Livingston) Concerts at the Gazebo, Memorial Oval, Robert Harp Drive, Livingston! Concerts […]

From Maplewoodstock: The 15th Annual Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival will be held on Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15, 2018, from noon until 10:00 pm each day. This free, two-day, live music and arts event will be held at Memorial Park, Maplewood, NJ, (160 Dunnell Rd, Maplewood, NJ, 07040 — directly opposite Maplewood’s NJ Transit train station). Saturday’s Headliner is Third World. Sunday’s Headliner is Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band. A full line-up of band bios, directions, and real-time updates can be found on the maplewoodstock.com website and Facebook and Twitteraccounts. SCHEDULE: DAY 2 Sunday, July 15, 2018 Noon — Autumn Jones — Autumn Jones, a local Maplewood native, is honored to be performing at the acclaimed Maplewoodstock. Backed by her fantastic band (formed at Berklee College of Music), the Neo-Soul and R&B singer will perform songs from her new album “Bloom”, available on all platforms 12:42 — The Parkers — The Parker sisters are sensual and subversive. Coded within the pair’s grungy synth-pop are anthems of disenfranchisement, burning missives to toxic love, and searing social commentary. 1:24 — Marry the Sea — Original ethereal folk rock that delivers messages of love and empowerment 2:06 — The Jo Wymer Band — AMA award winner Jo Wymer’s […]

Looking for some family fun this weekend? The Mt. Carmel Society of Berkeley Heights will hold its annual Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel festival through Monday, July 16th, at the Mt. Carmel Society grounds on Springfield Ave & River Rd. Read on for more information on the celebration: MT. CARMEL FEAST & FIREWORKS INFORMATION July 13-16, 2018 LOCATION: Mt. Carmel Field 56 River Road Berkeley Heights, NJ TIME: The fairgrounds will be open from 6-11 PM each night. RIDES: · Unlimited wrist bands ($25.00) will be available ONLY July 13-15th. · Wrist bands will NOT be available on July 16th. · Individual ride tickets will be available July 13-16th. CASH ONLY SPECIAL EVENTS: Sunday, July 15th – “Mini” Family Friendly Fireworks starting at 9:30 PM · Bring the whole family for an evening of fun and fireworks!! · Free admission. · There will be no parking on the fairgrounds, July 15th for safety reason and in order to allow more room for viewing the show. Monday, July 16th – Feast Day 8:00 AM – Processional parade through town with the Blessed Mother statue. The members of Mt. Carmel Society convene at Little Flower Church, on Plainfield Avenue in Berkeley Heights […]

From Essex County Environmental Center: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to experience the “Butterfly Tent Safari” at the Essex County Environmental Center. The Butterfly Tent Safari is an interactive display where visitors can observe hundreds of butterflies while walking through a tent. It will be held as follows: Dates:          Saturday, July 14 to Saturday, July 28, 2018 Hours:         Mondays to Fridays from 12 Noon to 3 p.m.                                         Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.                                         Closed on Sundays Place:          Essex County Environmental Center                                         621B Eagle Rock Avenue                                         Roseland, NJ   A $2 per person admission is suggested. Proceeds will go to the Essex County Parks Foundation and be used to support future educational programs. “The Butterfly Tent Safari at the Essex County Environmental Center is an interactive display of live native butterflies for families to observe and enjoy. Spend your time in the tent feeding the butterflies or simply marveling at their beauty and delicate nature. Listen to a story, make butterfly crafts, or just take some time to witness the magnificence of nature at our Environmental Center,” DiVincenzo said. In addition to the public viewing times, the Environmental Center is offering […]

WXPNN, the non-commercial, member-supported radio station of the University of Pennsylvania, announced more artists will be performing at the 2018 XPoNential Music Festival, which will be held Friday July 27 through Sunday, July 29 at Wiggins Park and the adjacent BB&T Pavilion in Camden. Artists who’ll perform at Wiggins Park’s two stages reflect WXPN’s commitment to the festival’s musical diversity, and include Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band; The Lone Bellow; Margo Price; Bermuda Triangle featuring Brittany Howard (of Alabama Shakes), Becca Mancari and Jesse Lafser; Lukas Nelson & Promise of The Real; Femi Kuti & The Positive Force; Tank and the Bangas; JD McPherson; Hiss Golden Messenger; Phoebe Bridgers; Lo Moon; Mondo Cozmo; Sunflower Bean; Courtney Marie Andrews; Mt. Joy; Jupiter & Okwess; Devon Gilfillian; Hurry; and Swift Technique. More artists will be announced. WXPN previously announced that it has again teamed with promoter Live Nation to present XPoNential Music Festival performances at BB&T Pavilion on Friday, July 27 & Saturday, July 28 by David Byrne, Sylvan Esso, The War On Drugs, Sturgill Simpson and Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Advance ticket prices below will be available through July 11. WXPN Members at any level pay half price for 3-Day […]

From: Ani Ramen House: Miss Sake USA will host a special event at Ani Ramen House in Jersey City on Tuesday, July 17th featuring Soul of Sake and collaborating with Coco’s Spirit to introduce a sake and Suntory Whisky flight and the art of blending sake and whisky.  Limited space available, so don’t wait to book! Tickets include 2 featured sakes by Sake Discoveries and 2 featured Suntory whiskies. Three (3) appetizers will be served family style and each guest will get their choice of a bowl of ramen. @aniramen @MissSakeUSA  Ticket Price: $42 per person (excl. tax & gratuity) To purchase tickets email: info@aniramen.com Location: Ani Ramen House, 218 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ Time: 7:00pm-8:30pm

Hasan Minhaj is a comedian, actor, host, and writer who will appear at Mayo Performing Arts Center on Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. In November 2014, he debuted as a full time correspondent on the Emmy and Peabody award-winning  THE DAILY SHOW (he was the last hire Jon Stewart made). He is currently the longest-running correspondent. In Fall 2018, he will be departing The Daily Show for his own weekly show at Netflix, which premieres in October 2018 and has an unprecedented 32 episode order. Hasan is the first Indian American host to front a weekly comedy show. In 2014, he was invited to be a part of the Sundance Institute’s prestigious  New Frontier Story Lab where he developed his solo show HOMECOMING KING. The show debuted off-Broadway at the Cherry Lane Theatre in Winter 2015 to critical acclaim, and a subsequent sold-out national tour. HASAN MINHAJ: HOMECOMING KING is now streaming as a comedy special on Netflix, and has been received to rave reviews. It has also been nominated for a 2018 Peabody Award, and he will also be hosting the award ceremony. In 2017, Hasan had the prestigious honor of hosting the annual White House Correspondents Dinner in Washington DC.

“Mission” accomplished. Again. The latest chapter in Tom Cruise’s spy franchise is smart, stylish, adrenaline-fueled, and probably the best action film of the summer. And after more than (an astonishing) 20 years, this sixth film clinches the series’ status: It truly is America’s own 007 saga. And almost all that credit has to go to its star. Give the boyishly grinning devil his due: On the talk-show circuit, and in the tabloids, Cruise may come off as cocky, even slightly creepy, and more than a bit of a control freak. But you need that ego and ambition if you’re going to be a movie star, and you need that kind of focus if you’re also going to produce your own huge, slick, big-budget entertainments. And “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” proves Cruise knows exactly what he’s doing. A direct follow-up to “Rogue Nation,” the sequel has hero Ethan Hunt and his Impossible Mission Force buddies trying to recover three canisters of stolen plutonium. Complicating things? The possible kidnapping of the mad terrorist they caught in the last picture, plus a return of Ilsa Faust, a mysterious on-again, off-again ally. The film is written and directed by Christopher McQuarrie, who had the […]

American country singer-songwriter and actor Lyle Lovett and His Large Band will take the stage Tuesday, Aug. 7 at 8 p.m. at Mayo Performing Arts Center. Lovett, a four-time Grammy Award winner, has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Lovett’s live performances show not only the breadth of this Texas legend’s deep talents, but also the diversity of his influences, making him one of the most compelling and captivating musicians in popular music. His works, rich and eclectic, are some of the most beloved of any living artist working today. The musician, who hails from Texas, famously married actress Julia Roberts following a whirlwind three-week courtship after the pair met on the set of the film The Player. They divorced less than two years later but remained friendly. Since his self-titled debut in 1986, Lovett has evolved into one of music’s most vibrant and iconic performers. Among his many accolades, he was given the Americana Music Association’s inaugural Trailblazer Award and was named Texas State Musician. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the 60-year-old fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers. Can’t wait […]

The QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, held from July 27-29, is the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America and is the premiere family entertainment attraction in New Jersey. It holds the dual distinction of being a recipient of The New Jersey Governor’s Award for Best Special Event, as well as being designated, for the 6th time, as a Top 100 Festival in North America by the American Bus Association. Held annually at Solberg Airport in Readington, NJ, the festival truly has something for everyone! From twice daily mass ascensions of up to 100 special shape and sport hot air balloons, to headlining concerts, non-stop family entertainment, hundreds of crafters and vendors, great food, fireworks, a balloon glow, and more, the festival is jam-packed with stuff to do. What better way to experience ballooning and The QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, than taking a balloon ride? Join the other 100 balloons ascending into the sky and experience “Love at First Flight!” You can take a balloon ride (and go up, up and away) during any of our mass ascensions. “For once you have tasted flight, you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there […]

Arts + Cars returns to downtown Summit on Sunday, September 16! From 10am-4pm there will be a juried art show with lots of art and crafts for sale, the P.A.L. Classic Car Show, live music, and children’s activities. These activities are being organized cooperatively by the Summit Police Athletic League (P.A.L.), Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI), and the Visual Arts Center of NJ (VACNJ).  Interested in showing and selling your art? Please visit VACNJ’s website for the application and more details: http://www.artcenternj.org/downtown-summit-art-festival-arts-cars/. Applications are due no later than August 15.  Interested in showing your car? Please visit the PAL’s website: http://summitpal.org/carshow2018.pdf.  SDI is looking forward to another day filled with arts, cars, music, and fun for the whole family! 

Award-winning singer, dancer and choreographer Paula Abdul has sold over 60 million records and continues to find new ways to entertain her loyal fans since she first hit the charts with such pop classics as “Straight Up,” “Forever Your Girl” and “Opposites Attract.” She brings her tour to Mayo Performing Arts Center Wednesday, October 3 at 8 pm. Paula Julie Abdul is an American singer, songwriter, voice actress, dancer, choreographer, actress and television personality. She began her career as a cheerleader for the Los Angeles Lakers at the age of 18 before rising to prominence in the 1980s as a highly sought choreographer at the height of the music video era. Abdul later scored a string of pop music hits in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Her six number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100 tie her with Diana Ross for seventh among the female solo performers who have topped the chart. She won a Grammy for “Best Music Video – Short Form” for “Opposites Attract” and twice won the “Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography“. After her initial period of success, she saw renewed fame and success as an original judge on American Idol in the 2000s, which […]

Great weather and summer cocktails go hand-in-hand. So why not enjoy a beverage while basking in the sun, sipping in the shade, or savoring a sunset at one of New Jersey’s rooftop bars? From ocean waves to the Manhattan skyline, some Garden State views are unbeatable. Take a look at our round-up of rooftop bars that will truly elevate your summer outings. Salvation – Asbury Park Salvation, set atop The Asbury Hotel, opens each season in May. This rooftop hot spot features innovative cocktails and guest DJs all summer long. While you’re there, check out nearby Asbury Lanes, which has an all-star lineup of musical acts slated for the season. Rooftop XP at The Hyatt House JC – Jersey City Grab drinks and dinner while gazing at what some may consider the world’s most iconic skyline. The stunning space opened April 26 and boasts “lavish libations” so fancy the bar claims they’ll “inspire Instagram envy.” We’ll raise a glass to that! Hilton Short Hills, Retreat Rooftop – Short Hills With hand-crafted cocktails, specialty menu items, and seasonal craft beer on tap from Bolero Snort Brewery, you may have just found your perfect happy hour spot. It’s directly across from the Mall at Short […]

The 15th Annual Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival will be held on Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15, 2018, from noon until 10:00 pm each day.   This free, two-day, live music and arts event will be held at Memorial Park, Maplewood, NJ, (160 Dunnell Rd, Maplewood, NJ, 07040 — directly opposite Maplewood’s NJ Transit train station). Saturday’s Headliner is Third World. Sunday’s Headliner is Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band. Third World is one of the longest-lived reggae bands of all time — informed and influenced by funk, soul, and disco. They have toured the world and bring their inclusive sound to our stage. See more here. Sunday’s Headliner Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band travels in the channels of the Americana singer-songwriter tradition. His 2017 album – The Gathering – has been described as an amalgam of country, gospel, and soul. See more about Josh at joshritter.com. Saturday’s show will also feature Hopewell, NJ, native Danielia Cotton. Danielia pulls inspiration from classic Motown as well as Sly and the Family Stone and presents strikingly optimistic message from abominable lows. She has opened for Buddy Guy, Derek Trucks, and Bon Jovi. And, Sunday’s show will feature The […]

Updated July 8: Grumpy Bobas is now open! Visit the shop’s Facebook page for hours and updates. Downtown Somerville’s thriving restaurant scene is about to add a cafe to its already-tempting menu. Grumpy Bobas, the first bubble tea cafe in New Jersey to offer drinks made with whole and organic ingredients whenever possible, is slated to open in April. Somerville residents and bubble tea drinkers Yanshu Liu and her husband Michael Benjamino are thrilled to set up shop at 72 West Main St. and present the public with a delicious alternative to typical bubble teas. Liu explained how her venture got its intriguing name. “We wanted to call our cafe Grumpy Bobas because bubble tea typically has a bad reputation for being too sweet or artificial, and anyone would be a bit grumpy if they have a bad reputation for the wrong reasons,” she noted. “I know a lot of brands tend to use more positive adjectives in their names. But we wanted to embrace the negative emotions we feel as human beings. Furthermore, this gives our brand a little bit of an edge and differentiates ourselves from other places. ‘Bobas’ are the tapioca pearls typically found in bubble teas. It’s actually […]

What’s wrong with the movies isn’t the movies. It’s the movie audiences. Yes, I know the complaints about the films themselves – that there aren’t enough made for adults, or with women in strong roles. I’ve done a lot of that kvetching myself. And I’ve heard the grumbles about the theaters – the high ticket prices, the dirty floors, the sound that’s either softly muffled or incredibly deafening. But that’s not the worst of it. The worst of it is when you do find a movie you want to see, drive to a nice theater with good projection, settle in to enjoy the film and then – after a good 20 minutes of commercials, public service announcements and trailers for pictures you now vow to avoid like the plague – the person in front of you pulls out their cell phone. Or the person next to you drops their 64-oz soda all over your strappy sandals. Like Sartre said, “Hell is other people.” And that was before multiplexes. Oh, I know you know how to behave. It’s the other folks I’m worried about. But movie etiquette isn’t very complicated, so it shouldn’t take us long to run through the basics. […]

From Cirque Italia: Did you know Cirque Italia has TWO traveling shows?! For the first time ever, The NEW GOLD UNIT IS COMING TO WOODBRIDGE, NJ with the state of the art water show you DON’T WANT TO MISS!!! Cirque Italia has grown to the point where the next logical step can only be to expand operations and double our presence at the national level. In response to our wonderful fans all over the U.S., and with over 90% of shows being sold out, NOW is the perfect time for a substantial investment. Beginning in 2017, Cirque Italia, the first traveling Water Circus, introduced a second unit, the Gold Unit: a luxurious experience where technology and preforming arts are mixed to create a one-of-a-kind show. Now for 2018, a brand-new performance has been created. This new performance will feature an ultra-modern water curtain that controls every droplet of water meticulously. Audience members can expect to see words and beautiful patterns as the water falls to the ‘lagoon’ below. Cirque Italia is ready to provide a breathtaking experience. This new stage by itself is enough to amaze the most demanding audience, and synchronized with the most creative display of superhuman talent […]

Progressive rock band, Yes, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer with a 35-date tour of the U.S. that will stop at Montclair’s historic Wellmont Theater on Saturday, July 7th, 2018. Formed in London in 1968, Yes, has been creating hits like “Owner of a Lonely Heart” and “Roundabout” for decades. The Grammy award-winning band is one of the most successful, influential, and longest-lasting progressive rock bands ever selling 13.5 million RIAA-certified albums in the U.S. In April 2017, Yes was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which chose to specifically bestow the honor upon current and former members. YES’s current touring line-up consists of Jon Davison (vocals), Steve Howe (guitar), Alan White (drums & percussion), Geoff Downes (keyboards) and Billy Sherwood (bass). Guesting on the current tour to add additional drums is Steve Howe’s son, Dylan Howe. Tickets start at $39.

The Marketplace, an all-new eco-friendly dining experience located inside Camden’s Adventure Aquarium, is open and ready to serve hungry visitors. Featuring an open concept kitchen with a sleek and modern design accompanied by warm, rustic touches, the new eatery offers made-to-grill favorites like juicy burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, Baja grilled fish tacos, and other seasonal fare served hot off the grill. Grab wrap salads and sandwiches at the deli station, or pick up some pizza. Hershey ice cream and Dippin’ Dots provide a sweet ending to your meal. Families and friends can gather in the enhanced seating area and enjoy their meal together. In addition to locally-sourcing ingredients, the Marketplace is committed to the environment by helping combat plastics from entering the ocean through sustainable practices like composting and recycling. The following are other “green choices that lead to blue oceans” that the Marketplace will implementing, according to its website: Seafood Watch – A program that helps consumers and businesses choose seafood that’s fished or farmed in ways that support a healthy ocean, now and for future generations. Compostable Products – Compostable PLA plastic, plant-based straws and compostable sugar cane plates and bowls, along with PETE Recyclable plastic cups and lids, […]

On a quest for mouth-watering New York City-style pizza without the traffic or tolls that go hand-in-hand with leaving New Jersey? Hank Zona, wine expert and founder of ‘The Grapes Unwrapped,’ shares a video that proves you can find the perfect pie without crossing the Hudson. Zona interviewed Dan Richer at Razza Artigianale in Jersey City to talk about pizza, wine, and the NJ food culture. “The Dan Richer video came from years of knowing him and having had countless hours of conversations with him about food and wine and other beverages and the restaurant business and agriculture and travel and life,” says Zona. “When Dan won Best Chef in NJ at the Culinary Arts Awards it made perfect sense because the award was for ‘accomplishments that have served to inspire, educate and set standards in both the state and the industry.’ I’d say he fit the description.” Mike Paras, who films the video series ‘Hank’s Wine Shorts’, has also known Richer for years, so the pair paid the award-winning chef a visit and check out the pizza Thrillist named the best in New Jersey: For more on Razza, visit the restaurant’s website. Don’t miss other Eat Drink Jersey videos: Eat Drink Jersey: Wine Expert Interviews Rising […]

From SOPAC: Art in the Park, Concerts in the Park and Moonlit Movies are Wednesday night programs collectively known as South Orange Summer Nights. Programs are subject to change. In the case of inclement weather, activities will be canceled. Concerts in the Park are jointly produced by the South Orange Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs and SOPAC.  Click here to view the South Orange Summer 2018 Cultural Events Guide. Art in the Park Art in the Park programs are for adults and children age 6 and older. Activities run from 6-8PM each Wednesday. JUL 11 at Floods Hill “Giant Hand Mural” JUL 18 at Floods Hill “Bubble Art” JUL 25 at Floods Hill “Pegboard Team Sewing” AUG 1 at Floods Hill “Pendulum Art” Concerts in the Park   Concerts in the Park are held Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:30PM at Floods Hill in Meadowland Park. Arrive early to order from the food trucks and pick out a spot on the lawn! JUL 11 | E Street Shuffle JUL 18 | The Benjamins JUL 25 | Men of Horses AUG 1 | Stuff Bros. and Marry The Sea Moonlit Movies Moonlit Movies are held Wednesday evenings starting 8:00PM at Floods Hill in Meadowland Park. AUG 15  |  Coco  (2017 Rated PG)  AUG 22  |  Jumanji  (2017 […]

Updated Show Schedule:  Thursday, July 12 at 7pm Friday, July 13 at 9pm Saturday, July 14 at 6:30pm & 9pm Sunday, July 15 at 3pm & 7pm Red Bank’s Two River Theater presents Mike Birbiglia’s The New One for a limited six-show run. Neil Genzlinger of The New York Times called Mike Birbiglia’s recent show Thank God For Jokes “the best night I’ve spent in a theater in a very long time.” In The New One the award-winning comedian approaches an entirely new subject in a new way with the same heart and humor we’ve come to expect. Do not miss the new one. It may be the best one. Presale Access for Two River Theater Subscribers & Donors: Wednesday, May 16 at 10am General On Sale: Friday, May 18 at 10am Show Running Time: 80 minutes For audiences ages 16+     Mike Birbiglia is a comedian and storyteller who has performed in front of audiences worldwide, from the Sydney Opera House to Carnegie Hall. His most recent shows, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend and Thank God for Jokes, were both filmed for Netflix. As an actor, Birbiglia has appeared on Orange Is the New Black, Inside Amy Schumer, and Girls as well […]

If you love dining out and are always on the prowl for new eateries, you’re in luck. The following are six restaurants that are slated to open over the next several months. Ranging from Spanish specialties and signature cocktails to a rooftop lounge and noodle house, there’s plenty to please even the pickiest palate. Whet your appetite with this list and prepare to make your reservations! From GailPR: Somos – North Arlington Acclaimed chef Juan Placencia (Costanera) and his family will open Somos in August. In Spanish, Somos translates to “we are”; Somos will be a celebration of all Latin American flavors, with a global perspective, with an approachable menu of small and shareable plates, specialty cocktails by beverage director Carlos Ruiz, and Old & New World wines. 185 River Road, North Arlington, NJ @somosrestaurant Cafe Loret – Red Bank Chef Dennis Foy is legendary among New Jersey diners. With his early attention to local ingredients, he planted the seeds of the farm-to-fine dining movement. ln July, he and his partner Estella Quinones-Foy will present the pinnacle of his 40+ year career: Cafe Loret, a modern brasserie in downtown Red Bank. Expect a clear, composed approach to the finest ingredients, […]

Celebrating Independence Day wouldn’t be complete without a spectacular fireworks display. Fortunately, festivities abound throughout the state and, in some areas, you don’t even need to wait until July 4th to enjoy an impressive light show. Go ahead, get a jump on planning how you’ll spend this patriotic summer holiday by taking a look at some of the fireworks events planned in the Garden State. July 2 Newark: A little more than half a century ago, a new sound took shape in and around Detroit that revolutionized the music industry. Today, the Motor City Revue faithfully recreates that signature Motown sound and takes audiences on a journey back in time to where it all began. The Motor City Revue is an 11-piece band covering popular and rare Motown and Stax hits, plus rock and soul classics. The band was formed to offer music lovers an authentic tribute to the artists and songs that defined a generation. They will have the audience dancing and singing along to the songs immortalized by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Supremes and countless others. Motor City Revue and the Fireworks Display will be held as follows: Date: Monday, July 2, […]

Patty Griffin visits South Orange Performing Arts Center on Friday, July 27 at 8 p.m. The artist is among the most consequential singer-songwriters of her generation, an evocative American artist whose wide-ranging canon explores the intimate moments and universal emotions that bind us together. Over the course of two decades, the two-time Grammy Award winner (and seven-time Grammy Award nominee) has crafted nine classic studio albums and two live collections, a remarkable body of work in progress that prompted The New York Times to hail her for “writing cameo-carved songs that create complete emotional portraits of specific people…her songs have independent lives that continue in your head when the music ends.” Opening Artist: Rose Cousins  “Every Patty Griffin song arrives fully and perfectly formed, which is perhaps her greatest gift. Her songwriting is honest and compassionate no matter the subject. Her voice is uniquely compelling and her guitar work unfailingly evocative. She’s a songwriter at the top of her already formidable game.”  -NPR Based in Austin, TX, Patty Griffin made an instant mark with her 1996 debut, Living With Ghosts, and its 1998 follow-up, Flaming Red – both now considered seminal works of modern folk and Americana. Griffin has since received a […]

Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, Peter Cetera will bring his vocal talents to Morristown on Thursday, Aug. 2 at 8 p.m. when he visits Mayo Performing Arts Center. Peter Cetera, who had two distinct musical careers, has voiced some of the most popular songs of the pop era, first with Chicago (“If You Leave Me Now,” “Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” “Baby What a Big Surprise” and “You’re the Inspiration”) and later as an acclaimed solo artist known for such hits as “The Glory of Love,” “The Next Time I Fall” and “After All.” From 1968 thru 1986 Peter was the singer, songwriter, and bass player for the legendary rock group “Chicago”. In his time with the group, they recorded 18 of the most memorable albums of a generation, including such hits as “If You Leave Me Now”, “Hard to Say I’m Sorry”, “Baby What a Big Surprise”, “You’re the Inspiration”, “Stay the Night”, “Love Me Tomorrow”, “Happy Man”, “Feeling Stronger Every Day” and “Along Comes a Woman.” Tickets are priced at $59 – $119.

From Wich-One: After refining the concept in the new year, Wich-One is officially open serving a mix of Korean and Asian-inspired offerings at 529 Anderson Avenue in Cliffside Park, NJ The menu allows customers to build sandwiches – served on a Balthazar ciabatta hero – or bowls with a base of Korean-style ribeye, farm-raised pork, antibiotic-free chicken, marinated shrimp or spiced Asian-rub tofu. Bowls allow for choice of base (rice, spring mix, cauliflower rice, or spicy Korean potatoes) and numerous free and premium toppings (vegetables, avocado, egg). Homemade sauces like gochujang aioli, Asian sesame honey and Asian Korean White are among 8+ varieties designed to pair perfectly with any selection.  “We believe in great food, quality ingredients and made with a personal touch by adding freshness and love to every recipe we sell”, says owner Marcello Chi, “Having a vast cultural background, we’ve decided to use all that we have grown with in the past and add a little flair by using Asian inspired dishes and create a new concept. We focus on the simple things and elevate it to a new level”. Wich-One is open seven days a week and more information can be found at their website (http://www.wich-one.com) […]

Maplewood’s Independence Day celebration kicks off July 3 when the circus comes to town. There are five performances to choose from: Tuesday, July 3rd, at 4:30 pm & 7 pm; Wednesday, July 4th, at 1 pm, 3:30 pm & 6 pm. — Wristband Sales Online Here. The Zerbini Family Circus will perform rain or shine under the Big Top in Memorial Park’s north athletic field. Go online (www.maplewoodcivic.org) to select your choice of show time. Advance purchase discounts and group discounts are available online. You can avoid the line! On July 4th, remaining seats will be sold first-come first-served. Family owned and operated, the Zerbini family, part of eight generations of circus people, has been in the Circus business for over 250 years. The Zerbini Family Circus is an old-fashioned, small traditional family circus with acrobats, dancing, juggling, clowning, and dog and pony shows performed under the Big Top. In addition, there are concessions including food, pony and camel rides. Maplewood Fourth of July is bigger than ever Join us for a full day of festivities in Memorial Park, with live music on two concert stages, a carnival midway, boardwalk games, two food courts, a classic car show, the Zerbini […]

From RedBank.org: The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO) will be returning to Marine Park on the banks of the Navesink River at 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 1 to perform Broadway hits and rousing opera overtures during the 2nd annual Sunday in the Park… with the Symphony. This event is free and open to the public. The special concert is organized by Red Bank RiverCenter (RiverCenter) and the downtown business community with the assistance of presenting sponsor Riverview Medical Center, and sponsors Juanitos Red Bank and OceanFirst Bank. As the sun sets on the banks of the Navesink, the entire community is invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy a lovely evening filled with music and dancing in Marine Park. Concertgoers can enjoy classics like Crazy for You and catch a glimpse of a shooting star during Rossini’s fiery William Tell Overture. Film aficionados may even hear a familiar tune from a galaxy far, far away.  For guests of all ages, Sunday in the Park… with the Symphony promises to be an enjoyable summer’s evening that celebrates the fun and familiar in Red Bank’s picturesque riverfront park. “After the great success of last year’s event, we are overjoyed to welcome the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra back to Marine Park,” commented James Scavone, executive […]

Barbecue on its own is pretty delicious, but if you’re craving thirst-quenching beverages that enhance your meal, look no further. Hank Zona of “The Grapes Unwrapped” recommends the perfect wines to pair with smokey staples. Zona and Mike Paras, who films the video series ‘Hank’s Wine Shorts’, visited Kearny’s Red, White & Que Smokehouse, a BYO, and shared which wines stand up to classic Southern barbecue. As Zona notes, beer is often the elixir of choice when feasting on ribs, chicken, brisket and more. While the grape expert also enjoys bourbon-based beverages, which he calls “a natural fit,” he stands by his usual philosophy: “Drink what you like.” If wine is your pick but you’ve struggled to figure out which varietals work with your barbecue favorites, check out Zona’s suggestions. Don’t miss other Eat Drink Jersey videos: Eat Drink Jersey: Wine Expert Interviews Rising Star Chef Robbie Felice Eat Drink Jersey: Wine Expert Hank Zona Talks Key Wine Terms You Should Know

Newark is hot and not just because it’s June. New Jersey’s biggest city is in a boom phase with new construction, new business investment, a lively housing market, and a surging culture scene. It’s no surprise as Newark, founded in 1666, has good bones: a great location, industry, mass transit and a shapely layout of distinctive neighborhoods. One of those neighborhoods is the North Ward or North Newark, which starts at the tip of downtown on Broadway up through to the Belleville/Bloomfield border and ranges east and west from Orange Street to Heller Parkway. Filled with architectural wonders, this area offers a variety of thriving shops and restaurants, high rise towers with stunning views of Manhattan, a magnificent cathedral, the stately homes of Forest Hill, and sweeping through it all, the lush greenery of Branch Brook Park, 360 beautiful acres with its famous cherry blossoms and a trout-stocked lake right in the middle of the city. If the board game Monopoly was set in Newark, then Mount Prospect Avenue would be one of its prime pieces of real estate. It’s located at the highest point on the ridge between the Passaic River and Branch Brook Park and extends from Bloomfield […]

Hold on to your Sombreros and get ready to shake your Maracas! Taco Palooza is rolling into Chester, NJ on June 30, 2018 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Municipal Field at 134 Main St., Chester. A Benefit for the Historic Chester Business Association. Join us, as we’ve decided to dedicate a festival to celebrate this delicious creation & our HUGE love for all thing taco! Beer, Sangria, Margaritas, Live Music & Vendors too! Saturday June 30th, 2018 • Hours 11am-8pm • Municipal Field • 134 Main St, Chester, NJ Food Trucks, Restaurants, Chefs and Variety of Beer, Sangria & Margaritas (Frozen and Straight Up)…. Kids activities, Mechanical Bull – Vendors and great LIVE Music…Peoples Choice Awards for Best Taco & Most Unique Taco. Contests for both the adults & children. Bring your appetites, chairs, blankets, pop-ups and even the dog! Adults: $5 per person, under 10: Free We are asking all attendees to bring a non perishable canned or boxed item to help support the local food pantry. Please help those less fortunate. Live Music & Performances by: Tempo Alegre at 12 noon | Captains of Leisure at 3pm

South Orange Performing Arts Center announced its Kids ‘N Family performances lineup. Tickets, which range in price from $18 – $25, go on sale to the general public at noon Friday, June 29. The lineup is as follows: SOPAC Kids ‘N Family Performances   Pinocchio SAT, NOV 17 at 2PM The beloved story of a wooden boy is brought to life in an adventure full of magic and wonder. A show the whole family is sure to enjoy – with no strings attached! The Phantom Tollbooth SAT, JAN 12 at 2PM Milo discovers the delights of friendship, curiosity and knowledge and finds out that with a little bit of courage, anything is possible in this stage adaptation of the fantasy adventure book. The Amazing Max SUN, FEB 10 at 2PM Watch truly astounding things happen both on stage and in the audience in Max Darwin’s interactive magic show with a mind of its own! Beauty & the Beast SAT, MAR 2 at 2PM A fairytale about an enchanted rose and a clock, candlestick and teapot who talk… can only be the spellbinding Beauty & the Beast. Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat SAT, MAR 23 at 2PM From the moment […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to enjoy summer evenings at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo. On Wednesdays and Thursdays during the months of July and August, Turtle Back will have Family Nights with extended evening hours to 8:30 p.m., with the last admission to the Zoo at 8 p.m. In addition, on Wednesday evenings during July and August, Zoo-vies, featuring animal-related movies, will be shown on the top floor of the Turtle Back Zoo Parking Deck. “Join us for Family Night when the Zoo has extended hours until 8:30 p.m. Take advantage of the late hours when temperatures are cooler and the workday is over,” DiVincenzo said. “In addition, come out for a family-friendly evening under the stars watching great movies on the top deck of our Zoo parking garage. It’s a great way to spend a summer night and experience Turtle Back in a completely different way,” he added. Family Nights will be held on Wednesdays, July 11, 18 and 25 and August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 and Thursdays, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 and August 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. Zoo hours will […]

Shine up those scales and mark your calendars~the 4th Annual Asbury Park Promenade of Mermaids hits the boards on Saturday June 30, 2018! Join us on Saturday as the Mermaids hit the boards to shake their tails and strut their stuff! Mermaid Grotto Vendors @ APYC 10:00-5:00 Registration 12:00-2:00 Promenade 2:00 Costume Contest 3:00 After party @ Langosta Lounge 3:30-5:00 On the boardwalk between the water park & the Watermark, across the street from the Stone Pony! Cost: $10 to enter costume contest This year’s charity recipient is Rescue Ridge, Saving Pets by the Jersey Shore.

State Theatre New Jersey presents the Hippiefest Tour 2018 on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at 8pm. This spectacular concert features Vanilla Fudge, Rick Derringer, Mitch Ryder and The Detroit Wheels, and Badfinger featuring Joey Molland. Tickets range from $29-$59. Vanilla Fudge, was one of the first American groups to infuse psychedelia into a heavy rock sound to create “psychedelic symphonic rock,” an eclectic genre which would eventually morph into heavy metal. They can be recognized for their heavy-rocking, trippy, psychedelic version of The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” which they performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. Other hits include: “Take Me for A Little While,” “Shotgun,” “The Letter,” “Season of the Witch,” and many more. The band has toured with Jimi Hendrix, played dates equal-billed or headlined with groups such as Cream, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, and performed as the opening act for Led Zeppelin. In 2016, they released their most recent studio album, titled Spirit of ‘67. Rick Derringer can be recognized for his legendary rock anthem, “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” Now more than four decades after its release, the hugely popular hit continues to be a staple on classic rock radio and has been featured in several […]

Picture a lake on a hot summer day, the sun dancing and sparkling across its surface. Makes you want to hop right in. New Jersey boasts many lovely lakes. Some are located in state parks and offer hiking trails, picnic areas, boating, camping facilities, and more. Here are our favorite lakes for your swimming pleasure. Check websites for fees, hours of operation, and locations. Have we missed your favorite lake? Email editor@newjerseynext.com and let us know. Northern Jersey Mahwah (Bergen County) Darlington County Park in the foothills of the Ramapo mountains has three lakes. Two of these lakes are for swimming and the third allows fishing. You’ll also find a picnic area (bring your own grill), white sand beaches, a state-of-the-art playground, basketball, tennis, and handball courts. Landing (Morris County) Lake Hopatcong, located in Lake Hopacong State Park, is New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake and offers boating, fishing, water sports, and swimming. A concession, picnic grills, volleyball courts, and playgrounds are all near the beach. Lovely restaurants, marinas, and public beaches surround parts of the lake. Morris Township (Morris County) Sunrise Lake Beach Club in Lewis Morris Park is a child’s dream. Kids can enjoy an inflatable obstacle course (for ages 7 and older) […]

Morris County’s Giralda Music & Arts Festival on Sunday, June 24. Gates open at 4pm for picnicking and activities. Concert begins at 6 pm. Art Show & Sale  • Children’s Activities  • Food Trucks  Enjoy a concert by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra on the beautiful lawns of Giralda Farms in Madison, NJ. Gates open early for picnics and activities, including an art show/sale. Prizes will be awarded for the most inventive picnics, and a 50/50 raffle for generous cash prizes supports our scholarship program. Barbecues, pets and smoking are not permitted. New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s 2018 Giralda program Under the baton of one of Chile’s most prominent orchestral conductors, José Luis Domínguez, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s Giralda program will feature Key’s Star Spangled Banner, BERNSTEIN’s Overture to Candide; PUCCINI’s “Intermezzo” from Manon Lescaut; ROSSINI’s Overture to Guillaume Tell; MOZART’s Overture to Le nozze di Figaro; MASSANET’s “Meditation” from Thais (featuring Eric Wyrick, violin); RODGERS’ The Carousel Waltz; GERSHWIN’s Overture to Crazy for You!; STYNE’s Overture to Gypsy; VERDI’s Overture to Nabucco; LEONCAVALLO’s “Intermezzo” from I Pagliacci; GLINKA’s Overture to Russlan and Ludmilla; J. STRAUSS, Jr.’s Overture to Die Fledermaus; JOHN WILLIAMS’ Selection from Star Wars; LOWDEN’s arr. of the  Armed Forces […]

Enjoy free Friday Night Fireworks on the Boardwalk in Wildwood starting at 10 p.m. all summer long. What better way to end a fun-filled week of summer fun in the Wildwoods? Every Friday night throughout the summer, enjoy a spectacular nighttime display of fireworks exploding to a musical score that is played all along the Boardwalk and is simulcast on 98.7 The Coast. Launched from Pine Avenue & the Beach the fireworks are visible from anywhere on the Boardwalk. So pull up a beach chair or just stop in your tracks on the Boardwalk for a few minutes of breathtaking color and lights!​ Summer in the Wildwoods—it’s a blast! FRIDAY NIGHT Fireworks, Sponsored by Coca-Cola, light up the night sky over the Beach and Boardwalk. Raindate all season is Sunday at 10 pm. For more upcoming events, visit Wildwood’s website.

Whether you’re an equestrian or simply love watching the sport, the Mars Essex Horse Trials is the place to be. Following a 19-year hiatus, the historic event resumed last June with two exciting days of eventing competition for beginner novice through preliminary levels. This year, the Mars Essex Horse Trials will be held Saturday and Sunday, June 23 and 24 in Far Hills, offering a weekend packed with events and activities that will appeal to riders and spectators alike. A History of the Horse Trials The event began in the 1960s as a competition for young riders and quickly evolved into an iconic pre-Olympic-qualifying three-day event held at the United States Equestrian Team (USET) headquarters in Gladstone until 1998, where the best-of-the-best competed for U.S. Team positions at both the Olympic Games and World Championships. When the event returned in 2017, it began as a two-event and found a new home at Moorland Farm, located on 230 bucolic acres, home to the iconic Far Hills Race Meeting steeplechase event, which attracts over 40,000 spectators each fall. Something for everyone In addition to the opportunity to watching equestrians of varying levels, attendees will find plenty to keep them entertained. The following activities are planned for the event: Classic […]

Whether you’re a novice wine drinker or a longtime connoisseur, chances are there may be some terms within the wine lexicon that elude you. Hank Zona, founder of “The Grapes Unwrapped,” comes to the rescue of budding oenophiles by defining those often-confusing descriptors. Zona explains that Mike Paras, who films the series ‘Hank’s Wine Shorts’, came up with the clever concept. The duo partnered with Denise Petti, a southern New Jersey real estate agent and marketing professional who has some acting experience, to help out those who may feel lost in the sauce. If you’ve ever found yourself sipping and trying to understand talk of “terroir, tannic, nose bouquet, and varietal characteristics,” you’ll raise a glass to this video for sure. Wine Terms Demystified! from Michael Paras Photography, LLC on Vimeo. Eager to learn more about the language of vino? “We would love to continue it, maybe with someone French speaking to do French wine phrases and Italian speaking to do Italian wine phrases and so on,” Zona explains. “Like anything, we try to make it fun and accessible while telling good stories.There is no snob appeal in this. It’s about the joy of food and wine and the social and […]

From State Theatre of New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents Sing-a-Long Grease, a unique, interactive screening of the movie musical Grease, marking the 40th Anniversary of the film, on Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 8pm. Complete with on-screen lyrics, the program—presented on the first day of summer—also includes a chance for the audience to dress up as T-Bird or Pink Lady and enter the costume competition for prizes. Tickets are $19. “It’s the one that you want”, says producer Ben Freedman, who previously brought us Sing-a-Long Sound of Music. “Sing-a-long Grease is the show that audiences have been asking for since we first presented a sing-a-long show back in 1999.” Grease’s hit songs include “Summer Lovin’,” “Grease Lightning,” “Beauty School Dropout,” and “You’re The One That I Want.” “Sing-a-Long Grease is much more than ‘just a movie,’” says Freedman. Sing-a-long Greasers will be decked out in their own versions of 50s high school garb worn at Rydell High, including poodle skirts and saddle shoes, black leather biker and powder-pink bomber jackets, chiffon scarves, and skinny ties. Every performance starts with a Sing-a-long host who warms up the audience, trains them how to “hand-jive,” deploy the contents of their free […]

Just under 51 percent of the American population are female. According to a 2016 industry study, so are 52 percent of the people who go to the movies. So why are nearly three-quarters of all movie heroes male? The Women in Hollywood organization published some numbers recently, and if you like seeing movies about women, the stats are pretty disappointing. If you’re an actress yourself, they’re horrifying. Of the 100 top-grossing films, 71 percent of them reserved their lead roles for men. Of the female protagonists who did make it to the screen, most were a decade or two younger than their male co-stars, and were far less likely to be described as having a career, or even shown in the workplace. Welcome back to 1955. Of course, although ignoring the largest part of your audience seems idiotic, it’s not inexplicable. People tend to tell stories about themselves, and most of Hollywood’s storytellers are men. Of those 100 top-grossing films, 96 were directed by males. (When women direct or even co-write a film, representation increases.) Yet while the disparity is disturbing, it’s too early to despair. For one thing, there are a number of good pictures with great roles for women […]

Singer Madeleine Peyroux, who’s drawn comparisons to the legendary Billie Holiday, visits South Orange Performing Arts Center Thursday, Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m. Peyroux’s musical journey is truly compelling, and reflects her independent spirit. Known for her dusky, lyrical style, and affinity for reinterpreting classic Jazz, Blues, and Folk standards, Madeleine Peyroux is an artist who gazes fearlessly into the depths of a song and reflects back a searing emotional truth. Emerging in her teens as a street-busking performer in Paris’ Latin Quarter in the 1980s, Madeleine Peyroux eventually caught the attention of the record industry. Her debut album, 1996’s Dreamland, featured a noted Jazz artists and drew accolades for her distinctive take on Blues and Jazz standards. Overwhelmed by her initial success, the singer took time off before returning with her diverse sophomore album, 2004’s Larry Klein-produced Careless Love. Since then, she has continued to cut a low-key, if no less lauded career path, releasing a handful of highly regarded albums. Eight albums and 22 years since her debut Dreamland, Madeleine Peyroux continues to challenge the confines of Jazz, venturing into contemporary music with unfading curiosity. Madeleine Peyroux’s new album, Anthem, finds the singer-songwriter collaborating with writers/musicians Patrick Warren […]

From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey kicks off the summer with a Two Day No Fees Summer Sale from Thursday, June 21 through Friday, June 22. The State Theatre’s Two Day No Fees Summer Sale means no fees on all tickets at the State Theatre in 2018-2019 for two days only! For information on the Two Day No Fees Summer Sale visit STNJ.org/summer.   The Two Day No Fees Summer Sale runs from 12am, Thursday, June 21 through 11:59pm, Friday, June 22 only and is not retroactive.  Shows in the State Theatre’s 2018-2019 line up include Dave Mason & Steven Cropper on July 18, 4U – A Symphonic Celebration of Prince onSeptember 6, Itzhak Perlman on September 16, Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood on October 4, Ballet Hispanico on October 11, Aida Cuevas on October 30, Brian Wilson with Special Guests Al Jardine and Blondie Chaplin on November 1, Parsons Dance on November 15, Whoopi Goldberg on November 16, Boston Pops on Tour on December 2, and so much more. About State Theatre New Jersey The theater exists to enrich people’s lives, contribute to a vital urban environment, and build future audiences by presenting the finest performing artists and […]

From Morris Museum: Five new Children’s Theatre shows will appear at the Morris Museum in Morristown – The Magic of Sharks, Bubble Trouble, Harlem Wizards, Lasermania, and Beauty and the Beast. Three of the shows at the 11:00AM performance will be sensory friendly (Magic of Sharks, Bubble Trouble, and Beauty and the Beast).  Bubble Trouble will have Early Access for Families with Disabilities, beginning at 9:30AM. Tickets for these shows can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 973.971.3706.  More details are available at www.morrismuseum.org/childrens-theater The Magic of Sharks Tuesday, July 10, 11:00AM * and 1:30PM Magician Steve Woyce makes the magic happen with amazing shark facts in his high-energy show where he blends comedy, magic, storytelling, with a boat-load of audience participation. Bubble Trouble Wednesday, July 11, 11:00AM and 1:30PM Early Access for Families with Disabilities at 9:30AM + Jeff Boyer takes bubbles to the max in this one-man extravaganza. It’s the craziest, most creative bubble show around. Jeff juggles, sculpts, and builds with bubbles, makes fog-filled bubbles and more…he even puts a child in a bubble. This show will engage and delight audiences of all ages. + Families attending Early Access can enjoy the Morris Museum and a […]

Newark native Manuel Igrejas took a walk through the Ironbound and discovered some new entrants to the restaurant scene beside longtime favorites. In addition to mouthwatering eateries, you’ll find an authentic grocer and fish market to the delight of home cooks. Check out 10 Tasty Blocks in Newark (Part 1). New to me was Manu’s, 90 Ferry Street, (464 4600 manussushilounge.com) a spacious restaurant and lounge that bravely fuses east and west with a menu that incorporates Tapas and Sushi and Sashimi. The tapas include bacon-wrapped scallops with homemade teriyaki dipping sauce. In addition to the tapas and sushi there are specialty rolls like the Caterpillar roll, which consists of shrimp tempura, tuna, cream cheese, cucumber with avocado, crunch and eel sauce on top and rolled in soy paper.  One the next block there was a Seabra’s, (123 Ferry Street), the Portuguese supermarket with several stores in the area and across the country. Here you will find the staples of any market in Lisbon or Porto, such as chourico, linguica, bacalhau (cod), Portuguese cheeses like the Castelinhos from the Azores. The produce displayed on the street looked startlingly fresh and tasty as it was picked over by shrewd shoppers. And if you got […]

From Farmly: What’s for dinner? Like most working people, Chef James Avery faces this dilemma every day – even as the man behind the popular Asbury Park sustainable seafood restaurant, The Bonney Read, and especially with a family of six to feed. His nourishing, delicious solution for the entire community is Farmly, a new “farm-to-family” neighborhood kitchen serving simple, soulful, wholesome home-cooked meals to go. Farmly’s slow-roasted, high-quality meats and home-style sides are made with premium, purposeful ingredients, prepared with minimal yet savory seasonings, and offered in varying single and family sizes. Farmly’s first location is now open in Sea Girt, NJ (2100 Rt. 35, 732-359-6936, www.eatfarmly.com). Fresh, sustainable, responsibly sourced and all-around superior ingredients have been key to The Bonney Read’s success. Believing in the convenience of the concept and the integrity of the Farmlymenu he envisioned, Chef Avery traveled far and wide, to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley Organic for organic, humanely raised chicken, and to Iowa for heritage-bred Beeler’s Pure Pork, antibiotic and GMO-free. Vegetables and grains are sourced to the best available quality. Farmly food is prepared in a true professional kitchen—there are no fryers or microwaves here! To order their Farmly meal, guests first choose a slow-cooked, […]

Usher in the weekend or celebrate midweek with a bonfire on the beach in Asbury Park. Bring friends and family..blankets, chairs and join in. Bonfires are on Fridays at 7 PM in May and June, Wednesdays at 8 PM in July and August and Fridays at 7 PM in September. Each week the bonfire shifts locations throughout the Asbury Park boardwalk/waterfront. Keep in mind that the below schedule is subject to change and bonfires are weather dependent, so check in with us on social media for “day of” updates @ Instagram, Facebook and Twitter May Friday’s @ 7pm 18-May 5TH AVENUE BEACH 25-May SUNSET AVENUE BEACH June Friday’s @ 7pm 1-Jun SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 8-Jun 5TH AVENUE BEACH 15-Jun SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 22-Jun 5TH AVENUE BEACH 29-Jun SUNSET AVENUE BEACH July Wednesday’s @ 8pm (No Bonfire on July 4th due to Fireworks) 5-Jul SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 11-Jul 1ST AVENUE BEACH 18-Jul 3RD AVENUE BEACH 25-Jul 5TH AVENUE BEACH August Wednesday’s @ 8pm 1-Aug SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 8-Aug 5TH AVENUE BEACH 15-Aug 3RD AVENUE BEACH 22-Aug 1ST AVENUE BEACH 29-Aug 5TH AVENUE BEACH September Friday’s @ 7pm 7-Sep 5TH AVENUE BEACH 14-Sep SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 15-Sep SUNSET AVENUE BEACH 21-Sep 3RD […]

From Summit Downtown Inc.: Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) is hosting the annual gathering of the Cars & Croissants Club from 8 to 10AM on Sunday, June 17 in downtown Summit. Cars & Croissants is an informal club of automobile enthusiasts that meets bimonthly in various local locations. The Summit High School drumline will march from City Hall down Springfield Avenue around 10am. Cars will be parked along Springfield Avenue from Woodland Avenue to Summit Avenue, Beechwood Road from Union Place to DeForest Avenue, in the Bank Street parking lot, and on Union Place from Maple Street to Summit Avenue. During the event, Summit Avenue and Maple Street will be open to vehicular traffic. Downtown Summit is traditionally one of the largest Car & Croissants gatherings, with an estimated 500 cars for attendees to view. Cars & Croissants is not a car show competition. This is a fair weather only event; there is no rain date. All parking is free on Sundays. The Summit Farmers Market, located in the Park & Shop Lot on the corner of Maple Street and Deforest Avenue, will be open from 8AM to 1PM. “Summit Downtown again welcomes Cars & Croissants to beautiful, historic downtown Summit […]

I grew up in Newark’s Ironbound section (or Down Neck), a neighborhood famous for its Portuguese and Spanish restaurants (“They give you so much!”) — many of which I’m familiar. Recently, I decided to walk the 10 blocks down Ferry Street from Penn Station, the gateway to the Ironbound, to Saint Stephan’s Church in search of epicurean delights. Called Five Corners, it’s the point where Ferry Street ends and forks left into East Ferry and right to Wilson Avenue. There are wonderful restaurants tucked in every corner of the Ironbound, but I limited myself to what I could walk to if I hopped off a train for a two-hour culinary vacation. The first restaurant I encountered was the venerable Fornos, (47 Ferry Street, 973 589 4767) which has been in business for 40 years. Its warm, woodsy interior is stylish and welcoming. The cuisine is Spanish and Basque, with tapas and a selection of traditional Spanish favorites with excellent wines to accompany them. Try any of the Albarinos from Galicia. It would be criminal not to order their classic Paella Valenciana (shellfish, chicken sausage and rice). To mix things up, wash it down with an excellent Lychee Martini. One table was […]

If Father’s Day has snuck up on you and your dad doesn’t need another tie or tool, why not take him out for some quality time spent over a delicious burger? New Jersey is full of fabulous bars, taverns, and even fast-casual joints where you can sit, relax, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal without having to fire up your own grill. Take a look at our list of eateries where you can find a burger worthy of dear old Dad this Father’s Day. The Committed Pig – Morristown, Summit The award-winning restaurant serves double patty burgers made with a short rib, hangar steak, and brisket blend provided by Pat La Frieda NY. Delish named the BYOB’s bacon burger the best in the state. Zin Burger – Cherry Hill, Clifton, Edison, Jersey City, Morris Plains, Paramus With multiple locations throughout New Jersey, the boutique burger chain, which first opened in Clifton, serves fresh meat ground in-house twice daily and served on freshly baked buns. Burger lovers can enjoy made-to-order burgers paired with wine or hand-dipped milk shakes. Krug’s Tavern – Newark Since 1932, this Ironbound-based tavern has been known for its legendary burgers, which are cooked behind the bar. If Dad likes a […]

If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine but don’t feel like venturing all the way to Europe to sample some, you’re in luck. Chef Robbie Felice, a 2018 Garden State Culinary Award nominee in the Rising Star category, serves up mouthwatering homemade pasta, locally-sourced meats, and much more on his seasonally-rotating menu at Viaggio Ristorante in Wayne. Hank Zona, founder of The Grapes Unwrapped, enjoyed his meal there so much that he felt compelled to meet the young chef and feature Felice in the web series, ‘Hank’s Wine Shorts,’ he creates with Michael Paras of Michael Paras Photography, LLC. Zona explained how the interview came about. “I was in Naples and the Amalfi Coast for eight days and the day after we got back, didn’t want to cook so I suggested to my wife going to an Italian restaurant the day after eating amazing southern Italian food (nothing like Italian American food). We went to Viaggio and I messaged Robbie at 7:30 the next morning that his food was seamless with the meals I had had in Italy and the service was excellent. He wrote back to me five minutes later.” Check out the conversation between this impressive chef and gourmand Zona: Felice expects […]

From Coastal Living: Meredith Corporation’s Coastal Living, the leading authority on coastal home and travel, announced today the Happiest Seaside Town in America 2018 is Ocean City, New Jersey. The number-one ranking of Ocean City, along with the rankings of all the Top Ten Happiest Seaside Towns, is the result of an online vote. Now in its seventh year, the 2018 Happiest Seaside Towns ranked list is available online. It will also be featured in the July/August 2018 issue of Coastal Living, on newsstands June 15. “This Jersey Shore city is pure Americana—a 19th century resort town that thrives on a recipe of boardwalk amusements, funnel cakes, and saltwater taffy. Ocean City’s status as a ‘dry town’ keeps the whole vibe there very family-friendly – and it keeps people coming back year after year,” said Sid Evans, Editor-in-Chief of Coastal Living. The Coastal Living 2018 Top Ten Happiest Seaside Towns in America, in Ranked Order: #1: Ocean City, New Jersey #2: Traverse City, Michigan #3: Cape Charles, Virginia #4: Vero Beach, Florida #5: Bluffton, South Carolina #6: Anna Maria, Florida #7: Cambria, California #8: Hampton/Hampton Beach, New Hampshire #9: Bellport, New York #10: Cannon Beach, Oregon “Ocean City’s Residential Historic […]

From Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) is excited to debut their second new event for the month this Thursday: Family Fun Night! Summit Street Sounds will continue this Thursday evening as well. See you in Summit! Beechwood Road, Bank Street, and the Bank Street parking lot will be transformed into a carnival-themed kid zone from 4-8pm. Special thanks to Lois Schneider Realtor for making this fun evening possible! There will be a main stage at the top of Beechwood Road near Springfield Avenue with children’s music, live animals, and a magic show! The Bank Street Parking Lot will be a game zone, provided by the Summit Area YMCA. Stop by to play giant connect four, foosball, four square, giant foot darts, air hockey, and more. SDI encourages families to enjoy dinner at one of Summit Downtown’s many excellent restaurants before or after visiting Family Fun Night. There will also be two downtown businesses selling from their food trucks on Bank Street: Mexican Spice and Pizza Vita. Beechwood Road will be lined with activities, games and more! See below for a full list. Main Stage Schedule* 4:00-4:30pm – World of Rock Teachers and Students Perform 4:45-5:30pm – A fun […]

Calling all classic car enthusiasts! The Mt. Prospect Partnership invites you to join us for our Cruise Night events every Thursday evening from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. You can meet up with us at “The Lot,” located at 870-878 Mt. Prospect Ave in Newark. Cruise Night season runs now through August 30th. These family and community-oriented events are a great opportunity to get out, socialize and meet some of your neighbors, local business owners and classic car enthusiasts! Every Thursday, you can look forward to live music, food and entertainment. What’s Mt. Prospect Partnership you ask? We are a non-profit organization that works to promote business and foster a sense of community to make the quality of life better for residents, business owners and property owners. We also organize a number of events throughout the year to help bring the community as a whole together. So, come on out and join us for Cruise Nights at “The Lot.” We look forward to seeing you there!

From MPAC: 2018-2019 Season Offers The Best in the Arts! MPAC’s 2018-2019 season promises to be one full of amazing concerts, musicals, family events, dance and even Vicki Lawrence’s Mama. Season 24 officially kicks off on Friday, September 14 with a performance by music and TV star Vanessa Williams. Williams is best known best for her hits “Save the Best for Last” and “Colors of the Wind,” as well as from recurring roles on such TV shows as Ugly Betty, Daytime Divas and The Good Wife. Vanessa Williams is just one of over 140 events scheduled to date for this season to date. “Our season represents the best in the performing arts,” said Allison Larena, President and CEO, MPAC. “We truly have something for everyone – great events for perfect nights out with friends and family.” Among the artists new to MPAC this season are The Piano Guys, Celtic Woman and Linda Ronstadt, who won’t sing but rather talk about her storied career. “Each year presents a challenge to top what we did the year before,” Larena says. “The 18-19 schedule is reflective of a mix of returning favorites, MPAC first-timers, stunning touring Broadway productions, fun family events and innovative artists. No matter what is […]

Parents face a lot of decisions, but one of the worst used to be: What movie can I actually, safely take my kids to? Pick one that’s too adult, and you sit there squirming at inappropriate jokes. Pick one that’s too childish, and you just sit there snoring. For years, though, the animators at Pixar have kept hitting that sweet spot – movies silly enough for children, smart enough for adults, and fun enough for everyone. One of the best was 2004’s “The Incredibles,” a sophisticated comedy about a superhero family (think “X-Men,” but with Dad holding down a 9-to-5 and Mom doing carpool duty). And now, after a long wait and just in time to jazz up the summer, we get “Incredibles 2.” It’s not quite as incredible as the first one. But it’s often a lot of fun. The original had two huge things going for it. One was its circa-1965 aesthetic, a mix of everything from mid-century furniture to spy-movie music. It felt like a movie that should have been made back then but never was, and this latest film revives that style, with nods to push-button homes, sleek monorails and “The Outer Limits.” The other smart […]

Comedian Jon Stewart will participate in an onstage interview and audience Q&A on Sunday, June 17th at 8pm at the Count Basie Center for the Arts. Tickets for the event will be a benefit for the Basie Center’s capital campaign project. “I’m happy to appear at the Basie for a great cause – the Count Basie,” Stewart said. “The expansion going on at the center is going to keep Monmouth County the center of ‘Jersey’s premier arts communities.” Jon Stewart is one of America’s top social and comedic figures.  As the longtime host and executive producer of Comedy Central’s Emmy and Peabody award winning program, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, he and the show won a collective 20 Primetime EMMY Awards and were nominated 56 times.  Stewart is also a New York Times best-selling author. In 2014 he wrote and directed his first feature film, Rosewater, which he also produced alongside Gigi Pritzker and Scott Rudin. Stewart currently has a first-look deal with HBO and serves as an executive producer on CBS’ Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Stewart will take questions from a moderator, with an audience-generated Q&A session closing the evening. “We’re honored that Jon is lending his […]

Stone Harbor Triathlon will take place July 27 starting at 7 p.m. The event includes a 1/4 mile swim, 14 mile bike and 5K run. Entry Fee: $105 (Includes Event Insurance) It is advised to pick-up race packets and participate in optional bike inspection on Saturday 7/14 at Stone Harbor Fire House. Make checks payable to: Stone Harbor Triathlon Awards Overall: Top three (3) male and female finishers Age Groups: Top three (3) male and female finishers in the following divisions:14 and Under,15-19 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69,70+ Fire/ Rescue/ Police: Top Male and Female Lifeguards: Top Male and Female Clydesdale/Athena: Top Male and Female Top S/B/R Splits: Top Male and Female Break Course Record! $250.00 Cash Male (48:44) Female (58.11) No duplication of awards Results will be posted online within 24 hours at www.compuscore.com DIRECTIONS Stone Harbor is located 30 miles south of Atlantic City. Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 10(Stone Harbor) and go 2.5 miles on Stone Harbor Blvd traveling over bridge onto 96th Street. At the first light take a LEFT onto 3rd Ave. Take a LEFT onto 89th Street and Stone Harbor Yacht Club is 1/4 mile ahead. Note on PARKING: It is advised to arrive […]

Morey’s Pier hosts it annual Beach & Boards Bunk-Down, a family camping adventure at Morey’s Piers, on Saturday and Sunday, June 16 and 17. You get to pitch your tent on the beach – yes, on the beach! A perfect trip for youngsters, couples, families and first-time campers, Beach & Boards Bunk Down is jam packed with fun (and it’s an awesome way for families to celebrate Father’s Day together!) Beach & Boards Bunk Down package includes ALL of this great stuff: Beach camping Saturday night – you need to bring your own tent Admission to Morey’s amusement piers for the entire day Saturday AND Sunday Continental breakfast Sunday morning Beach Bon Fire Tram Car service 11am – 5pm with your event wristband If you love the water park, no worries! You can add the water park to your admission package; see pricing details below. This is a super popular event with limited capacity, so register early to make sure you get a spot.  Sorry, but we’re not able to accommodate on-site registration for this event. This event is expected to sell out. WILD PASS HOLDERS – we’ve got you covered with a special admission rate for this event, (you must present a valid Wild Pass […]

Have you been to America’s Oldest Brewery? If not, this summer is the perfect time to take a trip out to Pottsville, Pennsylvania for a stop at Yuengling’s 189-year-old brewery. A crucial chapter in American alcohol & spirit history, Yuengling is welcoming in the summer with extended hours, events, giveaways and tastings as part of their free for all ages brewery tours! Come witness just how this classic American beer is made by walking through the hand-dug fermentation caves that were used for storage before refrigeration, and exploring the 189-year-old brewery that has produced Yuengling beer through times of peace, prosperity, and near beer during Prohibition. We invite you to join Yuengling as the 6th Generation of brewers – Wendy, Jen, Debbie and Sheryl Yuengling – introduce extended hours to allow for more visitors, activations like an iconic “Spread Your Wings” mural and a Yuengling beer throne, and events like National American Eagle Day where visitors have the chance to meet a live bald eagle and learn more about the iconic eagle brand that has inspired Yuengling since 1829!  You can even try Yuengling’s first new product in 17 years – Golden Pilsner – on site alongside the classic Lager, […]

Don’t miss Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth when she visits Mayo Performing Arts Center on Friday, Oct. 26 at 8 p.m. Chenoweth’s career spans film, television, voiceover and stage. In 2015, Chenoweth received a coveted star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2009, she received an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in “Pushing Daises.” In 1999, she won a Tony Award for “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” and she was also nominated for her original role of Glinda the Good Witch in “Wicked” in 2004. Chenoweth has been nominated for two Emmy Awards and for a People’s Choice Award for her role on “Glee.” In 2009, she wrote an upliftingly candid, comedic chronicle of her life so far, “A Little Bit Wicked,” which debuted on the New York Times Hardcover Non Fiction Best Seller List. In 2015, Chenoweth earned a Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award and Broadway.com Audience Choice Award for her lead role in the Roundabout Theatre Company’s “On the Twentieth Century.” She also earned nominations for a Tony Award and a Drama League Award. Chenoweth has performed to sold-out audiences across the […]

Chatham’s Fishawack Festival, an annual fun‑filled family day, takes over Downtown Chatham, Saturday, June 9, spreading across Main Street, South Passaic Avenue, the Gazebo, and even the library lawn. In addition to music, games, food from an array of vendors, and more, the festival, which begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m., includes a 1- and 4-mile run, starting at 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. respectively and benefiting nonprofit community organizations designated by the Chatham Borough Jaycees including ECLC School, Boy Scounts and Girl Scouts, Chatham Emergency Squad, local scholarship funds and P.T.O.’s. Organized by Chatham Fishawack Run Committee. Registration for the run is now open. For centuries, Chatham has provided a welcome stop for travelers and merchants along the Fishawack, the Lenni Lenape Indian’s term for the Passaic River. In 1971, Chatham’s Chamber of Commerce spun that idea into a lively downtown festival, a tradition that’s since evolved into an areawide, annual celebration of our friendship, charm and community pride, according to the borough’s website. Some highlights include an outdoor pub featuring beer and wine, hand-made crafts and artwork, and show-and-tell displays covering everything from honey bees to planting trees. To find the festival, use 54 Fairmount Avenue, Chatham […]

Doubleday Food Truck Festival comes to Mendam Sunday, June 16. Mendham Borough is kicking off their year long celebration of Abner Doubleday’s 200th birthday with a Food Truck & Music Festival! MENDHAM GET READY! The Just Jersey Fest is rolling into town!Mendham Borough is kicking off their year long celebration of Abner Doubleday’s 200th birthday with a Food Truck & Music Festival!Food! Beer! Music! Fun! Home Run Derby and plenty of activities for the young and old. It’s a fun filled family day! Over 25 Gourmet Food Trucks, partnered with some incredible bands, make for an enchanting and fulfilling Summer day. Bring your appetite, lawn chairs, dogs and blankets. Dine on excellent food, while enjoying the beer and sangria garden along with the amazing sounds. Face painting, Balloons, Rock Wall Climbing. Pets are allowed at this event. ***WE ARE ASKING ALL ATTENDEES TO BRING A NON-PERISHABLE CANNED OR BOXED ITEM TO HELP SUPPORT THE FOOD PANTRY.. Please help those less fortunate. Beer & Sangria Garden Featuring: Styles coming soon. Flying Fish Brewing Company – Outside IPA Flying Fish Brewing Company – Onshore Lager Victory Beer – Summer Love Sea Dog Brewing Company – Sunfish Breckenridge Brewery – Vanilla Porter “Senor […]

  For a caper movie to be really fun, it’s got to know the fundamentals. Then twist them. “Ocean’s 8,” the latest in the hip heist franchise, knows what it’s doing. But, lucky for us, it also knows what we expect it to do. And the clever way it manages to meet those expectations, then turn them on their head, is what turns it into a fun, retro romp. The picture picks up with original hero Danny Ocean deceased, and his kid sister Debbie just released from prison. She’s determined to go straight, too – straight back to her old life of crooked schemes, clever cons and deliciously ill-gotten gains. But first, she needs her girls. The best heist movies, going back at least as far as John Huston’s classic “The Asphalt Jungle,” have a steady, three-act structure and “Ocean’s 8” knows the drill. The team is put together. The job is pulled. Then things get, well, complicated. But each stage here has some surprises. First, there’s the all-female team, starting with Sandra Bullock as Debbie. The Everywoman to Tom Hanks’ Everyman, Bullock’s always been real, relaxed, relatable. Here, though, she turns the thermostat down a bit on that easy […]

North Jersey Pride will return to Maplewood following a one-year hiatus for the LGBTQ March on Washington last June. The LGBTQA North Jersey Pride Festival, an annual celebration of equality, diversity and respect for all families, will take place on Sunday, June 10th at 12pm and will feature an exciting lineup of national and local talent, including singer/songwriter Wrabel (“The Village,” “11 Blocks); Karina Iglesias (NBC’s The Voice); RANGE A Cappella (E! Live from the Red Carpet, Nickelodeon, Sesame Street); and Johnathan Celestin (“12 Steps”). Scott Nevins (Bravo’s The People’s Couch) will emcee the day.  Sunday, June 10th, 2018, 12pm-6pm Memorial Park Amphitheater, 161 Dunnell Road, Maplewood, NJ The afternoon will also showcase up-and-coming artists, including identical twin musicians Nalani & Sarina; drumming sensation Maracatu; solo artist Shadina B.; drag performer Harmonica Sunbeam; the award-winning Paper Mill Show Choir; and a special guest performance by cast members of Columbia High School’s hit production of the musical Hairspray. (For more detailed information, check out the North Jersey Pride Guide: https://issuu.com/njpride/docs/njprideguide2018) A separate interactive Kids Stage will feature live shows every hour, beginning with Drag Queen Story Hour, led by Harmonica Sunbeam. The Rainbow Kids Zone will also have supervised inflatables, games, […]

From the Maplewood-South Orange Book Festival: Rosemary Wells, author of the beloved Max & Ruby series, will deliver the closing children’s keynote address at the Maplewood-South Orange Book Festival on Saturday, June 9. Rosemary will speak at 3:30 pm in the Great Hall at the Woodland. Kids and their parents are welcome to attend. The event is free of charge. Rosemary’s address will be the culmination of the book festival children’s area and fun zone, which will run from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in the Woodland parking lot, and feature 40 children’s and YA authors signing their books and meeting and greeting fans. Books will be for sale from Words Bookstore. The children’s area will also feature face-painting, music, fun and games like giant jenga and giant checkers, as well as kids-related activities courtesy of Work and Play, Macaroni Kids, and the Writer’s Circle. There will also be food trucks on the premises. The children’s area is also free of charge. Here is a complete list of the children’s authors. Holly McGhee Michael Northrop Stacy Davidowitz Elizabeth Lilly Mike Malbrough Sujean Rim Bob Bianchini Kate Hosford Ethan Berlin Melanie Conklin Booki Vivat Denis Markell Melissa Iwai Susan Verde Alex Eben Meyer […]

New Jersey’s favorite son Bruce Springsteen will return to his hometown of Asbury Park to celebrate the opening event at the recently-transformed Asbury Lanes Monday, June 18. The iconic 1960’s bowling alley-turned music venue, just debuted to the public in recent weeks, and to celebrate its rebirth, the Lanes will welcome to the stage GRAMMY-winning Portugal. The Man to headline the official opening with performances by Tangiers Blues Band and special guest, ‘The Boss.’ The event is in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County – a private non-profit organization that empowers today’s youth with life-changing programs, serving children that come from some of the most difficult circumstances in the county. Asbury Park Master Developer iStar, owner and designer of the city’s “Magic Mile” of waterfront, in partnership with The Bowery Presents, is thrilled to announce the celebration, kicking off what will be programming of epic proportions year-round at the venue. To view the upcoming lineup, click here. iStar has been an innovator in the real estate investment world, spearheading the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-establish Asbury Park as the coolest city on the East Coast. With 35 acres along Asbury Park’s oceanfront, projects have included converting a vacant Salvation Army building into The Asbury Hotel(named “best new hotel” by USA Today), […]

Beach season is finally here and New Jersey’s 130 miles of gorgeous shoreline beckon. While sun and surf are good for the soul, they can be rough on the wallet. Fortunately, NJ Next has found 13 free beaches, so check the forecast, pack your beach bag, and load everyone into the car for an affordable day of fun. Atlantic City Save your money for the slots! Can you believe there’s no beach fee in Atlantic City?! You can swim, walk, sunbathe, surf, fish, kayak, and windsurf. The Atlantic City beach is walking distance to shops, restaurants, casinos, and shows. Barnegat Besides swimming and sunning for free on the beach bay, Barnegat Beach offers a public dock for boat launching, crabbing, and fishing. Cape May County Corson’s Inlet State Park is located in Strathmere in the Upper Township of Cape May. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, visitors enjoy saltwater fishing and crabbing, canoeing, kayaking, boating, and hiking trails. Home to many birds and water fowl,  pets are welcome – except during nesting season. Located on the bay in Lower Township between the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay, Jennifer Lane Beach’s unique location boasts breathtaking sunset views. The beach is also popular for […]

The State Theatre in New Brunswick is hosting free films all summer long. Some movies will be screened twice in the same day –once in the morning and again in the evening. The following is the lineup: 1776 TUESDAY, JULY 3, 2018 AT 7:00PM COCO TUESDAY, JULY 10, 2018 10:30AM & 7:00PM DESPICABLE ME 3 TUESDAY, JULY 17, 2018 10:30AM & 7:00PM THE LION KING TUESDAY, JULY 24, 2018 10:30AM & 7:00PM THE GREAT MUPPET CAPER TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018 10:30AM & 7:00PM WONDER TUESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2018 10:30AM & 7:00PM

Legendary venue Asbury Lanes announced its initial lineup of artists who will perform at the newly-restored bowling alley-turned music venue in Asbury Park when it reopens its doors this summer. Kurt Vile and the Violators, Bishop Briggs, Lupe Fiasco, Phoebe Bridgers, Allah-Las, Tennis, and Black Lips are among the first bands confirmed to headline Asbury Lanes. The line-up also includes multiple performances by New Jersey natives Thursday and Railroad Earth, in addition to acts from Sandy Mack, Quincy Mumford and The Reason Why and Pepperwine, all who have deep roots in Asbury Park. Launching on the heels of the widely successful The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Lanes is part of iStar’s multi-billion-dollar redevelopment along the Asbury Park waterfront. David Bowd of Salt Hotels, part owner in and operator of The Asbury, has been tapped to operate the Lanes, spearheading local programming and F&B for the 24/7 diner. First opened in the 1960s as an 18-lane bowling alley, Asbury Lanes was transformed into an alternative music and arts venue by the young creatives that flocked to the seaside city in the early 2000s. Over the last decades, the Lanes has hosted musical acts including The Bouncing Souls, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, and Mick […]

Inspired by real-life events, ‘Small Town Story,’ a musical opening at South Orange Performing Arts Center Thursday, May 31, explores not only the power of theater but also many of the issues facing teens and families today. Featuring a book and lyrics from Sammy Buck and music and lyrics from Brandon James Gwinn, the show focuses on a Texas community which becomes divided after its high school announces it will perform ‘Rent’ for its annual musical. As parents and children clash over the production’s subject matter, questions arise over what issues teens can handle. Buck shared with NJNext.com how the idea came about. “The show was born in a very unique way,” he said. “New York Theatre Barn, a theatre company that nurtures writers and develops new work, wanted to commission an original musical written about a community by a community of writers – with me as the book writer in a collaboration of about 18 songwriters. In 2009 at an early meeting, Artistic Director Joe Barros, said ‘How about that incident last year in Texas?’ He was referring to the cancellation of ‘Rent’ at Rowlett High School near Dallas. I did some research and discovered that incident was not […]

A change of scenery is good for the soul. If you can get out of town, rest, relax, and restore without leaving the state, even better. Montclair, a thriving Essex County community located at the foot of the First Watchung Mountain, offers something intriguing for nearly every visitor. From live music and gorgeous gardens to an array of dining options and fine art, you may find that you’ll need more than just a few days to enjoy it all. Below are some highlights that make Montclair the perfect destination for a weekend getaway: Stay: Husband and wife team Steven Plofker and makeup mogul Bobbi Brown transformed a Georgian Inn into a boutique hotel, The George Inn, in the heart of Montclair. Blending historic bones with modern flair, the couple reimagined the space to create a chic aesthetic that boasts products from some of Brown’s hand-picked favorite brands. You won’t have to worry about leaving your pup behind. All pooches receive V.I.P. treatment as they’re welcomed with a dog bed and treats, for an extra $75 per dog per night fee. Each of the hotel’s 32 rooms is uniquely designed to make guests feel comfortable yet pampered. A continental breakfast buffet is available in the […]

From Summit Downtown: Summit Downtown will be the place to be this summer, as this exciting schedule of upcoming events indicates. Check out what’s on tap, including two new fabulous evenings! Summit Street Sounds ● Every Thursday in June ● 5-8pm *NEW EVENT* Downtown Summit will be alive with music Thursday nights in June: June 7, 14, 21, and 28! Enjoy a meal at one of Summit’s many outdoor cafes, listen to some great live music, and shop at the downtown businesses, some of which will be open late. See you in Summit! Check the website for a list of performers and locations closer to June: summitdowntown.org. Family Fun Night ● Thursday, June 14 ● 4-8pm *NEW EVENT* Beechwood Road is being transformed into a carnival-themed kid zone! The main stage will feature live music from the Songs for Seeds band and World of Rock, a magic show by Mark Zacharia, and live animals from Rizzo’s Wildlife World. The Bank Street Parking lot will become a giant game zone, thanks to the Summit YMCA. Beechwood Road will be lined with entertainment including a balloon artist, face painter (thanks to Genualdi Orthodontics), a caricaturist, a chance to learn more about the […]

Calling all gardeners! Somerset County is hosting two events that celebrate the beauty of the season and will inspire everyone from novices to master gardeners. Peony’s Envy Peak Bloom Party and the Rose Day Festival at Rudolf van der Goot Rose Garden are wonderful ways to enjoy the stunning landscape with like-minded floral enthusiasts. Celebrate the Peak Herbaceous Peony Bloom with Peony’s Envy on Saturday, June 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 34 Autumn Hill Dr. in Bernardsville. Savor a buffet-style picnic in the garden among the stunning peak peony bloom. This is a BYOB event. Tickets available through Peony’s Envy’s website. If you can’t attend the Peak Bloom party, you can still enjoy picnics in the garden. Or, take home some cut flowers to create a glorious seasonal centerpiece. Visit the website for additional details. Rose Day Festival at Rudolf van der Goot Rose Garden in Franklin Township celebrates one of the first signs of summer. Held on Saturday, June 9 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this rain-or-shine event is free and enjoyable for the whole family. In the heart of the park, the Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden displays thousands of roses of many varieties, with both […]

The City of Cape May in conjunction with the American Legion Harry Snyder Post 193 and VFW Post 386 will conduct a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 28, 2018 beginning at 11 a.m. in Cape May Convention Hall. The ceremony at Convention Hall will be preceded by wreath laying observances county-wide including those in Cape May at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center and the All Wars Monument on Columbia Avenue.  Immediately following the ceremony at approximately 11:45 a.m. the United States Coast Guard Training Center Cape May detachments will participate with Flotilla 8-2 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in presenting the Rifle Salute and launching of the flower boat from Gurney Street Beach. The public is encouraged to attend these ceremonies to honor our Military Veterans. Memorial at All Wars Monument at 9am. More information here. 

Though the weather hasn’t exactly gotten Garden State residents in a summer state of mind, June – and the end of the school year – will be here before we know it. If you haven’t signed up the kids for camp just yet, not to worry, there are plenty of options that appeal to an array of interests. NJ Next has compiled informative round-ups of offerings available throughout the state. Whether you’re raising an aspiring athlete or a budding artist, you’ll find camps that are sure to keep the little guys busy … and happy! New Jersey Summer Sports Camps: From Baseball & Soccer to Surfing & Water Polo From surfing, water polo, and skateboarding to baseball, basketball, and soccer (and lots more)–New Jersey camps are custom made for happy campers. Yankees Camp offers weeklong sessions in Denville, Basking Ridge, Verona, and Palisades Park throughout the Summer. Campers get a Yankees camp uniform and enjoy a Yankee stadium excursion to meet a current or former Yankee. South Mountain YMCA has a golf camp, a skateboarding clinic, and a Sports Galore Camp that teaches campers 15 different sports from around the globe. Great Times Day Camp offers soccer camp, fishing camp, and surfing […]

Andrew Dice Clay is proud to be one of America’s most controversial and outrageous comics. When he released his debut album, Dice, the parental advisory label simply read “Warning: This album is offensive.” He’ll bring his adults-only act to Mayo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, July 12 8 p.m. Clay’s rise to fame was nothing less than meteoric; he became the first comedian to sell out Madison Square Garden two nights in a row and was the only performer ever “Banned For Life from MTV.” Over the last few years, Clay’s career has experienced a resurgence, most notably when he starred to great critical acclaim alongside Cate Blanchett and Alec Baldwin in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, his recurring role on the final season of Entourage and Martin Scorsese’s Vinyl. His other notable TV credit is The Celebrity Apprentice, where he is proud to have been the first celebrity thrown off the show. Clay has released numerous best-selling DVDs (No Apologies and Dice Rules!) and a string of multi-gold and platinum selling CDs (The Day The Laughter Died and Face Down, Ass Up). Dice also starred in several one-hour HBO and Showtime stand-up specials including: The Diceman Cometh and Indestructible. Tickets […]

Acclaimed singer songwriter Sarah McLachlan performs her hits such as “Angel,” “I Will Remember You,” “Adia,” “Sweet Surrender” and “Possession” and more Saturday, June 30 at 8 p.m. at Mayo Performing Arts Center. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 27. One of the most celebrated singer songwriters in entertainment with over 40 million albums sold worldwide, McLachlan has received three Grammy Awards and twelve Juno Awards over her career and was recently inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In addition to her personal artistic efforts, McLachlan founded the Lilith Fair tour, which showcased female musicians and raised over $7 million for local and national charities. In 2002 McLachlan founded her non-profit organization, the Sarah McLachlan School of Music, which provides top quality music instruction at no cost, in a safe and nurturing environment, for at-risk and underserved children and youth.  From an early age, music provided McLachlan with the tools she needed to navigate the challenges she faced in her life, so she recognizes how important it is for every child to have those same opportunities. In 2014 McLachlan released her seventh studio album, Shine On, for which she received a Juno Award for Adult Contemporary Album of the […]

“I assume the brief on me is that people think that I write these really depressing songs. I don’t know — people may have a different viewpoint — but that’s my own interpretation of the cliché about me.” – Aimee Mann “She’s a vastly underrated songwriter,” wrote NPR’s Robin Hilton. “She’ll never make it into any hall of fame, but like the other writers on this list, she has a real gift for piercing the heart of something, revealing instead of telling and wrapping it all up in inspired melodies.” Aimee Mann fans who are reading this are most likely howling “Yes!”, “Exactly!”, “Tell me something I didn’t know already!” The singer, songwriter, bassist, guitarist and occasional actor is hitting two Jersey venues in the early summer. And while June may seem far away, you’d be surprised how quickly Aimee Mann’s faithful will snatch up those tickets. Mann first heads to the Ocean City Music Pier in Ocean City on Monday, June 18. She’ll then track north the next day for her Tuesday, June 19 show at White Eagle Hall in Jersey City. In the early 1980s, Mann founded the new wave rock band ‘Til Tuesday. The band released their […]

Enjoy live music on Somerville’s Division Street all season long as the Summer Stage concert series begins Friday, May 25. Here’s this year’s lineup: 5/25 – Mail Order Bride 5/26 – Cindi Rand and Arne Wendt 6/2 – Anna Oh 6/9 – Bob Lanza 6/16 – SunDog 6/23 – Terrance Haupt 6/30 – John Busse 7/7 – Mail Order Bride 7/14 – The Big Fuss 7/21 – The Paul Nagy Band 7/28 – Fast Forward 80’s 8/4 – Run Down 8/11 – Bob Lanza 8/18 – The Green Planet Band 8/25 – Steel Groove 9/1 – Mama’s Stew 9/15 – TBD 9/8 – Walnut Street 9/22 – The Moggy Hill Band 9/29 – Rewind Date(s): Friday May 25 and Saturdays, Memorial Day to Labor Day Time(s): 6:00 pm-9:00pm Location(s): Division Street For more information, visit Downtown Somerville’s website. Don’t miss the 75th anniversary of Tour of Somerville also happening Memorial Day weekend. 

Spring has finally arrived and we’re rediscovering all of its beautiful gifts. One favorite spring tradition is exploring local farmers markets where juicy fruits, crispy vegetables, fresh eggs, homemade preserves, and other delicious foods await. Farmers markets have evolved into local vendor havens where unique delicacies and treasures abound. Each town’s farmers market offers special items in addition to fruits and veggies, making them virtually irresistible. Here’s New Jersey Next’s guide to the some of the best finds at individual New Jersey farmers markets. Visit their websites for locations, hours, vendor names, and more information. (Check Jersey Fresh’s website for opening days). Let us know if you don’t see your favorite farmers market or specialty item by emailing editor@newjerseynext.com Northern Jersey Chatham Borough Chatham Borough Farmers Market receives routine visits from Pizza Vita, a food truck featuring a wood-burning oven, where hungry patrons can enjoy a pie in less than two minutes. For those who are gluten-intolerant, the market also hosts gluten-free favorites made by Paolo’s Kitchen and Squirrel & the Bee. You can also find wing sauces, gourmet empanadas, sweet plantains, yucca fries, and much more. Hoboken Colorful Produce at Garden Street Farmers Market Garden Street Farmers Market’s most popular offerings […]

Little Bear Poke is officially opening in Upper Montclair on May 24. Located at 254 Bellevue Avenue, Little Bear Poke is all about serving fun, feel-good, responsibly sourced food. The team behind Little Bear Poke are a family: Noelle Hozumi and Bridget Placek are sisters, and Dave Placek is Bridget’s husband. Little Bear is the product of their passion for food, and they are dedicated to ensuring that their second home is a reliable, high quality dining destination where friends, moms, dads, and kids of all ages can come for a healthful, delicious, meal. The core of Little Bear’s menu is Poke: fresh, raw fish bowls seasoned the way you like it. Fish is delivered daily to ensure freshness from Local 130 in Asbury Park, NJ. Little Bear offers Signature Bowls named after members of the family, like the Kenzo with arctic char, asparagus, and roasted macadamia nuts, served with a classic shoyu sauce and a hint of wasabi. Little Bear also invites guests to build their own, made with the highest quality ingredients available. Onigiri, rice balls seasoned with sesame salt and wrapped in nori, are another menu staple. Noelle and Bridget grew up eating these Japanese treats, and are thrilled to showcase them on […]

Memorial Day – Monday, May 28 – is a day to remember and honor those who served our country. To commemorate this special occasion, towns throughout the Garden State are holding parades and ceremonies to pay tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. Look below to find a parade or ceremony near you. Click on the highlighted link for additional details about each event. And check NJ Next’s Events Calendar page for a complete listing of all Memorial Day activities. Bradley Beach Memorial Day Celebration May 25-28 The Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at the Fifth Avenue Gazebo (weather permitting) on Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10:00 am. In the event of inclement weather the ceremony will be moved to the Bradley Beach Fire House, 815 Rear Main Street. Don’t miss events all weekend long. Clark Memorial Day Parade Starts at 9 a.m. Where: Arthur L. Johnson High School Address: 365 Westfield Avenue Clark, NJ 07066 Cranford Memorial Day Parade Starts at 9 a.m. Line up begins at the Community Center, 220Walnut Ave in Cranford at 8:30 a.m. and marching commences at 9:00 a.m. ending with a traditional memorial ceremony at Memorial Park on Springfield Avenue between RiversideDrive […]

The annual Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival is back and ready to kick off the season May 26-28 at Monmouth Park. Gather your friends and bring your appetite as this year’s Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival will feature 45 mouth-watering trucks serving everything from fresh-made empanadas, to ocean-fresh lobster rolls, to warm and gooey Belgian Waffle sundaes. On Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27, we will have a SPECIAL OPENING TIME of 11am to give you a little extra time to sample from our array of trucks. Be sure to get here early! On Monday, May 28, gates will open at the normal 11:30am. Enjoy live music all three days of the festival. In addition, FREE Family Fun Day activities will take place Saturday and Sunday including clowns, face painters, pony rides and a bounce house. There is always something new, exciting and delicious on the menu at the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival. So bring your family, bring your friends, come one day or come all three. Just don’t miss the most delicious summer kick-off party on the Jersey Shore – at Monmouth Park Racetrack, your best bet for summertime family fun. Participating Food Trucks: Andys’s Italian ices & […]

Moorestown, New Jersey –If you’re suffering from allergies, respiratory inflammations, have just gotten over a cold, or simply want to relax, a new resource for care and wellness, The Salt Suite, is perfect for you. Slated to open in late August, the Salt Suite will be located at 320 Young Ave. Moorestown, NJ.   Franchise owner Matt Della Sala, a previous multi-unit franchisee with Snap-On Tools, invested in the salt therapy concept after a friend, who had moved from South Florida, was in need of halotherapy for her son’s allergy treatments. “Halotherapy is the future,” he said. “I am happy to be a part of it this new option in healthcare for both children and adults. Halotherapy is a great addition to treatment and has shown great success in treating many symptoms. For children, “playing” in the salt room is fun and parents love it because it is helping to alleviate their symptoms in a noninvasive manner. It is also a great option to managing symptoms and for relaxation for adults. I think this is a win-win for all!” Kristi Hansen, will serve as general manager, for the location which offers effective therapy as soon as you enter the white-walled, cave-like room. Reclining in a comfortable […]

The Tour of Somerville Cycling Classic will celebrate its 75th anniversary with three days of world-class cycling open to professional and amateur cyclists throughout Memorial Day weekend. Known as the “Kentucky Derby of Cycling,” the tour, which sees riders pedal 50 miles through scenic downtown Somerville, is the oldest major bicycle race in the United States and a legend in the lore of bicycle racing. Michael Malekoff, executive director of Tour of Somerville, explained that the event kicks off with the Bound Brook Criterium on Saturday, May 26. The first race begins at 9 a.m. The highlight of the weekend, he said, is a new racing event held Sunday evening: the Somerville Sprints. This high octane, super-fast drag racing-style event takes place on Main Street in Somerville and stars some of the fastest sprint cyclists on two wheels. “It’s going to be a lot of fun because most people have never seen anyone go so fast on a bike,” Malekoff said. “While it’s a lot like the sprinting you’d see in track and field, there are no lanes and cyclists can bump and elbow each other. They cut other people off in the fight to the finish. It’s a bit like ‘Gladiator on […]

Luna Stage is proud to present its sixth annual New Moon Short Play Festival, two evenings of dramatic and comedic excellence, on Monday, May 21 and Tuesday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. These short plays and monologues were selected from over 60 submissions. Join the West Orange theater for two evenings of drama, comedy, and pure fun. Monday, May 21st, 7:30pm You’ve Come A Long Way Virginia by William N. Blake ¡Dale! by Sergio Caetano Barnes and Noble by Joseph M. Del Priore Flopsy and Mopsy by Phoebe Farber Parked Car by Bethany Greenman Everlasting Chocolate Therapy by Steven Hayet Objects Controlling Destiny by Della Lewis Tuesday, May 22nd, 7:30pm Reincarnation by Eric Alter Stung by Laura Ekstrand Chair by Manuel Igrejas Death Defying by Stephen Kaplan Charter Chatter by Beverly Moore CPN Masseur by Brian Parks Minnie and Estelle by Marv Siegel Wing Man by Mary Jane Walsh Reservations are strongly recommended. No payment is needed to reserve your seats, but you must arrive at the theater and pick up your reservation 15 minutes prior to curtain (7:15pm) or your seats may be released. Please arrive early to allow ample time to park. There will be a $10 suggested […]