From SouthNEXT: Fourth Annual Collision of Inspirational Ideas is back with new timing and venue. SouthNEXT, New Jersey’s festival that explores our similarities by celebrating our differences, returns to the iconic South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) November 10 and for the first time, at Seton Hall University’s Theater in the Round at the University Center on Sunday November 11. The program runs from 12:00-6:00 p.m. on both days.   Once again, SouthNEXT delivers with another spectacular lineup of talent and engaging sessions. Festival founder and South Orange Village Trustee Stephen Schnall is excited about the 2018 themes of exploring technology and mindfulness, productivity and purpose. “Each year SouthNEXT brings together local artists, speakers, and performers to catalyze the kind of “creative collisions” that spark new ideas and inspire new solutions to some of the most pressing communal challenges of our times,” says Schnall. Featured sessions at this year’s SouthNEXT include: Reclaiming the Purpose of Humanity in the Age of Machines Arousal and Engagement in the Time of Fitbit Magic, Leadership and Transcendence Interactive Art Mural to be created by the community Intergenerational Jeopardy! Technology in Music over the last 50 years – Boon or Bane? “I’ve come to expect […]

From SOMA Cross-Cultural Works Inc.: Second-annual Event Promises Family Fun with Food, Music, Dance & Children’s Activities Experience Dhol (Indian drumming,) Bollywood Dance and … EVENT DATE: Sunday, October 28; 12:30 – 6:30pm EVENT LOCATION: The Woodland, 60 Woodland Road, Maplewood, NJ ADMISSION: FREE! SOMA Cross-Cultural Works, the non-profit organization behind last year’s inaugural DiwaliFestNJ and this spring’s LunarFestNJ, has once again partnered with the Township of Maplewood to host the second annual DiwaliFestNJ, a unique multicultural celebration of Diwali (Indian festival of lights) for the whole community. Marking an important holiday in many South Asian cultures, DiwaliFestNJ will kick off at 12:30pm on Sunday October 28 with performances by a variety of groups performing, for example, classical and Bollywood dance, Indian/Western fusion and a cappella, and Dhol (Indian drumming.) Food vendors include the Tandoori Trailer and DosaSpot food trucks, as well as the local restaurants of Bayleaf, Curry Tub and Rajni. There will be many kids’ activities such as henna and rangoli art, diya (lamp) making, storytime and cooking demonstrations.Supported by volunteers from Maplewood and South Orange, DiwaliFestNJ provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy and celebrate together as friends and neighbors and is expected to attract visitors from across northern and central New Jersey. DiwaliFest 2018 poster […]

From the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and the Citizens Committee of the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens invite the public to view an elaborate display of carved botanic, floral and Halloween themed pumpkins created by students at “Gardens Aglow” at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens in Upper Montclair. The free event will be held as follows: Date:        Friday, October 26, 2018                  Rain Date: Saturday, October 27, 2018 Time:        6 to 9 p.m. Place:       Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, 474 Upper Mountain Avenue, Upper Montclair, NJ “The County of Essex is proud to showcase the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens during the autumn season. I invite you to visit the gardens and this unique and colorful jack-o-lantern display. Then, enjoy a glass of cider at sunset while watching the gardens glow,” DiVincenzo said. Area high schools have been invited to demonstrate and showcase their creativity and carve pumpkins for the event. All jack-o-lanterns will be lit with candles and lined around the flower beds to help illuminate the gardens. Seasonal refreshments will be available. Admission is free. For information, please call […]

  From Gail Schoenberg Public Relations: Summer may be over, but you can now get your ice cream fix year-round at Ani Ramen House.  Ani Ramen House owner, Luck Sarabhayavanija and Luigi Beltran, founder/owner of Luigi’s Ice Cream (est. 2015) are pleased to announce a collaborative partnership launching today at Ani Ramen House in Jersey City. [Read more about Ani Ramen’s plans to expand in NJ here.] Luigi’s Ice Cream, the popular ice cream brand with shops in Red Bank, Metuchen and food truck will now also be available year-round in Ani Ramen’s all-season patio space.  Kids of all ages get excited as Luigi’s will bring their unique and eclectic flavors, rolled ice cream and creamy buns.  “Big kids” especially rejoice since many of these flavors will be alcohol-infused boozy ice creams created collaboratively with Ani’s mixology team using Japanese whiskies, sakes and other spirits. Flavors will evolve and change constantly (see full list of opening flavors attached).  The two are excited to bring the first ice cream “speakeasy” to New Jersey where guests can enjoy the ice cream on premise or grab and go. This fortuitous collaboration was born out of a teenage friendship that drifted and then came together when Luck and […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore have been filling canvasses with music of the American West for decades, coming from two very different directions. Now, they will play together at the South Orange Performing Arts Center on Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. for the very first time. Though far from home, Alvin and Gilmore’s first duo album, Downey to Lubbock, contains all the elements that have sustained their musical journey through the years. Roots music legends, Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore, have been friends for 30 years, but only recently realized they had never played music with each other before. So in 2017, Grammy Award winner Alvin and Grammy Award nominee Gilmore, decided to hit the highway to swap songs, tell stories, and share their life experiences.  Though Texas-born Gilmore was twice named Country Artist of the Year by Rolling Stone, and California native Alvin first came to fame in the hard rocking Rhythm & Blues band The Blasters, they discovered that their musical roots in old Blues and Folk music are exactly the same. Mutually energized and inspired by these performances, Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore agreed to hit the road again in 2018… this […]

RiverFest at Bordentown, one of New Jersey’s largest fall festivals, returns on Saturday, Oct. 20 from noon to 10 p.m. Hosted by Hope Hose Humane and Marcellos’s Restaurant, this family-friendly event features something for everyone: a four-acre beer garden with 9 beers on tap plus wine and sangria, 15 restaurants, live bands all day, new teen and adult attractions, and a free kids area with bounce attractions, magicians and face painters. More than 13,000 people attended last year’s event — and this one promises to be bigger and better than ever! You’ll find everything you need onsite, including restrooms, free parking and shuttle services from three offsite locations, ATM machines, and over 3,600 square feet of tents to relax under. Buy your presale brew tickets here. $18 in advance which includes your first drinks and souvenir mug. Day of the event drink passes are $23. Extra beer tickets may be purchased as needed on site. Mugs may not be shared. Location: 100 West Park Street, Bordentown More information here.

Recognized as one of the most successful fine art and craft shows in the nation, the Morristown CraftMarket returns for its 42nd year from Friday, October 19 – Sunday, October 21. This beautifully juried, indoor show is held on the spacious ground level floor of the National Guard Armory in Morristown, NJ. Each year about 150 gifted artists come from over 25 states to exhibit and sell extraordinary, one-of-a-kind and limited edition fine arts and crafts in all contemporary media. The Opening Night Reception is Friday, October 19 from 5pm – 8pm, open to those ages 21 and over. Beer and wine will be offered for sale in the Courtyard of the Show. There is also a Silent Auction throughout the show. Show Schedule: October 19, 20 & 21, 2018 Friday, October 19th – 5pm to Saturday, October 20th – 10am to 6pm Sunday, October 21st – 10am to 5pm Tickets: Daily admission is $10.00. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult are FREE. Senior citizens receive $2 off. The show is produced and run by the not-for-profit Kiwanis Club of Randolph Township, NJ and depends on thousands of volunteer hours for the planning and management  All net proceeds from the show […]

The Seton Village Food Truck Festival in South Orange is back for another great year of food and drink! Mark your calendars and be sure to show up hungry for our Annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival 5 – 10 p.m. on October 19, 2018. Back for its fifth year, the festival will spotlight more than 20 area food trucks, two live bands, and local restaurant specials as well as a craft beer garden featuring a wide-ranging collection of local craft brews. “The Food Truck Festival is one of the highlights of South Orange’s calendar, and we’re thrilled at the community’s response to the event,” said Doug Zacker, chairman of the Seton Village Committee. Zacker noted that attendance at the event has climbed steadily: “We expect an even larger crowd this year, and our truck lineup will reflect that,” Zacker said last year. “We’ll be showcasing the largest number of food trucks in our history, with offerings featuring everything from barbeque to tacos, cupcakes to waffles, and even international foods and farm to truck options that offer healthier alternatives.” The Seton Village Food Truck Fest will have live music, food trucks and a beer garden sponsored by Gaslight Brewery who will […]

From Dunkin’: People who live and work in Folsom, NJ can now experience Dunkin’s newest store of the future. Dunkin’ today announced that it will open its new Folsom restaurant on Saturday, Oct. 13 at 1402 Mays Landing Road, featuring the brand’s next generation concept design, with a modern atmosphere and innovative technologies to make running on Dunkin’ faster and more convenient than ever before. The new 1,652 square foot Folsom location is one of the 50 or more new and remodeled Dunkin’ restaurants that will test variations of the new design this year. Dunkin’s final new store design is expected to be unveiled once testing is complete. The Folsom store will also feature new signage that refers to the brand simply as “Dunkin’. The new location will be open seven days a week from 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. The restaurant will employ approximately 18 crew members and offer free Wi-Fi. Arun Mandi of ARF Corp is Dunkin’s franchisee for the restaurant and currently operates 32 Dunkin’ restaurants throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. “We are thrilled to be a part of Dunkin’s next generation store initiative and can’t wait to bring this innovative new restaurant to the Folsom community,” Mandi said. “The new menu offerings and approachable atmosphere will grab the […]

New Jersey book lovers — and shoppers in general — have a new and visually stunning space to explore. Indigo, a “cultural department store,” is now open in a 30,000-square-foot store on the lower level of The Mall at Short Hills. (Park near Bloomingdales for easy access.) The Canada-based retailer made its U.S. debut earlier this month and will celebrate its official grand opening on Saturday, Oct. 27 and Sunday, Oct. 28. The sprawling store contains specialized boutiques that flow into one another for a shop-within-a-shop feel. These well-appointed areas feature everything from exclusive in-house designed lifestyle products and one-of-a-kind gifts to children’s toys and infant wear. Indigo will also host in-store author and celebrity events, making it seem a bit like FAO Schwarz for grown-ups. (Though there’s plenty for kids to enjoy as well.) While the front of the store, which boasts a welcoming tree adorned with white lights, is inviting, shoppers will find themselves drawn to the attractively arranged sections that beckon beyond the book store. As Sorya Gaulin, vice president of public relations for the brand, pointed out, each is clearly labeled making it easy to find your way from one shop to the next — and all […]

Krispy Kreme fans rejoice: the famed donut shop is opening a huge new store and factory in Springfield, NJ this fall! The store will be located in a new, 13,000-square foot plaza on Route 22 East near the Union border, according to a report from Jared Kofsky of Jersey Digs. The place will even include a drive-thru and will be able to “watch through the glass as the donuts are made and so forth, kind of like a car wash but with donuts,” the project’s realty broker told Jersey Digs. The plaza will also house Moe’s Southwest Grill, Carvel Ice Cream, 1000 Degrees Pizza, and Poe Sushi. It will be the third Krispy Kreme in the New York Metropolitan Area, Jersey Digs reports, with another location in Jersey City and one on the way in East Rutherford. The new store and factory is expected to be completed in around three months. Read the full report here.    

From Summit Downtown, Inc. Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) is excited to host two Halloween events this month! Pumpkin Painting will be held from 10am-12pm this Sunday, October 21 at the Summit Farmers Market. Market visitors of all ages are invited to embrace their creative side and paint a pumpkin or two! Artists should purchase a pumpkin from one of the farmers, then bring it to the SDI booth in the center aisle where painting supplies will be provided for free. There will also be sidewalk chalk available! Reusable Summit Farmers Market shopping bags will be on sale on October 21 at the special reduced price of two bags for $3. SDI’s newly premiered Summit Gift Cards will also be available for purchase during Pumpkin Painting. Over 100 businesses throughout Summit (not just in the downtown) accept the Gift Card. Downtown Trick-or-Treat will be held from 2:30-4pm on Wednesday, October 31. Children are invited to don their costumes and venture into downtown Summit after school. Downtown businesses displaying a Trick-or- Treat poster in their window will be waiting to hand out treats. Summit Gift Cards will also be available for purchase at Lyric Park during Trick-or-Treat. They’re the perfect way to […]

From the South Orange-Maplewood Adult School: Wednesday, Oct. 24, 7:30pm, SOMS, Little Theater More than just a hashtag, the #MeToo Movement has become a global phenomenon. What has happened in the months since this powerful movement took the world by storm? JOANNE LIPMAN, author of That’s What She Said: What Men Need to Know (and Women Need to Tell Them) About Working Together, will be in conversation with Jim Pensiero, Deputy Managing Editor, retired, Wall Street Journal, to discuss her critically acclaimed book and offer concrete advice on how to close the gender gap — at work and in life. Lipman’s discussion will go beyond the current focus on sexual harassment to examine the broader culture. Not every woman has been sexually assaulted, but every woman knows what it feels like to be marginalized, interrupted, underpaid, overlooked and simply not given the same respect as the guy in the next cubicle. Lipman invites men to be a part of the solution to close the gender gap—including steps they can take right now, alongside women, to move toward a more egalitarian workplace. Joanne Lipman is one of the nation’s most prominent journalists, most recently serving as Chief Content Officer of Gannett, […]

From Wagner Farm: Returning for a seventh year, Wagner Farm Arboretum’s spectacular Halloween-themed event “Brite Nites” showcases an elaborate display of intricately and creatively hand-carved and lighted pumpkins, a brand-new “Barn of Fear”, food trucks, and hot beverages. Meander through our garden path filled with breathtaking pumpkin sculptures, where you will be astounded by their complexity and originality. Don’t miss out on a visit to our “Barn of Fear”, which is inhabited by ghouls, vampires, ghosts and zombies. At the end of your journey, don’t forget to stop for some seasonal refreshments – and who can say “no” to some deep-fried Oreos? Brite Nites 2018 Dates: October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28 with Entry Times from 6:30PM to 8PM in 15 minute intervals. The event will close at 8:30pm. More information here

From Gail Schoenberg Public Relations: On National Noodle Day, Saturday, October 6, a mix of 10 former and new contestants gathered at Ani Ramen House Jersey City eager to consume mass amounts of noodles at the second annual Slurp, Sip, Repeat Ramen Eating Contest by Ani Ramen House and Sun Noodle. One boisterous contestant, a local Jersey City firefighter got the group all fired-up with his smack talk.  Dexter Lopina, a returning 3-year alumni of the contest suited up again, this year as “Wolverine”. However, 10 minutes and eight (8) bowls later a new champ emerged, Wayne Algenio of Queens, New York unseating two-year champ Sebastian Voltarelli.  Voltarelli who came in second with seven (7) bowls consumed may have been at a slight disadvantage this year since he was suited up for a wedding he was attending immediately after.  Just behind him in 3rd place was another newcomer, Charles Creamer from Hoboken finishing with six (6) bowls. The proceeds raised from the evening will benefit No Kid Hungry. The new winner of the Ani Ramen Golden Chopsticks (good for 1 year of free ramen at any Ani Ramen location) and grand prize ($1K value all-inclusive celebratory chef’s tasting dinner for 10), Algenio told us “I have done a lot […]

From WildwoodsNJ.com: Halloween in the Wildwoods will be full of tricks, treats and fun events for all ages starting Saturday, October 13 with the Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run and continuing Friday, October 26 through Sunday, October 28 with Halloween weekend festivities. Halloween in the Wildwoods kicks off Saturday, October 13, with the Wildwoods Boardwalk 5K Pumpkin Run. This fun and exciting family event is for all ages and offers a 5K run along with a one-mile walk, starting at 10 a.m. at the Wildwoods Convention Center – rain or shine. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. inside the Wildwoods Convention Center. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite Halloween costumes and vie for prizes in the best dressed categories of Family, Youth, Infant and Best All-Around. All proceeds benefit Wildwoods’ Elementary Schools located on the island. Registration is $25 for adults and $15 for participants 18 years and under. All pre-registered participants will receive a Pumpkin Run T-shirt. For additional information visit www.BoardwalkPumpkinRun.com or call 609-849-8887. On Friday, October 26, is the 2nd annual Downtown Wildwood Halloween Movie & Treats event! Enjoy a Halloween movie and treats under the stars beginning at 6 p.m. at the Byrne Plaza in Wildwood on Pacific Avenue, between Oak & Cedar. Admission and parking are FREE! For additional information, […]

Westfield will host its inaugural ‘AddamsFest‘ this October in honor of one of its most creative residents: Charles Addams. Born in Westfield in 1912, Addams was one of America’s greatest cartoonists. His most well-known creation, The Addams Family, grew from an assortment of cartoons into a celebrated televisions series, a movie franchise, a Broadway musical, and, coming in 2019, a highly anticipated animated motion picture. Westfield’s AddamsFest celebrates this prolific talent and the hometown that inspired those creepy and kooky, mysterious and spooky (and all together ooky) characters. Provided by the Town of Westfield, the following is a list of ‘AddamsFest’ events: The Addams Family House on Mindowaskin Lake Beginning October 5 385 East Broad Street While following Lurch’s purple footprints throughout the park be sure to take a photo of the floating Addams Family house on Mindowaskin Lake. Playing off a beloved Westfield tradition, this Halloween house is a nod to the replica of the Presbyterian Church that signals the holiday season in December. The Wicked Windows of Westfield Beginning October 5 Downtown Westfield Destined to become an exciting new tradition that will delight residents and attract visitors from neighboring towns, The Wicked Windows of Westfield will transform Downtown Westfield’s storefronts […]

This story was first published by Downtown New Jersey: Located in the southern end of the township, Bloomfield’s downtown area is currently experiencing an exciting revitalization generating some buzz in various circles. Also known as Bloomfield Center, new residents, motivated entrepreneurs, and visionary investors are beginning to recognize the area’s potential growth and great promise. With this resurgence, downtown Bloomfield is making its mark as a desirable destination for residents and visitors. Since 2001, the Bloomfield Center Alliance (BCA) has worked diligently on behalf of the township to maintain, promote, and improve the downtown district. Its efforts are aimed at bringing people to Bloomfield Center, so they can see this transformation, experience the new sights and sounds, and spread the word about its exciting future. In recent years, the area has seen a significant boom in housing development, which has brought several hundred new residents helping to bring a dynamic vibrancy to the downtown. Two of these developments – The Green and Avalon-Bloomfield Station – are located within blocks of the district’s main intersection and train station. The area was designated a transit village in 2003, and there are plans in place to completely restore its historic train station in the near future. In addition, construction […]

The pumpkins arrived by truck on Saturday morning, October 6, at Wyoming Presbyterian Church in Millburn and scores of volunteers — and shoppers — showed up to unload and load up on their annual pumpkin purchases. The Pumpkin Patch is Wyoming Church’s biggest annual “hello to the community” and biggest mission fundraiser. Volunteers are on hand every day through October 31— or while supplies last — to sell pumpkins from: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Saturday; and 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Sundays. Proceeds from the Pumpkin Patch benefit WPC mission and outreach projects. Wyoming Presbyterian Church 432 Wyoming Ave, Millburn, NJ 07041 (973) 376-3066    

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. Essex County dog owners are invited to display their creativity and participate in Strut Your Mutt, Essex County’s Annual Canine Halloween Costume Parade and Contest. This year, three parades have been scheduled, with the newly-opened Essex County Hilltop Dog Park hosting its first event. Participation is free. The costume parades and contests will be held as follows: Parade #1 Date:               Saturday, October 20, 2018                          Rain Date: Saturday, October 27th   Time:              Registration: 9:15 a.m., Parade: 10 a.m. Place:             Essex County Brookdale Dog Park, Grove Street, Montclair    Parade #2 Date:               Saturday, October 20, 2018                          Rain Date: Saturday, October 27th   Time:              Registration: 1:15 p.m., Parade: 2 p.m. Place:             Essex County South Mountain Dog Park, Crest Dr., Maplewood/Millburn, NJ   Parade #3 Date:               Sunday, October 21, 2018                          Rain Date: Sunday, October 28th     Time:              Registration: 12 Noon, Parade: 1 p.m. Place:             Essex County Hilltop Dog Park, Courter Lane, North Caldwell, NJ “The Essex County Dog Parks have become popular places for dog owners to bring their faithful companions. In turn, the canine costume parades are growing into a favorite Halloween celebration for everyone to enjoy. Whether you own a dog or not, we invite you to […]

For bleary-eyed film journalists, the end of September brings good news: Just one more marathon to run, the smartly selective, easily navigated New York Film Festival, and the Fall film-fest circuit draws to a close. Also bad news: That means the real Oscar season is about to start. The end-of-summer months always bring a quick succession of highly concentrated, hotly anticipated film events, in Venice, Telluride, Toronto and, finally, Manhattan (this year’s edition of the NYFF, its 58th, runs from September 28th to October 14th). But while these festivals all exist, primarily, to promote the very best in cinema, they’ve all been co-opted to various degrees by studios in search of a launching pad for end-of-year awards campaigns. It’s a strategy that can backfire. I remember early, disastrous screenings of Cameron Crowe’s “Elizabethtown” in Toronto in 2005 that immediately, decisively sank that movie. Similarly, the New York premiere of “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk” in 2016 fatally revealed that wildly hyped Ang Lee film to be a solid snooze. This year’s apparent casualty? Dan Fogelman’s sentimental melodrama “Life Itself,” which limped out of Toronto and right into local theaters, pursued by critical jeers. And yet studios continue to cross their […]

  This story first appeared on VillageGreenNJ.com. If you didn’t make it to Somos SOMA Latinos’ first inaugural Hispanic Heritage Event in Maplewood on September 29, you missed a HOT one! This free cultural event put the richness and diversity of the beautiful and warm Latino Culture on display at The Woodland and did not disappoint. Latino-pride was in full effect in a well-organized program of performances, children’s activities and vendor offerings—including a delicious and mouthwatering selection of Latino eats. Attendance included over 2,000 visitors from not only Maplewood and South Orange, but from other parts of Essex County and New York City too! “With the success of Diwali Fest NJ and the Lunar Fest NJ last year, we knew we had to galvanize our Somos SOMA Latino group and represent our ever growing Latino community, ”said Moraima Garcia the Somos SOMA Co-President. “We garnered a lot interest from local residents to do this and in the process even welcomed new Latino members who became leaders in our group and in driving the success of this event.” The event was moderated by local celebrities and fellow residents, Philip Klint, Anchor and Producer at NY 1 Noticias, and Deyanna Mendoza, Miss Universe […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: On Tuesday, Sept. 25, SOPAC hosted a sold out crowd for Savor the Arts –An Evening of Culinary Adventure in the Loft. Patrons mixed and mingled, as several food and beverage vendors displayed their Garden State farm-to-table wares. SOPAC topped the evening’s tastings off with a chef slam featuring Kwame Williams (Montclair) and Leia Gaccione (Morristown and Madison) , two up-and-coming chefs from the New Jersey restaurant scene, judged by a panel led by celebrity chef Ariane Duarte (Ariane Kitchen & Bar). At the end of the night, the chef slam winners were announced along with Peoples Choice awards for best food and beverage offerings. Local foodies made for a sold out event, and finished the night with a host of new food and restaurant ideas.   Chef Leia Gaccione (South+Pine and Central+Main American Eateries) gained bragging rights –  twice; she won the Chef Slam and the Peoples’ Choice for best food tasting. Chef Kwame Williams (Vital Dining) did not disappoint, however. Chef Ariane and her judges’ panel were very much impressed with both entries. Given only 5 ingredients, with a few pantry staples, each chef created a tasty mélange of culinary delight. The Peoples’ […]

From Rent Party: If you’ve lost your faith in rock and roll and want to get it back, give us a shot. Rent Party announced that Chuck Prophet & The Mission Express, plus special guests the Marco Ranieri Band, will play the Woodland on October 12, 2018. Doors open at 8:00 pm and tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3568080. “We’re excited to have singer-songwriter Chuck Prophet in Maplewood on the Rent Party stage! This is going to be an amazing show-one you definitely don’t want to miss,” said Rent Party Founder Chris Dickson. Rent Party is a live concert series in South Orange and Maplewood New Jersey; proceeds from the shows help fight hunger in the local community. The shows are held at the Woodland located at 60 Woodland Road, in Maplewood, New Jersey. If anyone was born with a rock and roll heart, it’s San Francisco’s Chuck Prophet. Performing, recording and producing since 1985, Chuck Prophet is touring behind what is about his thirteenth solo album, Bobby Fuller Died for Your Sins, which had the highest first-week sales numbers of a decades-long career. Originally from Southern California, Chuck Prophet moved to the San Francisco Bay Area as a […]

Ever wonder what life was like in Somerset County at different periods in time? If so, you’re not alone! This October, Somerset County is celebrating its 13th annual Weekend Journey through the Past on Oct. 13 and 14. The entire weekend is dedicated to experiencing what life was like 50, 100, and 200 years ago in Somerset County. This is an initiative of the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission who have collaborated alongside representatives of local history organizations, artists and arts organizations, as well as organizations throughout the local tourism industry. “Each year, visitors and residents alike look forward to Somerset County’s ‘Weekend Journey Through the Past,’” said Freeholder Brian Gallagher, liaison to the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission. “The county is home to many sites that encompass centuries of historic significance, and 30 of these sites will be open and accessible to the public, free of charge, on Oct. 13 & 14.” As one of the 13 original colonies, it’s no secret that New Jersey is full of old charm and historical sites. Participating historic sites are being grouped into three tours (Northern, Central, and Southern Somerset County). Witness what life was […]

Great stories get in your face. As a play, a great story reaches through the proscenium, grabs you by the collar and yells, “WAKE UP!” Sitting in the audience eating the bag of M&Ms you stashed in your purse, you are suddenly knocked out of complacency. The story comes off the stage, and sends you flying into the row behind you. That is exactly what happened on Sunday night at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, New Jersey at a re-staging of the 2016 Tony Award-winning production of The Color Purple. This story packs a wallop because it is timeless. And this fact alone is amazing given how many versions there have been; The Color Purple, set in 1909, first appeared as a book in 1983. It was then adapted into a film in 1985, which was made into a Broadway musical in 2005, which was subsequently revived in 2016. The sheer strength of Alice Walker’s story goes beyond these various iterations – some of which were more successful than others – because it is an epic at heart; The Color Purple is centered around Celie and the heroic journey she takes in finding her own voice. The scope of […]

From D&I Fitness: Burn off that pumpkin pie before you even get to the table. The 4th Annual Turkey Trot takes place on Thanksgiving morning. Run the 5k or walk the 2 miles, either way, you will have a great time at this family friendly event. Thanksgiving Morning November 22, 2018 8:00 AM Start Time at D&I Fitness 9 W. South Orange Ave Packet Pickup: Tuesday 11/20, 5-8pm Wednesday 11/21, 12-3pm More information here.

Is there anything cheerier than a sunflower? How about over 40 acres filled with them? Holland Ridge Farm, located in Cream Ridge, celebrates its Sunflower Festival through Oct. 28. In addition to copious photo opportunities, visitors can sample pierogi and kielbasa from an on-site food truck. Save room for sunflower cupcakes, or enjoy face painting and visiting with barnyard animals. The farm, located at 86 Rues Road, Cream Ridge, is open daily but note that ticket sales will be determined daily due to weather conditions. For more information, visit the website or email info@hollandridgefarms.com.

From Studio B: Studio B, a local non-profit arts organization known for producing eclectic, stand-room-only events, will be hosting its 5th annual Holiday Bizarre Bazaar on Sunday, December 3rd from 10am – 4pm. Applications to participate in the Bazaar are due Saturday, October 21. “We’ve already received a significant number of applications,” says Marcy Thompson, Studio B Honcho. “More than we had at this time last year.” “We are thrilled at the caliber of artists who have participated in this event over the past 4 years. It’s a testament to the tremendous creative energy in our communities,” adds Jenny Turner Hall, Studio B Honcho. In the past, this highly-curated event has featured handmade jewelry, fine art, sewn and knitted textiles, paper goods, quality vintage finds, holiday delights, eclectic evening bags, home décor, handmade clothing and a thousand things beyond description. The only thing that all of these items have in common? They are all 100 percent unique. Focusing on local artists and artisans, attendance at the Bazaar has grown each year – but the number of artists remains the same: 40. That means competition for a space at the Bazaar is growing. Here’s how the application process works: Fill out […]

From the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities: Victorian Weekend October 4-8, 2018 This is the best time of year to visit Victorian Cape May and celebrate the unique heritage of America’s first seashore resort. Enjoy a weekend of exciting and entertaining activities from history to murder mysteries, plus historic house tours, food and wine events and much, much more. For more information, call 609-884-5404. Or visit here. An Afternoon of Victorian Parlor Games Behind the Walls & Under the Crawls Trolley Tour Brunch, Bingo & Lace Brunch Walk Cape May Wine School Carroll Gallery Exhibit: “Capturing Cape May’s Architecture” Ghost Walk with Craig McManus Historic Haunts Combo Tour Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture Series Murder Mystery Dinners Nuts & Bolts Tour of the Physick Estate Shining a Light on the Victorian Era Show Us Your Undies Fashion Show & Brunch Spectacular Burlesque Extravaganza Taste Your Way Inn Tour Temperance Debate at Cape May Brewing Co. Underground Railroad Trolley Tour Victorian Vices at Nauti Spirits Victorian Weekend Crafts & Collectibles Show Plus….Trolley Tours, House tours and more!  

From The Wildwoods: The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce presents the 11th Annual Seafood and Music Festival on Saturday, October 6 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. featuring a full day of eating, dancing and all-out fun. The Seafood and Music Festival will take place along Atlantic Avenue between Wildwood and Schellenger Avenues in Wildwood. The festival will include live music, delicious food, messy pie-eating contests, craft vendors and much more. The festival will even provide fun for the kids with a “Kids Korner,” open from noon – 5 p.m., featuring games, activities, and inflatable bounce houses. The free entertainment line-up will feature two stages of live music with Electric Beach Band, SassFaction, 99 Reasons, and Shot of Southern. The 11th Annual Seafood and Music Festival, complete with great food, great music, messy pie-filled faces and great merchandise vendors, is free to attend. For additional information about the festival, please call the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce at 609-729-4000. For additional information about the Wildwoods, visit the website or call 800-992-9732.

You don’t have to hop a plane to Germany to indulge in homemade brats, sausages, schnitzels, and strudels. These 10 New Jersey biergartens serve classic German cuisine, imported and local beer, and other libations. Some offer communal dining and/or outdoor seating. Not a wurst fan? Have no fear, you can even find vegetarian, gluten-free and even vegan choices at many of these spots. Check out NewJerseyNext.com’s list of top NJ biergartens below; and find a list of upcoming Oktoberfest events here. Northern Jersey Brats and Cold Beer, Photo Courtesy of Jagerstein Biergarten Jagerstein Biergarten serves authentic and fresh German food and domestic and imported beer. Jaegerstein Biergarten has huge, warm Barvarian pretzels and also offers vegetarian dishes. Entertainment includes a DJ and live music. The food on the menu is from their own farm with free range livestock. 84 Route 46 East, Delaware Pilsener Haus & Biergarten is an Austro-Hungarian biergarten. The building is actually a turn-of-the-century bier hall with an adjoining outdoor biergarten. Pilsener Haus offers seasonal specials, vegetarian fare, and gluten-free cuisine in addition to drafts and European and American craft beers by the bottle. 1422 Grand Street, Hoboken Hudson Hall  is a beer hall and smoke house with Eastern European […]

South Mountain Reservation, created between 1897 to 1905 and designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers, is a 2,110-acre county park located in Essex County, New Jersey. Less than 20 miles — as the crow flies — from midtown Manhattan, the reservation offers a wild and wonderful natural environment for hikers, from quiet paths, waterfalls and a native wildflower garden to more programmed areas such as the Turtle Back Zoo, a sculpture garden, paddle boats and a dog park. What it didn’t have until recently was a detailed trail map. Thanks to the South Mountain Conservancy such a map now exists — and the fall is the perfect time to check out the reservation. The last trail map was published in 2010 and at that time, a tight deadline unfortunately did not allow for much detail, according to local Maplewood artist Susan Brand, designer of the beautiful new map, released earlier this year. The map took more than six months to create and required quite a bit of research on Brand’s behalf along with input from Dennis Percher, president of the South Mountain Conservancy, and David Hogenauer – long-time hike leader and local historian on all things South Mountain Reservation. Brand spent […]

Jersey City resident Vas Nair celebrated the launch of her new interior design business Sept. 20 at Kenilworth’s Boulevard Five 72. After a successful career in the corporate world, Nair decided to shift gears and focus on her passion for design and decor. While traveling the world for both business and pleasure, the entrepreneur developed a true understanding of how a home fulfills the role of sanctuary at the end of a long day. “I cherish coming home to a serene and comfortable space that is uniquely my own,” she says. Originally from Sydney, Australia, Nair enjoys bringing her global vision to her design business and sharing the colors and artistry she’s admired from Morocco to Manhattan and everywhere in between. Nair explains that some clients have a clear idea of what they want, while others wish to be inspired. “Maybe it’s contemporary, possibly country or chic,” she notes. “No matter the initial idea or vision – the focus is to listen, generate solutions, and personalize the space, so it’s as unique as their signature.” Her design philosophy is simple and straightforward: “Listen, learn and adopt a solution to create that discerning signature space.” Nair’s service include: Design: Creating a […]

From The Wellmont Theater: Ten years ago, Montclair’s Wellmont Theater reopened as a live entertainment venue, and to celebrate, will host an anniversary “OkTENberfest” open house party on Saturday, October 27, from 1:00-6:00 p.m. To further commemorate this milestone, The Wellmont is releasing a portion of tickets for each of its remaining 2018 shows for just $10. OkTENberfest guests will enjoy food vendors, spirits tasting, a selection of more than 40 beers and brews, a photo booth provided by Little Nest Portraits, debut of new Wellmont merchandise, and the opportunity to see the historic venue up close with guided tours. The Wellmont encourages attendees to bring a non-perishable food donation to benefit the Human Needs Food Pantry of Montclair. With each bag of five items donated, patrons will receive a free ticket to an upcoming Wellmont show. Donations of more than 20 items will enter guests into a raffle for two tickets to a show of choice. “The goal since The Wellmont reopened has been to provide quality programming that will attract all audiences,” said Anthony J. Morrison, General Manager of The Wellmont Theater. “By hosting a free open house party and offering $10 tickets to our entire fall lineup, […]

The Roaring ’20s was an exuberant time in American history, replete with the Golden Age of Hollywood, the birth of jazz and the rise of the sassy, vibrant flapper. Meanwhile Prohibition led to the birth of Speakeasies — establishments that claimed to sell only the soft stuff but actually peddled booze. A whispered code at the door was required to gain admission into speakeasies, which had unmarked, sometimes secret entrances. Nearly a century later, New Jersey is still home to modern day speakeasies, some that originated in the 20s. Thankfully, no one will be arrested for frequenting one of these fun establishments. Murphy’s Tavern in Rumson opened around 1919 in the basement of a house on Ward Lane. Its location near a hidden cove on the Navesink River enabled rum-runners and smugglers to visit the Tavern without being seen. Murphy’s was a well-known secret. Today Murphy’s Tavern offers handcrafted drinks, snacks, Happy Hour specials, live music, bingo, and shuffleboard. (732) 842-1600 – 17 Ward Lane, Rumson NJ, 07760 The Laundromat Bar in Morristown is a newer speakeasy with a narrow room full of washing machines and dryers on the first floor. Doors disguised as dryers lead to stairs that descend into a […]

  This is true, first-person storytelling from people in the Maplewood/South Orange Community. 8 minutes, no notes. This month: Joe Wachs, Doreen Oliver, Tommy Nichols, Eyrique Miller, Donna Coallier, and Jenny Bacon. Hosted by Boo Trundle (of Roll Call, Inc.) Saturday, September 29, 2018, 8 – 10 p.m. Burgdorff Center For The Performing Arts 10 Durand Rd, Maplewood, New Jersey 07040 More information here. 

Fall weekends are jam-packed with events here in South Orange and Maplewood, and we are tracking them all on NJNext.com. Here are our NJNext.com picks for the best in SOMA this weekend. Email us at editor@newjerseynext.com if we missed any! Click on links for more information on each event. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 German Night at Verjus in Maplewood September 28 Verjus Restaurant presents A Great Start to Oktoberfest, Featuring Three New Beers: Von Trapp Oktoberfest River Horse Imperial Pumpkin Dogfish Punkin Getting Thirsty? Then Head Over To Verjus For German Night Friday, September 28! Die-Cast Cars/Tri-State/Allied Chemical at The Parlor September 28 in Maplewood Three Local South Orange-Maplewood ass-kicking bands rock The Woodland Parlor. $ donations accepted. Beer/Wine will be served. Come celebrate Chris Kensler‘s birthday as well! And oh, Bone Pool Radio – Maplewood, NJ will be live and taping. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Hola Fest NJ 2018 September 29 in Maplewood From Somos SOMA Latinos: Swivel your hips to salsa music. Move to the beats of cumbia from Colombia, bachata from the Dominican Republic and samba from Brazil. It’s all part of Maplewood’s first Hispanic Heritage festival, a community event that will entertain the entire family. Somos SOMA Latinos, working with the Maplewood Office of Cultural Affairs and Cross […]

The 21st Annual Branchburg Country Fair will be held on Saturday, September 29 and includes entertainment, contests, food, activities, fireworks and much more. There will also be old time baseball games and a car & truck show. The fair begins at 11 a.m., ending with fireworks at 8 p.m. at White Oak Park, Branchburg, NJ. The second annual talent show features two separate competition divisions: one for youth and one for adults. This free event brings thousands of families each year for a day of community fun.

Hosted by New Jersey’s #1 Zoo, Ales ‘N Tails Oktoberfest will feature a live Oompah Band and samples of dozens and dozens of seasonal brews from around the corner and around the world, all set to the backdrop of the beautiful Essex County Turtle Back Zoo (560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange). In addition to traditional music, beers, wine and spirits, there will be local craft and food vendors selling their wares. Ales ‘N Tails is a benefit for the Essex County Parks Foundation. WHEN Saturday, September 29th from 6pm to 9pm SUPPORTING Funds raised at Ales ‘N Tails Oktoberfest support the Essex County Parks Foundation, a 501c3 organization that supports local activities and programs in the County Parks throughout Essex County. Cost: $15 to $60  

From Somos SOMA Latinos: Swivel your hips to salsa music. Move to the beats of cumbia from Colombia, bachata from the Dominican Republic and samba from Brazil. It’s all part of Maplewood’s first Hispanic Heritage festival, a community event that will entertain the entire family. Somos SOMA Latinos, working with the Maplewood Office of Cultural Affairs and Cross Cultural Works, the organizers of Diwali Fest NJ and Lunar Fest NJ, is putting together a free event you surely don’t want to miss. Hola! Fest NJ 2018 will take place Saturday, Sept. 29 from noon to 6 p.m. It will have Latin food, vendors, and a slew of cultural entertainment and children’s activities. Kids can get Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, face paintings and decorate Spanish fans. Adults can play dominos and buy cigars. The whole family can enjoy entertainers with performances from across Latin America. Don’t know how to dance salsa? You can learn from dance instructors. Maplewood and surrounding towns have a fast-growing Hispanic population that is becoming a close-knit community. Hispanics are the fastest-growing minority group in the area, now representing about 8 percent of the population, based on school enrollment numbers, with its numbers […]

Vegan and vegetarian alert! There’s a new option in New Jersey for vegans, vegetarians and those seeking kosher baked goods. Cedar Ridge Café & Bakery on Ridgewood Road in Maplewood has re-opened after a brief hiatus. “Our new hours are Tuesday-Saturday 8am to 4pm, Sunday 9am to 2pm! The kitchen will be open all day, no more closing at 3pm! WE ARE OFFICIALLY A VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT with a TON OF VEGAN options,” the Café posted on social media. “We will be certified kosher by the end of September!” “We are so excited to reopen with our new menu and we hope you are too!” The beloved eatery caused some howls from its carnivorous patrons when it announced the change earlier this summer. But after re-opening as non-meat on September 5, owner Paul Holtzman said that the response has been tremendous — with local customers giving full support and new customers coming in from Summit and points further. As always, the reviews are rapturous: “Absolutely LOVE this place. Not only do they have #veganoptions and #glutenfree options, their food is #DELICIOUS and the staff is super helpful and sweet,” wrote one online reviewer. “The owner is especially awesome! I can’t wait to go back! Between […]

Celebrate Italian culture and heritage at Fox Park on Ocean Avenue between Burk and Montgomery Avenues in Wildwood on Friday, September 28, from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. and on Saturday, September 29, from noon until 11 p.m. Come experience an ‘Olde World’ family festival including a Procession of the Saints, delicious Italian food favorites, merchandise vendors, games, and continuous FREE live entertainment. A spaghetti eating contest will take place as well. Friday’s entertainment is as follows: Mass at 5 p.m. | Special Presentation to Senator Jeff Van Drew at 6 p.m. | Star Band at 6:15 p.m. | Doo Wop Sensation Cadillac Chris at 8 p.m. | Vito Piccone & The Elegants at 9 p.m. | Saturday’s entertainment is as follows: Bill Catarini at noon | Kenny Jeremiah & Bittersweet at 12:30 p.m. | Just in Time at 2 p.m. | Nosey Josey at 3:30 p.m. | The Aquanets at 5 p.m. | Mark Antonelli at 6:30 p.m. | Tre Bella at 7:30 p.m. | Brooklyn Bridge at 8:30 p.m. Admission to the festival is FREE! For more info call 609.729.7499. Visit here for updates. 

From Ani Ramen: Ramen fans, get ready! Ani Ramen House and sponsor Sun Noodle are pleased to present the third annual “Slurp. Sip. Repeat. Ramen Eating Competition” at Ani Ramen House’s Jersey City location. (And find out more about Ani Ramen opening in Summit and Maplewood here.) Ani Ramen will stream the event on Facebook Live so everyone can have a front row seat to the event. https://www.facebook.com/aniramenhouse/ Check out details from Ani Ramen below: WHEN:  Saturday October 6, 2018 from 3-5pm WHERE: Ani Ramen House, 218 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ / 201-408-9811 WHY:     In celebration of National Noodle Day – Saturday, October 6 HOW:    Call for entrants: Individuals 18 years or older can enter the Slurp. Sip. Repeat. Ramen Contest by emailing info@aniramen.com. No experience necessary. Entry fee: a $20 (minimum) donation that will benefit a charity to be announced is required to enter (includes entry for contestant and one guest, small bites served). Deadline to enter is Sunday, October 2, 2018. 1st Place Winner will receive a celebratory all-inclusive chef’s tasting dinner for 10 people at Ani Ramen $1,000 value. 2nd Place Winner will receive a $300 gift card to Ani Ramen. 3rd Place Winners will receive a $150 gift card to Ani Ramen. The Winner will be determined by the most bowls of ramen consumed within 15 minutes or first person to eat 10 bowls. For full […]

Visiting an area with so many great dining options can be daunting. How will you choose the best meal in town? Or, what if you could sample a little something at multiple places? Now you can. If you’re headed to Morristown, let Savor and Stroll Culinary Tours be your guide to a palate-pleasing afternoon. Savor and Stroll was started by Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Kathleen Carozza, who believes food should nourish the mind, body, and soul. Attendees, who will walk three miles over the course of three hours, have an opportunity to learn about Morristown’s rich history and taste a meal’s worth of samples from culinary partners while strolling through town. Tour guides present facts and tidbits about the area – past and present. Participants taste samples from: The Artist Baker, Pierogies House, George and Martha’s, Southstreet Creamery, Enjou Chocolate and Seasons Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom Hear more about Historic churches & their cemeteries, the Morristown Green and its statues, several mansions, famous residents and locations of significance during the Revolutionary War and Gilded Age! Tours begin at 1:30 p.m. on the following upcoming dates: Sept. 22 Oct. 13 Oct. 27 Tickets are $64 per person. The ticket includes guided tour and […]

Due to overwhelming demand, Mayo PAC added a second performance of ‘Spamalot‘ to its schedule Sunday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m. This is in addition the 3 p.m. performance. The Tony Award winning Best Musical, Monty Python’s Spamalot, begins its search for the Holy Grail in the Fall of 2018. This outrageous musical comedy is lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” with a book by Eric Idle and music and lyrics by the Grammy Award winning team of Mr. Idle and John Du Prez, Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Flying cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen, and show-stopping musical numbers are just a few of the reasons audiences worldwide are eating up SPAMALOT! Tickets start at $59. The added show is on sale this week: Starlight Society Presale: Wednesday, September 19 at 10 am Member*/Season Ticket Holder Presale: Thursday, September 20 at 10 am Reminder! On the day of presale, simply log into your account to purchase tickets! No presale code needed. General Public: Friday, September 21 at 10 am at MayoArts.org, by phone at […]

Get in the Halloween spirit at the New Jersey Horror Con and Film Festival held at the Showboat Atlantic City from Sept. 21 -23. “Our goal is for fans to see amazing horror films in the indie scene and also an opportunity to mingle with big names in horror,” organizers note on the festival’s Facebook page. “Horror fans can also participate in Q&A sessions, see the amazing vendors from around the Horror scene and watch the best indie films around.” Guests include Cassandra Peterson, aka Elvira: Mistress of the Dark, Linda Blair, Dee Snider, and many more. Sign ups for September 21st, 22nd, 23rd 2018: Tickets: https://fall2018tickets.eventbrite.com Vendor Sign up: https://njhcvendorsfall2018.eventbrite.com Pro Photo ops: https://njhcphotoops2018.eventbrite.com Cash only at the show! Hotel Room discount USE CODE HCON18 link: http://bookings.ihotelier.com/bookings.jsp?groupID=2274135&hotelID=104218 Film Festival Submit: https://filmfreeway.com/NJHCFF Cosplay: https://cosplayfall2018.eventbrite.com Trivia Contest: https://trivafall2018.eventbrite.com Volunteer: https://volunteerfall2018.eventbrite.com Press Sold out! Tickets purchased gain you admission into the Con and Film Festival at show hours. Children age 10 and under FREE when accompanied by a paying adult. Purchasing tickets in advance does not guarantee an autograph in any way shape or form. ALL PRE SOLD TICKETS NEED TO BE PRINTED! YOU MUST PRESENT THESE TICKETS AT THE TICKET LINE […]

Get ready to raise a glass in honor of a festive cause! The 4th Annual 2018 Somerville Pub Crawl in support of the 28th Annual 2019 Somerville Saint Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22. Details are as follows: Time – Registration opens 11:30 AM Where – Registration booth @ Mannion’s Pub. Address – 150 West Main St., Somerville, NJ Start – 1:00 pm sharp End – 6:00 pm Age – 21 – Registrants need identification at check-in Max – Registration will be closed at 100 participants Fee – $25.00 per participant All paid participants will receive a 2018 Somerville Pub Crawl Commemorative Shirt Please indicate your desired shirt size when registering. Pay by Check or PayPal on the Parade Website. Scroll down the site to register online. (PayPal takes credit cards or use your PayPal Account) https://somervillesaintpatricksparade.com/pub-crawl/

From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents Grammy Award®-winning artist Michael McDonald on Friday, September 21, 2018 at 8pm. McDonald, formerly of Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers will perform songs from his newest release, Wide Open, his first album of original material in 17 years, plus hits like “Takin’ It To The Streets,” “Minute By Minute,” “What A Fool Believes,” and more. Tickets range from $35-$120.   Hailing from St. Louis, Michael McDonald arrived in Los Angeles in the early 1970s, honing his talents as a studio musician before becoming an integral part of Steely Dan. In the mid-70s McDonald was invited to join the Doobie Brothers as the band redefined their sound with McDonald as singer, keyboardist, and songwriter on such Top 40 singles as “Takin’ It To The Streets,” “It Keeps You  Runnin,” “Minute By Minute,” and “What A Fool Believes.”   Throughout the 80s and 90s McDonald’s solo career took off with a string of hits including “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near),” “Sweet Freedo,”“On My Own,” and the Grammy Award®-winning James Ingram duet “Yah Mo B There.” McDonald has performed with critically acclaimed  artists across a number of genres, including  Ray  Charles, Aretha  […]

From The Morris Museum: The Morris Museum in partnership with the National Music Museum (Vermillion, South Dakota) presents the exhibit Trumpets, Weird and Wonderful: Treasures from the National Music Museum — 44 fascinating instruments from five continents, on view at the Morris Museum from October 7, 2018 to March 17, 2019. Dating from the late 17th to the late 20th centuries, the instruments are on loan from the National Music Museum’s Joe R. and Joella F. Utley Collection of Brass Instruments, and most of them have never been on public exhibit.  “Trumpets, Weird, and Wonderful” celebrates the rich audible and visual variety of musical instruments in which sound is generated by buzzing the lips, sometimes called brasswinds. Broadly defined, trumpets come in many different forms and sizes and can be made of many different materials: animal horn, bone, conch, wood, and metals. Horns and trumpets have been in use as signaling instruments since prehistoric times. They play a role in ceremony and religion in many cultures. For centuries they have had a leading function in the military and the hunt. They are not only musical instruments but also objects of artistic expression, often with hidden meaning. “This is an exhibit […]

It’s apple season! Whether you like pies, cider, donuts, the simple thrill of picking the forbidden fruit, or all of the above, autumn is the perfect time of year to get out into the orchard and enjoy. From taking a hayride to strolling the gorgeous grounds, there’s plenty to see and do when you visit these Garden State farms, home to some of the tastiest apples in New Jersey. Wightman’s Farms – Morristown Since 1922, this Morristown-based farm offers hayrides, pick-your-own apples and a farm store where you can purchase fruit and potpies and plenty more. Check the website for hours and activities. Sun High Orchards – Randolph Visit friendly farm animals or sample homemade ice cream while picking your own apples. Have a fall birthday? Celebrate with a party in the orchard. Check the website for additional details. Alstede Farms – Chester  This sprawling farm is a popular spot for families as it features festivals and events throughout the season. Don’t miss the upcoming pie-tasting event Nov. 10, when visitors have a chance to sample over 30 varieties of pies. Yum! Visit the website for more information.  Alstede Farms Stony Hill Farms – Chester Visit the market where you can […]

  Michael Moore has another movie out and it’s bound to make a lot of people angry. Including some of his fans. The movie is called “Fahrenheit 11/9” – a take-off on the title of his 2004 anti-Bush picture, and the day after the 2016 election – and of course it’s an anti-Trump film. But it’s also, in its own way, an anti-liberal film. It’s not that Moore has become a conservative. Far from it. He thinks the current president is a disaster, a Hitler with a spray tan. But Moore thinks Hillary Clinton was a what-choice-do-I-have choice at best, just another politician with favors owed to Wall Street and an itchy eagerness to go to war. (He’s even less fond of her husband.) And Barack Obama? Hey, the dad in “Get Out” might have wanted to vote for him a third time, but sometimes Moore seems to regret he ever supported him at all. You see, being liberal isn’t good enough for Moore – or, he says, for the extreme times we live in. An unapologetic, go-for-the-Bernie, radical socialist, Moore’s most hated word is “compromise.” He doesn’t want consensus, he wants a confrontation, and he wants it now. Yet […]

You don’t need lederhosen or even a ticket to Germany to celebrate Oktoberfest this year. Festivities abound across New Jersey with some beginning as early as mid-September and continuing straight through October. With outdoor and tented biergartens for adults, parades, music, and activities for children, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this spirited tradition. Check out this list and mark your calendar! Saint Peter and Paul Parish Oktoberfest – Hoboken Friday, September 21 6 PM – 10 PM – Biergarten open Great German brews, festival food, games, music and more! Saturday, September 22 12 PM – 10 PM – Biergarten open Great German brews, festival food, games, music and more! 11 AM – 5 PM – Kids Village in Stevens Park Fun, Bounce house, face painting, games and more! CANCELLED: NACHO FATHAS OKTOBERFEST BBQ COMES TO PARAMUS ON SEPTEMBER 23RD SMOKED MEATS, BEER, MUSIC AND MORE AT GARDEN STATE PLAZA WHO: Nacho Fathas Oktoberfest BBQ WHEN: Sunday, September 23rd from 12:00pm-8:00pm WHAT: Nacho Fathas Oktoberfest BBQ will celebrate the season with beer, live music and (of course) BBQ in Northern New Jersey outdoors at Garden State Plaza. An array of BBQ vendors will be on hand selling smoked meats […]

The Montclair Public Library in partnership with Central Presbyterian Church will host a conversation between New York Times bestselling author Tayari Jones and author, historian, and artist Dr. Nell Irvin Painter on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Central Presbyterian Church, 46 Park St. in Montclair. These two celebrated authors will discuss Jones’ latest book, An American Marriage, a 2018 Oprah’s Book Club selection. The novel was also chosen for President Barack Obama’s 2018 Summer Reading List. In a Facebook post, he wrote: “One of my favorite parts of summer is deciding what to read when things slow down just a bit, whether it’s on a vacation with family or just a quiet afternoon. This summer I’ve been absorbed by new novels, revisited an old classic, and reaffirmed my faith in our ability to move forward together when we seek the truth….An American Marriage by Tayari Jones is a moving portrayal of the effects of a wrongful conviction on a young African-American couple.” Jones’ other novels include Leaving Atlanta, The Untelling, and Silver Sparrow. Her writing has appeared in Tin House, The Believer, The New York Times, and Callaloo. A member of the Fellowship of Southern Writers, she has […]

From South Orange Performing Arts Center: The South Orange Performing Arts Center will celebrate the countless contributions of community leaders Samuel M. Convissor, Dan Arrighi and Sam Joseph at its 2018 Gala, October 27, 6-11 p.m. They will be honored for their long-time philanthropy and activism that have added immeasurably to the success of SOPAC and the local community. The legendary Grammy Award-winning Judy Collins, of “Send in the Clowns” fame, will provide entertainment for gala attendees. Another music legend and activist, South Orange resident Dionne Warwick will also be presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to SOPAC and local New Jersey communities. Her impact on both the music industry and the many charities she has supported throughout the country are enormous. Born in Newark NJ, Samuel M. Convissor is an active and well-known humanitarian and has always been involved in the not-for-profit volunteer community. He served for forty years on the Board of Trustees and as Vice Chair of the Board of the Children’s Aid Society of New York City. Among his many volunteer activities, he has served as Chairman of the Board of the National Office of Social Responsibility and was an active member of […]

From MPAC: The Tenors, the multi-platinum vocal trio who have been engaging audiences worldwide with their contemporary repertoire, bring their “Fan Favorites” tour to Mayo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, October 17 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $40-$80. With a selection of timeless hit songs, the show will include a pop music, Broadway favorites, as well as songs from The Great American Songbook that were performed by the likes of Sinatra, Neil Diamond and Roy Orbison. Since 2008 The Tenors – Victor Micallef, Clifton Murray, and Fraser Walters – have been thrilling audiences around the world with their powerful songs and outstanding harmonies. Blending classical music and contemporary pop, the award-winning and multi-platinum selling band have achieved international success, showcasing their undeniable charm and diverse vocal styles performing over 700 shows on five continents. The Canadian vocal super group has performed for the last four presidents of the United States, including at the White House Christmas Tree Lighting for the Obama Family, for world leaders at the G20 Summit in Toronto, at the Music For Mercy Event at the Vatican in Rome, in Vancouver for the opening ceremonies of the XXI Olympic Winter Games, and for Her Majesty The Queen’s […]

Update: Cheech’s Own is now open for business. Posted: Feb. 19, 2018: Steven Chiocchi (aka “Cheech”) has always appreciated a strong, well-made cup of coffee. But what the multi-start-up entrepreneur once considered fuel for his busy days has now become his newest business venture. The 30-year-old is serving up a brick-and-mortar shop to showcase his beloved cold brew as well as a complete line of organic coffee, and looks forward to opening Cheech’s Own Coffee Company at 37 West Main St. in Somerville in late April. “I’ve always had a passion for coffee,” he says. “Because I spend most of the day in front of the computer, it helps me stay focused. But I was looking for something that was all-natural, and because I’m lactose intolerant, I like a coffee that tastes great and doesn’t need anything added to it.” Once Chiocchi discovered cold brew several summers ago, his curiosity was piqued. When he found himself spending a lot of money on the elixir, the innovator began exploring how he could come up with his own version of the caffeinated delight. After experimenting with farm-sourced coffee beans, 100 percent natural spring water, and a 24-hour slow-steep method, he developed a […]

From MPAC: The classic pop group Three Dog Night returns to MPAC on Saturday, October 13 at 8 pm. Tickets are $39-$79. Three Dog Night claims some of the most astonishing statistics in popular music. In the years 1969 through 1974, no other group achieved more top 10 hits, moved more records or sold more concert tickets. Boasting chart and sales records that are virtually unmatched in popular music, Three Dog Night had 21 consecutive Top 40 hits, including 3 #1 singles, 11 Top 10’s, 18 straight Top 20’s, 7 million-selling singles and 12 straight RIAA Certified Gold LPs. The group’s hits wind through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio, where they are heard day in and day out, in TV commercials or in major motion pictures. Songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come),” “Joy to the World,” “Black and White,” “Shambala” and “One” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize their continuing popularity. Three Dog Night maintains an aggressive, year-round touring schedule of over 70 dates a year. The hit-filled concerts are performed for generation-spanning audiences by Danny Hutton (founder/lead vocalist) and Michael Allsup (guitar), Paul Kingery (bass/vocals), Pat Bautz (drums), Howard Laravea (keyboards) […]

Just as summer is synonymous with street fairs and carnivals, autumn is wine festival season. Get ready to raise a glass and embrace the fruits of the harvest. Throughout fall, oenophiles across the Garden State will find plenty of opportunities to sample varietals from local vineyards. Take a look and some of the upcoming events and prepare your designated drivers! Valenzano Winery: September 15 & 16 Noon-5:00pm (Rain or Shine) New Jerseys favorite wine and music festival is ramping up for its 16th year. Each year, this event gets bigger, better, more fun, more comfortable and more entertaining. Wine Tasting from 10 of NJ’s favorite wineries 4 stages of music & entertainment Don’t Call Me Francis, The Heartbeats, GoodMan Fiske, and many more of NJ’s hottest entertainers… Over 70 local crafters and vendors Endless food options from local restaurants Pony rides and kids concert Sample Valenzano Winery’s special releases Taste ripened grapes right off the vines Semper Fido Beer Garden Featuring Brotherton Brewery Two of New York City’s most mind-blowing street magicians. IMPORTANT TICKET INFORMATION: In order to better accommodate our guests and to control the crowds, tickets to WineFestNJ must now be purchased in advance. A limited number of […]

Bound Brook hosts the 2018 RiverFest Art & Music Fair on Saturday, September 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Don’t miss this rain-or-shine event where music, food, and craft vendors fill Main Street & Van Horn Plaza. Inflatables and games for the kids make it a family-friendly celebration of art, music, and more. Arts Stage Schedule: 11:05 am   Second Story Band (rock & folk) 11:35 am   Asociación Cultural Pasion Peru NJ (Peruvian Dance) 12:00 pm   St. Anna Greek Orthodox Dance Troupe 12:20 pm   Hiphop-African Dance Workshop with Tatianna J 1:15 pm      Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre (Classical Flamenco) 1:30 pm      Scarlet Mambo Dance Duo (demo & workshop) 2:30 pm      Swing Dance Workshop with Let’s Swing NJ 3:30 pm      Swing-and-Salsa Social with Metrotang Band (2 sets!) For more information, visit Downtown Bound Brook.com.

From the Township of South Orange Village: The weekend of September 14-16 is Stay & Play Weekend in South Orange. There’s no need to go anywhere else for family-friendly fun! FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 South Orange Community Campout– Like the woods but not enough to camp out? Grab your tent and camp gear and head over to the New Waterlands Park between 4 and 7 p.m to set-up for an evening under the moonlight. Bring your family and friends to watch a movie, dine al fresco and play games aplenty. The department will provide volleyball, kickball and Frisbee equipment. Campers are welcome to bring their own games as well. Bagels, juice and coffee will be served in the morning. The event is free but advance registration is required. Click here to print registration form. The Community Campout is brought to you by the South Orange Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Achieve Newstead 5K- The 16th annual Newstead 5K race powered by D&I will kick off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15, from the South Mountain School Annex (112 Glenview Road). The race benefits The Achieve Foundation to support our local schools. In addition to the 5K race, the event […]

Celebrating the today’s best jazz, The Central Jersey Jazz Festival is a free three-day, three-city, three-county all star jazz festival taking place September 14-16 in Flemington, New Brunswick & Somerville. With evening performances Friday and afternoon shows Saturday and Sunday at outdoor venues, the event is a gift for music fans of all ages from across the Garden State and beyond to enjoy. It’s BYO seating for this rain-or-shine festival of sound, which presents an opportunity to support each city’s businesses and eateries while listening to some of the most talented artists performing today. Friday’s Schedule The first day of the Central Jersey Jazz Fest will begin in Flemington on Main Street directly in front of the Historic County Courthouse. 6pm to 7pm – Lakecia Benjamin 7:30pm to 8:30pm – Sachal Vasandani 9pm to 10pm – Dave Stryker **Additional Performance by Jazz House Kids** Saturday’s Schedule The second day of the Central Jersey Jazz Fest will take place in New Brunswick on George Street between Liberty Street & Bayard Street (on NJ Transit’s Northeast Corridor line). 1pm to 2:15pm – Matthew Whitaker 2:45pm to 4pm – Eddie Allen 3hree for Louise 4:30pm to 6pm – Terri Lyne Carrington **Additional Performances by New […]

From MPAC: Mayo Performing Arts Center will play host to ‘The Price is Right Live‘ stage show on Thursday, October 11 at 8 pm. Tickets are $49-$69. The Morristown event will be hosted by Mark. L Walberg, host of Antiques Roadshow. The Price Is Right Live is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to “Come On Down” and play classic games from television’s longest running and most popular game show.  Contestants can win cash, appliances, vacations and possibly even a new car by playing favorites like Plinko, Cliffhangers, The Big Wheel, and the fabulous Showcase! Playing to near sold out audiences for more than ten years, ‘The Price Is Right Live’ has given away over 12 million dollars in cash and prizes to lucky audience members all across North America. ‘The Price is Right’ is the longest running game show in television history and loved by generations of viewers.  This on-stage travelling version gives fans the chance to experience the same fun and winning excitement up close and in-person. ‘The Price Is Right’ is produced by FremantleMedia North America and licensed by FremantleMedia. *No Purchase Necessary to register for chance to be a contestant.  Open to legal […]

The Bickford Theatre at the Morris Museum is pleased to present ‘Souvenir: a Fantasia on the Life of Florence Foster Jenkins‘ by Stephen Temperley from September 27 – 30, 2018. April Woodall stars as Florence Foster Jenkins and Nicholas Kaminiski as Cosmé McMoon. This production is directed by David Edwards in conjunction with Surflight Theatre of Beach Haven, NJ. ‘Souvenir’ is the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a wealthy society eccentric who suffered under the delusion that she was a great coloratura soprano. For more than half a century, her name has been guaranteed to produce explosions of derisive laughter as she was in fact incapable of producing two consecutive notes in tune. Her annual recitals in the ballroom of the Ritz Carlton Hotel, brought her extraordinary fame. As news of her terrible singing spread, so did her celebrity. Her growing mob of fans packed her recitals, stuffing handkerchiefs in their mouths to stifle their laughter—which Mrs. Jenkins blissfully mistook for cheers. The climax of her career was a single concert at Carnegie Hall in 1944. Famously, it sold out in two hours. ‘Souvenir,’ by turn hilarious and poignant, tells her story through the eyes of her accompanist, Cosmé […]

Lambertville and New Hope host their Annual Art & Antiques Weekend, October 13 and 14. Many stores will feature special sales, offers, and merchandise expressly for the weekend event. So if you’ve been looking for that perfect piece for your home or office, or a one-of-a-kind gift for the person on your holiday list who has everything, there’s never been a better time to check out the crown jewels of the River Towns! A listing of the participating venues will be provided at The Delaware River Towns Chamber office at 77 Bridge Street in Lambertville, the gateway to the event. Red (for Antiques) and Yellow (for Art) Flags will be displayed outside each of those venues. Many will also feature refreshments, from cider to wine, cookies to cheese. In addition to the shopping, there will be live art shows with artists painting street and canal scenes plein aire and live music performances. The weekend also marks the conclusion of the Outside the White Cube exhibit where paintings from 24 local artists can be viewed and bid on at the New Hope Arts Center. Of special interest, the public is invited to attend these events throughout the weekend: Sat & Sun […]

With reporting from Adrianna Donat. Since it opened its doors in August. Liv Breads in Millburn has been cranking out fresh, delicious smelling baked goods that are flying off the racks. Liv Breads focuses on breads — both seeded and plain baguettes, sourdough loaves and country style breads — made in a state of the art bread oven with cookware imported from France. But owners Elana and Yaniv Livneh pretty much can supply you with anything that’s baked — from danishes to croissants, breakfast brioche sandwiches, lunchtime quiches, foccacia and more. (They also have salad!) The shop itself is a welcoming, open and bright environment with a modern industrial flare,Counter Culture Coffee drinks make it a great spot to stop and dine as well as shop and dash. Everything they sell is fresh daily. “Unlike most other bakeries, we don’t have a night baker,” said Elana Livneh. “All our breads are made here starting at 4:30 a.m.” And they bake all day, so the loaf you buy at 4 p.m. is likely to be warm, instead of 12 hours old. At the end of each day, they donate un-purchased bread. The majority of the breads are made using traditional European techniques, but […]

  Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and Maplewood Literary Award winner Dan Barry will be reading from and signing copies of this new book This Land: America, Lost and Found,  at 7:30 p..m. on September 13 at Words Bookstore in Maplewood, NJ. From the publisher: In the wake of Hurricane Katrina and on the eve of a national recession, New York Times writer Dan Barry launched a column about America – not the one populated only by cable-news pundits, but the America defined and redefined by those who clean the hotel rooms, tend the beet fields, endure disasters both natural and manmade. For more than a decade, Barry crisscrossed the country, filing deeply moving stories from the tiniest dot on the American map to the city that calls itself the Capital of the World. In THIS LAND: America, Lost and Found (Black Dog & Leventhal; September 11, 2018), Barry selects nearly 100 essays from a decade of his distinctive This Land columns that explore uniquely American moments from every corner of our country: essays about a community’s send-off for an 18-year-old beginning her Army career in exchange for college tuition in Mohave Valley, Arizona, and the larger meaning of a knocked-down telephone booth in […]

From NJCU Center for the Arts: The NJCU Center for the Arts presents the annual NJCU Alumni Jazz Big Band Concert on Friday, September 14 at 6:00 p.m. on the J. Owen Grundy Pier, Exchange Place, in Jersey City. Conducted by retired NJCU Professor Richard Lowenthal, this free concert will feature GRAMMY Award-winning guest artist Paquito D’Rivera in a tribute to WBGO Newark, the world’s flagship jazz radio station, and the 80th anniversary of the Benny Goodman Orchestra’s landmark performance at Carnegie Hall. Born in Cuba, jazz legend Paquito D’Rivera grew up listening to Benny Goodman recordings – in fact, it was these records that inspired his childhood dream of becoming a jazz musician in New York City. The winner of 14 GRAMMY Awards, D’Rivera has had an extraordinary career that spans jazz, Latin jazz and classical music. He is the recipient of the Living Jazz Legend Award from The Kennedy Center, the National Medal of the Arts from the United States, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Carnegie Hall, and an NEA Jazz Master from the National Endowment for the Arts. Each September since 2013, the NJCU Alumni Jazz Big Band has brought together the University’s professional graduates with high-profile guests for a waterfront concert at […]

Multiple Grammy Award winner Diana Krall performs material from her recent release Turn up the Quiet as well as fan favorites at Mayo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, October 10 at 8 pm. Tickets are $82.50-$153.50. The “Turn Up The Quiet World Tour” has been wowing audiences with material from Krall’s stunning latest album Turn Up The Quiet (Verve Records) and has now become the biggest in Ms. Krall’s career.  Earning critical praise, DOWNBEAT Magazine called the album “spellbinding. Krall knows how to put her own distinctive stamp on decades-old standards, making them sound fresh and vibrant.” Turn Up The Quiet holds significant importance as it was the last recording Krall made with her long-time mentor and collaborator, producer Tommy LiPuma, before his sudden passing last year and is dedicated to his memory. Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. To date, her albums have garnered five Grammy® Awards, ten Juno® Awards and have also earned nine gold, three platinum and seven multi-platinum albums. Krall’s unique artistry transcends any single musical style and has made her one of the most recognizable artists of our time. Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) […]

Modeled after successful book festivals in other communities throughout the world, the Morristown Festival of Books brings together acclaimed authors with readers and book lovers. The festival will be held Friday, Oct. 12 and Saturday, Oct. 13. The 2018 Festival, a rain-or-shine event, will feature a full roster of authors, including Joyce Carol Oates, A.J. Finn, Kate Morton, and more. Authors will speak and answer questions in one-hour sessions at one of several convenient Morristown locations. Book sales and signings, following author presentations, will occur at a tent on the grounds of the historic Vail Mansion. Why Morristown? Morristown is an ideal location for a Festival of Books. It is accessible for both authors and attendees throughout the NJ/NY/Pennsylvania area and beyond. Several of Morristown’s iconic historic locations have embraced the Festival and opened their doors to host the author venues. Our vibrant and diverse community has a bustling town center, an active arts community, and avid readers from all walks of life. And finally, in Morristown and surrounding communities we have an abundance of dedicated book lovers to volunteer, organize and support this ground-breaking event. Where will the authors speak? The Festival venues include the Morristown and Morris Township Library, St. […]

The Township of Verona and the local business community present Verona’s first ever Restaurant Week! Enjoy 5 nights of delicious meals at Verona’s restaurants from Sept. 16 through Sept. 20! Three-course Prix Fixe Dinner menus will be available for $25 at each participating location. Other specials will be going on all week as well! Reservations are highly recommended but walk-ins will be welcome. Visit www.VeronaNJ.org/RestaurantWeek for all up-to-date info! Share your meals, use #VeronaNJEats & #VRW2018!

Before hitting the stage this fall for their Christmas Spectacular, the world-renowned Radio City Rockettes are going to visit some libraries in New Jersey for arts and crafts. According to a release from the Rockettes: “It’s never too early to light up the holidays! Before rehearsals begin for the 2018 Christmas Spectacular, the Radio City Rockettes will visit six local tri-state area libraries to engage with fans and families. Join the Rockettes from September 12-14 for holiday lights-themed crafting sessions where children and families from the local communities will be able to decorate jars filled with festive lights. The visits are free and open to the public.” The Rockettes will be at Millburn Library on Sept. 13 and at South Brunswick on September 14. September 13 Millburn Free Public Library 200 Glen Ave, Millburn, NJ 07041 3:30pm – 4:30pm September 14 South Brunswick Public Library 110 Kingston Ln, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 4:00pm – 5:00pm   “The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes will run from November 9, 2018- January 1, 2019 at Radio City Music Hall. The production continues to be enhanced with fresh and dynamic content while preserving what has made the Christmas Spectacular a beloved holiday […]

From Summit Downtown, Inc.: Arts + Cars will be held in downtown Summit, rain or shine, from 10am-4pm on Sunday, September 16. Summit Downtown will host an event that’s fun for the whole family! From 10am to 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 from the B Street Band and others, and children’s activities. These activities are being organized cooperatively by the Summit Police Athletic League (P.A.L.), Summit Downtown, Inc., and the Visual Arts Center of NJ. Art Festival: The Summit Downtown Art Festival is back! This is an outdoor, juried art show with plenty of art and wares for sale including jewelry, paintings, ceramics, clothing, and more. The Art Festival will be located on Springfield Avenue between Maple Street and Summit Avenue. The Art Festival is co-organized by theVisual Arts Center of New Jersey. Live Entertainment: The day kicks off with comedic acrobats Barely Balanced doing feats that will make you gasp! Bring the family early, and then enjoy the live music of the B Street Band, the preeminent Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band, and the Matt Mattheiss Band. The stage will be located […]

From: State Theatre New Jersey:  State Theatre New Jersey presents Tony Award®-winning actor Alan Cumming in his new show Legal Immigrant on Saturday, September 29, 2018, 8pm. In addition to the show, all ticket buyers for Legal Immigrant are welcomed to come early for a pre-show Pride Night reception from 7pm-8pm in the second floor lobby of the State Theatre. Tickets for Legal Immigrant range from $39-$69. The show Legal Immigrant—a collection of musings on his 10 years as a United States citizen, growing older, and what it feels like to be an immigrant in today’s America—is what Alan describes as “a true old-fashioned cabaret, a smorgasbord of genres, styles, and tales; laughter, tears and, of course, provocation!” The show features songs such as Walter Mark’s “The Singer,” Stephen Sondheim’s “Old Friends,” “Not A Day Goes By” from Merrily We Roll Along, and “Losing My Mind” from Follies. In addition, Cumming will cover songs made famous by female musical artists such as Pink, Edith Piaf, Adele, and Marlene Dietrich. He will also include a styling of Schubert and Peggy Lee together in one song and Scottish artists Robert Burns and The Proclaimers will make an appearance. About the Artist Alan Cumming is a […]

From Essex County: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to “Essex County Remembers,” a solemn ceremony at the Essex County Eagle Rock September 11th Memorial that will mark the 17th anniversary of the tragedies in New York, Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania. Scheduled to join the County Executive are U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., NJ Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver and NJ Attorney General Gurbir Grewal. The annual ceremony will be held as follows: Date:            Tuesday, September 11, 2018 Time:           8 a.m. Place:          Essex County Eagle Rock September 11th Memorial                               Essex County Eagle Rock Reservation, Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange, NJ “After the attacks, people spontaneously came to Eagle Rock Reservation to view the tragedy unfold at the Twin Towers and leave cards, letters, photos and flowers in an impromptu memorial in honor of their loved ones. I knew immediately that this was the natural location for a memorial because of the public attraction to this site and the unparalleled view of the World Trade Center from the lookout area,” DiVincenzo said. “Our September 11th Memorial is a special place for people to come for solace and comfort because of its unique location and its powerful message of peace and hope,” he […]

The 4th annual ‘Boots at the Beach’ Country Music Festival will return to the North Wildwood Entertainment District, along Olde New Jersey Avenue Friday, September 14 through Sunday, September 16. The year’s event will be bigger than ever featuring three full days of country music, vendors, crafts, food and more. Admission to the festival is FREE! with festivities taking place from noon until 10 p.m. on Friday; 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Olde New Jersey Avenue comes alive with sights and sounds of a country fair with vendors lining the street selling clothing, wares and all things country. Refreshments, food and live country music on two outdoor stages will take place all day long and into the night. The following performances are scheduled to take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday on the Tito’s Stage: Friday’s featured country bands will be 40 North from 1-4 p.m., Sherwood Brothers from 4-7 p.m., and Payton Taylor from 7-10 p.m.; Saturday’s featured bands are Steel Creek from 1-4 p.m.,Adam Yarger from 4-7 p.m., and Triple Rail Turn from 7-10 p.m., and Sunday’sfeatured bands are the Chesapeake Drifters from […]

From the South Mountain Blues Festival: For the first time in history, two days of rain caused the cancellation of  “New Jersey’s largest free blues festival” scheduled for September 9.   Following the announcement of a one-week postponement, and after Festival organizers conferred with executives Essex County — the major sponsor and provider of the venue — until the wee hours this Monday, the painful decision was made to cancel.   Producer Mike Griot stated that “we tried to pull together the impossible and reschedule for September 15, but ultimately could not accomplish that due to scheduling and logistics issues.” With performers heavily booked and literally travelling the world, the task of wrangling enough musical acts for a “first-class endeavor of this magnitude in five days was insurmountable,” according to Griot. He noted that the (unrelated) Montclair Jazz Festival was likewise canceled due to rain in August.   Preparations for the milestone 10th annual South Mountain International Blues Festival, expected to be the largest ever, will soon begin.    The all-day, all-FREE SMIBF, formerly the South ORANGE International Blues Festival, outgrew the original location in the Village, and has been hosting thousands of music fans yearly at the spacious Oakdale picnic area in the South Mountain Reservation in West […]

The Morris Museum has new programming this fall for children of all ages to enjoy. Programs range from two new exhibitions involving music and STEM to a Chemistry Family Fun day, Halloween fun, November Vacation Days programming, and children’s theatre. Many programs are free with Museum Admission. Please check for registration information for each event. For Children’s Theatre tickets visit https://morrismuseum.org/childrens-theatre/ or call the Box Office at 973.971.3706. To become a Member of the Morris Museum and attend Family Fun Days for Free, visit morrismuseum.org/museum-membership, email membership@morrismuseum.org,or call 973.971.3721. Exhibitions Things Come Apart Saturday, September 8 – Sunday, December 2, 2018 Check out this traveling exhibit, on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, which examines disassembled objects through the lens of photographer Todd McLellan. 

Younger visitors to the exhibition will also have the opportunity to become part of the experience through the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center’s Spark!Lab activities. These collaborative, hands-on challenges offer hypothetical situations that allow critical thinking and team creativity to flourish and provide fun skill building in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). The Spark!Lab activity kits are provided through a grant from the Smithsonian Women’s Committee. Invent-A-Vehicle (Saturday, September 15, 11:00AM and 1:00PM): Visitors sketch and then build […]

The days are getting just a little cooler. The nights are getting a tiny bit longer. You may not be ready to put away the beach passes and suntan lotion just yet but – face it — another summer’s almost gone. But there’s a bright side. The end of the hot-weather season means the end of the silly-movie season – and the beginning of entertainment for grown-ups. Serious dramas, and smart documentaries. Real-life stories and adult thrillers. Oh, there are still some popcorn pictures in the mix, calculated crowd-pleasers like the sci-fi remake “The Predator” (September 14), the comic book “Venom” (October 5), and yet another re-done “Halloween” (October 19), with Jamie Lee Curtis back for more. There are big cartoons (“Smallfoot,” September 28), lush Disney fantasies (“The Nutcracker and the Four Realms,” November 2) and more Harry Potter spin-offs (“Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindenwald,” November 16). There are even some big-budget originals (“Overlord,” about Nazi-made monsters, coming out November 9). But here’s what I’m really looking forward to… ROMANCES “Crazy Rich Asians” proved there’s a need for (and delightful rewards in) diversity in Hollywood. So expect “Bel Canto” to provide even more, as the distinguished Ken Watanabe finds himself […]

The National Council of Jewish Women, Essex County Section (NCJW/Essex) announces its 2018 Opening Event featuring the charming and witty best-selling author, Jennifer Weiner. The event will be held Oct. 23 at Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park. Jennifer Weiner’s books have spent over five years on The New York Times bestseller list with over 11 million copies in print in 36 countries. Among her novels is In Her Shoes, which was turned into a major motion picture starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine. In addition to her many novels she has written The Guy Not Taken, a short story collection, The Littlest Bigfoot, the first in a trilogy of middle-grade novels, and Hungry Heart: Adventures in Life, Love, and Writing, a nonfiction collection. With a wide fan base on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, Weiner uses her social media platform to encourage women’s voices, self-esteem, and body positivity. She has appeared on Time magazine’s list of “140 Best Twitter Feeds,” and Forbes magazine put her on their list of “25 Working Moms to Follow on Twitter,” writing “tune in for hilarious shards of brilliance.” Weiner also is a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times Op-Ed and Sunday Review, and her essays have been reprinted in […]

Bartenders from some of New Jersey’s top restaurants shared fall cocktail recipes with NJ NEXT that are as colorful and enchanting as autumn leaves. Whether you’re hosting a get-together and want to impress your guests, or you simply want to toast the arrival of crisp weather, these elixirs will do the trick. Editor’s note: this article was originally published in November 2017. Restaurant Serenade’s Stone Fence Nancy Laird, who owns Chatham’s Restaurant Serenade with her husband, critically-acclaimed Chef James Laird, shared one of the upscale eatery’s perennial fall cocktails: the Stone Fence. Ingredients: 2 oz. Maker’s Mark bourbon 5 oz. fresh apple cider 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice 3 dashes of simple syrup, optional apple slice for garnish cherry for garnish Combine all (except garnish) in shaker with ice.  Shake to combine. Strain over ice into an old-fashioned glass. Garnish with an apple slice and cherry. Restaurant Serenade is located at 6 Roosevelt Ave. in Chatham. Call 973-701-0303 or visit the restaurant’s website for more information. Rails Steakhouse ‘s Perfect Rose When a restaurant boasts its own speakeasy, you know the drinks are going to be something special. Arthur Giron, general manager at Rails, offered the Towaco-based steakhouse’s recipe for The […]

Get a little fresh air, exercise and a fascinating history lesson about the nation’s oldest seaside resort while enjoying a bike ride around downtown Cape May with Curious Cape May, a bicycle tour company dedicated to sharing intriguing and unusual tales about this historic community. Curious Cape May, started by local residents Laura Shaddock, Wendy Collins, and Ryan Testa, offers the opportunity to pedal along with an expert guide and hear secrets and little-known stories about the less-traveled side streets as well as beloved destinations Cape May is known for. Bikers are provided with three-speed cycles that are comfortable and easy to pedal. One reviewer referred to them as “the Mercedes of bikes.” Hand and coast brakes, bells, and mirrors are all included. Helmets are distributed, too, to ensure the tours, which last 90 minutes to two hours, are as safe as possible. Cyclists make stops along the way and see photos from the past. Ride with friends or make new ones while cruising through this scenic setting. Priced at $35 per person, tours, both group and private, can be booked online. Located at 122 Sunset Boulevard in West Cape May, Curious Cape May can be reached by calling 833-386-7433, by emailing info@curiouscapemay.com, […]

From Kean University: Broadway and television star Bebe Neuwirth is set to open Kean Stage’s 2018/19 season with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 15, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 16, at Enlow Recital Hall. Although the Princeton, N.J., native may be best known for her Emmy Award-winning role as Lilith Sternin Crane on the popular television show Cheers, she has also conquered Broadway, winning a Tony Award for her role in Sweet Charity, and starring in Damn Yankees, Fosse and A Chorus Line. She received her second Tony Award for her portrayal of Velma in Chicago. A few years later, she played Roxie in the show, making her the only triple threat to have played both parts on Broadway. This multi-talented performer has played everything from Anita in West Side Story at the Cleveland Opera to Katherine in The Taming of the Shrew at the Williamstown Theatre Festival. At Kean Stage, Neuwirth will perform her cabaret act, Stories with Piano. This intimate show consists of songs by a wide range of songwriters, including Kander and Ebb, Tom Waits, Edith Piaf and German composer Kurt Weill. “This isn’t the kind of show where I tell stories about my […]

Newark is hot — and not just because of the recent weather! New Jersey’s biggest city is booming, which is no surprise because of its great, vibrant neighborhoods. One prime area is Mt. Prospect Avenue in the North Ward, which boasts thriving shops and restaurants, high rise towers with stunning views of Manhattan, a magnificent cathedral, the stately homes of Forest Hill, and Branch Brook Park, 360 beautiful acres with its famous cherry blossoms and a trout-stocked lake right in the middle of the city. Located at the highest point on the ridge between the Passaic River and Branch Brook Park and extending from Bloomfield Avenue to the Belleville border, Mt. Prospect has much to offer both residents and visitors. On Sunday, September 9, the sixth annual Mt. Prospect Avenue Car Show takes place from 11am to 4pm, with over 200 classic automobiles that can be ogled. Don’t miss it! Get your tickets now. The Mount Prospect Partnership, which is working with the business community to revitalize the North Ward, is the engine behind upcoming events that bring neighbors and visitors to the vibrant area. According to its Senior Project Manager, Steve Hillyer, “Mount Prospect is perfectly located, a quiet distance away […]

Join four-time World Series Champion and Latin Grammy Nominated guitarist and composer Bernie Williams, and his All-Star Band for an evening of music featuring fusions of jazz, rock, and the tropical rhythms of Williams’ Latin heritage on Sept. 8 from 8  p.m., 6:30pm, for dinner, in the Grunin Center Gallery. Main Stage, Tickets $59 – $45 Pre-Show Dinner available from Prime 13 for $25 pp. Post-Show Meet & Greet available for $51 pp. Growing up in Puerto Rico, Bernie Williams discovered his love for baseball and music at roughly the same time. At the age of eight he fell in love with the sounds of a flamenco guitar his merchant-marine father brought home from Spain, and also felt the same exhilaration when he first picked up a baseball bat. In his 16-year career patrolling centerfield for the New York Yankees, his passion for music never waned, and the sound of his guitar would often be heard emanating from the clubhouse or during team flights. Whether acoustic or electric, a guitar was a constant presence in the star’s locker or equipment bag, and it was no surprise when he demonstrated how serious his musical pursuit was with the release of his first […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.: Essex County opened the Flamingo Exhibit at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo on Wednesday, August 29 and dedicated the new attraction as the “Drill Family Flamingo Exhibit” in honor of the West Orange family’s long-time relationship with the Zoo, which dates back to the original opening in 1963. “The Flamingo Exhibit is a dynamic attraction that will captivate the attention of our visitors. Not only can you see the flamingos up close but, if you stand on the second floor of our Savanna Café, you can look right into the exhibit area,” DiVincenzo said. “With their unique appearance and colorful feathers, the flamingos are sure to become a favorite of our visitors,” he added. “Turtle Back Zoo is more than just your typical zoo. Because of the leadership of County Executive DiVincenzo, it has become a learning center for children and adults that promotes conservation and environmental stewardship,” NJ State Senator and Deputy Chief of Staff Teresa Ruiz said. The Zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for children and senior citizens, and free for children younger than 2 years. For […]

Attention Garden State ramen fans: Ani Ramen, the wildly popular noodle restaurant with locations in Jersey City and Montclair, will be opening two new outposts. A third location of the acclaimed ramen house and bar will open in Summit (427 Springfield Avenue) this fall, according to a press release. It will feature Ani Ramen’s signature Japanese Ramen bowls, as well as bao buns, homemade crispy gyoza and other Japanese Izakaya small plates. (See menu here). Looking ahead to 2019, Maplewood residents can expect to enjoy Ani Ramen right in the Village, at 149 Maplewood Avenue. “We are very excited about adding Ani Ramen to the Maplewood food scene,” said Maplewood Mayor Vic DeLuca. “Our residents and visitors to our town will enjoy their ‘dining experience’ at Ani Ramen. We know the restaurant will be a great success.” What makes Ani Ramen such a hit? According to the company’s website, the Ani team partnered with the renowned Sun Noodle company and tested hundreds of combinations of noodle, broth and other ingredients to come up with their ramen variations. The restaurants are dine-in only, no take out (at least not for now), and reservations are only taken for large groups. Prepare to […]

From Cirque Entertainment: Are you ready LAWRENCEVILLE? Do you love thrilling, wicked, sexy, or even dangerous things? Be ready to escape to a new world! Paranormal Cirque, presented Sept. 13-16 in Lawrenceville, will expose you to a unique creation of combined theatre, circus, and cabaret with a new European style flare. Cirque Italia is now presenting a brand-new show for a mature audience! This innovative horror story features different shades of sexy and an incomparable storyline – the only thing you can be sure of during this unique experience is that you will not know what to expect! It might be hard to divide reality and illusion! Are you intrigued yet? Dare to let yourself get wicked for one night under our Big TOP and live on the edge with Paranormal Cirque show! You will fall into a parallel world and end up surrounded by monstrous creatures with hidden talents that will amaze you with the circus arts. Even from a distance you need be careful……….our dark “CASTLE” (also known as the Big Top) has been known to mesmerize many with its swirling Black and Red hypnotic colors. Be prepared as soon as you step through our welcoming Entrance gates to […]

From Morris Museum: A quarter-inch-thick smartphone can be used as a watch, a camera, a theater, a map and even a mobile bank. Things Come Apart, a traveling exhibition circulated by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and featuring the works of creative photographer and tinkerer Todd McLellan, looks inside the smartphone and dozens of other everyday technologies. The traveling exhibition will open September 8, 2018 at the Morris Museum in Morristown, NJ, and remain on view through December 2, 2018 before continuing on a 12-city national tour. McLellan spent countless hours disassembling objects of all sizes and functions—from a watch to a laptop and a Walkman to an upright piano—with painstaking precision into hundreds or even thousands of pieces. With each object fully stripped to its bare parts, he methodically worked backwards, laying out each item in reverse order from the protective case to the smallest circuits until the true scope of each design was captured. The resulting images, grouped alongside other items built for similar purposes, provide a visual history lesson of mechanical innovation and highlight the contrast between old-world craftsmanship and sleek modern engineering. Through more than 40 captivating photographs, videos, and objects encased in acrylic, […]

From Summit Downtown Inc: Last year’s exciting event is back! Summit Downtown will host an event that’s fun for the whole family! From 10am to 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 from the B Street Band and others, and children’s activities. These activities are being organized cooperatively by the Summit Police Athletic League (P.A.L.), Summit Downtown, Inc., and the Visual Arts Center of NJ. Art Festival: The Summit Downtown Art Festival is back! This is an outdoor, juried art show with plenty of art and wares for sale. The Art Festival will be located on Springfield Avenue between Maple Street and Summit Avenue. The Art Festival is co-organized by the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. Live Entertainment: The day kicks off with incredible acrobats doing feats that will make you gasp! Bring the family early, and then enjoy the live music of the B Street Band, the preeminent Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band, and the Matt Mattheiss Band. The stage will be located on upper Beechwood Road. Special thanks to Regal Bank for sponsoring this great musical entertainment! Classic Car Show: Organized by […]

From SOMa Sport and Social and Pollock Properties Group: Join Hamilton Chicago’s Miguel Cervantes at the first-ever Family Fun Picnic and Home Run Derby on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 3, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at DeHart Park in Maplewood, NJ. SOMa Sport and Social, the group behind the popular SOMa Co-ed Softball League, is partnering with Vanessa Pollock’s Care Serve Give, E Quality Systems, and Blink Fitness to host the first-ever Strikeout Epilepsy, a Home Run Derby fundraiser and picnic that promises fun for the whole family this Labor Day. Miguel Cervantes, a co-founder of SOMa’s Coed Softball League, will take a break from his leading role in the Chicago production of Hamilton to help raise funds for Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy, or CURE. It’s been a personal cause for Miguel and his wife Kelly since their daughter was diagnosed with a type of epilepsy known as infantile spasms. The inaugural event, at Maplewood’s family friendly DeHart Park ball field, will offer: Women’s and Men’s Home Run Derby (Pre-registration required) with a grand prize of one-year membership to Blink Fitness Food from Benji’s Taqueria of West Orange Ice Cream Truck DJ Matty Stuart of MD Music and Entertainment Inflatables for […]

The Big Brew Beer Festival is a perfect opportunity for beer aficionados to meet and hang out. With over 200 unique tastings it’s a great place to discover new beers and speak to brewery representatives. The Big Brew Beer Festival Saturday,October 6, 2018 The Morristown Armory 430 Western Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960 Check out a fun-filled time of great craft beer, music, food and entertainment. EVENT SCHEDULE:   SESSION 1: 12pm – 4pm General Admission $60  ($45 with $15 LABORDAY discount) Designated Driver: $15 (no discounts apply) SESSION 2: 5:30pm-9:30pm  General Admission: $60 ($45 with $15 LABORDAY discount)  Designated Driver: $15 (no discounts apply) ENTERTAINMENT THE OUTCROPS SESSION 2 – STEREO JUNKIES

From MPAC: Veteran blues guitarist Robert Cray and his band perform at Mayo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, September 6 at 8 pm.  Tickets are $29-$59. Open ears and an open mind are the essence of singer, guitarist and songwriter Robert Cray’s approach to writing, recording and playing music. He has created a sound that rises from American roots and arrives today both fresh and familiar. In just over 40 years Cray and his band have recorded 20 studio releases, 15 of which have been on the Billboard charts, and played bars, concert halls, festivals and arenas around the world. There are five Grammys with Cray’s name on them, and he has a suitcase full of W.C. Handy blues awards. Four years ago, Cray was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. Growing up in the Northwest, Robert Cray listened to the gospel of the Five Blind Boys of Mississippi, Bobby Bland’s soul, Jimi Hendrix’s rock guitar and the Beatles pop sounds. He would bring all of the influences into play throughout his career, but his teenage band was captivated by Southern Soul and the blues. “In the early days of the band we were getting back into O.V. Wright […]

Madison’s recently opened Bottle Hill Tavern brings to life a concept that began in the early 19th century. The family-friendly eatery, located at 13 Waverly Place (formerly home to Poor Herbie’s), pays homage to the original Bottle Hill Tavern, which was constructed around 1812 on the site of an older inn of the very same name. After Poor Herbie’s, the Madison staple run by the Mullins family for more than 25 years, closed in 2017, four long-time Madison families (Horn, Haralampoudis, Flemming, and Horsey) purchased the establishment and renamed it the Bottle Hill Tavern, a nod to the town’s legendary meeting house. The historic tavern has seen its share of interesting guests. According to Bottle Hill Tavern’s website, the Marquis de Lafayette, was a French military officer who served under George Washington in the Continental Army, visited the tavern in 1825. Today, the restaurant, which opened its door in July, welcomes families, friends, neighbors, and out-of-town visitors to celebrate that rich history along with great food and drinks. The menu features burgers, barbecue, seafood, steaks, salads, soups, sandwiches, and plenty more. Don’t miss the Sunday brunch, which boasts a “Build Your Own Bloody Mary” bar. Guests with a sweet tooth can sample $5 desserts, […]

Update, 8/30/18: Sabatino’s is in its soft opening, serving pizza and specials 12-9 p.m. daily (except Mondays for now). 973-327-9977, Email- Info@sabatinosmaplewood.com. It’s for real! Ahead of its to-be-announced grand opening, Sabatino’s at 513 Valley Street in Maplewood previewed its menu with pizza only in a soft opening this weekend. The best news? The reviews are all raves. The restaurant will specialize in pizza and Italian food. Earlier this year, owner Sabatino Perrotta, Jr. reported, “We aren’t doing anything half-way,” noting that he had ordered a high end Marsal pizza oven, and was gutting the space to create the kitchen he needs to make fine Italian food. Perrotta gradulated from Columbia High School in Maplewood in 2010. He learned his craft at the Culinary Institute of America and while living in Italy. “I love the culinary aspect of Italian food,” he said, “but I also appreciate a good, fast slice of pizza.” A Sunday brunch including menu items such as grilled avocado toast and eggs benedict is currently planned for Sundays. More information will be available as the restaurant gets closer to opening. You can follow Sabatino’s progress on Instagram at: SabatinosPizzaGram. This story will be updated with more information on […]

From Gail Schoenberg PR: A bevy of new eateries is slated to open this fall throughout New Jersey: Kai Yang  345 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair A casual, fun Thai concept from Restaurateur/Chef/Owner Sheree Sarabhaya (Spice II, Boon Thai Kitchen), who grew up in Bangkok, with its Thai market street food such as kai yang–meaning “grilled chicken.” Kai Yang’s organic chickens will be rotisserie grilled and accompanied by traditional papaya salad, sticky rice sides and dipping sauces. The space will evoke the vibrant colors and feel of a Thai street market. Opening September. The Ashford, 145 Newark Avenue, Jersey City From the owners of NYC’s Chinese Tuxedo and The Grayson, with a Jose Garces alum in the kitchen and a Macao Trading Co. vet behind the bar, this 17,000 square-foot multi-level dining destination on Jersey City’s downtown “restaurant row” will offer New American food & craft cocktails. Rooftop with open-air kitchen and raw bar. Multiple private event spaces. Opening September. Six26, 128 Christopher Columbus Dr., Jersey City Within the same building, on the opposite block, The Ashford’s team are thrilled to present a new tri-state LGBTQ destination. Cocktail-focused, with a menu of light bites, and plenty of entertainment. A lounge with a downtown vibe; a rooftop for day/night chilling. Opening late September. House of Que, 500 Port […]

From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents 4U: A Symphonic Celebration of Prince, the first and only officially approved symphonic production by The Prince Estate on Thursday Sept. 6 8 p.m. Questlove—avid Prince fan and a member of The Roots—has helped curate the music and orchestral arrangements that will be played by the symphony. Tickets range from $45-$95. The producers, Live Nation Urban and TCG Entertainment, will present the music of Prince like never before, with a full symphony orchestra. In addition, the show will feature a live band with world class musicians and vocalists who will perform alongside the orchestra. 4U will draw from Prince’s singular and extensive music catalog, highlighting many of his hits that captivated generations of fans, alongside lesser known gems. April 21, 2016 will live in infamy as the day we lost a genius, an icon, a legend. Prince is widely regarded as one of the best musicians ever to live, and one of the greatest showmen of all time. His music makes up the soundtracks of our lives—from the parties of our youth to our weddings; and we share his music with our children who repeat the cycle. Great music lives on […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Nothing brings people together like an evening of tantalizing food and drink, in this case accompanied by music and a celebrity chef slam! On Tuesday, Sept. 25, 6-9 p.m., SOPAC hosts Savor the Arts –An Evening of Culinary Adventure in the Loft. Two local chefs will vie to deliver the tastiest New Jersey-sourced dish and several New Jersey food and beverage purveyors will also be on hand to share their own farm-to-table offerings. Patrons are encouraged to mix and mingle while sampling the wares; guests’ favorites will be announced at the end of the night after the chef slam. Local foodies won’t want to miss this new community event featuring culinary skill and beverage pairings as performance art. The evening begins with several food stations, each paired with a complement of wine, beer or cider to fully exploit and embrace the flavors and complexities of the dishes on offer. Emcee and wine enthusiast Hank Zona is on deck to keep the evening- and the libations- flowing and to guide Savor guests through the pairings. Who doesn’t love a celebrity cook-off? Vying for top honors for the evening will be up-and-coming chefs Leia Gaccione of South + […]

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, […]