From the Paper Mill Playhouse: The theater comes to you! Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director, Michael Stotts-Managing Director), recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, has announced the schedule for this week’s streaming events. Enjoy free, live events, never before accessible to the public! Every week Paper Mill offers no-barrier, live streaming events you can access from your living room couch. All weekly events are available through premium videos. THIS WEEK—MAY 11–15 Monday, May 11 at 7PM – New Voices 2016: Everything Old is New Again The annual “New Voices” concert is the culmination of Paper Mill Playhouse’s Summer Musical Theater Conservatory. Members of the competitive Conservatory who earned coveted spots in the Senior (ages 15–18), Junior Plus (ages 13–14), and Junior companies (ages 10–12) are directed and choreographed by Paper Mill Playhouse’s professional artistic staff in this fully produced, original concert. Thursday, May 14 at 7PM – Humanities Symposium Series: The Broadway Season of 1924-1925 “Straight from the Paper Mill Playhouse Vault”—A Look Back at Past Humanities Symposium Programs Join Paper Mill each week as we stream one of our Humanities Symposiums from years past. From Stephen Schwartz to Stephen Sondheim, these symposiums will take you […]

Mother’s Day is coming up this Sunday, so if you haven’t already, it’s time to scout out some ways to celebrate moms! Even though you can’t go out to dinner or shop in-person, there are plenty of South Orange and Maplewood businesses that are open for Mother’s Day takeout meals or selling beautiful gifts online, with delivery or no-contact pick-up. Here are a few local ways you can do something special for Mom this weekend. Maplewood Village Village Trattoria (2 Inwood Place) Trattoria is offering Mother’s Day brunch gift boxes. The box, which costs $100 and serves 4, includes bake-at-home croissants, an asparagus frittata, pea soup with pancetta, and more. Order by Friday at 4pm, and pick up your box between 3-4pm on Saturday at Village Trattoria in Maplewood. The first 25 orders get a free Jerry Rose Floral bouquet included with their order! https://www.facebook.com/Villagetrattoriamaplewood/ Meus (98 Baker St.) Meus is fully stocked with Mother’s Day gifts like Giles & Brother bracelets, earrings, candles, and care packages. You can also add petite dried bouquets. Orders placed by 12pm on Friday can be picked up no-contact on Saturday between 12-1pm. https://meusshop.com/   Perch Home (9 Highland Place) Check out this wrap […]

From South Orange Performing Arts Center: With a can-do spirit that defies the isolation of “social distancing” Americans are currently experiencing, Juilliard post-graduate student Mackenzie Melemed will give a YouTube Live concert on Sunday, April 5 at 3PM. It can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/rapjtzu. The acclaimed young pianist was scheduled to give a live concert on March 15 at the South Orange Performing Arts Center only days after events at the iconic arts center were shut down due to the corona virus. Melemed saw an opportunity to reach an even wider audience through live streaming. Working with  SOPAC staff  remotely, the concert came together for a Sunday afternoon with relative ease. “I missed performing live and wanted to reach out to enthusiastic concert-goers from SOPAC and beyond with my music,” says Melemed. “I know how much joy music brings, and I wanted to bring that joy to virtual audiences as we all struggle with the corona virus’ impact on our society. I hope people will sit back and relax with a favorite beverage and enjoy the selections by some my favorite classical composers.” The program will be approximately and hour and will include: Gershwin: Three Preludes Bach: French Suite No.5 in […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Freeholder President Brendan Gill and Vice President Wayne Richardson: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., Freeholder President Brendan Gill, Vice President Wayne Richardson and the Board of Freeholders announced that the 44th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Essex County Branch Brook Park has been cancelled because of the Novel Coronavirus. In addition, the officials are alerting the public that Essex County Branch Brook Park is closed and anyone coming to the park should remain in their cars to promote social distancing. “The Cherry Blossoms in bloom have significant meaning for us all and their spectacular blooming season annually attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. But as we take steps to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus, we are encouraging people to follow social distancing guidelines and stay out of the park. Everyone can enjoy the Cherry Blossoms in bloom again next year in 2021,” DiVincenzo, Gill and Richardson said in a joint statement. All events that are part of the 44th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival have been cancelled, including: The Cherry Blossom Bike Races on Saturday, April 4th The Cherry Blossom 10K Run on Sunday, April 5th The Children’s Fun Run […]

From Ani Ramen House: Montclair Hospitality Group, owners of Ani Ramen House, the popular group of New Jersey craft ramen and Japanese izakaya restaurants, have announced plans to introduce short-term, nonprofit 501(c)(3) pop-up take-out and delivery concepts at four of their existing Ani Ramen locations, first in Jersey City and then Montclair, Maplewood and Summit starting April 24. Not one to sit idle while in-house dining is temporarily suspended at Ani Ramen House during this unprecedented COVID-19 crisis, Montclair Hospitality Group knew they wanted to do something to help first responders, frontline medical staff, displaced hospitality workers in their communities, as well as their own staff. MHG conceptualized temporary, nonprofit pop-ups that will not only provide guests with delicious pizza and Thai rotisserie chicken, but also a way to give back: thus, “Rock City Pizza Co.” and “Bang Bang Chicken” were born. These temporary concepts will offer guests take-out/delivery at a lower than normal price point, along with the opportunity to do something for those in need. When they purchase their own meal, guests will be encouraged to add a little extra to their tab to cover a donated meal. Owner Luck Sarabhayavanija stated, “We were heartbroken to have to […]

From McCarter Theatre Center: In response to the continuing situation regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), McCarter Theatre Center has announced the cancelation of all performances and events through June 30, effective immediately. The full production run of Nathan Alan Davis’ The Refuge Plays, all scheduled Presented Series events for the rest of the season including the Jazz in June Festival, and 2020 Gala featuring Michael Feinstein are affected. McCarter administrative offices and production shops will remain closed for the time being and the remaining staff will continue to work remotely. Regarding this expansion of cancelations, McCarter Managing Director Michael S. Rosenberg said “We do not take this decision lightly and think it is in the best interest of the many different communities and constituencies that we serve. We ask that you consider making a donation to McCarter to help ensure that we are ready to re-open our doors when the time comes and welcome everyone back for the magic and fellowship of live performance. In the coming days, we hope that you will join us online as we celebrate art and artists, keep an open dialogue with our community, and inspire you to embark on your own creative projects as we weather this storm […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced the birth of a female Amur leopard cub at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. The cub, named Nadya, was born on Friday, March 13th. The birth of the cub has great significance because the Amur leopard species is classified as critically endangered. “During these difficult times, it’s nice to share some good news. We welcome newborn cub Nadya to our zoo family and look forward to watching her grow,” DiVincenzo said. “Nadya’s birth demonstrates the important role zoos have in helping to strengthen the population of endangered animals around the world and raising the awareness about conservation and the importance of animals. I commend our Turtle Back staff for the care and attention they are giving Nadya,” he added. Nadya, whose name means “filled with hope” in Russian, is the first cub born for her parents, mother Annika and father Valeri. She was 540 grams and 9 inches long, with a 5-inch tail at birth and is expected to grow to be 55 and 90 pounds and 3 to 6 feet long, with a 2- to 3-foot tail. Mom Annika had been […]

From SOPAC: Joining several theatres across the country in a musical message of joy, the South Orange Performing Arts Center recently posted the title of the Beatles’ iconic hit song “All You Need Is Love” on its marquee.  The performing arts center was looking for ways to communicate with patrons in the area during its COVID-19 mandated closure and thought that a simple message of love would lift spirits and remind people of the inspiration that music and great artists bring to the world. We all can use a positive message as we try to keep our spirits up during these difficult times. What better way to do that than to invoke one of the most enduring songs of one of the most beloved rock bands of all time?” said Executive Director Craig Sumberg. “We look to songwriters, poets, and other visionaries to help us get through tough times with inspiration and beauty.  We look forward to opening SOPAC’s doors again in the not-too-distant future and welcoming great artists back to our stage.” “We hope this continues to spread across the country as we are reminded of the importance of loving each other through trying circumstances, and the power of […]

From the Montclair Art Museum: How you can support the Montclair Art Museum: Please consider making a donation to MAM that will allow us to survive these trying times, remain strong, and reopen when circumstances allow Become a member, or if you’re already a part of the MAM Family, please renew Stay connected to the Museum on social media @MAMmontclair Contact your legislators to urge them to provide critical support for museums. The American Alliance of Museums is urging the U.S. Congress to include at least $4 billion for nonprofit museums in COVID-19 (coronavirus) economic relief legislation to provide emergency assistance through June.

From Mayo Performing Arts Center: Stay engaged with the arts through the power of technology! Below are links to online streaming events and resources that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. MUSIC: Country: ACM Presents: “Our Country” on CBS – Sunday, April 5 at 8:00 pm ET Willie Nelson: American Outlaw on A&E – Sunday, April 12 at 8:00 pm ET Melissa Etheridge Live Stream – Daily, 6:00 pm ET Classical: WQXR List of Virtual Classical Concerts New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Virtual Catalog Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Livestreams Berlin Philharmonic Digital Concert Hall Jazz: Cannonball Adderley Live in Germany 1963 Jazz at Lincoln Center Livestreams Various genres: NPR List of Virtual Concerts Social Distancing Festival Brian Wilson in ‘In My Room,’ a New IGTV Music Series  The United States Army Field Band Virtual Concert Series NPR Music Tiny Desk Concerts  NJArts.net’s Songs to See Us Through Children’s music: The Hootenanny Daily Children’s Music Class – Daily, 1:00 pm ET Laurie Berkner Band Facebook Live Concerts – Daily, 10:00 am ET Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could – Saturdays, 11:00 am ET Laurie Berkner Children’s Music Videos Children’s Music Concerts From Across The Globe THEATRE: Live Streams: New Victory Theatre Daily Arts […]

From the Adventure Aquarium: Adventure Aquarium may be closed for now, but our commitment to the community is always our priority. We are excited to offer you online resources, educational fun, and at home family entertainment for the coming days. Below you will discover what Adventure Aquarium will be sharing daily on our social media channels. Daily Everyday we will be posting on social media fun and educational activities for your child. From word searches to coloring sheets, all worksheets are printable and can be found on our Kid’s Activities page. Mondays, Noon Introducing Adventure Aquarium’s new children’s book club, Cliff’s Picks. Cliff, our beloved senior penguin, will pick a new book to read aloud to a group of his penguin friends. Cliff’s books will feature some of the best children’s books related to aquatic and animal life. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 p.m. Every Tuesday and Thursdays our biologists will be answering your questions about your favorite animals at Adventure Aquarium. Ask your questions on Facebook and our biologists will answer! Wednesdays and Fridays, Noon Watch as our biologists feed our hippos, sharks, and penguins. Sorry, we can’t promise good table manners! More to come! Check in often on adventureaquarium.com and social media for […]

From Adventure Aquarium: Due to the quickly evolving global crisis caused by COVID-19, and for the health and wellbeing of our employees and guests, Adventure Aquarium is temporarily closed. We are hoping to open in May, however, we will follow the direction of public health officials and reopen when allowed. For our loyal Members, we will be extending your membership by the number of days we are closed and adding additional benefits which will be announced as we get closer to a firm opening date. You are very important to our Aquarium and our employees, so rest assured we will take care of you and your family. We really can’t wait to see you! We will continue to monitor this developing situation, consult with medical experts and follow official recommendations from public health officials and will communicate additional updates as they occur on our website, adventureaquarium.com, and on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. We thank our extended Adventure Aquarium family for their understanding and compassion for one another as we work together to navigate this crisis. ABOUT ADVENTURE AQUARIUM  Adventure Aquarium is just minutes from downtown Philadelphia on the Camden Waterfront and features one-of-a-kind exhibits with more than 15,000 aquatic species throughout two million gallons […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The coronavirus has already had a devastating economic impact on America’s nonprofit arts sector—financial losses to date are estimated to be $3.2 billion. Since the first U.S. case was reported on January 20, cancellations and closings have been reported in thousands of communities spanning all 50 states. In order to support the sector at this vital time, request that your members of Congress include $4 billion to help offset the losses of the nonprofit arts industry, and expand eligibility through additional federal programs to ensure artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses in the creative economy can utilize business interruption relief. In a national survey by Americans for the Arts, 91% of responding arts organizations indicated that they have cancelled one or more events. Many arts organizations have closed their doors for months to come. More than one-third of respondents expect to make reductions in staff; 26% have already reduced their creative workforce. These estimates are based on more than 3,000 respondents to an Americans for the Arts nationwide COVID-19 impact survey, and then further extrapolation of those data nationally using IRS data about nonprofit arts and cultural organizations. The survey is ongoing, and these […]

From Summit Downtown During these challenging and constantly changing times, many downtown Summit businesses are remaining open! Most businesses, both retailers and food businesses, have adjusted their service model to comply with recommendations to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by offering curbside delivery and/or at home delivery. Since conditions and recommendations are constantly evolving, Summit Downtown, Inc. suggests that customers check businesses’ websites and/or social media pages or call them before coming downtown. Effective on Monday, March 16, 2020 at 8PM and until further notice, the State of New Jersey is limiting crowd capacity for recreational and social gatherings to 50 people. Restaurants and bars will close for eat-in service, and offer delivery and takeout only. Movie theaters, gyms and casinos are also temporarily closed. Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations and medical offices will remain open. All non-essential travel between 8PM and 5AM is highly discouraged. These measures are part of a regional approach by New Jersey, New York and Connecticut to combat the coronavirus. Go to nj.gov for more information. Summit Downtown, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the on-going development and promotion of the business community in downtown Summit, NJ.  http://summitdowntown.org 908-277-6100

From Bergen County Irish: 39th Annual Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, originally scheduled for March 15, has been rescheduled for Sept. 12. The Officers and Trustees of the Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County voted unanimously to postpone the 39th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for this Sunday, March 15th in Bergenfield, N.J. Following close consultations with local and county officials on the current situation of COVID-19 in our area, the difficult, but necessary decision was made. The reschedule date will be Saturday, September 12th, 2020, which is almost halfway to St. Patrick’s Day. More information.

A Statement from Luna Stage:  We are so grateful to all of you for supporting our work, and for being part of our community. It is a privilege to make plays that matter to our audience, and to come together to explore how we navigate the most pressing issues of our time. We look forward to returning to full production once it is safe to do so, and to sharing a joyful season of extraordinary performances with you. But now is a time for us to think of the health of our audiences, artists, volunteers, students, teachers and world. To this end, we are postponing our Spring productions of Hooray for Ladyland! Gay History for Straight People (scheduled to open this weekend) and Shruti Gupta Can Totally Deal (previously slated to open in April.) All Luna Conservatory classes are suspended as well. We will reschedule when it is safe to do so. If you have tickets to postponed performances, please see below for detailed instructions. Small arts organizations like ours are hugely impacted by the current crisis. If you’re financially able, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Luna at www.lunastage.org. Thank you for your support and understanding. We look […]

From ADVENTURE AQUARIUM: While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Adventure Aquarium, we are committed to putting the health and safety of our team members, animals, and guests first. Doing our part to help prevent further spread of the illness in our community is important to us, and therefore we will be temporarily closing to the public effective Monday, March 16, 2020 as a precautionary measure and are planning on reopening on Saturday, March 28, 2020. Our devoted animal husbandry teams and essential personnel will continue to maintain the vital systems and processes that ensure the highest level of care for the animals and aquatic life here at Adventure Aquarium. These team members have been trained on hygiene policies, social distancing methods, and have access to personal protective gear. Additional team members, who cannot work remotely, will receive paid leave. During this time, we will continue to follow recommendations of public health officials and monitor the situation with regular updates posted to our website, adventureaquarium.com, and on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. We will work with guests to reschedule their visit or refund tickets as needed. For further details, please call us at 844-474-FISH (3474) and […]

Mayo Performing Arts Center is suspending all public performances, classes and events through March 31 due to the escalation of the COVID – 19 outbreak in New Jersey. MPAC is working to reschedule these events. All ticket holders will be contacted as soon as possible with more details, and we ask for your patience as we work through the large volume of performances. Allison Larena, President and CEO, MPAC says, “The health and safety of our patrons, performers, volunteers and staff is paramount during this crisis. After consulting with our local officials, we believe the responsible action to take at this time is to suspend public events and to do our part to slow down the spread of this virus.” The postponed events are: A Cappella Live: March 12 Ballet Folclorico: March 13 New Jersey Ballet: March 14 The Cat in the Hat: March 16 Bandstand: March 17-18 The Westerlies: March 19 Arts in the Community Poetry Reading: March 19 Herman’s Hermits: March 20/ Rescheduled for June 25 at 7:30 pm The Indigo Girls: March 21 Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure: March 22 That Physics Show: March 23-24 Russian National Ballet: March 25 The Bachelor Live on Stage: March 26 An […]

Editor’s note: some parades have been postponed due to coronavirus concerns. Please check websites to confirm whether parades are continuing as planned. If you are looking for where to go to strut your green this St. Patrick’s Day, we have you covered. In the days leading up to March 17, there are a host of parades across the Garden State. Here’s NJNext.com’s 2020 list of major parades in NJ. Check our events calendar for more.  Did we forget your favorite St. Paddy’s Day parade? Email us at editor@newjerseynext.com.  Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 7, 2020 at noon The Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at noon on Saturday, March 7. Special Event for this year’s parade: at the end of this year’s parade, there will be an after party at the Hershey Hotel with Irish music, featuring Ballyhaunis.   Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 8, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. Asbury Park’s 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade route starts at the Asbury Park Boardwalk with Grand Marshal Thomas F. Hayes on Ocean Avenue at 5th Avenue and continues southwest towards downtown. There’s also an after party planned at Wonderbar, featuring Bobby Bandiera and Friends. Tickets are […]

St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. Where are you heading to get your Irish on? Local pubs are traditional, fun and you might even be able to walk home. Find the best places in New Jersey to get your pint of Guinness, listen to live Irish music, and celebrate from now until March 17. Whether you want to hear bagpipes or eat some corned beef, the following bars are sure to deliver some Irish traditions this St. Patrick’s Day. Sláinte! Missed your favorite Irish pub? Let us know at editor@newjerseynext.com, or in comments. Thatcher McGhee’s Irish Pub and Eatery – Denville, Fairfield, Pompton Lakes You can’t go wrong on St. Patrick’s Day in a place called Thatcher McGhee’s. If you are close to the Denville location, come check out live music from Danny and the Boys on March 1 at 4pm. With three locations, it’s easy to find a place to celebrate. Thatcher McGhee’s also offers a menu of traditional Irish starters and entrees.   St. James’s Gate Publick House – Maplewood St. James’ Gate takes St. Patrick’s Day seriously. The bar opens at 8am, South Park Benefit Bag Pipers play all day, and there is a count down on the website […]

Did you hear the one about three friends from Carteret High School who recruited a lead singer from Scotch Plains and became one of the most dynamic rock ‘n’ roll bands to come out of the Garden State? In 1980, the quartet adopted their moniker from Yosemite Sam’s favorite threat to Bugs Bunny: “Varmint, I’m a-gonna blow you to smithereens!” And for forty years, they’ve been doing the same to audiences. On Friday, March 6, 2020, fans old and new will be able to witness the Smithereens with special guest vocalist Marshall Crenshaw hit the stage at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC). While the band continues to deliver consistent, hot-blooded rock ‘n’ roll, a lot has also changed. In December 2017, the band suffered a tremendous loss due to the death of lead singer and songwriter Pat DiNizio. They were slated to perform a show just four weeks later. The surviving band members — Jim Babjak (guitar and vocals), Dennis Diken (drums and percussion), and Mike Mesaros (bass and vocals) had to figure out the future of the Smithereens. Babjak, Diken, and Mesaros decided that the show must go on. On the same night as the band originally […]

From Summit Downtown, Inc. Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) is happy to announce that Summit Street Sounds will return for its third year! Downtown Summit will be alive with music every Thursday and Friday evening in June this year (pending event approval by Summit Common Council). To that end, SDI is seeking musicians and street performers for a variety of events in 2020. All performance opportunities are outdoors, so performers must be able to play outside and provide their own sound equipment. Performance opportunities include (pending event approval by Summit Common Council): Summit Farmers Market (Sunday mornings), Summit Street Sounds (Thursday/Friday evenings, June), Family Fun Night (children’s event, 4-8pm on June 11), and Arts + Cars (festival on September 20), etc. Interested musicians should email kathryn@summitdowntown.org with their: Name Email address Phone number Brief description of their act/group and what type of music they play Sample (preferably a YouTube link for a live performance) Hourly/event rates Emails only. No phone calls, please.

From the Montclair Art Museum: Montclair Art Museum (MAM) is proud to announce it has again achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded the nation’s museums. MAM was one of the first museums accredited in the country by the American Association of Museums (now American Alliance of Museums) in 1973. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, to governments, funders, outside agencies, and to the museum-going public. Alliance Accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement. It strengthens the museum profession by promoting practices that enable leaders to make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and remain financially and ethically accountable in order to provide the best possible service to the public. All museums must undergo a reaccreditation review at least every 10 years to maintain accredited status. “We are so honored and excited to receive this recognition from our peers at the American Alliance of Museums. Achieving accreditation means that MAM is being acknowledge for holding ourselves to a very high standard of programmatic excellence and transparency,” said Lora Urbanelli, Montclair Art Museum Director. “Having the hard work of the staff and […]

From South Orange Performing Arts Center: The South Orange Performing Arts Center brings Willie Nile, the hard-edged rocker that drives a song like a runaway train, to its stage on February 29 at 8 p.m.  The New York Times has called Willie Nile “one of the most gifted Singer-Songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years.” His album Streets Of New York was hailed as “a platter for the ages” by UNCUT magazine, and fans delight in his total commitment to Rock ‘n Roll. Rolling Stone listed The Innocent Ones as one of the “Top Ten Best Under-The-Radar Albums of 2011” and BBC Radio called it “THE Rock ‘n’ Roll album of the year.” Bono, Bruce Springsteen, Pete Townshend, Lou Reed, Lucinda Williams, Jim Jarmusch and Little Steven are among those who have sung his praises. His album, American Ride, won “Best Rock Album of the Year” at the Independent Music Awards. It appeared on over one hundred year-end Top Ten lists for 2013 and Bono called it, “One of the great guides to unraveling the mystery that is the troubled beauty of America.” In November 2014, he released an album of piano-based songs, If I Was A River, to universal critical acclaim. “One of the most brilliant Singer-Songwriters […]

From SOPAC:  The Smithereens with Special Guest Vocalist Marshall Crenshaw to perform at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on Friday, March 6 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $39-$59 and can be purchased at https://www.sopacnow.org/events/smithereens/ or by calling (973) 313-2787. Founded in New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have been creating electrifying, original Rock ‘n Roll for almost 40 years. Jim Babjak (guitar,) Dennis Diken (drums,) and Mike Mesaros (bass) grew up together in Carteret and lead singer, the late Pat DiNizio, hailed from Scotch Plains. The band paid its dues in clubs all over the New York City tri-state area from Kenny’s Castaways in Greenwich Village to the Court Tavern and Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey. As The Smithereens’ fame escalated, they were in heavy rotation on MTV and were on The Tonight Show, Conan O’Brien and Saturday Night Live. The Smithereens’ take no prisoners sound, reflecting their Garden State roots, has resonated with fans worldwide over the course of 17 albums and 2,500+ live shows. Fans know and love them for hits “A Girl Like You,” “Behind the Wall of Sleep,” “Blood and Roses,” “Only A Memory” and more.  Their most recent release, COVERS, features 22 of the bands favorite […]

This article was originally published in January 2019; it has been updated. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging indoor activity to “escape” the winter doldrums, consider an interesting adventure that will give your brain a workout. Escape rooms, in which players must solve riddles or piece together clues within a specified time frame, are popping up all over the Garden State. These innovative and interactive forms of entertainment are ideal for those who loves puzzles and cracking codes. Here’s how they’re set up: Players find themselves in a fictional location and scenario that can range from a prison cell to a submarine and are given a bit of the backstory that explains their mission. Then, they must put their detective skills to the test to figure out the rest and ultimately free themselves from the room. Fortunately, if participants get stuck, a game master, who’s watching from another room, will provide helpful hints to put them back on track. If you’re looking to get the family out of the house and do something that forces you think and work together as a team, check out these escape rooms, which offer something for a range of ages and meet […]

From Somerset County Parks Commission: Continuing a tradition in the Northeast United States that was begun centuries ago by Native Americans and colonists, the Somerset County Park Commission invites children and adults to a 90-minute program to witness how Maple trees are tapped, learn about sap collecting methods from the past and present, and experience the boiling process that produces delicious New Jersey Maple Syrup. Public programs take place at the Environmental Education Center Sugar Shack at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge, New Jersey on Saturdays and Sundays, February 22 & 23; February 29; March 1; and March 7 & 8; March 14 & 15, 2020. The program is free with a suggested donation of $1.00 per person. Saturday Maple Sugar program times are at 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, and 2:00 PM.  Sunday maple sugar program times are at 12:00 Noon, and 2:00 PM.  Participants should allow at least twenty minutes to walk from the Center to the sugar shack. Organized groups, such as Scouts, may schedule demonstrations during one of the time blocks by contacting the EEC at 908-722-1200, ext. 5332. The Somerset County Park Commission ”Sugar Shack” is located following a one-half mile walk through the forest from the […]

From Vanguard Theater Company: Vanguard Theater Company’s youngest thespians had the best closing show ever, when Lin-Manuel Miranda came to the Sunday matinee performance of The Wiz of Oz. Miranda, whose merchandising company, TeeRico by Lin Manuel Miranda, has been a supporter of Vanguard since 2018, thoroughly enjoyed the show, and came up on stage to take pictures with the cast and production team. Next up for Vanguard is “For the Love of Charlie Brown,” a musical celebration with art-making at the Montclair Art Museum, February 14 – 16.  Visit http://vanguardtheatercompany.org for more information.   Check out this YouTube video for more on Vanguard.

Cabin fever can be common in Northeast winters, but if you live in New Jersey, fear not! Here are 10 family-friendly options for indoor (and in-state) fun this winter. Adventure Aquarium (Camden) The Adventure Aquarium in Camden is home to more than 15,000 species of aquatic creatures. Among these are hippos, penguins and the only Great Hammerhead shark on exhibit in the country. Your family can visit Caribbean Currents, stop by the Sea Turtle Cove or hang out in the Kids Zone. Don’t miss Penguin Park and Piranha Falls — an Amazon Experience! Daily tickets start at $21.99 for kids and $29.99 for adults. They also have year-long memberships. iFly Indoor Skydiving For the thrill-seekers, iFly in Paramus gives you the chance to free-fall in place. Visitors get to experience safe skydiving in an indoor wind tunnel. Great for birthday parties, iFly provides flight gear (safety goggles, helmets and flight suits) and a training session for all guests. They also run STEM-based educational programs and offer All Abilities nights for the special needs community. Prices begin at $89.95 per person for 2 flights. Indoor Rock Climbing If your family loves rock climbing, you’re in luck. New Jersey has an abundance of indoor […]

From [words] Bookstore: Maplewood’s independent bookseller [words] Bookstore will be hosting acclaimed author Ann Patchett on Monday, February 24 at 7:30 PM. Ms. Patchett will be discussing and signing her latest book, The Dutch House, currently on the New York Times Hardcover Best Seller List. Ann Patchett is the author of seven novels, including the best selling books Bel Canto and State of Wonder. The Dutch House is her first novel since the number one New York Times bestseller Commomwealth. In addition to her novels, she has written three books of non-fiction and last year published her first children’s book, Lambslide. A graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and the Iowa Writers Workshop, Patchett has been the recipient of numerous awards and prizes, including the PEN/Faulkner Award and the Orange Prize for fiction. Her work has been translated into more than thirty languages and her books have been named New York Times Notable Books in addition to achieving best seller status. She was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by Time Magazine in 2012. Patchett is the co-owner of Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee. Tickets are required to attend the event which will be held at the Woodland Art Center in Maplewood. One ticket will entitle the holder to […]

This article was originally posted in January 2018. Going on vacation is exhilarating, but that expression on your dog’s face when she sees you packing your suitcases is heartbreaking. Saying goodbye to and missing your pet can spur feelings of sadness and guilt. The good news is the New Jersey shore has hundreds of pet-friendly accommodations that are happy to welcome both you AND your pet. From hotel and motel chains to charming Victorian inns and bed and breakfasts, you’ll find many establishments happy to host your fur baby. A few things to keep in mind when choosing a hotel, motel, B&B, or inn: Some establishments only allow a certain number of pets in each room. Don’t forget to ask about multiple pets if you want to bring more than one. Check if there’s a weight limit if you have a sizable dog. “Sizable” can be over 15 pounds. Inquire about pet fees. Some accommodations have a limited number of designated rooms where they permit pets so booking early is a good idea in case there aren’t many pet-friendly rooms. Some hotels require a dog be crated when alone in the room, but others have pet sitters who can entertain […]

Feeling the winter chill already? How about this for a cure: settle into one of New Jersey ‘s cozy, convivial bars and pubs that will banish the cold-weather blues! Whether you’re a teetotaler or someone who enjoys the occasional cocktail, pint, or glass of whiskey, these Garden State hangouts are perfect places to sit with a good book by the fire, have a bite to eat, gather with friends, or strike up a conversation with someone new. Did we miss your favorite cozy winter bar? Email us at editor@newjerseynext.com The Gladstone Tavern (Gladstone) A perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal or a quick bite and a cocktail by the huge stone fireplace, The Gladstone Tavern is an 1847 colonial farmhouse updated with contemporary touches. Dinner is served daily, lunch Monday through Saturday. The Tavern menu is available all day Monday through Saturday from 11:30 am until closing and Sundays from 4 pm. The Barn (Wyckoff) This Bergen County favorite sets the standard for “cozy winter bar.” Built in the late 1700s and then converted to a speakeasy in the ’20s, The Barn has that warm, homey ambience that makes it perfect for a winter’s respite. Settle in and enjoy […]

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 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 […]

Editor’s note: this article was originally published in August 2018. If you know of any places that have closed since then, or any great new vegan/vegetarian spots, email us at editor@newjerseynext.com It’s never been a better time to be vegetarian or vegan — or even just “veg-curious” — in New Jersey. The last decade has seen a boom in restaurants and eateries offering creative, delicious meatless cuisine throughout the Garden State. No longer do non-meat eaters need to be relegated to ordering bland veggie burgers or boring pasta. Today, diners can choose from an array of places whose menus include tasty ethnic dishes as well as classic entrees, soups, smoothies, bowls and more. Below is a list of vegetarian restaurants and vegan-friendly restaurants in Northern New Jersey. Click through to their websites and the photos will make your belly growl and your mouth water. Bayonne House of Flavor serves vegan entrees, sandwiches, soups, juices, shakes, smoothies, desserts, and build your own grain bowls. Bernardsville Breezy Organic Snackery has an organic and vegan-friendly juice bar. They also have soups and salads to go. Cliffside Park Nefista is a vegan restaurant. Their signature dish is Kofteh Kofteh, an African meatball made with minced meat […]

One of the amazing things about New Jersey is the wide range of outdoor activities available within a reasonably short drive. While many people view going “down the Shore” as the quintessential New Jersey experience, there’s another group that can’t wait for the colder weather and snow that signal ski season. First, a little background. Not that long ago, there were over a dozen, mostly mom-and-pop ski areas in the Garden State. Whether due to economics, changing demographics or a lack of snowy winters, most of those have closed. Today, there are only a handful left operating in New Jersey. However, if you expand your search into Pennsylvania and New York, there are a number of options for skiing within about a two-hour drive from north/central New Jersey. Here are a few of our favorites. Camelback Over the last 10 years, Camelback has expanded greatly to become a ski area, water park, and resort. Significant investments in the base lodge, rental equipment, and snowmaking mean that Camelback is almost unrecognizable to skiers who remember it from the 1980s or 1990s. Camelback seems to be able to make and maintain good snow when other local areas struggle, and the result is […]

From Luna Stage Update: In response to sold out opening weekend performances, Luna Stage has extended Dipti Bramhandkar’s American Rookie through January 27. The production was previously scheduled to close January 20.   Luna Stage presents the World Premiere of American Rookie written and performed by Dipti Bramhandkar and directed by Padraic Lillis. Part coming-of-age tale, part social commentary, and part comedy, this one-woman show explores what it means to be an immigrant at a time when the country can’t stop talking about it. Inspired by Bramhandkar’s experiences growing up in America after moving from Mumbai to rural Upstate New York, American Rookie brings to life the joy, humor, and pain of the assimilation process —from mimicking 80’s fashion and studying Judy Blume books to constructing a new American persona altogether. “American Rookie is a show I needed to see when I was a teenager,” says Bramhandkar. “I was grappling with my Indian and immigrant identity on top of the awkward, cringeworthy moments of that time of life. I wanted to talk about big topics like race and belonging but as portrayed in everyday moments – funny, sad, and seemingly ordinary ones – that shape our understanding of each other. My hope […]

From the Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival Join us for our 23rd annual Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival January 18-26. These nine days will be packed with events for adults, children, and families. There will be a chili cook-off, an a cappella extravaganza, a soup-a-thon, ice sculpture, historic and nature tours, snow folk art, and more! Click here for the complete schedule and ticket information. Last year set a new record, raising $45,738 for local community non-profit organizations. Since its inception, the event has raised and distributed more than $500,000. Our towns were filled with people and the excitement was everywhere. Be sure to check our website at www.winterfestival.net throughout the year for updated information and photos. More information.

From Mayo Performing Arts Center: The rock musical RENT comes to Mayo Performing Arts Center for three performances, Friday, February 7 at 8 pm and Saturday, February 8 at 2 pm and 8 pm. Tickets are $59-$99. Student rush seats will be available for $20 24 hours prior to the performances. In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway. and forever changed the landscape of American theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson’s RENT continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. And now, this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award®-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A re-imagining of Puccini’s La Bohème, RENT follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters-love. The show received its world premiere off-Broadway at New York Theatre Workshop on February 13, 1996 to ecstatic reviews and transferred to Broadway on April 29, 1996. RENT won the 1996 Tony Award for Best Musical as well as the […]

[Editor’s note: This article was first published in January 2019. Contact the breweries directly to confirm updated information on hours.] The idea of a Dry January has taken hold with many — as people debate the pros and cons — but New Jersey’s growing brewery scene wants you to enjoy good brews in moderation through the month of January and is providing opportunities to do just that with tastings, special events and the Asbury Park Beerfest on January 25 and 26. Check out this list of places where craft ales and lagers are always on tap. We’ve provided links to their event pages (where available) to help you get through the winter and into the spring with responsible drinking — and some good eats. Dark City Brewing Co., Asbury Park Asbury Park’s first craft brewery, Dark City’s founders note that their goal is to brew craft beers that are “unique and eccentric.” Celebrating the creativity of the City by the Sea, the tasting room serves as a shrine to the imagination with a rotating local art wall, mural wall, and, of course, the beers themselves. One year-round brew illustrates the the brewers’ mission with its clever name and unexpected ingredients: Born to […]

If you think this was a bad year for movies, I think you’re seeing the wrong movies. Yes, it’s hard to get excited about cinema when your multiplex gives you a choice of “Star Wars: Episode Who Cares Anymore” or “Cats,” with Taylor Swift slinking around in kitten heels (literally). But look a little deeper – at indie films, imports, documentaries and the occasional big-screen drama that actually worked – and you can find some reasons to celebrate 2019. Here are 10 of mine, from best to near-best. PARASITE The horror-movie title (and the subtitles) may scare off some. Too bad. Because if you didn’t see Bong Joon Ho’s creepy Korean thriller you missed a movie that started off in slyly grim Patricia Highsmith territory and then took a sharp, last-act turn into Grand Guignol horror, all the while making painful points about class, privilege, envy and revenge. THE IRISHMAN Martin Scorsese’s mob movies are often about The Life – the slick, finger-snapping style that every goodfella aspires to. This ruminative study is about The Cost – and who bears it. Both sprawling and intensely focused, it serves as a kind of coda to Scorsese’s crime cycle, and delivers standout performances […]

From MPAC: New Jersey Ballet’s seasonal presentation of the holiday classic Nutcracker comes to Mayo Performing Arts Center for 14 performances beginning Friday, December 13 at 7:30 pm. New Jersey Symphony Orchestra will provide live orchestral accompaniment. Tickets are $29-69.  (all dates listed below) Returning this season are three performances held post-Christmas, Dec. 26 and Dec. 27. As the time leading up to the holidays may be too busy to enjoy the performance, MPAC will hold three performances after the holidays – including two matinees – for families who still want to share in the spirit of the season. New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker at MPAC will feature the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Gary S. Fagin. When the curtain rises, audiences in Morristown can expect the eye-popping special effects, brilliant dancing, glorious costumes, and the magic and pantomime that have inspired critics to call it “A spectacle that never seems to age…magic that should go on and on,” and “One of the best…as good as it gets.” New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker is the longest running original professional production in the state. It debuted in Millburn in 1971 with international star of New York City Ballet Edward Villella as […]

It’s that time of year again! Start the holiday season the Annual Essex County Holiday Lights Spectacular at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo. The event kicks off on November 22 and runs through December 31 (see details below). Free admission. “We invite the public to make this Essex County holiday tradition your family tradition! Turtle Back Zoo will be turned into a Winter Wonderland, with extraordinary seasonal lighting exhibits and costumed characters. Stroll the landscaped paths of our Zoo and admire the illuminated images of everything from toy soldiers to penguins,” said Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo in a press release. “We are offering free admission to make this exciting attraction available to everyone. We also are encouraging our visitors to bring non-perishable food items, new unwrapped toys, and new and gently used winter coats to help our families in need,” he noted. About 50 animal and holiday-themed figures will light up the winter night in Turtle Back Zoo and the surrounding Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex. Over one million lights will illuminate figures of bears, tigers and elephants, along with holiday lights designed to look like wooden soldiers, stars and winter scenes. Several animal exhibits will be open, including the Sea Lion Sound, Essex Farm, Tam-ring […]

As you walk into South Orange’s tony new Bistro D’Azur you feel a piece of the south of France was transported to suburban New Jersey. The furniture, the linens, the art on the walls — all speak of the Mediterranean and make the meal feel like a mini-vacation. Owners and Maplewood residents Mary and Tom Conway, along with Partner and Executive Chef Richard Krug have worked hard to put diners at Bistro D’Azur at ease. While many fine dining establishments can feel formal, Bistro D’Azur’s atmosphere seems relaxed.  “We wanted more energy than most fine dining [restaurants],” says Mary. “We are inspired by high-end beach clubs in the Mediterranean. This is destination dining.” You may remember Executive Chef Krug from Restaurant K at Orange Lawn Tennis Club. He was also the Chef de Cuisine at the acclaimed Maplewood restaurant Lorena’s. During his career, he has championed local and sustainable food when in season. As he develops menus for Bistro D’Azur, he visits farms in New Jersey, the Hudson Valley and Pennsylvania. “We really do use the best quality ingredients we can find, and our customers appreciate it,” says the Culinary Institute of America graduate. The menu changes, but right now, […]

From SOPAC: The Herb & Milly Iris Gallery at the South Orange Performing Arts Center hosts JUST DANCE…, a new exhibition by the prominent photographer, Steve Vaccariello from November 14, 2019 – January 19, 2020.  A reception open to the public will take place on Thursday, November 14, 5-8 p.m. In JUST DANCE…, Vaccariello’s vivid and sensual portraits capture an unbridled creativity; a guileless exchange of artistic expression between two masters, each on either side of the camera lens.  Vaccariello’s direction is simple and straightforward, “Just dance….”  Then, on film, he immortalizes their liberated collaboration; a visual and a performance artist breaking free to bestow an inspired vision of beauty. With natural lighting, suggestive shadowing, and unique printing techniques, his work explores the idea of ethereal and evocative beauty, and the subtleties and extremes of physical expression.  “Photography isn’t what I do,” says Steve Vaccariello, “It’s what I am.  The most important thing is the picture. I want people to look at my photos and see the beauty in simplicity.” Having a 20+ year career in the commercial photography arena, Vaccariello’s sizeable portfolio includes commercial, celebrity and beauty work.  Ironically, though coming from a world of photo editing, re-touching and enhancements, Vaccariello emphatically declares, “I […]

This article originally was published on Jan. 18, 2018. By mid-winter most New Jersey residents are ready for a break from the cold weather and all that accompanies it. (Dry skin, sinus issues, and general malaise, we’re looking at you.) Fortunately, SoJo Spa Club is the perfect antidote to the winter blues. Located in Edgewater, this oasis focuses on both ancient and state-of-the-art wellness treatments that will have you feeling healthy and refreshed in no time. From heated outdoor pools to relaxing saunas, SoJo Spa Club will make you forget you’re not on vacation. “SoJo Spa Club is the perfect winter destination because we have a variety of treatments and amenities that help combat the harsh and drying effects that the wintry weather can wreak on your body,” says Esther Cha, SoJo Spa Club’s communications and special events manager. “I’d also like to encourage people to come and experience a truly one-of-a-kind winter experience of being in a heated pool overlooking NYC in frosty weather.” Immerse yourself in the spa’s outdoor heated infinity which boasts views of the Manhattan skyline from the George Washington Bridge down to Battery Park City or take a stroll along the spa’s foot massage path which promotes natural foot […]

It’s not just a new year, it’s a whole new decade! To mark this momentous occasion, NJ Next has assembled a round-up of some of the best ways to ring in 2020 with the whole family. Happy New Year! Morris County First Night, Morristown The Morris County First Night, which is in its 28th year, features 40 performance events at 14 venues within walking distance of each other in Morristown. Performances range from music and dance to world cultures and children’s programs, and the event is substance-free. The event begins at 4:45 p.m., with fireworks at 9:15 p.m. and midnight. Parking and shuttle buses are free. Tickets are $25 each and offer package deals.  10th Annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks In New Brunswick For the tenth year in a row, the town of New Brunswick will be the site of a spectacular fireworks display at midnight. Ring in The New Year with a bang and also check out some of New Brunswick’s best bars and restaurants, all in walking distance. From 11:30PM-12:30AM at Monument Square Park on George Street & Livingston Avenue. Annual New Year’s Eve Hogmanay Bonfire At The Brearley House Create a list of all the bad things […]

The Seth Boyden PTA invites the greater South Orange-Maplewood community to get ahead of those holiday food fests by firing your metabolisms into high gear with the annual Two Towns Turkey Trot atop Crest Drive in the South Mountain Reservation. Besides promoting good health, the Turkey Trot also raises money for the Seth Boyden PTA, helping to fund programs, events, materials and more for children at Seth Boyden Demonstration School. The 5K takes place at 9 a.m. Kids Fun Runs follow at 10 a.m. $35 day of registration. $10 for Kids Fun Run. Online registration is closed, but you can just show up on race day and join the fun! See more information here.

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. 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 and American food. In addition to their extensive beer and liquor list, Hudson Hall specializes in smoking, pickling […]

From SOPAC: Five-time Grammy Award winner and preeminent Jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves brings her unique Jazz and R&B stylings to Yuletide favorites in Christmas Time is Here, presented at SOPAC on Saturday, December 7 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $58-$78 and can be purchased at SOPACnow.org/dianne-reeves. Upon the release of Reeves’ holiday album, Christmas Time is Here, Ben Ratliff of The New York Times raved, “Ms. Reeves, a jazz singer of frequently astonishing skill, takes the assignment seriously; this is one of the best jazz Christmas CDs I’ve heard.” Just a sampling of the beloved standards includes “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Carol of the Bells” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Reeves, who is acclaimed for her breathtaking virtuosity and improvisational prowess, was awarded the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance for three consecutive recordings – a Grammy first in any vocal category. One of those Grammys was for her performance on the soundtrack of Good Night, and Good Luck, George Clooney’s six-time Academy Award nominated film. In 2018, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) designated Reeves a Jazz Master, widely described as this country’s highest honor for Jazz artists. That same year, she was the Monterey Jazz Festival’s Showcase Artist and was the first woman […]

Luna Stage’s critically acclaimed World Premiere of Jenny Lyn Bader’s Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library will extend thru November 17. Praised by Oleg Sulkin of Voice of America as “a powerful and timely tour de force,” the production was originally slated to close November 10. Broadway Radio’s Peter Filichia declared in his review: “I won’t be surprised if it makes the leap to New York City where I think it really does belong.” Set in 1933 Berlin, Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library is a fantastical drama about one of our deepest thinkers, inspired by real events. Ruth Ross, NJ Arts Maven calls the production “An intimate, riveting revelation of insight and courage expressed in unexpected ways… providing optimism for the fate of the human race!” And Johanna R. Ginsberg writes in New Jersey Jewish News “In a moment of intense polarization in our own political discourse, the play is more than a history lesson and a drama; it’s also a dissertation on how to speak to another person across a seemingly impassable gulf.” About the Play Johanna Stern will become one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century. But at the moment, no one […]

What’s better than brunch? How about brunch with live music? The Cassidy Bar + Kitchen in Maplewood is now featuring Live Jazz Brunches on Sundays from 12 pm.. to 3 p.m.! Check out the line up of great talent to entertain you while you’re enjoying delicious food and tasty craft cocktails. The restaurant also serves brunch on Saturdays, just without the musical accompaniment. See the menus and the music line up below. Check their Facebook page for up to date info. 10.8.19 brunch 10.8.19 Tavern 10/6/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Mauricio de Souza Trio 10/13/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Anton Kosachev Trio 10/20/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Organ Groove Trio 10/27/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Andrew Wagner Trio 11/3/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Mauricio de Souza Trio 11/10/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Anton Kosachev Trio 11/17/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Kenselaar Bros quartet 11/24/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Los Traficantes del Amor 12/1/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Mauricio de Souza Trio 12/8/2019 Sunday 12-3 pm Blue Sphere 12/15/2019 Sunday 12-3pm To Be determined 12/22/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Maplewood Glee Club 12/29/2019 Sunday 12-3pm Peter Manes 12/31/2019 Tuesday 10-12 am Drag Show

From SOPAC: Tony Award-winning tap phenomenon Savion Glover (Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk, Shuffle Along) makes a highly anticipated return engagement to SOPAC on Saturday, November 9 at 8 p.m. Sponsored in part by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Savion Glover & The Ideal Ensemble is a one-night-only showcase of this dancer-choreographer’s unique sense of musicality and incredible stage presence, with Glover’s original moves set to compositions such as exploratory classics by jazz saxophonist John Coltrane. Tickets range from $58-$78 and can be purchased at SOPACnow.org/savion-glover. Glover, who was born and raised in Newark, uses his unparalleled dance talents to move tap to the forefront as a lead instrument in this stage concert. The result is a celebratory experience of sound and abstract instrumentation. “Tap dancing is like a language; it’s like air …,” Glover was once quoted as saying. “For me the importance in learning about the dance is using it as a voice. It’s not about a step, it’s about a way to express oneself.” Savion Glover is a Tony Award-winning choreographer and legendary hoofer whose career has spanned four decades. He began his Broadway stage career as The Tap Dance Kid, and continued with Black and Blue (Tony nomination, Featured Actor in a […]

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 […]

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, including the Harvest Moon Hayride and Nighttime Corn Maze on weekends. Don’t miss the upcoming pie-tasting event Nov. 9, when visitors have a chance to sample over 30 varieties of pies. Yum! Visit the website for more information.  Alstede […]

From the Village of South Orange: The Seton Village Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival is returning October 18th, 2019 for its sixth year on Irvington Avenue.  The festival will feature over 15 food trucks, including favorites Thai Elephant, Empanada Guy, Amanda’s Bananas and Glazed and Confused. For adults over the age of 21, The Gaslight Brewery and Restaurant will be providing a beer garden with a variety of New Jersey beer, ciders and wines for purchase*. A live music stage will feature local bands Marry the Sea and The Deadful Greats. This year’s event is sure to be another great one, so bring your family and friends and come hungry! This event is produced by the Village of South Orange and made possible by our generous sponsors  Seton Hall University, South Orange Performing Arts Center and the Gaslight Brewery. Please visit our Facebook Event page and join us on Irvington Avenue for another year of great food and drink! *A valid ID must be presented to enter beer garden

From RoseComm : All My Friends, the ownership group behind Summit House in Summit, New Jersey, this fall will open Bar Bacoa, a slow-cooked Mexican smokehouse and taqueria. The new restaurant will be located directly next door to Summit House in the space formerly occupied by Rosalita Mexican (10 Maple Street). Justin Antiorio, runner-up on the 2012 season of Gordon Ramsay’s cooking show “Hell’s Kitchen,” has been named executive chef and will lead the kitchens of both Summit House and Bar Bacoa. Antiorio, a native of Lyndhurst, New Jersey, was a fan favorite on “Hell’s Kitchen,” earning praise for his impeccable palate, teamwork and leadership skills. He’s overseen numerous kitchens since participating in the show, including working as chef de cuisine at both Anthony David’s and Bin 14 in Hoboken, and as a sous chef at the famed NYC restaurant 21 Club. As Summit House enters its third year of operation, Chef Justin will add his approachably inventive style to the restaurant’s menu, continuing to feature the best of what’s local and in season. With a killer tequila & mezcal bar, Bar Bacoa will serve taqueria standards such as carnitas and barbacoa, and new favorites such as sweet potato vegan tacos, […]

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 from Sept. 21 through October 27 (but check the website for updates on ending date). This is New Jersey’s premier sunflower festival — get your tickets now! Guests can wander through the towering rows of sunflowers, stroll through barns and visit the animals, and enjoy the  Good ‘ole Days museum and Holland Shop. Learn about Holland in the Hollandwood Theatre and learn how the sunflowers get their vibrant colors. 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 Luna Stage: Luna Stage kicks off their new American Voices Series (and the 2019-2020 season) with Soo Jin Pretty Nail (and more!), written and performed by South Orange resident Susan Hyon and directed by David Skeist. This darkly comic work is inspired by Hyon’s childhood as the youngest of four unhappy Korean-American children in suburban Pennsylvania. A lively, interactive experience for curious and adventurous theatergoers, Soo Jin… will be the inaugural performance in the newly-renovated Luna2. Meet Soo Jin and Susan. Susan is the little engine that could pull herself out of a crappy small-town trainwreck only to speed headlong into another of her own making. And another. And another. And yet somehow she keeps chugging along, accumulating scars and the stories that go with them. Soo-Jin is like that Korean exchange student who introduced everyone to Hello Kitty, Keropi, and cute pencils. Upon hearing of Susan’s life as a new mom (finally!), Soo Jin appears, ready for a baby shower. Fresh off the boat (and out of the plastic surgeon’s chair), Soo Jin regales the audience with the virtue of beauty. She prays that Susan will maintain her youthful looks in the face of parenthood. Soo Jin Pretty […]

From SOPAC: Now celebrating their 45th anniversary, Sweet Honey In The Rock® is an all-woman,  African-American a cappella ensemble rooted in American history and culture. This renowned group sings worldwide and brings attention to social injustice, immigration issues and more. Tickets are now on sale for Sweet Honey In The Rock ® at the South Orange Performing Arts Center on Sunday, September 22, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $48-$75 may be purchased by going online at SOPACnow.org/ sweet-honey-in-the-rock. Sweet Honey In The Rock ® was founded in 1973 by Bernice Johnson Reagon, who was teaching a vocal workshop with the Washington, D.C. Black Repertory Company. The name of the group was derived from a song, based on Psalm 81:16, which tells of a land so rich that when rocks were cracked open, honey flowed from them. Johnson has said that this first song in which four women blended their voices was so powerful, that there was no question what the name of the group should be. The ensemble’s most powerful messages are proclaimed through an enormous catalog of songs addressing the world’s woes. They are currently occupied with immigration injustices, congressional greed and lack of compassion for citizens, the environmental imbalance, racial issues and women’s issues. The sixth member of the group is a sign-language interpreter […]

From the Robert J. Miller Oysterfest for Melanoma Awareness Committee: Each September over the last five years, there have been “Get Naked in the ‘Wood” lawn signs throughout Maplewood and South Orange yards and have made many curious. This clever slogan promotes the annual Robert J. Miller Oysterfest for Melanoma Awareness that drew 2000 neighbors to the Woodland last year to support an important cause and enjoy a fun community event for all ages. This event was designed to raise funds for cancer research and awareness, but more importantly “give back” by providing financial support to families facing an unexpected medical crises. Bob Miller was a long time Maplewood resident who lived in the heart of town with his wife Grace and their four daughters. A world-class architect, who also focused on beautifully renovating local historic homes, he was also a dedicated father, seeing his girls off to school and coaching lacrosse. At age 45 he was diagnosed with melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. Despite a courageous two-year battle, Bob passed away in March 2014. In 2015, Grace along with devoted friends and community leaders organized the inaugural charity event, Robert J. Miller Oysterfest to celebrate Bob’s life, raise funds for […]

The Maplewood Village Alliance (MVA) will host its 8th Annual Art Walk & Music Fest on Sunday, September 22nd from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Maplewood Village. This is a rain or shine event. This year there are 50 fine artists, many new to the event, displaying and selling their original work, plus live music by local bands all day long, the ever-popular children’s community mural, and other kid activities. The art is the centerpiece of this event and it’s a juried show, judged by prominent members of the art community. There will be best in show, second, and third place winners. Beyond the art, many Village merchants will be open or participating, so visit the Village that day and join the fun! “This show started with the intent to showcase Maplewood’s robust community of artists and musicians and it’s become so popular that it now draws artists from other towns, Manhattan, and even Boston. It’s a great event that combines the best of the arts and businesses in the Village,” says Deb Yohannan, manager of the Maplewood Village Alliance.  This special event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Presenting sponsors are Mark Slade, Keller Williams […]

From Summit Downtown: Summit’s family-favorite fall event is back, with an exciting new twist: a Beer and Wine Garden!  From 10am to 6pm on Sunday, September 15th there will also be a juried art show with lots of art and crafts for sale, the P.A.L. Classic Car Show, live music from 52ndStreet and others, children’s activities, and food trucks.  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. Arts Festival: The Summit Downtown Arts Festival, co-organized by the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, is back! This is an outdoor, juried art show with plenty of art and wares for sale.  The Arts Festival will be located on Springfield Avenue between Maple Street and Summit Avenue. Live Entertainment: The day kicks off with Summit’s own World of Rock!  Enjoy a student showcase followed by the World of Rock Trio.  Summit Street Sounds favorites, Cold Weather Company (12pm) and The Baby Please (2pm) perform next.  The festival will be headlined by 52ndStreet (4-6pm), the world’s longest running Billy Joel Tribute Band.  Thanks to headlining sponsor Regal Bank and musical sponsor Sunrise Senior Living of Summit for making […]

From SOVCA: The South Orange Village Center Alliance (SOVCA) announced that everyone’s favorite day of play is coming back to downtown South Orange on Sunday on Sunday, September 15th from 1 to 6pm. Once again the streets will be open to pedestrians and closed to vehicles for an amazing day of play in the streets of South Orange Village.  Call for Volunteers SOVCA needs many volunteers, contestants and sponsors to make this event happen each year. From supervising art activities and carnival games to handing out wristbands and setting up chairs, help is needed. If you have an hour to two to spare, and would like to be involved, please email info@sovillagecenter.org. Call for Contestants Do you love Town Hall Deli Sloppy Joes? Then this is your chance to win a $100 gift card to Town Hall Deli. Enter the PlayDay 2019 Sloppy Joe Easting Contest by filling out the contest application today! PlayDay Sponsors SOVCA would like to thank the many generous sponsors who make PlayDay possible. This year’s Play Area Sponsors include Stop & Shop, Natalie Farrell of Weichert Realtors, Atlantic Health System | Overlook Medical Center, and Matters Magazine. Our Supporting sponsors are Mark Murphy Music, Jeff Lake, The Gateway, The Darmanin Group, Seton Hall University, Provident Bank, […]

From sidewalk tables just right for people watching, elegant patio dining under the stars, to decks with an ocean view — New Jersey has scores of eateries where you can grab a bite outdoors. Here’s NJNext.com’s list of where to dine al fresco in the Garden State. Did we miss your favorite spot? Tell us at editor@newjerseynext.com. The Cassidy Bar + Kitchen (Maplewood) One of Maplewood’s newer businesses, The Cassidy is an American restaurant and bar located in the heart of the Village. From a prime perch at sidewalk tables facing the action of Maplewood Avenue, diners can indulge in a variety of cocktails, plates to share, and seasonally rotating entrees. The Cassidy’s current menu offers strawberry-rhubarb gastrique, clam pasta, chilaquiles and more.   Proving Ground (Highlands) Proving Ground in Highlands offers waterfront dining with both city and ocean views. The restaurant gets its name from the Sandy Hook proving grounds, where the U.S. Army once tested artillery and other materials. In the spirit of testing new things, the restaurant often experiments with new and seasonal menu items, drinks, and events. It serves salads, a variety of burgers and seafoods, and “handhelds” like the “dynamite wrap,” which features beer-battered shrimp […]

From the Achieve Foundation of South Orange and Maplewood: Our 17th Annual Newstead 5K will be happening on September 21 this year starting at 9AM. This fun, family-friendly event is open to community members of all fitness levels and is one of Achieve’s major fundraisers. The race route is a rolling 5K (3.1 mile) course in the quiet residential Newstead neighborhood, with chip timing provided by CompuScore. The morning event includes a 2-mile walk option for those who’d rather walk than run. A half-mile Kids Fun Run, sponsored by Able Baker, will happen after the 5K (at approximately 9:45). Race time is 9:00 a.m., beginning at the South Mountain School Annex, 112 Glenview Rd., South Orange.  Presenting sponsor D&I Fitness will lead participants in fun and dynamic warm-up exercises prior to race start.  Registration is $25 (Fun Run is free; no registration required.) Click here for online registration. Interested in volunteering on race day or to help us prepare? Contact us at newstead5k@achievefoundation.org.  

As everyone knows, great weather and cocktails go hand-in-hand. So why not enjoy a beverage while basking in the sun, sipping in the shade, or savoring a sunset at one of New Jersey’s rooftop bars? From ocean waves to the Manhattan skyline, some Garden State views are unbeatable. Take a look at our round-up of rooftop bars that will truly elevate your summer outings. (Note: call ahead to confirm opening dates/hours). Town Bar + Kitchen – Morristown This Elm Street venue features the only rooftop dining experience in Morristown. Sample new American cuisine in this stylish setting while sipping a specialty cocktail or a brew from the reserved beer list. There’s even a fireplace. (The rooftop is open on warmer days; call in advance to find out.) Rooftop XP at The Hyatt House JC – Jersey City Grab drinks and dinner while gazing at what some may consider the world’s most iconic skyline. The stunning space boasts “lavish libations” so fancy the bar claims they’ll “inspire Instagram envy.” We’ll raise a glass to that! Hilton Short Hills, Retreat Rooftop – Short Hills With hand-crafted cocktails, specialty menu items, and seasonal craft beer on tap from Bolero Snort Brewery, you may have just […]

The beloved noodle chain Ani Ramen House is opening up three new NJ outposts this fall, at locations in Maplewood, East Rutherford and Cranford. Maplewood – September 2019 149 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood Munchies Food Hall in American Dream – October 2019 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford Cranford – Late 2019 109 Walnut Avenue, Cranford On the menu are the chain’s signature Japanese Ramen bowls with custom noodles by Sun Noodle. Also look for their acclaimed bao buns, homemade crispy gyoza and Japanese Izakaya small plates. Lunch and dinner will be served daily and their new full-service locations will be BYOB dining destinations. Maplewood residents have been eagerly awaiting the opening, which was announced last year. Maplewood Mayor Vic DeLuca said then, “We are very excited about adding Ani Ramen to the Maplewood food scene. Our residents and visitors to our town will enjoy their ‘dining experience’ at Ani Ramen. We know the restaurant will be a great success.” Recently, the Maplewood Planning Board approved a variance for Ani Ramen for a walk-in refrigerator with rear-yard setback, paving the way for a September opening date. Currently, Ani Ramen has three locations: Montclair, Jersey City and Summit. When the ramen house opened […]

From Maplewood Arts & Culture: Join us for the 3rd annual Maplewood Porchfest – Sunday, September 1, 2019 (rain date Monday, September 2) in the Hilton neighborhood on Labor Day weekend! There will be 30 porches hosting 40+ performances from 1-5pm. Meet in front of the Community Center at DeHart Park at noon to participate in the family honk parade. See a map and schedule below. Visit www.maplewoodporchfest.com for updates or email maplewoodporchfest@gmail.com. Honk Parade: Meet at Noon at Dehart Center. Step-off is 12:30, following the pink line! There will be several streets closed to car traffic. These streets are open to all pedestrians and bicyclists. When streets are not closed, however, please be mindful and stay out of the streets. Map Address Performer Time — Description 1 30 Harding Mac ‘n’ She’s 1-2pm — Electric blues Parking by Sound (formerly The Kludge) 3-5pm — Rock all styles 2 172 Jacoby Chris Corbin (no rain date) 2-4pm — Sinatra favorites Budd Mishkin 4-5pm — Beatles & more 3 53 Menzel David Easton & Friends 3-4pm — Funk & jazz-infused rock 4 11 Field Rd. Tom TV 2-4pm — Rock covers & originals 5 11 Taranto Ct Marry the Sea 2-3pm — Folk rock Rebecca Turner & Friends 3-4pm — Folk/power pop 6 81 Burnett (on Franklin) Garage Sale Hipsters 1-2pm — Jazz vocal & piano Kaz & Friends […]

From MPAC: Join MPAC as it celebrates its 25th Anniversary Season Opening Night! Katharine McPhee Friday, September 13 at 8:00 pm Tickets: $49 – $99 Renowned for her powerhouse presence and show-stopping performances, Katharine McPhee possesses a voice for the ages. Audiences first fell under the chanteuse’s spell during a storied run on American Idol Season 5 in 2006. Propelled by the smash “Over It,” her 2007 self-titled debut bowed at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and achieved an RIAA gold certification. 2010 saw her return with not one, but two records-Unbroken and Christmas is the Time To Say I Love You. Simultaneously, she became a force on the big and small screens. McPhee co-starred alongside Debra Messing on Smash from executive producer Steven Spielberg as well as guest appearances on CSI: NY, Community, Family Guy, and more. A sought-after performer, she has taken stage for PBS specials — including her own special — Soundstage: Katharine McPhee, and Foster and Friends. Most recently, she starred in the CBS drama Scorpion, and starred on Broadway and London’s West End in the hit musical Waitress to much praise. The concert celebrates the kick off to MPAC’s 25th anniversary season, which will […]

From Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival: The ninth Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival will be held on the Green on Saturday, August 17, from noon until 10:00 p.m. This year the annual free concert pays tribute to the 40th anniversary of the world’s greatest jazz radio station WBGO and to the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock Music Festival. An initiative by Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty, it is made possible by the generous support of a long list of sponsors. This year’s festival begins at noon with The Antoinette Montague Experience, a popular jazz and blues group from the metropolitan area. Born and raised in Newark, Antoinette is an award-winning vocalist who is a regular with New York City’s Jazzmobile and has performed all over the world including a tour for the U.S. State Department. She is also the CEO of Jazz Women to the Rescue Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing musical instruments to underserved youngsters. Her band members include the world-renowned pianist Danny Mixon, explosive guitarist King Solomon Hicks, young saxophonist Benny Rubin Jr., multitalented bassist Melissa Slocum, multiple Grammy nominated drummer Bobby Sanabria, and the exciting tap dancer A.C. Lincoln. At two o’clock, The Frank Vignola Trio takes […]

James Beard award-winner-David Burke has expanded restaurant empire this year, opening David Burke at Orange Lawn in South Orange and VENTANAS Restaurant & Lounge, a modern American-Asian-Cuban restaurant and lounge in Fort Lee. Burke, who serves as culinary director, partnered with restaurateur Alexander Duran of West New York’s Son Cubano, to bring the stunning $3 million space to life in June. The 7,000-square-foot restaurant, where Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli works his magic, features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, a nod to its name (Ventanas translates to windows in Spanish), two luxurious dining rooms, a tapas lounge, and a massive oval bar at the center of it all. Those striking windows overlook an inviting terrace, ideal for brunch or cocktails, that sits amid a two-acre park located behind the building. Nestled between skyscrapers in the shadows of the George Washington Bridge, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a cool and stylish oasis where the food is as delightful and intriguing as the atmosphere. When NJNext.com stopped by for Sunday brunch, we were immediately impressed by the swanky, upscale vibe and friendly staff. Our lone troublespot: Everything on the menu sounded so tempting it seemed impossible to make a choice. Fortunately, our knowledgeable server was ready […]

From Somerset County Park Commission: The Somerset County Park Commission Free Summer Concert Series at Duke Island Park on Old York Road in Bridgewater will continue the 2019 season on Sunday, August 11, 2019, with the soul sounds of Andy B.And and the best of the hits from the 50’s to the 90’s performed by The Fabulous Grease Band. The concert is scheduled from 5:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. with the food trucks open throughout the performances. Gates will open at 5:00 P.M. The 5th Annual Rock ‘n Roll Food Truck Fest will feature 11 food trucks, each presenting a different set of menu items. Among the culinary creations will be Cubano Xpress, Kats Catering, Gail’s Dog House, Pizza Vita, Cas’ Pierogi’s and Kielbasa, Amanda’s Bananas, Cheezin’, Aunt Dee Dee’s Old Fashioned Baked Goodness, Jimmy’s Concession, Taxi Cab Burger, and Josefa Ice Cream LLC. Andy B. a.k.a. Andy Bernstein, has been the primary singer-songwriter for The VooDUDES since 1990. After 25 years, he has also gone solo with an album entitled My Roots are Showing with tunes inspired by Americana and soul music. He has been performing with the group Soul Funk at a variety of festivals. The Fabulous Greaseband is a seven-member band that plays that […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) has been awarded a grant of $43,538 in funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts (NJSCA), a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. This represents a 30% increase from SOPAC’s FY19 grant. NJSCA received level funding this year and only gave increased funding to nine organizations. Out of 208 organizations receiving direct grants from the state, SOPAC was singled out to be in this prestigious group. Funds awarded to SOPAC by NJSCA will be used in a flexible manner to support the operations of the award-winning performing arts center, including education and community engagement. The mission of SOPAC is to enrich individual lives, and to engage and serve the community in South Orange and beyond, through arts experiences that inspire and transform. Paul Bartick, Chair of the SOPAC Board of Governors declares, “We are truly honored by NJSCA’s continued major support. This vital grant will help us as we continue to present diverse programming for our community and serves as a bedrock endorsement of the role of SOPAC in the region.”SOPAC was also awarded a Citation of Excellence from NJSCA, […]

From Morristown National Historical Park News: Dusk is when the bats come out! Nine species of bats call New Jersey home, and many can be seen flying around your neighborhood at dusk. To help you identify which species of bat you’re looking at, Morristown National Historical Park is offering two evening Bat Walk programs. The first Bat Walk will be offered 7:30-9:30 pm on Friday August 9, 2019, and the second will be 6:30-8:30 pm, on Friday September 13, 2019. The programs are free, but registration is required. To register, please contact Bob Masson at email: robert_masson@nps.gov or 908-766-6841. On the Bat Walk, you’ll join staff from the Rutgers University Wildlife Conservation and Management Program to learn about the unique ecology of bats. You’ll watch them hunt insects using echolocation as the light fades, and learn how to use handheld acoustic detectors that can identify which bat species are flying nearby. The walks will begin on the lawn near Jockey Hollow’s Wick Farm. As it gets dark, we will stroll around the Wick Orchard and adjacent trails to search for bats. All ages are welcome. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear good walking shoes. Tick repellent is recommended for outdoor activities. In case […]

Summer is the perfect time to attend local festivals and fairs and enjoy the fresh air, entertainment and delicious food. Take a look at NJNext.com’s upcoming events that will keep you entertained no matter where you live in the Garden State.   July 13th-14th: Maplewoodstock This summer, Maplewood will be celebrating its 16th annual Music & Arts festival in Memorial Park on the second weekend of July. Maplewoodstock features local, regional, and national musical acts as well as arts and food vendors and a KidsZone. This year, Antibalas and Turkuaz will be headlining. Sister Sparrow will also be performing on Sunday. The festival is free.   July 16th-20th: Burlington County Farm Fair Get Ready for the 2019 “Family Fun Fair” on the beautiful Burlington County Fairgrounds in Springfield Twp, NJ. It runs from Tuesday to Saturday (the 16-20)! The Burlington County Farm Fair, Inc. is a non-profit organization which promotes agriculture, social life, and youth. The organization also aims to educate the general public at its annual agricultural fair, which features exhibits, livestock, and farm products. Tens of thousands of visitors attend the fair each year!   July 18th-20th: Cape May County 4-H Fair This July marks the 50th year […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr.: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to visit the Essex County Parks System and enjoy the 2019 Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series. Upcoming events feature a Caribbean Festival, International Food and Music Festival, Talent Gong Show and House Music Festival. “Our Free Concert Series offers a diverse lineup of performers who will take center stage in venues throughout our historic Essex County Park System. Pack a blanket, enjoy the cool evening breeze and dance to the sounds of classical, rock and roll, jazz, big band, Latin and more,” DiVincenzo said. Caribbean Festival Nessa Preppy from Trinidad and Tobago is the featured performer at the 2019 Caribbean Festival in Essex County Monte Irvin Orange Park. The event will be hosted by Romano of Sauce Entertainment and feature DJs from Team Groove. There will be food, vendors and rides for children. The Caribbean Festival will be held as follows: Date:               Saturday, August 10, 2019 Time:              12 noon to 8 p.m. Place:             Essex County Monte Irvin Orange Park                         Central Avenue                   […]

Beach season is finally here and New Jersey’s 130 miles of gorgeous shoreline beckon. While sun and surf are good for the soul, they can be rough on the wallet. Fortunately, NJ Next has found 13 free beaches, so check the forecast, pack your beach bag, and load everyone into the car for an affordable day of fun. Atlantic City Save your money for the slots! Can you believe there’s no beach fee in Atlantic City?! You can swim, walk, sunbathe, surf, fish, kayak, and windsurf. The Atlantic City beach is walking distance to shops, restaurants, casinos, and shows.   Cape May County Located on the bay in Lower Township between the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay, Jennifer Lane Beach’s unique location boasts breathtaking sunset views. The beach is also popular for fishing. Lifeguards are on duty form 10 a.m to 5 p.m. William Morrow Beach at Somers Point is a small stretch of shoreline on Great Egg Harbor Bay, 10 miles southwest of Atlantic City, that offers a free concert lineup on Friday nights during the summer. Spend the day sunning yourself and swimming, then enjoy an evening of music. Cape May County Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors who frequent Manahawkin […]

[Editor’s note: this article was originally published in August 2018] A change of scenery is good for the soul. If you can get out of town, rest, relax, and restore without leaving the state, even better. Montclair, a thriving Essex County community located at the foot of the First Watchung Mountain, offers something intriguing for nearly every visitor. From live music and gorgeous gardens to an array of dining options and fine art, you may find that you’ll need more than just a few days to enjoy it all. Below are some highlights that make Montclair the perfect destination for a weekend getaway: Stay: Husband and wife team Steven Plofker and makeup mogul Bobbi Brown transformed a Georgian Inn into a boutique hotel, The George Inn, in the heart of Montclair. Blending historic bones with modern flair, the couple reimagined the space to create a chic aesthetic that boasts products from some of Brown’s hand-picked favorite brands. You won’t have to worry about leaving your pup behind. All pooches receive V.I.P. treatment as they’re welcomed with a dog bed and treats, for an extra $75 per dog per night fee. Each of the hotel’s 32 rooms is uniquely designed to make guests feel comfortable […]

From FestivalNet: The 44th Annual Rutherford Labor Day Street Fair — which historically attracts 25,000–30,000 attendees — is now not only the oldest annual street fair in the Garden State but also be the largest one‑day street festival in the state. Enjoy food, crafts, and more. Days/­Hours Open: Mon 10am‑5pm Ad­mission: None More information here.

From Warren County Farmers’ Fair: The Balloon Festival at the Warren County Farmers’ Fair in Warren County New Jersey alone is worth the trip! If you have never experienced the thrill of watching a bevy of colorful hot air balloons majestically rise from green pasture to blue sky, you can’t imagine what you’re missing. And if you’re inclined to adventure, you can buy a ticket, hop on board and join the fun close-up! For more details on the balloon festival visit www.balloonfestnj.com. To request a free brochure or for information on scheduling a balloon ride at the hot air balloon festival email info@balloonfestnj.com or visit the website. Balloon rides at the fair are $205 per person for Saturday and Sunday and $195 per person weekdays. Major credit cards accepted. Complete refund for balloon ride if we cancel due to weather. (Unfortunately fair admission cannot be refunded.) If you are coming to see the balloons PLEASE NOTE that balloon activity occurs later in the day, when the winds are most calm. Every Night: Saturday July 27 thru Saturday, August 3, 2019– Balloon Launch –6:30 PM Up to 30 Hot Air Balloons take to the sky at 6:30 pm. Don’t be late, […]

From SOPAC: South Orange Performing Arts Center has announced its 2019-2020 schedule of events (as of July 18): Aug 10: Sinbad Ranked by Comedy Central as one of the “100 Greatest Standups of All Time,” actor and comedian Sinbad has kept audiences laughing for over three decades. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 7:30PM Tickets: $56. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org/sinbad Aug 24: Oh Solo Wainwright: An Evening with Rufus and special guest The Rails A gifted singer and songwriter, Rufus Wainwright’s magnetic vocals showcase his inventive and thoughtful songs that reflect his personal truth-telling.7:30PM Tickets $65-$85 (VIP Package $237). (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org/rufus-wainwright Aug 27: Toad the Wet Sprocket One of the greatest bands of the ’90s and beyond celebrates over 30 years of making music with a new tour. “All I Want” “Fall Down” and “Something’s Always Wrong” are just some of the unforgettable charted hits that launched this young group to fame.7:30PM. Tickets: $48-$68 (VIP Package $157). (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org/toad-the-wet-sprocket Sep 13: Paula Poundstone Paula Poundstone is one of our country’s preeminent comedians, known for her smart, observational humor and spontaneous wit that has become the stuff of legend. 8PM Tickets: $35-$55. (973) 313-2787. www.SOPACnow.org/paula poundstone […]

From Maplewoodstock: Maplewoodstock, in its sixteenth year, will be full of energy as it presents power bands Turkuaz and Antibalas and up and coming Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds. Brooklyn-based Antibalas with its Afrobeat voice of resistance will close Saturday night, July 13, and Turkuaz, covering a range of sounds in festival funk fashion, will close the show Sunday night, July 14. Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds will present their modern soul sound with their own unique melodies and lyrics. For more on the headliners, scroll down. Nineteen other bands will appear throughout the two days, including young Maplewoodians Autumn Jones and Luca Max and local blues veteran, Joe Taino. The first note resounds at Noon on both days. Maplewoodstock is a free event held in Memorial Park in a natural amphitheater, steps away from the Maplewood train station. It features 20 food vendors, 60 art vendors, a Kidzone and a beer garden. With much support from local businesses and t-shirt sales, Maplewoodstock continues to be true to its mission of presenting the best possible show for the community and of the community with nationally known closing acts and a collection of regional bands with strong Maplewood and […]

On Sunday, July 14, Maplewoodstock will present the modern soul sounds of  Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds. Turkuaz, covering a range of sounds in festival funk fashion, will close the show. NOTE: Schedule subject to change. If weather interrupts the schedule we pick up the schedule as per the “clock.” In other words, if it pours rain from 4 pm to 5:45, we pick up the schedule with whatever band is scheduled to be playing at 5:45. However, we have a covered stage, so light or moderate rain won’t stop us. Last minute updates to the schedule (due to weather or other factors) will be announced in real-time on our Twitter channel — twitter.com/maplewoodstock Sunday, July 14, 2019 NOON – ScreenAge An alternative rock band formed in 2016. Their first album, “Station 42,” was released this year. Website: https://ScreenAgeBand.com 12:42 PM – Ohemaah Born in Ghana and raised in Canada, Ohemaah is a prolific songwriter, singer, and classically-trained musician. The songs are of hope and wisdom, with a musical style that fuses pop, jazz, and world music influences. Website: https://www.ohemaah.com 1:24 PM – Simple Man Complex vocal harmonies to sweat-inducing dance rhythms, this genre-blending indie sound is an electrifying live experience. Website: https://www.simplemansound.com […]

Maplewoodstock, in its sixteenth year, will be full of energy as it presents power bands Turkuaz and Antibalas and up and coming Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds. Brooklyn-based Antibalas with its Afrobeat voice of resistance will close Saturday night, July 13, and Turkuaz, covering a range of sounds in festival funk fashion, will close the show Sunday night, July 14. Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds will present their modern soul sound with their own unique melodies and lyrics. Read more about the headliners here. NOTE: Schedule subject to change. If weather interrupts the schedule we pick up the schedule as per the “clock.” In other words, if it pours rain from 4 pm to 5:45, we pick up the schedule with whatever band is scheduled to be playing at 5:45. However, we have a covered stage, so light or moderate rain won’t stop us. Last minute updates to the schedule (due to weather or other factors) will be announced in real-time on our Twitter channel — twitter.com/maplewoodstock Saturday, July 13, 2019 NOON – Switch Mob America’s Band – a melting pot of musicians who have created an infectious sound. Think ’90’s Soul meets Black Eyed Peas meets 2019. Website: https://switchmobnj.com/ 12:42 PM – Auguste & […]

From MPAC: With his roots firmly planted in bluegrass and honky tonk music, Dwight Yoakam continues to bring his own brand of “hillbilly” music to his ever-faithful fans. Yoakum performs from among such favorites as “Guitars, Cadillacs,” “Streets of Bakersfield,” “Honky Tonk Man” and “and more at Mayo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, August 22 at 8 pm. Dwight Yoakam has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, and he is a 21-time nominated, multiple GRAMMY Award winner. He has 12 gold albums and 9 platinum or multi-platinum albums, with five of those albums topping Billboard’s Country Albums chart and another 14 landing in the Top 10. Nearly 40 of Yoakam’s singles have charted on Billboard, with 14 peaking in the Top 10. He is also the recipient of the Artist of the Year award from the Americana Music Association, the most prestigious award offered by the organization. Yoakam’s self-curated SiriusXM channel, titled Dwight Yoakam and The Bakersfield Beat ‘Where Country Went Mod’, will launched 2018. The channel celebrates the Bakersfield sound and those whom it has inspired. In addition to his musical career, Yoakam is a formidable film and television actor who has appeared in over 40 feature films including […]

Editor’s note: this article was first published in August, 2018. Check with individual parks for opening days and hours. Picture a lake on a hot summer day, the sun dancing and sparkling across its surface. Makes you want to hop right in. New Jersey boasts many lovely lakes. Some are located in state parks and offer hiking trails, picnic areas, boating, camping facilities, and more. Here are our favorite lakes for your swimming pleasure. Check websites for fees, hours of operation, and locations. Have we missed your favorite lake? Email editor@newjerseynext.com and let us know. Northern Jersey Mahwah (Bergen County) Darlington County Park in the foothills of the Ramapo mountains has three lakes. Two of these lakes are for swimming and the third allows fishing. You’ll also find a picnic area (bring your own grill), white sand beaches, a state-of-the-art playground, basketball, tennis, and handball courts. Landing (Morris County) Lake Hopatcong, located in Lake Hopacong State Park, is New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake and offers boating, fishing, water sports, and swimming. A concession, picnic grills, volleyball courts, and playgrounds are all near the beach. Lovely restaurants, marinas, and public beaches surround parts of the lake. Morris Township (Morris County) Sunrise Lake Beach […]

Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) will host Summit’s 11th Annual Restaurant Week from Thursday, July 18 through Sunday, July 28. Over 25 restaurants and food shops will offer prix fixe menus and specials. A continually updated list of participating establishments and their menus/specials is available on summitdowntown.org. Restaurant Week is the perfect time to visit that restaurant you’ve been wanting to try!  Summit Street Sounds will return for an encore performance on Thursday, July 18, to kick off Restaurant Week. There will be live music throughout downtown from 5-8pm. Enjoy a summer evening in downtown Summit! Many restaurants offer outdoor seating.  SDI will be hosting a new social media challenge this year! Visit Summit Downtown’s Facebook and Instagram pages during Restaurant Week to participate in the “Guess the Dish Challenge”. SDI will post photos showing the ingredients for a dish on the menu at a Summit restaurant, and followers will try to guess the dish that those ingredients make. One lucky winner with the correct answer will win a $50 Summit Gift Card!  Restaurants offering $25 prix fixe menus – Ani Ramen + Luigi’s Ice Cream, The Committed Pig, Doria’s Pizza, Fiorino Ristorante (lunch), Juice Caboose, La Pastaria, Peppercorn Restaurant (for […]

Too hot to cook? Looking for a new restaurant to try for lunch or dinner? Main 233 Eatery & Catering celebrated its opening June 28 in Chatham in the space that was formerly home to Aida’s Cozy Kitchen. Serving New American Cuisine, the restaurant takes its name from its Main Street Address. Everything is made in-house from scratch with all fresh ingredients. The lunch menu offers a grilled vegetable or chicken caesar wrap, steak sandwich, burger, a lobster roll and more. For dinner, guests can enjoy pastas (an infused floral pappardelle and a Peruvian potato gnocchi), meats (a 22 oz. certified Angus Porterhouse and an 8 oz. filet mignon), and seafood dishes (blackened pan-seared tuna and coconut-crusted wild salmon). A kids menu offers perennial favorites such as ravioli, chicken tenders, bow tie pasta with butter. The eatery is a BYOB. For more information, visit Main 233 Eatery & Catering’s Facebook or Instagram pages, or call (973) 635-8949.

From MPAC: Mayo Performing Arts Center presents free summer movies throughout July and August. Tickets will be available at the MPAC box office beginning July 8 for Captain Marvel. Tickets for other events will be available two weeks prior to showings. The Lineup includes: Captain Marvel Thursday, July 25 at 10:30 am and 7 pm Tickets available beginning July 8 at 12 pm Peter Rabbit Thursday, August 8 at 10:30 am Tickets available beginning July 22 at 12 pm Airplane! Thursday, August 8 at 7 pm Tickets available beginning July 22 at 12 pm The Lego Movie Wednesday, August 21 at 10:30 am Tickets available beginning August 5 at 12 pm Bohemian Rhapsody Wednesday, August 21 at 7 pm Tickets available beginning August 5 at 12 pm MPAC’s free movies are part of its summer Arts in the Community free concerts and movies. MPAC is also presenting free evening events at Vail Mansion Lawn, adjacent to the Theatre, and co-presenting lunchtime concerts wit hMorris Arts at Morristown Green. Remaining events are as follows: Free Concerts at Vail All concerts will take place from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Rain site St. Peter’s Church Thursday, June 27 Tshila Wednesday, July 10 […]

From the Maplewood 4th of July Committee: Join us for a full day of festivities in Memorial Park, with live music, a carnival midway, Entertainment Pavilion, boardwalk games, food court, car show, bingo hall, fireworks and much more! Thursday, July 4, 2019, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM EDT. Afternoon Concert Headliner- The Nerds Evening Concert Headliner- The Cameos Wristbands are required beginning at 12 noon to access South Field attractions, which includes concert stage. More than 30 activities are included with your wristband purchase, including everything taking place in the Entertainment Pavilion, a 4,500+ square foot event space. Also included is our Play-for-Free bingo tent, prize wheel, inflatable zone, hospitality center, and more! Select carnival games and amusements will be available for purchase on-site, or choose an Unlimited Ride option. Buy-One-Get-One Early-bird discount available now! Purchase a Day Pass and receive an Evening Pass for Free! Click to see what’s included with your wristband purchase Are you purchasing more than one ticket? Choose a multi-ticket option to save on service fees! FAQ Why are there so many ticket options? Each purchase has a ticketing fee. Patrons purchasing more than one ticket can select as many as 5 tickets in a […]

From Branchburg Sports Complex: On Monday, June 24th we will be hosting a Football Camp featuring NFL Linebacker, Jason Cabinda of the Oakland Raiders. Cabinda attended Hunterdon Central Regional High School in Flemington, NJ where he holds the record of 50 career touchdowns. He played college football for Penn State and finished his Penn State career ninth all-time in career tackles with 286 and named Second Team All-Big Ten by the coaches. For more information on the Jason Cabinda Football camp click here – https://www.branchburgsports.com/programs-clinics/summer-camp-nj-schools-out-camps-break/#jcfc On Tuesday, June 25th and Thursday, June 27th BSC will be hosting a Basketball Camp in association with Larry Marshall Sports featuring Kadeem Jack. Kadeem Jack is a 6’10 Trinidadian-American professional basketball player for the South Bay Lakers of the NBA G League and a member of the 2019 Red Bull USA Basketball 3×3 National Team. Kadeem played college basketball for Rutgers University and graduated with 1,044 career points. He has played professionally for various teams in the NBA Development League.  For more information on the Kadeem Jack Basketball Camp click here – https://www.branchburgsports.com/programs-clinics/summer-camp-nj-schools-out-camps-break/#kadeem About Branchburg Sports Complex: Branchburg Sports Complex is New Jersey’s premiere sports and family entertainment center located conveniently off Route 22 […]

From The Field Kitchen: Join Farm & Fork Society, SOMA Brewing Company, and The Fox &  Falcon on July 18th from 5:30 to 8 PM at the first ever, The Field Kitchen @ Floods Hill. This unique dining event will bring dozens of area residents to feast under the stars at one long table at the base of Floods Hill in South Orange, NJ. The meal will feature locally sourced sustainably grown and ethically harvested produce and meats. Chef Matt Ruzga from South Orange’sThe Fox & Falcon is creating a one-time only menu based on the freshest, most season produce and meats from local farms. This one-in-a-lifetime meal will also feature brews from SOMA Brewing Company and organic biodynamic wines. The meal will be cooked in an outdoor kitchen, and the process will be viewable by attendees.   Tickets to the event cost $100 per person, and all the money generated will be used to purchase produce from the farmers participating in the event and donated to MEND NJ’s food pantries feeding New Jersey’s most food insecure residents. The event was conceived by Farm & Fork Society founder, Melissa Goldberg who said, “Dining among friends, family and neighbors is the […]

From Wellmont Theater: World-famous comic, Chelsea Handler, is set to bring her sit-down comedy show, “Life Will Be the Death of Me” to Montclair, N.J.’s premier concert venue, the Wellmont Theater, on Friday, June 28 at 8 p.m. A New Jersey native, Handler’s talk shows, best-selling books and stand-up comedy have attracted millions of fans worldwide. Her new comedy tour is based off of her latest book that is characterized by the New York Times as “thrillingly honest, insightful, and deeply, darkly funny.” The performance will feature hilarious anecdotes following a year of self-discovery as Handler attempts to make changes in her personal life and in the world at large. More information 

  Good news for fans of fine dining: world-renowned chef David Burke has opened David Burke at Orange Lawn, at Orange Lawn Tennis Club, the 140-year-old South Orange landmark. The new restaurant is not only available to members of OLTC but is also open to the public every day except Sundays and Mondays when it is closed. Members of the public can dine at David Burke at Orange Lawn by enrolling in the dining club program (see more below). From Park Avenue Café to Davidburke & Donatella, the David Burke Townhouse, David Burke at Bloomingdale’s, David Burke Tavern (NYC), VENTANAS Restaurant and Lounge (Fort Lee, NJ), Drifthouse by David Burke (Sea Bright, NJ) and other restaurants in NYC and across the country, David Burke has literally put his stamp on fine dining in America. And now he’s doing it in South Orange, NJ. A James Beard awarded chef and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America who also studied at École Lenôtre Pastry School in Plaisir, France, Burke has worked with legendary chefs including Pierre Troisgros, George Blanc, Marc Meneau, Daniel Boulud, Charlie Palmer and Waldy Malouf. At the age of 26, he received Three Stars from the New York Times at the River Café and was chosen by his peers to represent […]

From Mayo Performing Arts Center:  MPAC presents a full lineup of events for its 25th Anniversary season, ranging from world renowned headliners such as Tony Bennett and Audra McDonald to touring Broadway productions including RENT to the best in dance, comedy, classical, world music and family shows . “Our 25th season celebrates the power of the performing arts to inspire, entertain and bring people together,” said Allison Larena, President and CEO of MPAC.  “Our 25th season will feature a diverse lineup of artists, including many of the most popular acts to perform at MPAC over the years, crowd favorites, incredible touring Broadway shows and diverse emerging artists.” MPAC’s official opening nigh Mayo Performing Arts Center t is Friday, September 13 and features a performance by former American Idol Katharine McPhee. Touring Broadway shows coming to MPAC include RENT, Finding Neverland and Bandstand. Superstar singers include Broadway’s Audra McDonald, Darlene Love, Paul Anka, Tony Bennett and Engelbert Humperdinck Contemporary music fans can enjoy the likes of Gavin DeGraw, Daughtry, Tesla, Orleans and Poco and a unique concert called “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today” a tribute to the Beatles White Album performed by Todd Rundgren, Christopher Cross, Micky Dolenz and others. For […]

If you thought VC Chickering’s first novel Nookietown was controversial, wait until you get your hands on the second one. Twisted Family Values will debut later this month, just in time for pool season, with a reading scheduled at Words Bookstore in Maplewood on June 21. You can pre-order the book here, or at your local independent bookstore. It’s a multi-generation saga about taboo love and how a tight-lipped, socialite family handles scandal (hint: not well). It takes place in well-to-do Larkspur, NJ, a fictitious small town not unlike Maplewood, where Chickering lives – right down to the lush green lawns and a local bakery where gossip spreads faster than buttercream on hot summer days. VC Chickering (Rebecca Rounsavill) The Village Green got a sneak peek at the novel and, without giving anything away, let’s just say it delivers on its promise to be a salacious, entertaining read. It also spans nearly five decades and artfully peppers cultural references about Monty Python, Billy Joel, and flip phones with the cold realities of dating and relationships before #MeToo. There’s plenty of humor, too: Chickering, who started off in TV writing for networks including Comedy Central and also plays in a band known for its laugh-out-loud lyrics, was named […]

From South Orange Village Center Alliance: Join us under the Gazebo on Fridays for Jazz on Sloan and in Spiotta Park on Saturdays where every style of music from acoustic to zydeco, jazz to flamenco will be represented. Concerts kicked off Memorial Day weekend with performances through Labor Day, every Friday and Saturday evening from 7:00pm to 10pm. Downtown After Sundown is produced by the South Orange Village Center Alliance and graciously sponsored by the Township of South Orange. Special thanks to SOVCA volunteer Gregory Burrus for managing the series. More details here: DAS Presents “Jazz on Sloan” South Orange Village Center Alliance invites you to dine and dance under the stars as we present Downtown After Sundown in the Live Music Capital of North Jersey. Join us under the Gazebo on Fridays for Jazz on Sloan and in Spiotta Park on Saturdays where every style of music from acoustic to zydeco, jazz to flamenco will be represented. Concerts kick off Memorial weekend through Labor Day, every Friday and Saturday evening from 7:00pm to 10pm. Jazz on Sloan Schedule Jazz on Sloan is dedicated to showcasing the wealth of jazz talent located in and around South Orange Village Center. (MAY) […]

From the Maplewood-South Orange Book Festival: The third annual Maplewood-South Orange Book Festival returns to the Woodland in Maplewood the weekend of June 7 and 8. The festival will open on Friday evening with a library fundraiser featuring Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues.  The proceeds from this event will benefit the Maplewood and South Orange libraries. “Both libraries are in the middle of extensive fundraising campaigns, and the book festival is delighted to be able to assist them in these efforts,” Festival Executive Director Robert Lasner said. Tickets for the fundraiser can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-eve-ensler-tickets-59669444916 The main day of the book festival will be Saturday, June 8 from 10 a.m. -5 p.m., and feature nearly 70 adult and children’s authors. The line up includes best-selling novelist Nell Freudenberger, former major league player Dale Berra, son of Yogi, and NY Times columnist Tyler Kepner. There will also be panels on the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, music writing, race and culture, satire and politics, and much more. R.L. Stine A major highlight of the festival is the children’s area, which will include over 40 authors, as well as a kid’s “fun” zone with games, face-painting, and other general mayhem.  The children’s area […]

From North Jersey Pride: North Jersey Pride, the nonprofit dedicated to promoting equality, acceptance, and respect for LGBTQ youth and families in New Jersey, returns to Memorial Park in Maplewood on Sunday, June 9th with an outstanding lineup of national and local talent, featuring headliners Gia Woods, Leland, and Leah Jenea; plus Antigone Rising, Metropolitan Community Church Choir, Harmonica Sunbeam, Joanna Young, Paper Mill Show Choir and Damien Crawford. Scott Nevins (Bravo TV’s The People’s Couch) will emcee the day. The interactive kids stage will return this year with all new entertainment and activities starting at 12pm in the Rainbow Kids Zone. 2019 Award Recipients This year’s Outstanding Ally Award will be presented to Sara Cunningham, the mother of a gay son who was sad to learn how many parents were not attending their children’s same-sex weddings. In a very public Facebook post that quickly went viral, Sara offered to be a “stand in” mother at weddings. In 2017, she founded Free Mom Hugs, a nonprofit that provides support and resources to LGBTQ people and their families. The 2019 Vanguard Award will be presented to the Stonewall Veterans Association, whose courageous members were at the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion that started […]