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 […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) kicked off its Spring fundraising with a spectacular Texas Hold ‘em Tournament and Casino Night on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at The Crestmont Country Club in West Orange. The exciting evening of poker and casino games was an unqualified financial success netting over $71,000 for the South Orange non-profit. Proceeds will be used for education activities anad community events, along with the day-to-day operations of “New Jersey’s Favorite Small Performing Arts Center.” SOPAC provides high-quality engaging performances at affordable prices, serving over 50,000 people each year and garnering excellent reviews for its diverse presentations. Committee chair and SOPAC Board of Governors member Carl Wolf spearheaded the successful event for the second year, with many guests attending again after being introduced to the South Orange Performing Arts Center Texas Hold ‘em last year. “I was delighted to see so many people support SOPAC and this event once again. It’s always such a good time! It’s a combination of guests wanting to support our organization and understanding how vital arts education is in addition to knowing how much fun they’ll have throughout the night!” said Wolf. “It’s just […]

From Under Cover Music Fest: The second annual Under Cover Music Fest is back, bigger and better than before. On Saturday, June 1, from 4 pm to 10 pm, world-class musicians from the area will cover popular hits from Aretha Franklin, Prince, The Meters, Bill Withers, Dave Matthews Band and Radiohead. Get to know this year’s performers, what they like to listen to and what they think about the bands they are covering in the Q&A below. Band Name: Mark Murphy and Friends Covering:  Dave Matthews Band  Mark Murphy – Acoustic Guitar/Vocals Ray West – Bass Goh Izawa – Drums Christian “Legend” Nourijanian – Keyboards Mike McGarril – Saxophone What’s on your summer play list? I love so many different kinds of music! Nice uplifting music is great for summer time! James Taylor, Joao Gilberto, The Band, The Beach Boys, Bill Frisell, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Bob Marley, Alison Krauss, Pat Metheny and Paul McCartney. What song(s) are you most excited to play at the festival and why? Dave Matthews Band has a lot of great high energy festival type songs! We are really looking forward to doing the DMB set! I guess a couple of songs I […]

From Resorts Casino Hotel: Resorts Casino Hotel, which rests on the northern end of the famed Atlantic City boardwalk, is set for their annual Beach Ball Drop on Friday, May 24th – kicking-off both Memorial Day Weekend as well as thrilling Hot Summer Fun festivities. All combined, various giveaways, gaming promos, food & drink specials, great entertainment and plenty more is planned at Resorts AC through September! THE BEACH BALL DROP Outside of Resorts Casino Hotel on Friday, May 24th, Memorial Day Weekend gets rocking with WMMR-FM broadcasting live with legendary disc jockey Pierre Robert from 10:00am – 3:00pm. Beginning at 3:00pm, DJ Andrew and Bacardi Artie take the reins to pump up the crowd ahead of 5,000 colorful souvenir beach balls to be dropped from above. The afternoon will also consist of the “Unlocking of the Ocean” ceremony at 1:30pm, various giveaways & contests, interactive entertainment, stilt walkers, photo ops with the beautiful Landshark promo girls and live boardwalk performances by the Fralinger String  Band – “The Ultimate in Mummers Entertainment.” Before or after the ball drop, Star Card holders are welcome to stop by the Promotions Both as well, to pick up a mini ice cream cane container that could […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: We are delighted to announce the cast of American Theater Group’s production of The Bridges of Madison County. This very talented ensemble ranges from Broadway veterans to young rising actors just starting their careers. The cast is outstanding and will bring Jason Robert Brown’s gorgeous score to life on the SOPAC stage June 20-30. Buy your tickets early to this “don’t-miss” musical theatre event of the season! American Theater Group: The Bridges of Madison County  THU, JUN 20 – SUN, JUN 30 A chance encounter forever changes the lives of a traveling photographer and an Iowan farm wife. With a soaring score, and based on the best-selling novel, The Bridges of Madison County portrays a passionate and moving love story. Click here for tickets, which are $35-$39.

This article was first published in April 2018; it has been updated. Tucked away in between Old Short Hills Park and the South Mountain Reservation, is a little known gem of a garden. Greenwood Gardens, a former private estate, is one of Essex County’s least known outdoor spaces. The garden is now open for the season. Note however, that the garden is embarking on important improvements to the historic site, and so until further notice is open Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with last tickets sold at 4:00 p.m. There are also a plethora of fun and educational events taking place this spring; learn more here. Greenwood Gardens started out in 1906 as Pleasant Days, the then country estate of millionaire Joseph Day and once encompassed 79 acres including Old Short Hills Park and surrounding areas now occupied by homes. After Day’s death, Peter Blanchard Jr. purchased the property, now 28 acres, and renamed it The Greenwoods”  for his family home. On Blanchard’s death, and with the help of the Garden Conservancy, Blanchard’s son, Peter Blanchard, III,  formed the non-profit, Greenwood Gardens, to preserve the space. After going through an extensive renovation to stabilize, update facilities, […]

From Downtown Somerville:   The Girls’ Night Out Event returns this year with even more shopping, dining and entertainment!  Join us in Downtown Somerville on Thursday, May 16, 2019 from 5-9 pm for a night on (and around) the town in honor of you! You will not want to miss this year’s celebration, there will be so much to do and experience – grab your friend’s and make it a night to remember.  “This event has become a Somerville staple,” said Jane Kobuta, Chairwoman of the DSA. “It gives us a great sense of pride to provide quality events and entertainment that get people shopping and dining downtown.” The event will feature shopping and dining deals from more than 30 Downtown Somerville merchants, a signature beverage crawl, unique entertainment, and exciting raffles. “From palm readers, to cover bands, and even a drag performance, we have something for everyone at this year’s event,” said Natalie Pineiro, Executive Director of the DSA.   The entertainment lineup is set to include: 5-9:00 PM – Free palm readings by Raven Maples at Evolve Clothing Gallery 5-8:00 PM – Private readings (15 minutes) available with Medium Dorothy Toner. Limit to 10 Participants. Register in advance at […]

From Somerset County Park Commission: The Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable and the Friends of Lord Stirling Stable will host the 36th Annual Family Fun Day on Sunday, May 19, 2019 at Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, NJ. Family Fun Day activities will take place from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. with games on horseback, pony rides and hayrides, games for children, and a special visit from Sparkee, the Somerset Patriots baseball team mascot. Admission and parking are free. This unique community festival will begin with current Lord Stirling Stable students competing in games on horseback for fun and ribbons. Musical Stalls, Fit to Be Tied, Ride-A-Buck, and a number of new team events are on the day’s schedule. Games on horseback begin at 8:00 A.M. Pony rides and tractor pulled hayrides will be available from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon and from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M., weather permitting. Child-friendly arcade games will be open from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Food, beverages, gently used riding apparel, and gift items will be offered for sale by the Friends of Lord Stirling Stable. Local vendors and organizations, including a K9 team from the Somerset […]

This Saturday hundreds of people will head to The Woodland in Maplewood, NJ eager to hear intimate stories about motherhood in all its forms at this year’s North Jersey Listen to Your Mother show. The one day-only annual event draws many loyal fans who return every year to hear live readings by local writers –many from our SOMA community—celebrating motherhood in all its complexity, diversity, and humor. That’s right. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry—it’s better than “Cats!” Plus, every year, Listen to Your Mother donates a portion of the show’s proceeds to a local charity that supports women and children. This year, we have partnered with the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges, which provides healthy food for local families in need. The two shows at 3:00 and 7: 00 pm are SOLD OUT! Tickets sold out in record time this year as the show has become a favorite way to spend time with friends and family and a great kick off to Mother’s Day weekend. But if you don’t have a ticket and still want to see the show, there are volunteer spots available! Help the production team pull off this special show and you get to see in exchange […]

From MPAC: Black Violin is coming to Mayo Performing Arts Center May 16th! Black Violin is led by classically trained violist and violinist Wil B. and Kev Marcus, who combine their classical training and hip-hop influences to create a distinctive multi-genre sound that is often described as “classical boom.” “Their music will keep classical music alive for the next generation.”- NPR Join us for a Young Professionals Happy Hour in the Starlight Lounge before the show, with featured beers from Montclair Brewery and complimentary light snacks. Your first drink is on us, with additional drinks available at half price. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today! To join us at this special happy hour, enter promo code BVBEER when purchasing your tickets online at MayoArts.org. (Show ticket required to attend the happy hour) If you’ve already purchased tickets and would like to attend the happy hour, just email us at yp@mayoarts.org and we’ll add you to the list! Black Violin Thursday, May 16 at 7:30 pm Tickets: $29 – $59 About Montclair Brewery:  Montclair’s 1st and only micro-brewery, with craft beer brewed on-site. The Montclair Brewery beer line-up offers something for the craft beer aficionados and those new to craft beer. […]

Beloved for his modern American fare, world-renowned chef David Burke is opening a new Garden State restaurant this spring: David Burke at Orange Lawn. The restaurant, located within Orange Lawn Tennis Club, the 140-year-old South Orange landmark, will be open to the public through the club’s dining club membership, which requires a small one-time fee. According to Jersey Bites, patrons can expect a taste of Burke’s signature salt-aged beef, hand-crafted pastas, and other Mediterranean-influenced favorites. Burke has teamed up with Warren County’s Well-Sweep Herb Farm to create an on-site organic herb garden that will supply produce including lemon verbena, stevia, assorted lettuce, yellow and red heirloom tomatoes, ramps, and more, for seasonal dishes and drinks at David Burke at Orange Lawn and 40 Love Pub. Jersey Bites spoke with the famous chef — born in Brooklyn and raised in Hazlet — who called South Orange “a beautiful town” and noted that he’s “happy to be working with the incredible owners at Orange Lawn Tennis Club to serve delicious fare to dining club members.” “We have a great space and catering and banquet capabilities, so I’m looking forward connecting with the local community and being part of weddings, bar mitzvahs and other special celebrations held here at […]

It’s time for MayFest again! This big, festive annual street fair returns to Springfield Avenue in Maplewood on Sunday, May 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by DCH Millburn Audi, MayFest 2019 will feature over 150 vendors, activities, food, live music by local bands and a DJ and performances by local dance and exercise studios. Find more information here. MayFest Street Fair is located on Springfield Avenue between Indiana and Rutgers Streets. Free Parking will be available on local side streets and in the municipal lots at Yale Street & Springfield Avenue and Tuscan Road & Springfield Avenue. There will be a great line up of local bands and businesses performing throughout the day at 3 Stages: Park Ave & Springfield Ave, Prospect & Springfield Ave and Yale St & Springfield Ave.   Stop by the SAP booth, located near Yale Street in front of Eastside Fitness, for your entry to win a FitBit Inspire HR, courtesy of Woolley Home Solutions! 2019 Sponsors DCH Millburn Audi | The Fringe Salon | CKO Maplewood | Woolley Home Solutions | Blue Life Karate |  Le Petit Academy Our Gang Travel | Astah’s Art Gallery | Meineke Car Care  Inspirational Dance | BCB Bank Park Wood Diner

From Cinnaholic: There is good news for New Jersey residents with a sweet tooth. Cinnaholic, the gourmet cinnamon roll bakery acclaimed for serving innovative cinnamon roll creations, has announced that its first New Jersey location will open on Friday, May 10 at 18 Elm St. in Westfield. In a special grand opening deal, the bakery will be offering cinnamon rolls for only $1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on opening day. The grand opening signifies meaningful and continued growth for the gourmet cinnamon roll chain. The new Westfield location joins existing locations in California, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Maryland, Washington, Florida and Canada. Cinnaholic gained national attention after the company was featured on ABC’s hit show “Shark Tank.” The fast-growing brand was also recently featured on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500® list. Cinnaholic began franchising in 2014 and currently has over 100 units in development, including locations in Phoenix, Chicago and Orange County markets. “There is a tremendous amount of excitement to serve our award-winning cinnamon rolls to the people of Northern New Jersey,” said Vikas Mittal, the owner of the new Cinnaholic location in Westfield. “I’m eager to bring such a delicious and allergy-friendly dessert to my community. The concept […]

Nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset County is the stately historic estate of Natirar. Established in 1905, the 1000+ acre property was founded by Walter Graeme Ladd and Kate Macy Ladd to be their homestead, an escape from the bustle of New York City.  The estate was named “Natirar” by the Ladds; an anagram for Raritan as the property stretches from what is now Route 206 to across the North Branch of the Raritan River.  The mansion has recently reopened in 2017 after being lovingly restored. With its expansive lawns, rolling hills, and historic architecture, Natirar serves as the beautiful setting for this impressive lecture series. The storied history of Natirar and local estate homes will be told by two local historians, Meryl Carmel author of Finding Kate, and Barry Thomson co-author of the two volume series New Jersey Country Houses – The Somerset Hills. Mark your calendars for this special three part series Program 1: Inside Look at the Life of Kate Macy Ladd    Sunday, May 5th  3:00 – 4:30pm $40 per person plus tax A unique opportunity to relax and enjoy the ambiance of the Natirar mansion house, as Meryl Carmel, author of Finding Kate the Unlikely Journey of the 20th Century Healthcare Advocate Kate Macy Ladd, reveals the unique […]

The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) will honor a milestone with its 40th Anniversary Concert and Gala on Sunday, May 19 at 3:00 p.m. at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center located at 1 Center Street in Newark. Under the baton of Helen Cha-Pyo, the celebratory concert will showcase the youth symphony’s extensive talent with Carl Orff’s iconic Carmina Burana. Described as “one of the most richly tuneful choral pieces of modern times,” the orchestra will be joined by soprano Mia Pafumi, tenor Theron Cromer, and baritone John-Andrew Fernandez as well as the Newark Boys Chorus, J.P. Stevens High School Chorus, Newark Academy Concert Choir, New Providence High School Chorus, Ridge High School A Cappella Honors, and the Somerville High School Chorus for a show-stopping performance by an ensemble of nearly 500 performers. Says Artistic Director and Conductor Cha-Pyo,”I anticipate this concert to be what post-Millennials would call an ‘epic event!’ When nearly 500 high school musicians from 13 different counties of NJ take the stage at NJPAC to perform Carmina Burana, it is truly an extravaganza! I am also thrilled to present a 145-member Festival String Orchestra of our elementary and middle school-age string players assembled just for this […]

After the winter, it’s a delight to see bright bursts of color as gardens bloom back to life. Whether you’re seeking a little inspiration for your green thumb or simply looking to take a leisurely stroll among the verdant landscape, there are plenty of gorgeous gardens to explore in New Jersey. Check out NJNext’s list below, which includes upcoming events like plant sales that you won’t want to miss: New Jersey Botanical Gardens at Skylands– Ringwood Part of Ringwood State Park, New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry, Department of Environmental Protection, New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Don’t miss the annual plant sale held May 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event features perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, hanging baskets, and potted plants. Knowledgeable Master Gardeners will be on hand to offer advice, and the plants are lush and healthy. Come early for the best selection. Free admission. Reeves Reed Arboretum – Summit This 13.5 acre National Historic Landmark features award-winning gardens and woodland trails and presents horticultural and environmental education programs. Check out the roster of events for adults and […]

From MPAC: Joan Jett is an originator, an innovator, and a visionary. As the leader of the hard- rocking Blackhearts, with whom she has become a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, she’s had eight platinum and gold albums and nine Top 40 singles, including the classics “Bad Reputation,” “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll,” “I Hate Myself For Loving You,” and “Crimson and Clover.” Her independent record label, Blackheart Records, was founded in 1980 after she was rejected by no less than 23 labels. Blackheart is one of the longest running indie labels and continues to give voice to new bands. Jett has acted in movies and television, including 1987’s Light Of Day, and in a Tony-nominated Broadway musical, The Rocky Horror Show. She has appeared on such acclaimed television shows as Oprah (the last season) and Law and Order. As a producer, she has overseen albums by Bikini Kill, Circus Lupus, as well as the Germs’ LA punk masterpiece, GI. Tickets and more information here.

From the South Orange Village Center Alliance: Downtown South Orange will draw more than a thousand residents and visitors to its groovy summer kick-off event, Under Cover Music Fest, which features six cover bands and a bustling beer garden—plus, no cover charge. On Saturday, June 1, from 4 pm to 10 pm (rain date Sunday, June 2, from 3 pm to 9 pm), South Orange Village Center Alliance (SOVCA) is pleased to present the second annual Under Cover Music Fest, a free event for all ages in the heart of South Orange on Sloan Street. After a successful inaugural year, the cover band festival is back, and bigger and better than before. During Under Cover Music Fest, world-class musicians from the area will be performing covers of the most popular hits from a collection of famous artists: Aretha Franklin (Mark Murphy’s Music Student Band: Dithmi & The Franklins), Prince (Ricky Persaud, Jr. & Crossroads), The Meters (Nation Beat), Bill Withers (Curtis Winchester Band), Dave Matthews Band (Mark Murphy and Friends) and Radiohead (Charlie Pollock and Friends). The festival aims to bring people together through their common love of music and community, while dancing in the streets of downtown South Orange. “The Under Cover Music […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: “Magic Ship cuts a path between beauty and meaning … Mountain Man’s radiant harmonies are as pretty as they come …. Quiet may seem like an outlier in this noisy present, but Mountain Man understand its power.” —Pitchfork “Sublimely understated, lo-fi pastorals … spine-tingling beauties”—Uncut “Heavy with acquired wisdom, and with vocals so haunting they’ll make you shiver.” —New Yorker Mountain Man continues its long-running US tour next month with headlining dates across the northeast. The new leg begins May 29 in Baltimore and continues through June 9 at The First Unitarian Church in Burlington, Vermont. The trio has also been announced for upcoming appearances at Newport Folk Festival and Pickathon, as well as opening performances for Greogy Alan Isakov at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, and Mandolin Orange at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary, North Carolina. The tour celebrates the band’s long-awaited second album, Magic Ship, which Nonesuch released last fall to critical acclaim. The New York Times said the album’s “intimate, close-harmony songs … tap into an ageless essence of traditional ballads and lullabies as they contemplate companionship, family, love and death,” NPR called the record “a timeless space where […]

From the Newark Arts Festival: The Newark Arts Festival (NAF), powered by Prudential and produced by Newark Arts, celebrates its 18th year as a free citywide arts festival in New Jersey’s largest city October 10 through 13, 2019. NAF was recently named Favorite Visual Arts Festival in the 2019 JerseyArts.com People’s Choice Awards and each year, the Festival puts a spotlight on Newark’s artistic and cultural institutions, features both nationally recognized and also emerging, local creatives, and provides attendees the opportunity to shop and purchase the work of over 100 artists in their open studios. Alongside the visual arts, music, dance, theater and spoken word can be found throughout the festival, as well as hands-on arts activities for youth. This year, with the generous support of NAF title sponsor Prudential Financial and official airline, United Airlines, Newark Arts has engaged both a new event production team and lead curator. 725 Standard, a boutique agency based in Newark and led by Talia Young and Ericka Regine, have been commissioned to produce the four-day event. “This year we are immersing the city in a 360 creative arts experience that connects all communities to heart of Newark’s culture, we cant wait to see the […]

From MPAC: Double Dare Live — featuring original host Marc Summers and his beloved sidekick Robin Russo — will play at Mayo Performing Arts Center on Sunday, May 19 at 1 pm and 7 pm. Inspired by the iconic TV game show http://www.nick.com/double-dare/, Double Dare Live features two teams comprised of selected audience members competing to win prizes by answering brain-bending trivia questions, completing messy physical challenges and ultimately facing the legendary obstacle course. The highly anticipated return of the Double Dare series premiered summer 2018 on Nickelodeon, and ranked as the year’s number-one new kids show with Kids 6-11, while retaining the core adult audience who grew up with the original television show. The new Double Dare is hosted by digital creator and actress Liza Koshy, with original host Marc Summers providing color commentary on the challenges and lending his vast knowledge of the game and expertise to each episode. “Hosting the Double Dare Live tour couldn’t be any more exciting, and I look forward to continuing to bring the fun and messiness of Double Dare to audiences across the country,” said Marc Summers.  “Doing the show again with my sidekick Robin will fulfill childhood dreams of the generation […]

The Garden State Horse Show, produced by the Junior Essex Troop, will kick off at its new home, Hamilton Farm, the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation headquarters and former training grounds for the U.S. Equestrian Team. The US Equestrian Premier “AA” hunter/jumper competition will run from April 27-May 5. “Hamilton Farm is like the Fenway Park of the equestrian world,” said Gladstone Equestrian Association (GEA) President James C. Brady III. GEA is one of the many sponsors who have stepped up to support the show in its new home. The Garden State Horse Show was founded in 1951 by the Junior Essex Troop, a cadet auxiliary born out of the 102nd Cavalry – New Jersey National Guard Essex Troop, to teach young men ages 11-18 cavalry-style horsemanship. In 1983 the Junior Essex Troop became coed. Though the Troop ceased daily operations in 1989, the organization continues its mission to foster education and horsemanship by supporting to youth organizations, collegiate equine programs, scholarships and animal rescue. Some highlights include: $10,000 Hunter Derby, sponsored by Stal de Eyckenhoeve, Saturday, April 27 $5,000 USHJA National Derby, sponsored by Eastern Hay, Tuesday, April 30 $10,000 Ted Grant Welcome Stake, sponsored by the Spina Family, Thursday, […]

Updated April 20, 2019:  Village Brewing celebrated its official opening April 19, 2019. Call 908-333-2990 to make a reservation for a table. Walk-ins are welcome. Original Feb. 25, 2018: When mechanical contractor and craft beer connoisseur Gary Frank moved to Somerville two years ago, he fell in love with the community. While he was out exploring the area, his new hometown inadvertently led him to his next business venture when a vacancy at 34 W. Main St. caught his eye. The expansive building, formerly home to Woolworth’s department store, featured 15,000 square feet of retail space available in the heart of downtown, and it gave the Frank an idea. The contractor, who’d previously built breweries and other large-scale projects for his clients, called his sister Iris and suggested that they start their own brew pub and restaurant. “I said, ‘Are you out of your mind?’” Iris recalled, “and then we just sat down and thought about it for a second, and said, ‘Let’s do it!’” The pair, whom Iris refers to as “partners in crime,” have teamed up with expert restauranteur Scott Eadie, who will serve as general manager of Village Brewing Co., slated to open in early to mid summer. “Scott’s coming off […]

From the Maplewood Department of Cultural Affairs: Beginning April 23, an elite group of virtuoso guitarists from around the globe will descend upon Maplewood, NJ to participate in the 3rd Annual Django a Go Go Music Festival and Camp. Consisting of workshops, informal jams and public performances, the Festival is hosted by the Township of Maplewood and Produced by award winning musician Stephane Wrembel. A proud Maplewood resident, Wrembel is considered one of the world’s preeminent guitarists specializing in the unique style of Gypsy Jazz legend Django Reinhardt (pronounced Jango). Best known for his Grammy Award winning composition “Bistro Fada” from the Oscar Award-winning film “Midnight in Paris,” Wrembel has assembled an unparalleled group of musicians to conduct workshops, demonstrations and appear three unique concerts at the Woodland in Maplewood. Each performance will follow a different theme and mix of musicians. Wrembel will perform every night along with other special guests. April 24, 2019, 8pm @ The Woodland Stephane Wrembel Band: The Django Experiment From the desert to Debussy, from India to France, music history through Django’s musical genius Featuring: Stephane Wrembel, Thor Jensen, Nick Anderson, Ari Folman-Cohen, Nick Driscoll & Surprise guests April 25, 2019, 8pm @ The Woodland

From MPAC: Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo Sunday, June 23 at 7:30 pm Tickets: $59 – $129 Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo have been making music together for four decades. Pat and Neil met each other in 1979 for the first time in a small rehearsal room at SIR Studios in New York City. The rest as they say “is history.” Pat Benatar’s staggering vocals and take-no-prisoners attitude, along with Neil Giraldo’s trailblazing artistry as a guitarist, producer, and songwriter forged the undeniable chemistry and unique sound that created some of rocks most memorable hits including; “We Belong,” “Invincible,” “Love Is A Battlefield,” “Promises In The Dark,” “We Live For Love.” Together they have created two multi-platinum, five platinum and three gold albums, as well as nineteen Top 40 hits. They have sold over thirty million records worldwide and have won an unprecedented four consecutive Grammy awards. In 1982, Benatar and Giraldo were married and have two grown daughters. In 2018, they joyfully became grandparents for the first time. Their musical career has endured for forty years and this summer for their 40th Anniversary, the duo will embark on a multi-city tour, undoubtedly thrilling their fans everywhere. They will perform […]

From Penguin Random House Publishing: New York Times bestselling author Chris Pavone is setting out on a country-wide tour for his new book, The Paris Diversion, including a stop in Maplewood, NJ on May 9th at 7:30pm for a talk/Q&A/signing at Words Bookstore. Featuring the return of Kate Moore from Pavone’s bestselling, award-winning first novel The Expats, The Paris Diversion is an explosive thriller set in the City of Lights full of pulse-pounding twists and turns you won’t see coming. Since the publication of The Expats in 2012, Pavone has established himself as a major voice in the thriller world. His books have drawn high praise from acclaimed writers such as John Grisham and Patricia Cornwell, been sold in over 20 countries, have won Edgar and Anthony Awards, and have been acquired for film. The Paris Diversion continues Pavone’s trademark style of twisty and sophisticated narration, complete with psychologically nuanced characters and a backdrop set against one action-packed day in Paris. What: Talk/Q&A/Signing Where: Words Bookstore, 179 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040 When: Thursday, May 9th at 7:30pm

  From Elusive Sounds: Maplewood residents Charles Maggio and Jennifer Klein are hosting the first semiannual Maplewood Record Fair on Sunday, May 5, 2019, at The Woodland. Around 30 vendors from New Jersey and beyond will sell items that are music, art, movie, and collectibles related. Patrons will find an eclectic assortment of vinyl records, CDs, 78’s, Cassettes, music paraphernalia, collectibles, vintage clothing, comics, books, and more! Maplewood’s Cedar Ridge Cafe & Bakery will be serving vegan and vegetarian food. Charles Maggio and Jennifer Klein bring many collective years of experience in record collecting and music to the event and are excited to share their love of music, collectibles and vegetarian food with the community. This will be a family friendly event held at the Woodland twice a year, in May and November. Interested vendors or those interested in more information are encouraged to get in touch. Where? The Woodland in Maplewood, NJ, 60 WOODLAND ROAD, MAPLEWOOD, NJ 07040 When? Sunday, May 5, 2019, 10AM-4PM Admission: $3; Under 18 free Contact/questions/interested vendors Reach out to Charles Maggio or Jennifer Klein at soundselusive@gmail.com or 347-262-8736 Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/591868864610495/

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 singing voice for the ages. Celebrate the launch of MPAC’s 25th Anniversary season with the actress and performer who first came to the public’s attention as a contestant on American Idol and has gone on to a successful career on TV (Scorpion, Smash), stage (Waitress) and the pop and jazz charts. 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 BillboardTop 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. Meanwhile, she starred in various films. A sought-after performer, she has taken stage for PBS specials — including her own special — Soundstage: Katharine […]

Between egg hunts and baskets overflowing with chocolate treats, it often seems like kids have all the fun on Easter. Brunch is a deliciously grown-up way to celebrate the spring holiday, and if someone else is cooking, even better. Take a look at some of the scrumptious options available throughout the Garden State and make your reservations now: even though Easter Sunday falls late this year, on April 21, many of these fill up quickly! Gladstone Tavern Family Easter Dinner (Gladstone) Enjoy a festive family Easter dinner, starting at noon on April 21, in the beautiful, historic Gladstone Tavern dining room. See here for Menu Specials. Grand Summit Hotel Easter Brunch (Summit) Summit’s downtown hotel will feature a delightful brunch on the 21st with seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. See the full menu here. Olde Mill Inn & Grain House Easter Buffet Celebrate Easter at the Olde Mill Inn or the Grain House from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm.  The expansive Easter Buffet offers a wide range of tasty choices — and kids can see the Easter Bunny, who will drop by to say hello with a basket candy and trinkets! $58 Adults, $24 Children Ages 4-11. Reservations Required 908-696-2335 A credit […]

“April is the cruelest month,” T.S. Eliot wrote nearly 100 years ago — and spring break without anything planned can be even crueler! But if you lack the time or money to escape to the tropics, don’t worry: there’s plenty to do and enjoy in New Jersey with the kids indoors and outside, even in April. Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms at Newark’s Branch Brook Park Newark boasts the largest cherry blossom collection in the United States, so you can savor the stunning scenery in your own backyard. Throughout April, visitors can enjoy the gorgeous grounds of Branch Brook Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed landscape architect and designer of Manhattan’s Central Park, as well as an array of activities during the Cherry Blossom Festival April 6-14.  Keep an eye on the webcam to see when the trees are blooming! Afterwards, grab a bite at the classic old-school Italian joint The Bellmont Tavern. Visit a Museum While you wait for those cherry blossoms to bloom, try something indoors. New Jersey has scads of world-class art museums — from Newark Museum to Morris Museum to Grounds for Sculpture and more — and many are free or offer special pricing for […]

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 Ron Darling 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. Mets announcer Ron Darling will headline the adult programming, which will also include 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 […]

Does dining out sometimes leave you stressed out? This might be just the ticket. Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen will host its first “Canna Booze Dinner,” featuring food and cocktails infused with Cannabidiol or CBD, the non-psychoactive component of marijuana, on Wednesday, April 17 at 6.30 p.m. The Morristown restaurant is holding the event in collaboration with Lock & Key Remedies, a Brooklyn-based company “whose goal is to bridge the gap between scientific research and consumers who are looking for a natural alternative to conventional medicine,” according to a press release. The menu will feature four CBD-infused courses form Executive Chef Craig Polignano plus cocktails designed by Head Bartender James Gelmi “to enhance the already heady, convivial dining experience they create,” according to Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen Managing Partner Chris Cannon. “We’re serving cocktails to drive home the point that many of the spirits we’re featuring were previously considered illicit and/or medicinal, much as cannabis is today,” said Chef Polignano. CBD will be infused into the food and beverages at doses paced so that diners are not high by dessert, but “relaxed and happy,” said Oleg MaryAces, Lock & Key’s Director of Education and Marketing, who will be at […]

From the South Orange Village Center Alliance: Food-lovers are spoiled for choice in South Orange’s downtown district, and for one night only, the numerous options can be savored for one small price. Hosted by the South Orange Village Center Alliance (SOVCA), the Taste of South Orange Food Stroll & Pub Crawl is back with more than one dozen participating eateries and taverns. On Sunday, April 28th from 4 pm to 7 pm, the annual family-friendly event, now in its fourth year, will showcase the diverse restaurants and unique retailers in town while live musicians perform throughout the Village Center. Wristbands are currently available for advance purchase online and at Kitchen a la Mode,  Sparkhouse Toys, and (starting April 13) at General Store’s Pop-up Kid Shop on Springfield Avenue in Maplewood. Hundreds will gather downtown to stroll and sample delectable bites and beverages inside of each participating establishment, while retailers will be offering great discounts and promotions. Taste of South Orange attendees can eat their way around the Village by purchasing a wristband in advance or at the event. Advance purchase wristbands are $20 (adults), $15 (Seton Hall students), $5 (kids ages 3 to 8) and children 2 and under are […]

Spring has sprung! That means that it’s time to brunch, egg hunt, ride horses, take a train and even skydive (indoors) with the Easter Bunny. Here’s the NJNext.com roundup of the best events in NJ for hopping down the bunny trail: 1. Skyline Easter Egg Hunt in Bloomfield, April 13 Skyline Church Easter Egg Hunt is free for all and has games, face painting and bounce houses. The hunt starts at 11:30am and has over 10,000 eggs to be found. Skyline provides a separate hunt area for special needs children who attend. It is held in a separate area so they can hunt without as much noise or pressure of so many other children. You must get a free ticket for every person in your party to attend the event. TICKETS:WWW.SKYLINEEGGHUNT2019.EVENTBRITE.COM 2. Great Egg Hunt in Hamilton Park, Jersey City, April 14 Be sure to RSVP for the annual Great Egg Hunt in Hamilton Park on April 14. If your child wants to participate in the egg hunt, be sure to check the schedule of events as there will be different time slots for different age groups. 3. Brunch with the Easter Bunny at Oakeside Bloomfield Cultural Center, April 6 Everyone’s favorite cottontail visits Oakeside in […]

Spring is here, with summer close behind, and 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 Summit Downtown, Inc. Summit Design District is ready to help with your Spring design projects! Mark your calendars for April 4th from 11am-5pm. Downtown design businesses are hosting creative and informative events you don’t want to miss. Summit Design District has everything you need to get your home ready for the Spring season: interior design, furniture, bedding, flooring, paint and wallcovering, architects, kitchen and bath design, window covering and more. Be sure to follow Summit Design District on Instagram, @summitdesigndistrict for a curated feed dedicated to design.  All downtown design businesses will be open for you to shop and browse, and 14 businesses will be hosting special events. For more information on Design Day, please visit summitdowntown.org. beautylounge | 11am-4pm | 31 Maple Street | Jessica Kagen Cushman Jewelry Trunk Show  Jessica’s father was Vladimir Kagan, a German-born furniture designer considered an early pioneer of modern American design. Her mother was Erica Wilson, an innovative British embroidery designer who was known as ‘the Julia Child’ of needlework. Jessica will answer questions about how her famous designer parents influenced her jewelry design career. Jessica will have a table filled with her unconventional line of jewelry for a jewelry trunk show! […]

From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents RENT – 20th Anniversary Tour for three performances on Tuesday, April 2 at 8pm, Wednesday, April 3 at 8pm, and Thursday, April 4 at 8pm. Tickets range from $35-$98.  RENT, the Pulitzer Prize® and Tony Award®-winning rock musical written by Jonathan Larson, is on the road again in a 20th Anniversary production. In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway and forever changed the landscape of American theater. Two decades later, Larson’s RENT continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. 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 and transferred to Broadway on April 29, 1996. RENT is winner of the 1996 Tony Award® for Best Musical as well as the Pulitzer Prize® for Drama. It is one of only five musicals to win both awards. Based on […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: A crescendo of Spanish romance will soon descend upon the Loft at SOPAC On Monday, April 29 from 6:30-9:30PM. Garden State Kitchen, Benjamin “Ben” Garrison of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage and Edible Jersey will host Savor the Arts – El Segundo Plato. Several of NJ’s finest Latin food and beverage purveyors will be on hand to share their wares. Chef Angel Leston (of Casa d’Paco in Newark) will host the opening tapas. International paella champions  Paco Rodiño-Vives and Manolo Rey  and their entourage will then deliver a second course to Savor guests in a traditional Valencia paella procession. Patrons can expect to learn some closely guarded and award-winning paella secrets. Antonia “Toni” Messina and Ivan Max of Viva Flamenco will serve up a taste of flamenco and Spanish guitar to add even more spice and romance to the evening – and a chance to take a flamenco turn on the dance floor! Savor the Arts guests that can whip up a tasty homemade flan should try their hand at our first ever Flan Slam to be judged by our seasoned and well-traveled chefs. The winner will enjoy an award of two tickets to a SOPAC-presented event served up with local acclaim and Flan Slam bragging rights. Foodies that crave Spanish epicurean delights […]

From The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School What’s Likely Stories? It’s great performers reading great fiction in front of a live audience — storytelling for grownups. For 15 years, Likely Stories has brought Maplewood/South Orange the exuberance, hilarity and profundity of short stories that challenge us to experience something new. Monday, March 25, 7:30pm at The Woodland (60 Woodland Road, Maplewood, NJ) This year’s readers are Sipiwe Moyo of Orange is the New Black, Julie Burstein of NPR and TED TALKS, Robert DuSold, Broadway performer and Creative Producer, and Emily Zacharias, director and Broadway veteran. They’ll bring us into powerful, moving short stories by William Trevor, Nathan Englander, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, each one exploring the surprising paths we find ourselves on when we let life happen to us. And what’s better than that, on a Monday night! Join us at the Woodland, and stay for the wine and dessert after-party with the performers. Tickets for Likely Stories are $25 at somadultschool.org or 973.378.7620.

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Cyrille Aimée brings her acclaimed show A Sondheim Adventure to the South Orange Performing Arts Center on Sunday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. Hailed for her interpretations of the Sondheim masterworks, Cyrille Aimée brings a jazzy fresh take to the lovely complexities of the legendary composer’s musical theatre masterpieces, and makes them sparkle anew. Winner of the 2012 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Competition, Cyrille Aimée, has a wealth of experiences in her young life that have shaped her sound and love of music.  She ventured from singing on street corners in Europe to dazzling audiences at the world’s most prestigious Jazz festivals; from sneaking out to sing in gypsy encampments in her native France to acting on Broadway; from singing Sondheim alongside Bernadette Peters to sharing her story in a TEDx talk; from braving the notoriously tough audiences at New York’s Apollo Theatre to being called a “rising star in the galaxy of Jazz singers” by The New York Times. No less an authority than Stephen Sondheim recognized that Cyrille Aimée’s captivating gift for storytelling through song would translate to the theatrical stage. The musical theater icon hand-picked her to star alongside the legendary Bernadette Peters in an Encores […]

  The Montclair Literary Festival returns this year from March 21-24, and features authors including Joyce Carol Oates, Nathan Englander, Dani Shapiro, Christina Baker Kline, Wayétu Moore, Megan Abbott, David Ebershoff, Sergio De La Pava and Tressie McMillan Cottom, as well as YA/Childrens’ authors Gayle Forman, Esther Friesner, Gae Polisner, Arvin Ahmadi and Marc Aronson. The festival includes is a full program of book talks, panel discussions, author signings, workshops and children’s activities — most of which are free. Succeed2gether launched the Montclair Literary Festival in 2017 to engage the entire community in a celebration of reading, books, and Montclair’s vibrant and diverse literary scene. Past Festivals have featured celebrated authors such as Patti Smith, Trevor Noah, Paul Auster, Anna Quindlen, Thomas Friedman, Tom Perrotta, Meg Wolitzer, Wesley Lowery, Jonathan Alter, Min Jin Lee, and many more. \\ More information and tickets here. Read about last year’s festival in this NJNext.com article.

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The season at SOPAC continues with Nimbus performing at South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) March 29 at 8 p.m. The program features the premiere of Samuel Pott’s Hollow Square with Timothy Eriksen playing live. The Grammy Award-nominated Eriksen brings a distinctive sound grounded in the roots tradition of sacred harp singing and early Appalachian folk – earthy, incessant, and guttural. Timothy Eriksen’s sound underscores Pott’s choreography, which rides on top as if propelled by the meditative vibrations of Eriksen’s vocalizations. In addition to his compositions, Eriksen also scores films, and was the consultant for the Academy Award-winning Cold Mountain. Dawn Marie Bazemore’s The After Party will be premiered in full on March 29 at SOPAC as well. Vibrant, quick, and spirited, The After Party pays honor to Jazz legends Nina Simone and Nancy Wilson. With intricate musicality and vivacity, Bazemore explores intertwined relationships, dynamics, and joy of movement in this ode to Jazz. Also at SOPAC, together with students from Columbia High School (Maplewood), Nimbus revisits Pott’s Bloodlines 1944. Talented student dancers create lines of connection to the year 1944, investigating their personal connections to individuals alive during that epochal era. Nimbus also performs two returning pieces from its repertory: Pott’s The Glare from These […]

Melissa Etheridge has come a long way since her first success as a singer/songwriter in 1988. With fifteen studio albums to her name and a list of awards that would make anyone jealous, Etheridge’s raspy vocals and poignant lyrics are enough on their own to make her iconic. But she’s also a cancer survivor and an activist for gay rights and the environment. It’s these two latter roles that inform her recently released album, “The Medicine Show.” “In 2016 I began to notice people everywhere going through interesting times,” said Etheridge in a recent phone interview. “I didn’t want to preach, but wanted to keep a finger on the pulse and reflect that in my music. There are a lot of people in pain out there.” Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, Etheridge was in a better position than most to understand how important plant-based medicines are to assist in the healing process while experiencing a painful illness. In 2014 Etheridge opened Greenway Compassionate Relief, a cannabis dispensary in Santa Cruz, specializing in CBD-infused wines. “My experience with breast cancer is part of everything I do,” says Etheridge. “From my music to my health and wellness.” The Medicine Show album, […]

From the South Orange Village Center Alliance, the Village of South Orange, and the South Orange Arts Advisory Council: The South Orange Village Center Alliance, the Village of South Orange and the South Orange Arts Advisory Council are announcing The Music Walk Mural Project, and a call for proposals for the new artwork that will be located along a pedestrian corridor between South Orange Avenue and Sloan Street Parking Lot. The South Orange Village Center Alliance is the not- for profit management entity of the Village’s Special Improvement District. Founded in 1991 as Main Street South Orange, the organization is run by an Executive Director and a volunteer board of directors made up of property owners, business owners, residents and other stakeholders. Mike Mazel, Co-Chair of the SOVCA Beautification Committee says the initiative “is an exciting opportunity to showcase a bold, new piece of art in the heart of our downtown that celebrates our diversity and love of music”. The group is working with the newly formed citizens group, the South Orange Arts Advisory Council to beautify the district by creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors to enjoy. Music Walk is one of several new sites identified that are or […]

Pet lovers, rejoice: New Jersey boasts a plethora of accommodations that welcome pets in towns and cities throughout the Garden State. You can also check Bring Fido, Official Pet Hotels, Pets Welcome, Hotel Guides, and a bevy of other sites that appear when you search for pet-friendly accommodations. Fido Friendly is a print magazine devoted to traveling with pets; the website also has an online map of pet-friendly hotels, motels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. Also check out NJNext.com’s comprehensive round up of pet-friendly hotels, motels, inns, and B&Bs in the shore area. Remember to keep the following in mind before you book: 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 your pup if you want to go to out without […]

From the South Orange-Maplewood Adult School: Film critic Stephen Whitty returns to the Adult School on Wednesday, April 10 for another of his popular lectures on film. This time his focus will be on the iconic American film genre, the Western. America invented the Western, and that’s only fitting — in many ways, the Western is about the way America invented itself. But our understanding of those origins — and the genre itself — has changed over the years. Whitty will look at ways the movies have celebrated the West’s traditions and mourned their passing in examples from such films as High Noon, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance and Unforgiven. Stephen Whitty has been a writer and critic for the Star-Ledger, the New York Daily News, nj.com and Fortune.com, as well as a college lecturer, film festival host, interviewer and juror. Tickets for The Western are $20. Register for course #003 at somadultschool.org or call 973.378.7620. THE WESTERN with Stephen Whitty Wednesday, April 10, 7:30-9pm Columbia High School, Black Box Theatre

Even though spring is on the horizon, we’re still feeling the winter chill here in the Garden State. We have a cure for the wishing-for-spring blues: 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 […]

Who needs to travel to New Orleans when Mardi Gras celebrations are taking place all over the Garden State? Whether you want to listen to live jazz or make your own mask, or eat delicious jambalaya, we’ve got your venue. So, grab your beads and get ready to eat your king cake close to home because Fat Tuesday festivities abound. Let’s check out a few of the places where you can indulge (click on the headers for more information): Gladstone Tavern Presents Mardi Gras Menu Feb. 26 – March 5 — From Gladstone Tavern: From Feb. 26 through March 5 enjoy Mardi Gras Week. Come in and sample a special Cajun Menu. South Jersey Jazz 3rd Annual Mardi Gras in Somers Point March 1 — The South Jersey Jazz Society presents its 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Celebration, March 1, 2019, Greate Bay Country Club. Tickets: $45 per person / $80 per couple. Includes performance by Zydeco A Go Go, Mardi Gras Mask Competition, King Cake, a great New Orlean’s style Buffet and more! More information here.  The Nerds’ Mardi Gras Bash in Garwood March 1 — The Nerds’ Mardi Gras Bash & Jack! Friday Mar 1, 2019 8:00 PM 21 and over $15 Crossroads 78 North Ave. Garwood, […]

From American Theater Group/SOPAC: American Theater Group, SOPAC’s professional Equity theatre company in-residence, announces auditions for non-Equity actors for the musicalThe Bridges of Madison County by Jason Robert Brown and Marsha Norman, based on the best-selling novel by Robert James Waller. The performances will take place at the South Orange Performing Arts Center June 20-30, 2019. The musical will be directed and choreographed by Merete Muenter with musical direction by Brent Sawyer and conducted by Keith Levenson. The auditions will be held at the South Orange Performing Arts Center on SUN, MAR 24, 9AM-12PM. Auditioners will be seen on a first-come first-served basis and should prepare 32 bars of a contemporary musical theatre song that shows their range and personality. A cappella singing will not be permitted and candidates must bring sheet music in the appropriate key, hole-punched, double-sided and in a binder for the accompanist. They may be asked to read sides from the show.  Auditioners should dress in comfortable shoes and clothing, as they will be given a dance combination to learn. Roles available for non-Equity actors are 2 high school characters (1 male, 1 female) and 6 adult characters (3 male and 3 female.)  The character breakdown, sides for auditions and more details can be found […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Plainfield native Alexis Morrast is a 17-year-old musical phenomenon who has impressed and enchanted audiences around the world. She appeared in front of a sold-out house last year at SOPAC. Now she’s back, much to the delight of her fans. This rising Jazz star will take the stage on March 15 at 8 p.m. She’s a two-time winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY and has already performed with top-flight musicians on stages around the world. Says the Coltrane Jazz Festival, “The voice, the song list, the stage presence are all astonishing.” Since she began singing at the age of three she’s performed on major stages including at the U.S. Open, NJPAC with Christian McBride, and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola with Jazz legend Barry Harris. She’s worked with greats like Greg Phillinganes, Steve Jordan, Ray Chew, Lisa Fischer, Michael Feinstein and Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole. Her beautiful tone has been heard on the Millennium Stage of The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, abroad in Cape Town South Africa and Austria. Alexis has been featured and interviewed in several articles from The Wall Street Journal, LA Times, Forbes Magazine and front page of local, national and international newspapers. Read NJNext.com’s interview with Morrast here. Alexis Morrast appears on […]

From The Wellmont:  The Glitter Ball: A Dance Floor Celebration Of Soul, R&B, and Funk featuring live music from Joe McGinty & The Loser’s Lounge, New York City’s premier interpreters of modern song, with special performances from Stephen Colbert, Patrick Wilson, Warren Zanes, Jim Johnson, and special guests. Featuring a wide-array of performers, the event will be designed to sparkle, dazzle, and shine. Attendees are encouraged to dress accordingly. The event takes place on Saturday, March 2, at 8:00 PM at The Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ. Proceeds from this special evening will support Montclair Film’s ongoing, year-round film and education programs.  “Our annual partnership with Joe McGinty & The Loser’s Lounge has grown into a can’t miss event,“ said Montclair Film Executive Director Tom Hall. “Each year, special guests like Patrick Wilson and Warren Zanes so generously give their time and deliver unforgettable performances, our party guests have an absolute blast, and it all serves to help Montclair Film deliver world-class programs. We hope everyone in our community joins us for what promises another great night of fun, music, and celebration.” More information and tickets here.

From Midtown Direct Rep in Maplewood, NJ: Midtown Direct Rep (MDR), co-directors/producers Deborah Goldstein, Brooke Lefferts, and Sandy Rustin will present The Listen To Your Mother Show on Saturday, May 11th at The Woodland in Maplewood, NJ. This 6th Annual North Jersey production will have performances at 3pm & 7pm. Listen to Your Mother is a national series of original live readings about motherhood, presented across the United States with the mission of taking the audience on a well-crafted journey that celebrates and validates motherhood (in all of its complexity, diversity, and humor) in the form of original readings performed live on-stage by their authors (www.listentoyourmothershow.com). WELCOME 2019 LTYM CAST! Each year, we are blown away by the beautiful, heart-warming, heart-breaking, and hilarious stories that people share with us. We want to say THANK YOU to everyone who auditioned. Your courage, honesty, and talent is truly breathtaking. Please keep writing! We look forward to seeing you on show day supporting this year’s cast AND at auditions next year. Without further ado, CONGRATULATIONS to the 6th annual Listen To Your Mother North Jersey 2019 cast! LIZ ALTERMAN ALLISON BUSCH-VOGEL TREASURE COHEN WENDY DORAN-PALEY JAMIE EBRIGHT DEBORAH GOLDSTEIN BRIDGET HUGHES ONDINE LANDA ABRAMSON VERTA MALONEY EYRIQUE […]

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 […]

With the Summit Gift Card, you can support local Summit businesses while giving a great gift to that special someone. The Summit Gift Card is a VISA gift card that can be used ONLY at Summit businesses in and outside of the downtown! The Summit Gift Card will be accepted at participating businesses throughout the city of Summit and can be purchased Monday-Friday, 10AM – 4PM at the SDI office, 18 Bank St., Suite 108; or online at www.summitdowntown.org.  Right now there are over 100 businesses who are set up to accept the Summit Gift Card; participating businesses are listed on the website and can also be identified by a sticker in the businesses’ storefronts. Purchase your gift card here. The Summit Gift Card will make a great gift for anyone who lives, works or visits Summit. So, when you can’t figure out what to buy your kids’ teacher, your parents, friends, coworkers, the Summit Gift Card is your answer! Summit Downtown, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the on-going development and promotion of the business community in downtown Summit, NJ. 

From Rent Party: Rent Party announced that Shemekia Copeland, plus special guests Shark Hat, will play at the Woodland on March 8, 2019. Doors open at 8:00 pm and tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4056550. “I cannot emphasize enough how amazingly good Shemekia Copeland is. This is a show you do not want to miss; we’re lucky to have Shemekia Copeland in Maplewood on the Rent Party stage,” said Rent Party Founder Chris Dickson. Rent Party is a live concert series in South Orange and Maplewood New Jersey; proceeds from the shows help fight hunger in the local community. The shows are held at the Woodland located at 60 Woodland Road, in Maplewood, New Jersey. Shemekia Copeland is an award-winning R&B/Americana singer considered one of the great blues voices of our time. Born in Harlem, New York City and daughter of Texas blues guitarist and singer Johnny Copeland, young Shemekia first performed at the Cotton Club when she was 9. At 16, her father took her on tour as his opening act, establishing her name on the blues circuit. Shemekia Copeland has performed thousands of gigs at clubs, festivals and concert halls all over the world and […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: This month SOPAC is proud to launch MEMBERSHIP 2020, a membership drive with the goal of doubling SOPAC’s household membership by the end of 2020. As part of the launch SOPAC has introduced a brand-new membership program, featuring added member benefits and levels, providing members with the opportunity to customize their SOPAC experience and reap even more value than before. Some of the many benefits include: Pre-Sale Access to Tickets Invitations to Exclusive Member Events Complimentary Ticket Offers Ticket Discounts, and more! SOPAC’s Executive Director, Mark Packer states, “With the launch of MEMBERSHIP 2020 we hope to bring the community closer to SOPAC. What many people don’t realize is that by buying into our membership program, not only are they receiving valuable benefits, but they’re also making a tax-deductible contribution to SOPAC. Which means that our members play an integral role in forwarding SOPAC’s charitable mission to bring world-class artists, like Aaron Neville, Max Weinberg, and Oleta Adams, to our intimate stage and community. Member support is also a vital part of helping SOPAC provide arts education programs that touch the lives of over 10,000 local children each year.” Community partnerships will play a key role in helping […]

Did you miss Rent Live, which aired, yes, live on FOX on January 27? No worries! You can now watch the production — adapted for television by Obie-winning writer and South Orange resident Kristoffer Diaz — on the streaming service Hulu. In addition, Sony Masterworks Broadway has released a digital soundtrack of the television event; plus, a two-disc CD will be in stores on March 1 and is currently available for pre-order. According to Playbill, the recording features 31 vocal artists and a 23-piece orchestra with new orchestrations and arrangements by Tony winner Stephen Oremus (Kinky Boots, The Book of Mormon). The television production of the Tony– and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, featuring music by the late Jonathan Larson, includes Kiersey Clemons as Joanne Jefferson, Emmy nominee and Tony Award nominee Brandon Victor Dixon as Tom Collins, Jordan Fisher as Mark Cohen, Vanessa Hudgens as Maureen Johnson, Brennin Hunt as Roger Davis, Mario as Benjamin Coffin III, Tinashe as Mimi Marquez, Valentina as Angel Dumont Schunard, and Tony nominee Keala Settle performing “Seasons of Love,” joined by the cast.

From the Mayo Performing Arts Center: Mayo Performing Arts Center will get into the Saint Patrick’s Day spirit with two events in March that celebrate all things Irish.  The National Dance Company of Ireland will present “Rhythm of the Dance” on Sunday, March 10 at 3 pm and 7 pm; and on March 16, MPAC presents Songs of Ireland – A Celtic Celebration at 7:30 pm. Rhythm of the Dance takes the audiences on an exhilarating and exciting, energy-packed time trip through the ages. This incredible live show creates a new era in Irish entertainment, containing a wealth of Irish talent, featuring World and Irish champion dancers, some of the finest traditional musicians and singers. Combining traditional dance and music with the most up to date stage technology, this two-hour dance and music extravaganza is internationally rated as one of the most popular Irish step dance shows in the world. Tickets are $29-$49 Songs of Ireland – A Celtic Celebration is an exhilarating and unique musical approach to universally loved songs and arias with all original arrangements drawing from Irish Traditional folk song; opera arias, duets, trios, quartets and ensembles; songs from the great American songbook; Broadway hits; and “modern” […]

  Be careful what you wish for. Last year, I complained that the Oscar broadcast was too long. I kvetched that the major categories were too predictable (out of the six top ones, I picked the winners in – all six). I begged them to mix it up. Well, that was then. Now, we’re looking forward to a ceremony which has no host. Which keeps proposing (then rejecting) various plans to revamp things. Which first vowed to wrap things up in three hours (something it hasn’t done since the `70s) and now says, well, don’t hold us to that. So, that’ll show me. This year’s show, broadcast Sunday at 8 p.m. on ABC, also boasts a slate of nominees that, while historically diverse, have few front-runners. In fact, the only prediction I feel comfortable making is that, by the end of this abbreviated show, I’m going to be surprised by something. Also, that I’ll probably still be complaining. But I’m a critic, and that’s my job. So OK, on to the annual handicapping which – as usual – I base on my own patent-pending algorithm. First, I look at previous wins in seven important contests (the Golden Globes, the Screen […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: (SOUTH ORANGE, February 22, 2019) Saturday Night Live featured player and comedy superstar Pete Davidson has rescheduled his recently postponed performance at the South Orange Performing Arts Center. The popular television and stand up personality will now appear Monday, February 25 at 9:45PM.  Fans who appreciate their favorite comedian in live performance will be happy to know that tickets are $49 and available at https://www.SOPACnow.org/pete-davidson or by calling the box office at (973) 313-2787. Pete Davidson recently returned to Saturday Night Live for his fifth season. Davidson, 24, is the youngest member of the current cast, as well as the firstSNL cast member to be born in the 1990s. Davidson shot his first one-hour stand up special for Comedy Central in 2016 and was named one of Forbes’ 2016 “30 Under 30.” He made headlines as one of the featured comedians on the 2015 Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber. Most recently, he can be seen in the Netflix comedy Set It Up, and his upcoming projects include Netflix’s Mötley Crüe biopic The Dirt, the independent film Big Time Adolescenceand Paramount Players’ What Men Want, set to be released in 2019. Davidson is from Staten Island, N.Y., and his birthday is Nov. 16. # # # SOPAC […]

St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner, so why not get out and celebrate this Irish holiday at any one of the local pubs? Find out the best places around the Garden State to get your pint of Guinness and some live Irish music this March 17 — and before then. From bagpipes to corned beef, the following bars are sure to deliver some Irish traditions this St. Patrick’s. Missed your favorite Irish pub? Let us know at editor@newjerseynext.com, or in comments. Sláinte! Thatcher McGee’s – Denville, Fairfield, Pompton Lakes With three locations, this authentic pub gets the party started early. So set your alarm clocks and enjoy a little brew with your breakfast! Taps start flowing at 8 a.m. Thatcher McGee’s also offers a menu of traditional Irish starters and entrees.   St. James’s Gate Publick House – Maplewood Enjoy the sounds of the South Park Benefit Bag Pipers all day. The gastropub presents it once-a-year St. Pat’s menu and an afternoon filled with live Irish music. The bar opens at 8am. Located within easy walking distance of the Maplewood train station, you can drink ’til you see leprechauns without having to worry about driving.   Dublin Pub – Morristown Join […]

Looking for some pre-St. Patrick’s Day fun? In the days leading up to March 17, there are a host of parades across the Garden State. Here’s NJNext.com’s 2019 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.  Saturday, March 9th Morris County’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade: March 9, 2019 at noon Pre-parade events start with the annual Mass at 10 a.m. Mass is at the Church of the Assumption, 91 Maple Ave. in Morristown. The Pre-Parade Entertainment at the Reviewing stand on Park Place in Morristown at 10:30 a.m. The parade itself starts at the Morristown Municipal Building on South Street in Morristown at 12 p.m. St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hamilton: March 9, 2019 at 1 p.m. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hamilton is set for Saturday, March 9 at 1 p.m. The parade begins at the Nottingham Fire House at 200 Mercer Street. Charles “Chuddy” Whalen was named Grand Marshall of the 2019 Hamilton St. Patrick’s Day Parade. To view the parade course, visit the website. There’s also a kickoff party on Sunday, March 3rd from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Killarney’s Publick House, 1644 Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd in Hamilton. Ocean County […]

The fruit bowls craze shows no signs of waning, especially in the Garden State. Maplewood just welcomed Bonji Bowls, the gourmet fruit bowls mini-chain with locations in Gillette and Summit, with a ribbon cutting and grand opening this past weekend. The restaurant, located at 168 Maplewood Ave. in bustling Maplewood Village, is family-owned and operated. In addition to bowls, it features freshly-pressed juices, smoothies and protein shakes. Menu choices include selections like the Grande Bowl (Banana, Strawberry, Nutella, Peanut Butter, Granola), the Hondo Bowl (Banana, Blueberries, Strawberries, Peanut Butter or Almond Butter, Granola), the Santa Fe Bowl (Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (Nutella), Chocolate Chips, Coconut Flakes, Banana, Granola), the Bonji Bowl (Banana, Strawberry, Blueberry, Nutella, Caramel, Granola) and more. For bowls, you get to choose your base: Acai, Pitaya, Banana Honey or Agave.   Bonji Bowls also will cater events including birthdays, business events, parties — even weddings — with pre-designed platters or a selection of the customer’s choice. Also importantly, Bonji Bowls is community minded and frequently hosts local fundraisers. Host your fundraiser or event at your nearest Bonji Bowls location, and they will donate 20% of all proceeds back to your organization. Bonji Bowls, 168 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, NJ, 973-996-2447. (Enter from […]

The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) has once again been nominated by Jersey Arts for a People’s Choice Award for Favorite Small Performing Arts Center in New Jersey. This would be SOPAC’s fifth consecutive year taking the title! Voting ends at 11:59 p.m. February 20, 2019. Winners will be announced in early March. Cast your ballot here.

  Are you a musician or street performer? Here’s your chance to bring your talents to audiences in one of the most vibrant downtowns in the Garden State! When Summit Street Sounds debuted in 2018, it brought live music to downtown Summit Thursday evenings in June.  With an overwhelmingly positive reception, Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) is extending Street Sounds to include some Thursdays in May this year!  SDI is seeking musicians and street performers for a variety of events in 2019. 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 evenings, May/June), Arts + Cars (festival in September), etc.  Interested musicians should email Kathryn Best at kathryn@summitdowntown.org with the following information: 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.  Summit Downtown, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the on-going development and promotion of the business community in downtown Summit, NJ.

From the Somerset County Park Commission: Individuals looking for brisk weekly walk are invited to join a weekly walking group that meets every Wednesday at 9:30 A.M. at the Duke Island Visitor’s Center for a healthy walk through Duke Island Park along a beautiful stretch of the Raritan River. Coffee, tea, and treats will be provided. For information call 908-722-1200, ext. 5226. Duke Island Park is located off Old York Road in Bridgewater, New Jersey. The walk is free of charge and continues weekly as weather permits. Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found on the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.org.

From Somerset County Park Commission: Somerset County Park Commission Leonard J. Buck Garden will begin celebrating the coming of Spring by hosting the annual “Art & Photography Exhibit” focusing on the beauty of the diverse moods and seasons of Leonard J. Buck Garden. The Exhibit will be presented in the Leonard J. Buck Garden Visitor’s Center at 11 Layton Road, Far Hills, New Jersey, and will be open Tuesday, February 19 through Friday, March 22, 2019 from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday to Friday only. There will be a special weekend viewing on Saturday, March 9 from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 P.M. Admission is free on all days. Creative works on display will feature the Leonard J. Buck Garden as seen through the eyes of a wide range of talented individuals, from dedicated hobbyists to working professionals. The photographs and paintings show the Garden from many perspectives, from sweeping landscape views to portraits of individual flowers. The work of more than forty artists and photographers will be displayed. Leonard J. Buck Garden is one of the premier rock gardens in the eastern United States consisting of a 13-acre alpine and woodland garden situated in the wooded stream valley. The […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: La Cinematheque: Chinese Film Series This new film series will explore important films from China. Each film will discuss the cultural, and political aspect of the country, but most importantly the artistic and human content. Discussion follows the screening in the Loft at SOPAC, 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ. 2pm. 973.313.2787. SOPACnow.org/chinese-film-series. Mar 3: The King of Masks (directed by Tian-Ming Wu, China 1996)  In 1930s China, aging street performer Wang yearns for a male heir to inherit the secrets of his renowned magical act. Though he refuses an offer to join the opera, he heeds the advice of female-impersonating opera star Liang to find an heir. Wang soon buys an 8-year-old orphan named Doggie. When his new heir reveals a desperate secret, Wang must choose between following the structures of society and the fatherly love he feels for his new protégé. Apr 7: Farewell My Concubine (directed by Kaige Chen, 1993)  In 1924, young Cheng Dieyi begins training at the Beijing Opera House at the same time as Duan Xiaolou. Cheng specializes in playing female parts, often against Duan’s commanding male leads. While pretending to be in love with Duan onstage, Cheng begins to […]

From the Hopewell Theater in Hopewell, NJ:   An undisputed masterpiece and perhaps Hollywood’s quintessential statement on love and romance, Casablanca has only improved with age, boasting career-defining performances from Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. One of the most beloved American films, this captivating wartime adventure of romance and intrigue from director Michael Curtiz defies standard categorization. Special Valentine’s Day screening at 8 pm with optional Supper Club at 6 pm on Thursday, February 14 (see menu here) or regular screening on Saturday, February 16 at 2:15 pm. See here Buy Tickets for Valentine’s Day Screening + optional Supper Club Buy Tickets for Saturday, February 16 screening

Planning a creative, romantic marriage proposal has become pretty much par for the course (horse?) these days. For those lovebirds thinking of popping the question on Valentine’s Day but still stumped about how to make it memorable — Lord Stirling Stable in Basking Ridge has it in the (feed)bag. The Somerset County spot is offering a Marriage Proposal Package that will give you the chance to REALLY be a knight (or dame?) in shining armor — on horseback, no less. Here’s the details: Stable staff will provide a leisurely horseback ride through Lord Stirling Park woods and meadows on quiet, steady trail horses. Proposal options include “Will you marry me?” messages along the trail; a place to surprise her with that special question upon return to the courtyard; or your own ideas for staff to implement.  If you want family and friends to be in on the excitement, staff can take up to 30 people on a hayride to the campfire area/outdoor gathering space. Customers can opt for a one-hour guided trail ride for $100 or half-hour for $50. The fee includes pre-planning with the stable’s coordinator and an hour of pre- or post-ride preparation — such as the scattering of […]

Garden State Kitchen, a brand-new commercial kitchen, incubator and co-working space, gives food entrepreneurs a place to cook – and dream – in the Valley Arts District of Orange. “My dream is to help my clients make their dreams come true,” said founder and owner Kris Ohleth. After five years of planning and renovation, the commercial kitchen is open and ready to rent by the hour, day, week or more. The catering, baking and prep areas boast state-of-the-art kitchen equipment — but the space offers much more than a place to cook. In the front of the former iron works factory, there’s a flexible event space that fills with warm natural light during the day. Above the dry storage, there’s a small lofted co-working space where entrepreneurs can catch up on paperwork, or just sit with a coffee for a minute. There are also intangible amenities at Garden State Kitchen. Ohleth describes her business as an ecosystem full of possibilities. She’s starting a mentorship program and already offers classes that provide the skills small food business owners need to succeed. “When you’re an entrepreneur you’re walking a tightrope, and we want to be the security net.” There’s a monthly ServSafe […]

From Six Flags: Six Flags Great Adventure, the World’s Ultimate Thrill Park, announces a second major addition for the 2019 season with the introduction of Calypso Springs. This massive activity pool is Six Flags Hurricane Harbor’s largest new attraction since the waterpark opened in 2000. “Hurricane Harbor is an industry leader with best-in-class water slides and spectacular, interactive family attractions, and in 2019 we are excited to debut our largest new addition to date with Calypso Springs. This enormous, new pool, expansive lounge deck and dining area will offer the perfect place to enjoy signature, Six Flags summertime thrills,” said Six Flags Great Adventure President John Winkler. The key features of Calypso Springs include: Massive, 100,000-gallon beach entry-style pool; Obelisk-style fountain with spontaneously erupting geyser; Giant, open lounge deck with hundreds of chairs for sunbathing; Oversized umbrellas for respite from the summer sun; Charming Bimini shade covers available for rental; and A new dining location. Calypso Springs will be located between the Taak It Eez Ee Creek lazy river and Tornado water slide. It is slated to open summer 2019. The 45-acre Hurricane Harbor waterpark also features a million-gallon wave pool, a half-mile lazy river, more than 25 high-speed thrill […]

From The Borgata: Join ‘Sopranos’ stars Michael Imperioli, Vincent Pastore and Steve Schirripa along with Sinatra tribute artist Michael Martocci and his 20-piece Ol’ Blue Eyes Orchestra as they come together for a unique evening of stories and songs to celebrate two iconic entertainment entities; singing legend Frank Sinatra and the legendary HBO series The Sopranos. Get the real story behind the legendary show – the stories, the drama, the laughs – not to mention the countless theories about the show’s controversial finale. Hosted by NJ 101.5 and Chasing News Host, Bill Spadea. 2019 will be the 20th Anniversary Celebration of The Sopranos Series! See Sinatra Meets The Sopranos live in the Event Center on Saturday, February 9 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29.

From The Stone Pony: To celebrate forty-five years since opening its doors and becoming one of the world’s best-known music venues, Asbury Park’s legendary The Stone Pony is excited to announce the launch of The Stony Pony Forty-Five, a limited-release custom crafted lager. Created by the Asbury Park Brewery alongside the renowned music venue, The Stone Pony Forty-Five will debut at the Asbury Park Beerfest on January 26 and 27 with a percentage of proceeds going towards WhyHunger. The Stone Pony opened its doors in February of 1974 and since has earned the designation as one of the greatest rock-and-roll venues of all time. The Pony has played host to iconic local and national musicians, from Southside Johnny and the Asbury jukes, to Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen. To celebrate their 45 th “sapphire anniversary,” The Stone Pony has teamed up with musician-turned-brewer Jeff Plate, founder of Asbury Park Brewery, to produce a one-of-a-kind craft beer that would help to tell the story of The Stone Pony. Over a multi-week process, Plate worked closely with The Stone Pony General Manager Caroline O’Toole to put together a unique flavor profile that embodies The Stone Pony, the spirit of Asbury Park and its popular music scene all in one. “We collectively chose a traditional American lager—inspired […]

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Patti Stanger, star and executive producer of “The Millionaire Matchmaker,” brings her no-nonsense advice for helping singles find love to Mayo Performing Arts Center Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m. Beloved for her sassy straight talk, the third-generation matchmaker, who’s recently re-entered the dating pool (proving coaches do play), spoke with NJNext.com and shared her tips for navigating the often-harrowing app-based world of dating. When it comes to creating a profile that’ll prevent prospects from swiping left, Stanger starts by focusing on photos. “Candid shots better than professional shots but I think you should mix those up,” she says. “They shouldn’t be all staged shots like you’re a blogger on Instagram, but you also need that candid ‘Hey, I just went to yoga class and my friend took a goofy photo of me,’ shot instead of the selfie thing. They want to see an activity. I don’t think it’s wise to have 16 cats and 15 beers in the picture, or three girls you can’t get in your photos. It should only be you in your photos and that is very important.” Whether candid or staged, you still want to look your best, says Stanger. […]

Andre Braugher is sitting in Dressing Room #1 at South Orange Performing Arts Center. His striking acting oeuvre ranges from his indelible portrayals of Detective Frank Pembleton in the police drama “Homicide: Life on The Street,” Corporal Thomas Searles in the Civil War film “Glory,” and currently, his fastidious and dour Captain Raymond Holt in the acclaimed police sitcom “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” But right now, Braugher has a rehearsal on his mind. While there’s much to discuss about his Emmy-winning and Obie-winning career, Braugher is devoting his full concentration to the task at hand — his starring role in the world premiere of “Tell Them I’m Still Young,” a new play by Julia Doolittle. The American Theater Group production will begin its limited run at SOPAC on Thursday, January 24 and run through Sunday, February 3. For an actor who has recently spent roughly eight months out of every year shooting in Los Angeles, the rehearsal commute from his South Orange home to the SOPAC stage is a breeze. Braugher, along with his wife and actress Ami Brabson, have been living here for over 20 years. And while they’ve raised three sons here, Braugher has had few chances to perform onstage […]

From The Chocolate Expo: It’s all about chocolate, food and fun at The Chocolate Expo, America’s largest chocolate festival, on Sunday, January 27, 2019, at the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus, where guests can enjoy delectable indulgences from 10am until 7pm. Local, regional and international vendors will be offering tastings & sales of gourmet chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, wines and much more in a fun and exciting atmosphere. The Chocolate Expo offers perfect opportunity to shop for unique Valentine’s gifts for loved ones, friends and favorite teachers, while enjoying nostalgic celebrity appearances and family-friendly fun. Chocolate fountains from Aurora Gourmet will be flowing with white, dark and milk chocolate as guests as they enter The ChocolateExpo. Participating chocolatiers include Caramella Moo, Chocolates U, Chocolate Works, Chocolate Moonshine, Lily’s ChocolateParadise, Raw Chocolate Love, Teacher’s Recipe Fudge, The Pretzel Princess and VillaKuyaya Organic Ecuadorian Chocolate, among others. Unusual items include chocolate-covered bacon, bacon-topped Oreo’s, bacon-bottom Twinkies and slab bacon from fan-favorite Bacon Bites of New Jersey, while Schokolat will be offering handcrafted chocolate figurines and gadgets made in the U.K. Wines and chocolates make for the perfect pairing, so it’s not surprising that several popular New Jersey wineries will be […]

From Listen to Your Mother North Jersey: Do you have something to say about MOTHERHOOD? Is this your year to share your story? Join the movement that Gives Motherhood a Microphone! The 6th annual North Jersey LISTEN TO YOUR MOTHER show, sponsored by Midtown Direct Rep, is coming to THE WOODLAND on Saturday, May 11th at 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM. EVERYONE is invited to audition! Adults & Young Adults of All Genders! Parents & Non-Parents! Share your story if you are a mother or have a mother or have something to say about motherhood! AUDITIONS WILL BE HELD BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: Saturday, February 9th 12:30 – 6:30 PM Sunday, February 10th 12:30 – 4:30 PM TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT: Send an email to LTYMNJ@gmail.com. Put the word AUDITION in the subject line. Please include FULL NAME, PHONE NUMBER and DATE/TIME PREFERENCES. We will try to accommodate you. This is a spoken word event; so performers must come prepared to read aloud an original 3 – 5 minute piece about motherhood. ALL STORIES are welcome to celebrate motherhood in all its complexities. Hilarious, heartfelt, ridiculous, challenging … we love them all! Commitment includes two rehearsals in the spring (TBD) and a pre-show run-through on May 11th. NO professional writing or stage experience required. […]

The Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival will take place from Jan. 19-27. Visitors have a chance to take a look at some truly “cool” ice sculptures, enjoy snow folk art, check out live music, celebrate at the Fire & Ice ball, or stay warm at the soup-a-thon or chili cook-off. Non-ticketed events: Fisherman’s Mark Food Drive New Hope Solebury Library Read-a-thon Gallery and Antiques Crawl Family Events NEW* – Gallery & Business Snowman Art​ Ice Sculptures Snowfolk Art Soup-A-Thon Ticketed events: Fire & Ice Ball Blues, BBQ & NFL Playoffs Winter Festival Jersey Shore Winter Festival Pub Crawl and/or After Party Taste of Winter Fest Concert & Special Guest VIP Meet and Greet Reception Beef ‘n’ Brew A Cappella Extravaganza Chili Cook-off Winter Walking Food & Shop Tour ​Inn to Inn Dinner & House Tour Paint Night For a schedule of events, visit Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival’s website.

Calling all bacon fans! Baconfest 2019 is happening at Zeppelin Hall in Jersey City through Jan. 27. From appetizers and main courses straight through to desserts, enjoy 22 different bacon items. Live music Fridays and DJs Saturday nights and free Bacon strips at the bar from 4 to 7pm. For more information, visit Zeppelin Hall’s Facebook page or call (201) 721-8888.

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 26 and 27. 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 Ruin: An aggressively-dank West Coast inspired double IPA. Hopped with Hallertau Blanc, El Dorado, Centennial and Chinook. The tasting room is […]

The New Jersey restaurant scene continues to heat up, with new eateries both high-end and casual to check out this winter — plus some eagerly awaited openings on the horizon. Be sure to add these spots to your dining card in 2019! Sorriso Kitchen (Chatham) Sorriso Kitchen, a new family-friendly and family-run restaurant with a “cool vibe,” opened on Main Street in November. While it already stands out for its creative farm-to-table menu, prepared by Executive Chef Ryan Chatfield, the restaurant has also made a name for itself through its mission. Chatham residents Jimmy and Karen Bellas were inspired to open Sorriso by their son LJ, who has Down Syndrome and greets everyone he meets with a smile. (“Sorriso” means smile in Italian.) On Mondays, the restaurant is closed, and the space is used to offer hospitality and service training for students with disabilities from LJ’s school. For more information about Sorriso, its roots and its mission, visit the family’s Kickstarter. Sorriso Kitchen, 252 Main St, Chatham, NJ, (973) 665-8068 The Fox & Falcon (South Orange) The Fox and Falcon has been getting raves since it opened in late November. Helmed by celebrated chef and SOMA resident Matt Ruzga, formerly at Del […]

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 the South Orange Performing Arts Center: American Theater Group proudly announces the World Premiere production of Tell Them I’m Still Young, by Julia Doolittle, at the South Orange Performing Arts Center January 24-February 3, 2019. The cast includes two award-winning leading actors of stage, film and television. Andre Braugher and Michele Pawk portray a professor and a poet whose marriage is shaken when tragedy strikes. As they grapple with the aftermath, a lover from the past and an ambitious graduate student enter their lives. Get your tickets online here. “I am thrilled that these two outstanding actors will take part in our production.” said American Theater Group Producing Artistic Director James Vagias. “Andre and Michele bring a fantastic chemistry to their roles, and I think our audiences are going to love the play and their performances.” Andre Braugher is best known for his television roles of Frank Pembleton in Homicide: Life on the Street, Owen Thoreau, Jr. in Men of a Certain Age and Raymond Holt on Brooklyn Nine-Nine. His portrayal of Homicide’s Frank Pembleton was ranked #3 on TV Guide’s list of top 50 TV Detectives. Andre Braugher’s resume is studded with awards (10 Emmy Nominations, 2 Emmy Awards, NAACP Image Awards, Critics Choice Television Awards and more) and the […]

From the SOMA Coalition on Race: South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race presents the 18th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance Monday, January 21, 2019 at 2:00 pm, at Columbia High School, 17 Parker Ave, Maplewood. The event is free and open to all. Hundreds of SOMA residents and friends from neighboring communities gather to honor Dr. King through music, a sharing of interfaith readings and an affirmation of Dr. King’s call to action and service. Following the celebration, there will be a Reception and Volunteer Fair at 3:30 pm in the cafeteria. Donations of food pantry items, knitting yarn, old eyeglasses, children’s books (K-5th grade) and travel-sized toiletry donations are requested. Organizations interested in participating in the Fair should contact the Coalition office at 973-761-6116, X4 or email audrey.rowe@twotowns.org. Robert A. Marchman, Community Coalition on Race Chair, shares, “This year as many celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., his clarion call for courageous action to confront and root out racism in its many forms remains critically important given the current troubling state of affairs in our nation. The strife and turmoil around us evidences that much work remains to be done. Our Observance program […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Jan 12: The Phantom Tollbooth (Kids ‘N Family Performance) Milo unexpectedly receives a phantom toll booth one afternoon and drives his toy car through it. He is transported to a magical land where he learns valuable lessons in life and discovers a love of learning. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 2pm.Tickets: $20. 973.313.2787. SOPACnow.org/phantom-tollbooth Jan 12: Aaron Neville Duo New Orleans-born Aaron Neville brings his unmistakable sound, heard in classic ballads like “Tell It Like It Is” and “Don’t Know Much” – his hit duo with Linda Ronstadt – to the intimate SOPAC stage in an evening of sublime artistry.  Slipping easily from Funky to R&B and Soul, Aaron Neville is surely one of the most distinctive vocal stylists of all time. South Orange Performing Arts Center, One SOPAC Way, South Orange. 8pm. $58-$78. 973.313.2787. SOPACnow.org/aaron-neville Jan 13: Juilliard @ SOPAC: Trio Umami Three of the greatest composers of the Romantic period will be featured in this concert by Trio Umami.  Acclaimed young artists Tal First (violin), Tomsen Su (cello) and Ilya Laskin (piano) will bring to brilliant life works by Ludwig von Beethoven, Cesar Franck and Robert Schumann. South Orange […]

From Essex County Executive DiVincenzo: A variety of programs are being offered at the Essex County Environmental Center during the month of January that will teach children and adults about nature and help them gain a greater appreciation and understanding of our environment. Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites children and adults to visit the Environmental Center where they can enjoy an enriching recreational experience through nature and conservation activities. “Our Environmental Center has become the premiere location for environmental education and nature appreciation. With the help of our partner groups, our dynamic schedule of events and activities will captivate all ages,” DiVincenzo said. “Walk in our woods, discover habitats, get pointers on gardening, learn about nature photography and much more. It’s all about nature and it’s all at our Environmental Center,” he added. Events scheduled for January are as follows: “Birding Field Trip in Essex County Weequahic Park” is presented by New Jersey Audubon. Visit an Essex County oasis while searching for wintering ducks, gulls and passerine birds. All can be viewed along an easy trail around the lake. Enter at Meeker Avenue and Empire Street in Newark and meet in the large parking area on the south side of the […]

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 a variety of interests. Escape Room NJ presents different challenges at its various […]

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 […]

From SOPAC:  John Oates is one-half of the best-selling duo of all time, Daryl Hall & John Oates, as well as a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Now he has teamed up with a number of accomplished Americana musicians, known as The Good Road Band, to deliver his sixth solo album, Arkansas (Thirty Tigers). Oates and his band will play the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) on Friday, January 4 at 8 p.m. Purchase tickets online here. The album pays homage to the state’s beautiful countryside and Oates’ interest in early American music. Beginning as a tribute to Oates’ musical idol, Mississippi John Hurt, the project evolved during a series of Nashville recording sessions into a unique, retrospective collection that drew from a wide range of Oates’ creative influences. John Oates’ critically acclaimed album is out now. “My uncle Tony, after World War II, moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas and lived there for the rest of his life. I went there to visit him,” says Oates, saying that the wide-open landscape captivated him as a youngster. Then, on a recent trip back to the area, inspiration struck. “I stood at night out in […]

From Victoria Carter: Are you looking for something cultural, inspiring, and fun to do with the whole family? If you live in northern New Jersey along the Midtown Direct train line, you’re in the right place. With a vibrant, thriving arts culture, there is no shortage of concerts, shows, and theatre productions for residents to enjoy in our northern NJ communities. Supported by visionaries like former New Jersey Governor Thomas H. Kean Sr., a number of world-class performing arts centers are located in New Jersey just outside New York City and consistently attract dynamic performers, artistic directors, and musical directors. Skip the tolls and the drive into New York City, and take some time to explore the diverse array of entertainment at these four amazing performing arts centers in northern New Jersey. Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, NJ Despite being a relatively small regional theatre, Paper Mill Playhouse gives theatergoers a premier experience. The recipient of the 2016 Regional Theatre Tony Award, the venue remains committed to delivering best-in-class, family-friendly performances and musical theatre. Several Paper Mill productions have moved on to the Broadway stage, toured nationally, and produced original cast recordings. One recent example is Disney’s Newsies which premiered at the Paper […]

What are the best ways to ring in 2019 with the whole family? New Jersey has lots of kid-friendly New Year’s Eve activities in store. So pack up the family, raise a glass of sparkling cider, and toast the New Year with these fun and festive events! NORTHERN NEW JERSEY The Funplex in East Hanover The Funplex in East Hanover is perfect for a New Year’s Eve with kids ages 7 and up. It’s packed with rides, arcade games, and more, and dinner is offered from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. with the purchase of a FunBand or Extreme Band that day. There’s also a Kids Balloon Drop at 8. (And if East Hanover isn’t close to home, The Funplex in Mount Laurel offers an event as well.)  Morris County First Night, Morristown Morris County First Night, Image Courtesy of First Night Morris  The Morris County First Night, which is in its 27th year, features 70 performance events at 22 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 […]

As Christmas Day draws to a close, many parents are faced with the age-old Holiday dilemma: What do we do with the kids after cookies are eaten and presents unwrapped? If you live in New Jersey, have no fear. Here are 11 great options for post-holiday fun before your kids head back to school. (Got some more to add? Email us at editor@newjerseynext.com.) Adventure Aquarium in Camden Celebrates Christmas Underwater Thru Dec 30 Camden’s Adventure Aquarium will take guests deep beneath the surface for a glimpse into the magic of the holiday season during Christmas Underwater, taking place through Sunday, December 30. See Scuba Santa decorate the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree! Winter Walk Holiday Lights in Millburn  Take a holiday-lit stroll through Taylor Park in Millburn. The display, courtesy of local Boy Scout Troop 15, features hundreds of lights adorning trees and a giant polar bear! Your walk can continue by the Main Street entrance to the park, and afterwards you can head on over to any of Millburn’s great restaurants for food (or maybe just hot chocolate). Check out the Winter Walk Holiday Lights through January 24 for more information. Six Flags Great Adventure Holiday in the Park This winter, […]

Don’t feel like trekking into Times Square to huddle with the masses? No need! New Jersey has plenty of ways to ring in 2019, with everything from elegant dinners and comedy acts to dance parties and fireworks. Check out these festive events and get ready to toast the New Year in style! Note: some of these events are 21 and over and others are more geared to grown ups. Look for NJNext.com’s round up of family friendly NYE happenings coming soon! Also check our Events Calendar for more happenings. New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise If 2018 treated you well and you’re looking for a way to splurge this New Year’s, climb aboard the Spirit of New Jersey for a three-hour cruise that sets sail shortly after 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken. Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty while you dine and dance the night away. The night is capped off with a spectacular fireworks display above Lady Liberty. Packages start at $269.90 per person. Tickets and more info here. New Year’s Eve at the Madison Hotel in Morristown Featuring a 5-hour Premium Open-Bar, 3-course dinner including lavish cocktail hour […]

From the Turtle Back Zoo: Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is recruiting volunteers for the 2019 Docent Class. Docents are volunteer educators who give educational talks, act as tour guides, and are stationed throughout the Zoo to provide information to visitors about the Zoo and its animal collection. This is a highly selective volunteer position and training is required. “Our Docents help every visitor have an enjoyable and memorable experience at our zoo. Whether walking through our zoo grounds or making presentations in schools or at community events, our Docents are volunteer ambassadors who share their love and knowledge about animals and their habitats, and encourage the public to have respect for the environment,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo said. “If you love animals, we encourage you to attend the training course and become a Turtle Back Zoo Docent,” he added. New Docents must be at least 18 years old and complete a seven-day course instructed by experienced TBZ staff. Applications are due by Saturday, January 12th and applicants will be interviewed on Saturday, January 19th. Training will begin on Sunday, February 10th and continue on Sundays through the end of March. There is a non-refundable fee of $30 which covers training […]

December 5, 2018 is the 85th anniversary of Prohibition being repealed. Why not mark the occasion this month by hitting one of New Jersey’s modern day speakeasies, some that originated in the 20s. Those establishments 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. Thankfully, no one will be arrested for frequenting one of these fun spots (though many still have secret doors). They’re especially cozy places to enjoy a cocktail on a chilly winter’s evening. Pharmacie Liquor Bar Restaurant opened in 2018 in The Wellmont Theatre in Montclair. The menu puts a modern spin on classic bar food, with a selection of small plates perfect for sharing. The cocktail menu really shines, and there is also a selection of beer and wine. Try the Chips N’ Dip with cured trout roe, creme fraiche and yolk jam, or the Mussels with tarragon cream and mezcal. 5 Seymour St., Montclair, NJ 973-968-5303 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 […]

Editor’s note: Amy Hughes owns Salvage Style and is an owner of Maplewood Mercantile in Maplewood. This article was originally published on Village Green. I chose Maplewood as my home six years ago largely because of the downtown’s independent spirit. I was charmed by the candy counter at No. 165, the readings at [words] Bookstore, and the winter wonderland that is Perch Home at the holidays. One bite of the avocado toast at The Laurel cafe, which I now miss terribly, and I was hooked. A diverse downtown is a reflection of its surrounding community—its values, its tastes, and its residents’ devotion to supporting the local economy. It’s a good sign that there’s a line for coffee at The Able Baker with a Starbucks right down the street. I, for one, am happy to wait an extra minute for my cortado. Come to think of it, Starbucks has yet to figure out how to make my favorite espresso drink. I practice what I preach…most of the time. Overnight delivery from Amazon Prime has gotten me out of plenty of pickles. And I don’t hide my face at the Short Hills mall (I know, it’s the Mall at Short Hills, but you can’t make me […]

From Skyland’s Stadium: Our spectacular Christmas Light Show & Village is back for its fifth festive year! With more than two million dazzling lights on a mile-long drive-through course PLUS a new outdoor village, it’s a must-see holiday attraction for your whole family. Christmas Light Show ($20 per Carload) Open November 16–December 30, 2018 • Reimagined drive-through layout with new light displays and features • More than two million sparkling lights set on a mile-long course • Each vehicle through the light show will receive a coupon for free hot chocolate and coffee good at any QuickChek Outdoor Christmas Village (FREE Admission and Parking) Open November 23–December 30, 2018 Please dress warmly to enjoy the new outdoor village activities. Warming stations will be located throughout the Pavilion. • Walk-Thru Lights: Experience our brilliant walk-through light displays • Santa’s Workshop presented by Mark Lindsay Plumbing (Indoors)*: Come inside to take photos with Santa • Skating Rink presented by Pompton Sports Center*: Enjoy skating on our 20′ x 40′ outdoor rink • 8′ Polar Bear Statue: Take cool photos with Champ, our lovable life-size polar bear • Yuengling’s Ice Cream Shop and Hot Chocolate Bar*: Enjoy scrumptious ice cream and custom hot chocolate drinks • Thorlabs S’mores Station*: Roast marshmallows over our fire pit and make delicious s’mores snacks • Carnival Games*: Try your […]

From Somerset County Tourism: The Sixth Annual Salute to Tourism Awards Program will be held on Friday, January 18, 2019 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Bridgewater Marriott, 700 Commons Way in Bridgewater, N.J. It will include the awards presentation, luncheon and featured speaker—economist, city planner and placemaker Steven Pedigo. The awards selection committee comprises members of the current Somerset County Tourism Council Executive Committee, who will review all nominations to select the most compelling entries for: Economic Champion: An individual or organization that has made a significant and direct impact on the Somerset County economy through greater visitor spend, job creation, or increased tax revenues. Indirect impacts will also be considered. Service Excellence: A Somerset County tourism professional who has demonstrated outstanding customer service, going above and beyond expectations to enhance a customer’s experience at a county tourism asset. Tourism Champion: An individual or organization that has promoted Somerset County’s attributes and resources to help establish the destination brand and draw more visitors. The person enhances community pride and promotes and understanding of the long-term sustainability of the county’s tourism industry. Outstanding Event: An event that exemplifies tourism industry best practices, supports the Visit Somerset County brand, and […]