From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker for five performances on Friday, December 21, 2018 at 7:30pm; Saturday, December 22, 2018 at 2pm & 7pm; and Sunday, December 23, 2018 at 1pm & 5pm. All five American Repertory Ballet performances include a live orchestra and the Princeton Girlchoir. Tickets range from $25-$65. Purchase tickets here. American Repertory Ballet (ARB) brings the beloved classic Nutcracker to the stage with Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning sets, thrilling choreography, and a cast of more than 100 performers. A holiday tradition for more than 50 years, ARB’s is one of the longest continuously running Nutcracker productions in the nation and the State Theatre performances are one of the only productions to include both a live orchestra and choir. Directed by Artistic Director Douglas Martin, ARB’s professional company will be joined by select students from Princeton Ballet School to tell the story of a young girl named Clara and how a mysterious gift from her Uncle Drosselmeyer brings about enchanted dreams and fantastical scenes. American Repertory Ballet has been performing its Nutcracker at State Theatre New Jersey for over 30 years. American Repertory Ballet’s current version of the Nutcracker is choreographed by Artistic Director Douglas Martin, with additional choreography by Resident Choreographer Mary Barton, […]

The General Store Holiday Pop-Up Shop in South Orange brings the local and homemade back to holiday shopping! Located at 14 South Orange Ave. in the heart of downtown South Orange, the co-retail experiential boutique, sponsored by Hearth Realty Group, HomeShore America Bookkeeping, and Maplewood Mercantile features experiences and goods from more than 70 local stores, artists and makers. From jewelry to coffee, clothing to Christmas trees, food to flowers, handcrafted toys to treats for pets and everything in between, you’ll find something for everyone — and enjoy a fun, personal shopping experience while you’re at it. There are also a host of festive events and activities throughout the season. The pop-up shop is part of the General Store Cooperative, an online shopping site founded last month by Amy Howlett and Deborah Engel. Check out some of what’s “in store,” see the event schedule and learn about the genesis of this fantastic local business, below. Visit the website for up-to-date info. Coming up the rest of this week and weekend: Thursday 12/6 6-9pm Alysian Holiday STYLE (sponsored by Fringe) Head over to the Pop-Up Holiday Shop for a glass of bubbly, some extra sparkle and holiday hair knowhow! There will be new chic everyday […]

This article, by Peter Culos, appeared in Jersey Bites on December 3. Two-hundred-forty square miles. That’s just more than half an average-size New Jersey county. It’s also the territory consumed by the Camp Fire in California. Over 80 people have perished with more than 500 unaccounted for. Approximately 19,000 structures are in ashes. What do these sobering stats have to do with beer in New Jersey? Last month we gave you the story of Friends Giving, a local effort to aide food insecurity in New Jersey, which was initiated by Double Nickel Brewing (Pennsauken). This month, to aid with rebuilding in the aftermath of the Camp Fire, California’s Sierra Nevada Brewing (Chico, CA) has taken a similar concept and rolled out nationwide. Not only are they brewing Resilience Butte County Proud IPA and donating 100% of the profits to a Camp Fire Relief Fund, which they set up, but they are inviting suppliers and breweries across the nation to participate, too. On their website, owner Ken Grossman states, “We are working with malt, hop and yeast suppliers to provide raw ingredient donations to all participating breweries, that sign up prior to December 7, and are asking those breweries to donate 100 percent of their sales to the fund as well.” […]

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 […]

Kick off the holiday season with the Dreamcatcher Company with their annual irreverent spoof of the holiday specials of yesteryear. If you enjoyed the corny fun of old-fashioned holiday variety shows, you’ll love A Very Special (Holiday) Special at Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre on Saturday, December 8 at 8:00 p.m.  Located at their home at the Oakes Center in Summit, Dreamcatcher takes a break from their mainstage schedule to perform their affectionate send-up of traditional holiday entertainment. The Dreamcatcher Resident Acting Company will entertain with holiday songs, comic sketches and improv, and lots of good old-fashioned fun. Each year’s show is original; past years’ performances included an ode to binge shopping, a spoof of Hallmark Channel movies and a holiday cooking show gone bad. This year’s show will include musical parodies, topical sketches, and unique silliness.  Performing in the show are Dreamcatcher Company members Laura Ekstrand (Livingston), Noreen Farley (Clinton), Dave Maulbeck (Madison), Scott McGowan (Maplewood) and Harriett Trangucci (Summit) and special guests Michael Aquino (Bloomfield), Jeff Ertz (Madison), Wendy Connolly (Westfield), Julian Gordon (Summit) and Beth Painter (Westfield). A Very Special (Holiday) Special, a unique and hilarious way to celebrate the holiday season, will take place at Dreamcatcher on one […]

Even if you don’t know it, you are probably a fan of The Weight Band. If you’ve ever sung along with “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” “Ophelia,” or “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” you are enjoying the Americana and folk rock that made The Band famous and has kept them popular since the 1960s. With some of the same members as The Band, The Weight Band picks up and expands where The Band left off. “The Weight Band is a continuation of The Band’s sound and feel without being the same thing,” says Jim Weider, who plays guitar, mandolin and vocals, was a member of The Band and is now a member of The Weight Band. The Weight Band (photo credit Michael Bram) The Weight Band was born in the Woodstock, NY barn of legendary The Band member, Levon Helm. In 2013, he brought together fellow The Band members Weider and Randy Ciarlante, and started recreating the Americana musical stories that made The Band famous on their own, and as they collaborated with Bob Dylan in the 60s. Eventually, The Weight Band added Michael Bram (drums and vocals), Brian Mitchell (keyboards and vocals), Matt Zeiner (keyboards and vocals), […]

Gingerbread houses are synonymous with the holiday season, and the Frelinghuysen Arboretum’s 27th Annual Gingerbread Wonderland Craft Show offers a fun and festive exhibit the whole family can enjoy. Sponsored by The Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, the event runs November 30 through Sunday, Dec. 9. More information here. What began in 1991with fewer than a dozen exhibits and several hundred guests has blossomed into a highly-anticipated display that has attracted as many as 13,000 visitors in recent years. More than 150 edible masterpieces will be on display, crafted by local schools, scout troops, and families. With past creations from Hogwarts, to enchanted gardens, the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, pirate ships, and Santa’s Workshop, this is a must see for all ages. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite! Complete your holiday shopping with ease at the 9th Annual Gingerbread Wonderland Craft Show. Check out local artists and crafters’ beautiful and affordable handmade creations, perfect for that special person on your list. During the weekdays, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. is the most quiet time. After school, scout troops pay a visit to check out the creative confections and the room fills up once again. Craft Show is Weekends Only: December 1, […]

From the Durand-Hedden House & Garden: Celebrate the season at the Durand-Hedden House & Garden on December 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. with gingerbread houses, a paper ornament activity, treats and shopping. Gingerbread House Contestants must enter by December 8. Visit www.DurandHedden.org for details and to enter. Kids, teens, families, adults and professionals are welcome. Children can also visit with our Victorian Santa on the 9th – be sure to have your camera ready.   The creative entries of the 2018 Durand-Hedden Gingerbread House competition will be on display as well as on December 15 and 16 (at the Country Store) and at the Hilton Library December 18 through January 17. Holiday shopping at the Durand-Hedden Country Store The Country Store has special inexpensive gifts for family, friends and teachers, while benefiting the Durand-Hedden House. The historic-themed selection includes such items as early American children’s games and toys, facsimile documents, quill pens and ink, pictorial history books about Maplewood, historic cookbooks, cookie molds, tin lanterns, reproductive decorative items and ceramics, local honey and Original 1910 Chocolate Fudge Sauce. Also available are the original Doors of Maplewood poster, Smile: A Pictorial History of Olympic Park, 1887-1965 and the new acid-free […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: Comedian Todd Barry has confirmed a rescheduled date of December 14 at 8 p.m. at SOPAC to replace his cancelled engagement earlier in the month. “We are delighted that Todd Barry is able to come back to SOPAC so soon,” said SOPAC’s Executive Director Mark Packer. “Comedy is the perfect antidote to holiday stress! It’s a surefire hit when Todd Barry, with opener Jim Tews take the stage on December 14.” Widely recognized for his roles as the bongo-playing “Third Conchord” on HBO’s Flight of the Conchords and Mickey Rourke’s wise-cracking deli boss in 2009’s Oscar-winning The Wrestler, Todd Barry is famed for his acerbic wit and deadpan self-deprecating humor. Drawing audience members in with his ability to pile punchline upon punchline, his decidedly low-key stage persona belies a deeply intelligent, often biting, occasionally absurdist worldview, one lauded by discerning fans who seek a fresh yet honest update to traditional observation and social commentary. His first Comedy Central special aired in 1999, and his career took off. By the early 2000s, he had made a variety of guest appearances on shows like the recurring role of “Todd the video store clerk” in Dr. Katz, Home Movies, and Professional Therapist. His most recent special, Spicy Honey, was […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The Rolling Stones, the greatest Blues band of all time, couldn’t make it to SOPAC on their 2018 tour. Instead, the acclaimed tribute band Classic Stones Live! makes an appearance on the SOPAC stage December 15 at 8PM for those who like to hear their Rolling Stones hits live. Front man Keith Call has all of the moves and swagger of Mick Jagger, and along with his partner in crime Bernie Bollendorf, who portrays Rock and Roll outlaw Keith Richards, they complete the duo notoriously hailed as “The Glimmer Twins.” Their jaw- dropping resemblance to these two Rock and Roll icons is simply amazing, but what truly makes Classic Stones Live!™ unique, is their musical prowess, attention to detail, and the spot-on renditions of all of your favorite Rolling Stones “classics!” Dan Geringer of the Philadelphia Daily News raves “The Glimmer Twins, who sound shockingly like the Rolling Stones, demonstrate the dramatic difference between a cover band that plays the tunes and a tribute band that lives them.” From the signature saxophone solo in “Brown Sugar” to the unforgettable backing vocals in “Gimme Shelter,” every last detail has been accounted for by this eight-piece band.  Classic […]

From Studio B: Imagine having fun while shopping! You can at The 6th Annual Holiday Bizarre Bazaar, December 2 in Maplewood, NJ! Does strolling around the aisles of an artistic wonderland full of handmade delights sound like a shopping fantasy? How about all of that while sipping hot chocolate? And what if you were able to check off your holiday list while listening to amazing live music, and having your picture taken with a handsome non-denominational snowman? It’s not only possible. It’s happening on Sunday, December 2nd. Studio B is continuing its tradition of connecting incredibly talented local artists with the audiences of the greater Essex County community. The Bizarre Bazaar was started as a way of creating business opportunities for artists, but – now in its 6th year –it has become much more than that. More and more shoppers return every year for something they don’t experience shopping online or at a mall. “We want to create good vibes. There is so much stress around the holiday season, we’re all about making this shopping experience as warm, fun, and creative as it can be,” says Marcy Thompson, Studio B Honcho. “The better the atmosphere, the more audiences can really appreciate […]

From Seton Hall University: Recognized for several years as Best College in America for “Holiday Events” for its impressive Christmas program, Seton Hall University continues that tradition, starting with Mass on Monday, Dec. 3, at 5 p.m. in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, followed by the tree lighting on the University Green. The public is invited to this free celebration on the University’s main campus at 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, New Jersey. “The Tree Lighting Ceremony is truly a special tradition for the Seton Hall community as it brings together students, faculty, administration, alumni, and our families and friends, to celebrate the season,” said Alison Sotolongo, director of student activities. “This event continues to grow each year with the addition of Seton Hall performance groups and new elements to commemorate the spirit of Christmas.” Winston Roberts, associate dean of students, and Robin Cunningham, associate vice president of student services, will serve as emcees. There will be hot chocolate and candy canes for all donated by Gourmet Dining Services. Performances include the Seton Hall Sapphires, the Immaculate Conception Schola Cantorum, the Seton Hall University Gospel Choir, Concert Band, Pep Band, Seton Strings, Seton Notes, the University Choir and […]

December 5, 2018 is the 85th anniversary of Prohibition being repealed. Why not mark the occasion 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. Murphy’s Tavern in Rumson, Photo Courtesy of Murphy’s Tavern Murphy’s Tavern in Rumson opened around 1919 in the basement of a house on Ward Lane. Its location near a hidden cove on the Navesink River enabled rum-runners and smugglers to visit the Tavern without being seen. Murphy’s was a well-known secret. Today Murphy’s Tavern offers handcrafted drinks, snacks, Happy Hour specials, live music, bingo, and shuffleboard. (732) 842-1600 – 17 Ward Lane, Rumson NJ, 07760 Bar in the Basement of The Laundromat Bar, Photo Courtesy of The Laundromat Bar The Laundromat Bar in Morristown is a newer speakeasy with a narrow room full of washing machines and dryers on […]

The tony town of Madison, NJ just got a dose of “Jersey Shore” realness, with the opening of a clothing boutique owned by Nicole Polizzi LaValle — better known to most of the world as “Snooki.” Crowds turned out in full force last weekend for the grand opening of The Snooki Shop, the bricks-and-mortar outpost of her online boutique. “Grand Opening day was amazing!” Polizzi posted on her Instagram feed. The store is located at 61 Main Street, next door to Ann’s Nails and Gerlach’s Jewelers. Polizzi, 31, who lives in Florham Park with her husband and two children (she recently announced she’s expecting a third child), starred in the infamous reality show “Jersey Shore,” which ran from 2009-2012 and highlighted the often booze-soaked social and personal lives of a group of young Italian-Americans sharing a house in Seaside Heights, NJ. This year, most of the cast reunited for the tamer “Jersey Shore Family Vacation,” now in its second season. Snooki and Madison might not seem a natural fit, and in fact some residents were up in arms when the news first broke, tsking about Snooki’s sketchy reputation. “Unbelievable… who allowed this to happen!! There goes the neighborhood,” one person posted on the Facebook […]

From the Friends of Lord Stirling Stable: The Friends of Lord Stirling Stable (FLSS) will present their 20th Annual Holiday Festival on Saturday and Sunday, December 1 & 2, 2018 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. The Festival will take place at the Somerset County Park Commission Lord Stirling Stable, 256 South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, NJ. Children will enjoy hayrides through the woods to see Santa at his house (weather permitting).  Santa’s Workshop will be open for games, craft projects, food, and more. Pony rides will be available at various times throughout the Festival. Adults will enjoy exploring the offerings at the annual Silent Auction, which will benefit the Lord Stirling School Horse Retirement Fund, another FLSS initiative. Themed gift baskets, specialty items, and gift certificates for local businesses will vie for bidders’ attention. The FLSS gift shop will offer unique items for purchase. In conjunction with the festivities, guests are invited to enjoy the first annual Drill Team Competition and Junior Horse Shows that provide Lord Stirling students the opportunity to showcase the horsemanship skills they have learned in class. The Drill Competition begins at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, with a performance by the Adult Drill Team at 1:30 […]

Updated Nov. 25: Sorriso Kitchen is serving up a feast. The eatery, featuring farm-to-table fare and a feel-good vibe, is now open. Original, Aug. 15, 2018: Chatham borough is about to welcome a new eatery to its downtown. Sorriso Kitchen (Sorriso means “smile” in Italian) will be opened by Chatham residents Jimmy and Karen Bellas. In addition to offering creative farm-fresh breakfast and lunch items, the restaurant, formerly home to Angie’s, is serving up a sweet program that its owners believe will be a recipe for success for the special needs community. Inspired by their 17-year-old son, L.J., who has Down Syndrome and is known for his ready smile (hence the eatery’s name) and infectious laughter, the Bellas will close the cafe to the public on Mondays, and use it as a classroom or learning lab to train students with disabilities from L.J.’s school, the Chatham-based ECLC (Education, Careers, and Lifelong Community), in service and hospitality. Administrators from ECLC are building a whole curriculum around the program, which the Bellas believe could serve as a model for other communities. In order to give Sorriso Kitchen and this innovative program a solid foundation, the couple, also parents to son Nico, 14, have launched […]

From Visit South Jersey: Spend Thanksgiving Weekend at South Jersey Vineyards and Tasting Rooms Starting Black Friday and continuing throughout the weekend, wineries from Sussex County to Cape May County will be participating in the Garden State Wine Grower’s Association’s annual Holiday Wine Trail Weekend! Participating wineries will give away holiday grapevine wreaths and decorative ornaments to dress the wreath with. Wine trail travelers will receive a wreath and ornament at their first winery stop of the weekend, and then additional ornaments from each participating winery visited thereafter Friday through Sunday. Wreaths and ornaments are available only at participating wineries and a limited supply exists. Each winery will also have their own special offers and entertainment. If your favorite is missing from the list, please reach out to them directly for event information.   Amalthea Cellars 209 Vineyard Road, Atco, NJ November 23, 24 & 25 | 11 AM – 5 PM To celebrate the holiday at Amalthea Cellars, guests will be sampling a wide array of wines across their entire portfolio! Tasting selections can be sampled in the winery, and as always, futures samples and rare wines can be sampled in Debbie’s sit-down VIP tasting. This year’s futures will be the […]

Information provided by Diane Biancamano of Gail PR: New Jersey bakeries Choc O Pain French Bakery & Cafe (Jersey City and Hoboken) and Liv Breads Artisan Bakery Coffee Bar (Millburn) took top honors in the first Tiptree World Bread Awards with Food is GREAT earlier this month. Clemence Danko of Choc O Pain won for best Baguette. Bary Yogev of Liv Breads won for best Challah (and runner up for best Olive Whole Wheat.) Elana Livneh, co-owner, accepted the award. Luminaries of the bread-baking world — including Jim Lahey of Sullivan Street Bakery, Amy Scherber of Amy’s Bread and David and Tracey Zabar of Zabars — gathered for the ceremony on November 14 at Landmark on the Park in New York City. The ceremony was hosted by Stephen Hallam, Master Baker, Managing Director of Dickinson & Morris in England and Chair of the Judges. “The field was incredibly competitive,” says Hallam. “It is overwhelming to be recognized among our peers, and I must say I’m so proud of my team for their hard work, their amazing skills and their infallible dedication! This prize belongs to them,” Danko said. “…we are honored to be considered among other top-rated bakeries in the country. After only being open three months, […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to participate in the 2018 Sustainable Homes and Habitats Gingerbread Contest at the Essex County Environmental Center. The contest is free and there are a variety of categories in which participants can compete. The deadline to register is Saturday, December 1st and all entries must be delivered by Monday, December 3rd.   The entries in the Annual Sustainable Homes and Habitats Gingerbread Contest will be on display as follows: Dates:            Wednesday, December 5 through Saturday, December 15, 2018 Times:            Mondays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.                        Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Place:             Essex County Environmental Center                                 621B Eagle Rock Avenue                                                    Roseland, NJ                                                             An awards ceremony will be held as follows: Dates:             Monday, December 17, 2018 Times:            6:30 p.m. Place:             Essex County Environmental Center                               […]

From Summit Downtown Inc.: Celebrate in Summit, November 30, 5-8 p.m. Shop, dine, and celebrate in Summit this holiday season! Stores will be open late so you can do your holiday shopping right in downtown Summit. There will be music throughout town, hot chocolate, and Horse and Carriage rides from 5-8pm at Lyric Park (corner of Beechwood Road and Bank Street). Winners for the Shop Summit Passport will be drawn at 8pm! All activities are free to the public. Special thanks to Major Sponsor Harmony Home Concierge for making this event possible! More info on the Shop Summit Passport: https://www.summitdowntown.org/events/shop-summit-passport/ Want a couple hours to shop and dine without the kids? The Summit Area YMCA will be offering free babysitting complete with pizza and activities from 5-9pm, so you and your friends or significant other can enjoy a night out on the town. Babysitting is free, but registration is required. Call 908-273-3330 to register. *New this holiday season* Summit VISA Gift Cards available for purchase at summitdowntown.org! Don’t know what to get? Get Summit Gift Cards! Accepted at over 100 Summit businesses. Live music schedule coming soon! Updates and more information here.

From Red Bank River Center: If you’re spending the holidays with a friend or a loved one, or you simply want to bask in the holiday spirit of this quaint New Jersey town on your own, you’ll find yourself in for a treat when you visit Red Bank this December. Here are the five ways you can celebrate the holidays in Red Bank: 1. Pictures with Santa Christmas won’t be complete without the annual photo shoot with Santa! If you want to snap a photo with the jolliest man in town either to send to your friends and family or just a simple keepsake, be sure to head over to The Galleria at 2 Bridge Avenue. Santa Claus will be there every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., starting from Nov. 24 to December 22.  This gives you the perfect opportunity to have your loved one’s picture taken with Santa Claus. TSS Photography is offering different photo packages so you can be sure that you’ll get the kind of photos that you want at a price you can afford. Be sure to drop by and take your family or friends with you. 2. Holiday Horse & Wagon Rides This December, Red Bank’s […]

From the South Orange Public Library: The Friends of the South Orange Public Library invite you to our annual Holiday Boutique, December 2, 2018, from 1-5 pm at the Library, 65 Scotland Road.   On entering the main reading room you will see an array of fascinating crafts from jewelry to accessories to plants artfully nestled among the bookshelves and colorful holiday decorations. We anticipate over 20 local vendors will participate.  There is no charge for a table and the Friends provide the table, tablecloths and room decorations. The vendors donate 20% of their profit that day to the Friends to help fund our many projects. Not only will you be able to select truly beautiful, unusual gifts–many one of a kind–at reasonable prices, but you will also have the opportunity to meet their creators. You will have a painless shopping experience, learn about techniques that turn every day items into works of art and, most important, keep the community’s hard-earned dollars in South Orange.  Join your friends on December 2. For more information: visit friendsofsopl.org

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The foremost and best-loved Klezmer band, The Klezmatics, offer a program from their Grammy Award-winning collaboration with Woody Guthrie’s lyrics for Hanukkah. The Klezmatics bring their hip, East Village sensibility to the South Orange Performing Arts Center on Thursday, November 29 at 7:30PM. On their Grammy Award-winning 2006 album Wonder Wheel, the Klezmatics set a dozen previously unsung Woody Guthrie lyrics to music, widening their stylistic base by largely diverging from Klezmer. They have also recently served as the subject of a feature-length documentary film, The Klezmatics: On Holy Ground. Since their emergence more than 30 years ago, the Klezmatics have raised the bar for Eastern European Jewish music, made aesthetically, politically and musically interesting recordings, inspired future generations, created a large body of work that is enduring, and helped to change the face of contemporary Yiddish culture. Often called a “Jewish roots band,” the Klezmatics have led a popular revival of this ages-old, nearly forgotten art form. They have performed in more than 20 countries and released 11 albums to date—most recently the album Apikorsim (Heretics), produced by Danny Blume (who helped the band win a Grammy Award in 2006) and the first of the band’s […]

From Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. invites the public to take a Holiday Candlelight Tour of Essex County Kip’s Castle to view the stained glass Tiffany windows and learn the history of this hidden gem. They will be held as follows: Dates:             Thursdays, December 6, 13, 20 & 27                         Fridays, December 7, 14, 21 & 28                         Saturdays, December 8, 15, 22 & 29 Time:               7 p.m. Place:              Essex County Kip’s Castle Park                          22 Crestmont Road                          Verona, NJ “Essex County Kip’s Castle Park is a unique historical treasure that gives us a glimpse of our County’s unique past. We invite you to visit this holiday season and learn about the history of the Tiffany Windows that are found throughout the Castle,” DiVincenzo said. Admission is $10 and includes coffee, hot chocolate […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The Weight Band,the re-imagined band of legendary rock group The Band, will perform Sunday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. at South Orange Performing Arts Center. The Weight Band is dedicated to honoring the legacy of The Band and is comprised of former members and those who have worked closely with The Band over the decades. Audiences will enjoy an unforgettable performance and hear timeless hits like “The Weight,” “Up On Cripple Creek,” “Ophelia,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” “Rag Mama Rag” and so many others. The Chicago Sun Times proclaimed “The Weight carries on where The Band left off.” In addition to classic The Band songs, The Weight Band has released a new album of original material, packaged for today’s vibrant Americana base and capturing The Band’s rich musical tradition. Released in February 2018, World Gone Mad is an Americana/Roots masterpiece of the Woodstock sound.  The Band was a group that was a constant turnstile of talent and energy. The original framework of The Band began in 1958 with Ronnie Hawkins & The Hawks. Eventually Ronnie Hawkins left, and the remaining Hawks, after numerous lineup changes, became the band famously known as The Band. The original […]

From the Wildwoods: Enjoy the 2018 holiday season in the Wildwoods with an exciting month filled with fun for the entire family. With festive activities and holiday events, along with exciting year-round attractions, there are plenty of ways to create holiday memories in this resort town. Check in to the Wildwoods; then check out the many ways to make the holiday season special for you and your whole family. A number of Wildwoods hotels are open during the holiday season, and a number of vacation rentals are offering low, off-season rates and specials. Visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com/Wildwood-Accommodations to see a list of places to stay in the Wildwoods. Local wineries, craft microbreweries and distilleries offer local wines, beers, and spirits not found anywhere else and are located just minutes away. Looking for something fun for the whole family? Take a day trip to the Cape May County Park & Zoo. Enjoy 85 acres of wildlife habitat with free year-round admission. You will discover more than 500 animals – including snow leopards, African lions, and bald eagles. For more information on the Cape May County Park & Zoo, please visit www.capemaycountynj.gov. If relaxation is on your holiday bucket list, there’s plenty of “chill” activities to enjoy. […]

From the Durand-Hedden House in Maplewood, NJ: One hundred and one years ago, the United States declared war on Germany, joining the First World War, and the impact was felt in the small town of Maplewood, NJ. Join Durand-Hedden on November 18 from 1pm to 4pm as we learn more about the Great War. Over 100 men from Maplewood were called to fight and eight never made it home. Three saw brutal action in France, two were pilots whose planes went down, and three were victims of the influenza pandemic.  A year later, on November 11, 1918, fighting in World War I came to an end following the signing of an armistice between the Allied powers and Germany, the precursor to the Treaty of Versailles. The process of returning home then began for the American military, nurses, Red Cross workers, and the many others who had been caught up in the war effort. At the Durand-Hedden event, visitors can talk with a WWI reenactor portraying a Marine sergeant as he reveals the life of a doughboy and his essential ‘soldier’s kit.’ See the uniform of a soldier from the Imperial German Army and German field medical gear. Meet “Dr. Anna […]

From State Theatre New Jersey: State Theatre New Jersey presents Grammy® and Oscar® Award-winner Melissa Etheridge on Friday, November 30, 2018 at 8pm. Etheridge will be playing some of her greatest hits as well as holiday favorites. Tickets range from $45-$95. In addition to her greatest hits, Etheridge is performing songs from her 2008 holiday album, A New Thought For Christmas. Songs will include holiday classics such as “Merry Christmas Baby,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “O Night Divine.” Etheridge is one of rock music’s great female icons. Her critically acclaimed eponymous debut album was certified double platinum. Etheridge’s popularity built around such memorable songs as “Bring Me Some Water,” “No Souvenirs,” and “Ain’t It Heavy” for which she won her first Grammy® for Best Female Rock Vocal. Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album, Yes I Am, featuring the massive hits “I’m the Only One” and “Come to My Window,” a searing song of longing that brought her a second Grammy®.  The six times platinum album spent more than two and a half years on the album chart. Etheridge also won an Oscar® for Best Original Song, “I Need To Wake Up,” back in 2007. In 2011 Etheridge made her Broadway debut as St. Jimmy in […]

Looking for a place to celebrate the true magic of the holidays? Look no further than Storybook Land, in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Since 1955, Storybook Land has been keeping the spirit of childhood alive, as families walk through favorite stories and nursery rhymes and enjoy rides and attractions. For a quarter century, Storybook Land has celebrated the holiday season with the Christmas Fantasy with Lights Parade, where the park is illuminated with more than a million lights as beloved storybook characters come to life on beautifully decorated floats. The Christmas Fantasy with Lights Parade is on Saturday, November 17 (raindate November 18) from 2 – 9 p.m.  Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand as well: at 5 p.m. Santa appears in his chimney, waves his magic wand and lights up the park! The holiday lights run through December 30; Santa is in his home and lights the park until December 23. The park is closed 11/22, 12/24 and 12/25.

Join the annual Hoboken Turkey Trot 5K and 1 mile fun run Saturday, Nov. 17. This great event is family friendly so everyone in the community can enjoy! Both races will start and Finish at PIER A Park in Hoboken, NJ (100 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken NJ 07030). We will be accepting donations for Hoboken Shelter at this Saturday’s Turkey Trot. The shelter is in need of the following: Clothing: Men’s Casual Clothing. SOCKS & UNDERPANTS. Please NO Women’s Clothing, except for SOCKS & UNDERPANTS. Food: Coffee Sugar Milk Cereal Juice Frozen Meat – especially Turkeys, Hams, Meatballs Instant Potatoes Marinara Sauce Sandwiches – especially Meat-based Sandwiches Fruit – especially Bananas Supply Donations: Paper/Plastic Plates Hot/Cold Cups Napkins Plastic Utensils Hand Sanitizer Laundry Detergent Garbage Bags – any size Postage Stamps Envelopes Pens Toiletries Donations: Soap Shampoo Toothbrushes Toothpaste Deodorant Razors Shaving Cream Wash Cloths Underpants SOCKS Extra items: Panera $10 Gift Cards New Umbrellas Flashlights with Batteries Thank you for your generous donations! *First responders use discount code SHIELD and get $5.00 off registration (must show ID at check in). More information and registration here.

For those who like their vices in pairs, Luigi’s Ice Cream and Ani Ramen are partnering to bring you rich frozen treats AND alcohol in one delicious cup. As NJ Next previously reported — Luigi’s is opening New Jersey’s first “ice cream speakeasy” inside Ani Ramen in Jersey City. Luigi’s is truly an Jersey-based business, with all ice cream made in small batches at it Red Bank, NJ facility (they have retail locations in Red Bank and Metuchen). At Ani Ramen, they are presenting their hand-rolled ice cream, boozy and non-boozy (so you can take the kids too). Some of the boozy flavors include: RumChata Liqueur with Vanilla Ice Cream and Cinnamon Toast Crunch finished with Chocolate Syrup and Whip Cream, Hennessy and Pineapple Homemade Ice Cream, or Godiva Dark Liqueur Rolled Ice Cream. It’s uncertain thus far if Ani Ramen and Luigi’s will be bringing the ice cream speakeasy to another existing Ani Ramen location in Montclair and the upcoming Ani Ramen restaurant in Maplewood. Stay tuned! Follow Luigi’s on Instagram at luigisicecream.  

Jersey City Craft Brew Fest,, hosted by Harborside’s Waterfront Property, will feature an eclectic local variety of superbly fermented beer and cider in all styles — combining the best elements of a Beer Garden with the staggering array of choices found only at a Craft Beer Festival. The event will be held Saturday, November 17 at Harborside 3 Atrium, Jersey City (Entrance on Christopher Columbus Dr – Hudson River Waterfront walkway next to PATH station). Two sessions are available, one in the afternoon, one in the evening. Tickets are available here. Guests will enjoy craft beer samples for the entire evening paired with live entertainment, food and Interactive Games. Food vendors include: Angry Archie’s Kinda jerky really nutty My/mo Mochi Pizza vita Mozzarepas Chavas – Empanadas Chocolate Moonshine Taste of Poland More information here.

From Six Flags Great Adventure: Holiday in the Park is back for select days from November 17 -January 1 at Six Flags Great Adventure. It’s the most magical time of the year filled with enchanting experiences that will help create those special family fun outings again and again. Our breathtaking winter wonderland features a variety of delightful and interactive activities to help capture the holiday spirit. There are always festive surprises at Holiday in the Park. The elves are making the plans and will be sharing them soon. Check back to see what’s waiting for you under the tree. Special attractions only available during Holiday in the Park include: Wonder: A Cirque Spectacular – A mix of music, acrobatics and dance sure to put your and yours in the holiday spirit! The Elf Who Saved Christmas – Come watch Tinsel, Twinkle, Jingle and Doug save Christmas as they remind us that the holidays are all about togetherness and the joy it brings! Deck the Halls – Check out this enchanting new section complete with life size photo ops! Holiday in the Park is a time of unique food and special treats. Create your own s’mores, enjoy a traditional holiday meal, warm up with a […]

From Slow Food Northern NJ: Join the “delicious revolution.” On Dec. 9, Slow Food Northern NJ celebrates good, clean and fair food for everyone at The Woodland (60 Woodland Road, Maplewood, NJ) in honor of Terra Madre Day. From 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., the public is welcome to meet local farmers and food artisans, stock up on the best of local, sustainably-produced foods and support school and community vegetable gardens in low- income areas of northern NJ.  Terra Madre Day, officially Dec. 10, is Slow Food’s anniversary. Slow Food chapters all around the world celebrate local eating, agricultural biodiversity and sustainable food production. This Dec. 9 market is Northern NJ’s way to spread the word about how we can all change the world through food that is good, clean and fair for all. It’s also an important fund raiser. A suggested donation of $3 at the door supports Slow Food Northern NJ’s school and community garden fund. Supporting local (including urban) farmers, providing low-income families in our area with access to fresh vegetables and teaching kids about gardening and nutrition are at the foundation of Slow Food’s mission. This chapter is run by a small group of volunteers. Chef, […]

From the Mall at Short Hills: On Sunday, December 2, The Mall at Short Hills will host a toned-down visit with Santa for children with autism and other special needs at the brand new Santa’s Flight Academy holiday set located in Grand Court. Lights and music will be turned down to help create a calming environment for kids. Santa visits will begin at 8 a.m., two hours before regular mall hours and families must pre-register online to help expedite the process. For more information on holiday events and promotions visit shopshorthills.com. WHERE:         The Mall at Short Hills – Santa’s Flight Academy in Grand Court                         1200 Morris Tpke.                         Short Hills, NJ  07078 WHEN:           Sunday, December 2, 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.                         *Note: please pre-register online at Eventbrite. About The Mall at Short Hills The Mall at Short Hills is the dominant fashion and luxury destination in the suburban metropolitan New York market. The shopping center is one of the few in the United States with the prestigious combination of Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s under one roof. It also boasts a critical mass of luxury tenants, including Burberry, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chanel, Dior and Hermès, to name a few. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, […]

It’s cider season — especially in New Jersey. Ironbound Hard Cider, available through Garden State retailers, bars and restaurants, has opened a tasting room at its Ironbound Farm. Stop by Saturdays from noon to 8 p.m. and Sundays, noon to 6 p.m. and you’ll have an opportunity to sample specialty ciders like: Woods Folly (infused with Cascade hops from Sky High Hops in Flemington), Cape May Rosé (made with beach plums and black aronia berries from Jalma Farms), and Gooseberry Ginger (made with local wild gooseberries and ginger grown right here at Ironbound Farm). Ironbound’s owners have invited some of New Jersey and Pennsylvania’s favorite food trucks to visit the Tasting Room, giving guests a chance to pair unique dishes with their ciders. Ironbound Farm is located at 360 County Road 579 (just north of County 614 intersection. For more information, call (908) 940-4115, or visit the website or Facebook page. Don’t miss: A Very Brief History of Hard Cider in New Jersey (and Some Tips on Local Brands)

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. “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 serious roles every actor dreams […]

While much of New Jersey hit peak fall foliage last week, there are still many places to enjoy the vibrant colors of autumn in all their glory in the Garden State! To find the latest news on the best foliage in NJ, visit the Facebook page of New Jersey State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites. The page provides great videos, information on guided tours and hikes, and regular Fall Foliage Updates. “Like” their page and enjoy a new fall foliage update each Friday at noon “to help you plan your weekend adventures around the state.”    

From Violet PR: On Oct. 2., local leaders cut the ribbon on the newest business in downtown Montclair, Grindage Wood Fired Pizza & Sandwiches, located at 438 Bloomfield Avenue. The new restaurant will feature hand-crafted, locally sourced food in a fun and casual environment. Located at the former home of the beloved Mancinni’s Coal Oven Pizza, this locally owned restaurant will offer a variety of original pizzas, fresh seasonal salads and savory sandwiches. Community favorites, including meatball ricotta pizza and Cremini mushroom pizza, will be offered, along with new menu items including a white vegetable pizza with roasted red peppers and artichokes, a Tuscan kale salad with pine nuts, and a pan-seared skirt steak sandwich with chimichurri sauce. “We are so excited to join the thriving dining culture in Montclair,” says Lee Mangravito, co-owner of Grindage Wood Fired Pizza & Sandwiches and a resident of West Orange, N.J. “We’re keeping the most popular elements of the Mancinni’s menu, along with its chef, Joe Profita, and adding new pizzas, sandwiches and salads we think the community will love.” The new restaurant will be partnering with other businesses and restaurants in Montclair, collaborating on monthly menu specials and sourcing local ingredients. “We are very excited to welcome […]

From Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel: Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel (TSTI), located at 432 Scotland Road in South Orange, invites the public to a screening of “Dreaming of a Jewish Christmas” on Sunday, November 18 at 7:00 p.m.Producer Liam Romalis will facilitate a discussion about the movie as part of the program, which includes the Jewish/Irish short film, “Hannah Cohen’s Holy Communion.” Refreshments will be served. Cost is $5 for the public and advance registration is requested; sign up at https://www.tsti.org/calendar/film-series. For additional information, email Tracy Horwitz atthorwitz@tstinj.org. Set almost entirely in a Chinese restaurant, “Dreaming of a Jewish Christmas” is an irreverent musical documentary about a group of Jewish songwriters— including Irving Berlin, Mel Tormé, Jay Livingston, Ray Evans, Gloria Shayne Baker and Johnny Marks—who have written and performed some of the most memorable Christmas songs. The film has been nominated for a 2018 International Emmy award. Also in November is the ongoing mindfulness class, “Opening the Heart and Mind Meditation,” which is held every other Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. The class, facilitated by Beth Sandweiss, will meet next on November 21, 2018 and continues through the year. No prior experience is necessary. Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel (TSTI) is a dynamic, inclusive Reform congregation that offers numerous ways […]

More and more, New Jersey is gaining recognition for its micro breweries. Add the good folks at SOMA Brewing Company to the list of those making great gains for the Garden State. “How do we not have a taproom and brewery in South Orange and Maplewood? We have such a depth of character around here. We need our own beer,” said Adam Heydt of Maplewood. Heydt, his wife Farnaz, and Chris and Bianca Froelich of South Orange are the owners of the new SOMA Brewing Company. SOMA Brewing was born of a conversation between the two families, who thought they could make something special for the South Orange-Maplewood community and environs. Since then, they’ve been very busy. They focused on creating delicious craft beers that reflect the feeling you get from the South Orange and Maplewood area. Chris Froelich was in charge of creating the recipe. “He is an avid home brewer,” said Adam. “We used trial and error until we found the right recipe.” Then they consulted a master brewer to help them scale the beer production, and found a warehouse on Springfield Avenue where they could keep their inventory. Next, their beer needed a name. Two Towns Amber Ale […]

From the Mall at Short Hills: During its annual ‘Santa Paws’ event, The Mall at Short Hills will offer dog parents a chance to celebrate the holiday season and visit with Santa on Sunday, November 11 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.  Pet photos will take place at the brand new interactive Santa’s Flight Academy holiday set located in Grand Court.  Please note that dogs must be up-to-date on their vaccinations and must either be on a leash or carried in a lightweight, portable pet carrier with harness. For more information on holiday events and promotions visit shopshorthills.com. WHAT:           Pet photos with Santa WHEN:           Sunday, November 11, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. WHERE:         The Mall at Short Hills – Santa’s Flight Academy in Grand Court                         1200 Morris Tpke.                         Short Hills, NJ  07078 WHO:              Bring your furry canine pets to visit with Santa About The Mall at Short Hills The Mall at Short Hills is the dominant fashion and luxury destination in the suburban metropolitan New York market. The shopping center is one of the few in the United States with the prestigious combination of Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s under one roof. It also boasts a critical mass of luxury tenants, […]

From the South Orange Performing Arts Center: The South Orange Performing Arts Center is proud to announce that it has reached its campaign goal of $1,200,000! The Entertaining the Future campaign was established in 2016 with the aim of ensuring SOPAC’s long-term financial stability and continued programmatic success.  We wish to thank all those who gave their time and resources to making this campaign a success, particularly leading funders Anthony & Jennifer Leitner, Patti Donovan, and Larry & Carol Brodey. SOPAC Membership Couldn’t give to our campaign? Not to worry. You can still contribute to the success of SOPAC by becoming a member! By making a tax-deductible donation of $50 or more you can receive a SOPAC membership that includes exciting benefits, like pre-sale ticket access, invitations to exclusive SOPAC events, and access to our Local Business Network. Even more, your donation will help SOPAC continue to bring world-class artists to our intimate space and provide impactful educational programming for students in our community.  We invite you to join the family, and make a difference.  Become a member.

From Blo Blow Dry Bar: Blo Blow Dry Bar, the original and largest blow dry bar franchise that has taken the beauty world by storm, will celebrate the grand opening of its second New Jersey location in West Orange this December, after successfully opening in Millburn in 2016. Featuring a modern and chic interior design with a friendly and professional staff, Blo Blow Dry Bar delivers perfectly styled hair and exceptional customer experiences seven days a week through professional products, a fun atmosphere, and fabulous results. Guests in need of top-notch tresses before work (opens as early as 7am), a power lunch, a red-carpet event or simply just because, can get affordable, runway-quality hair at Blo West Orange. Blo Blow Dry Bar offers 7 styles in the Blo Hair Menu: high society, pillow talk, red carpet, go fish, holly would, executive sweet and hunt club. Not just your average blowout bar, Blo Blow Dry Bar employs expertly trained “Bloers” (our stylists) that offer an array of amenities both in-house and on location for any special event, including bridal services, with a signature blow out starting at just $40. Requested a la carte hairstyles and makeup services are offered. A mix […]

From the Maplewood Strollers: The Strollers community theater will open its 87th season with a presentation of Ken Ludwig’s The Game’s Afoot; or Holmes for the Holidays. Directed by Alan H. Foster, this holiday-centric comedy-meets-mystery will be performed for two weekends in November at the Burgdorff Center for Performing Arts in Maplewood, NJ. Set in 1936, the play’s events center around Broadway star William Gillette, known for his portrayal of the illustrious sleuth Sherlock Holmes. When Gillette invites the cast of his latest hit show to celebrate the Christmas holidays at his Connecticut mansion, the last thing anyone expects to find under the tree is murder! Mystery and hilarity in equal parts ensue, as Gillette must assume the role of real-life Holmes and crack the case before the murderer strikes in time to ruin everyone’s New Year’s Eve as well. The Game’s Afoot features a cast that includes Lisa Barnett, Carol Cornicelli, Elaine D’Addezio, Robert Podolak, Mathew Schwartz, Jeff Taylor, Lydia Trueheart, and Heather Wolf. The production is directed by Alan H. Foster and produced by Ken Lordy. Kate McNally is the stage manager, with set and light design by John Mendlovitz and sound design by Ron Richardson. Other behind-the-scenes […]

From Newark Arts: This year, the Newark Arts Festival launched a new brand and debuted dynamic programming to 10,000 attendees and participants, as it transitioned from the former Open Doors Citywide Arts Festival. Over a four-day span from Thursday, October 4th, through Sunday, October 7th, in all five wards, Newark Arts celebrated its 17th annual showcase of the best in visual and performing arts, spotlighting Newark’s rich landscape of museums, galleries and pop-up venues. Proudly dubbed ‘The Arts Mayor’, Mayor Ras J. Baraka kicked off the festival with a rousing speech at Express Newark in the Hahne & Co. Building. “We have art everywhere; they have never seen a city with this much art. We ultimately tie art to the economic growth, to the social fabric of the city, intellectual growth, development of its young people, and to the sustaining of its families…art is at the center of all of that!” said Mayor Baraka to a room over 150 guests. With the sponsorship of L&M Development, Newark Arts converted raw spaces in the historic Hahne’s Building into several pop-up galleries that were activated on opening night. In total, Newark Arts partnered with over 80 venues and 500 participating artists. Many […]

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

From The Gathering Shops: The Gathering Shops, an innovative retail start-up, today announced that it will open its first store in early November within New Jersey’s largest mall, Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus. Tailored to Generation Y and Z shoppers, The Gathering Shops’ unique retail experience will center around a community of customers and up-and-coming designers collaborating through experiential and retail innovation.  “Presently, small, boutique brands have limited access to nationwide mall retail, while malls lack these boutique brands” says Founder and Operational Director Sal Martorano. “The Gathering Shops addresses this problem by taking a full store and putting individual designer pods within it, allowing emerging designers to take total advantage of the foot traffic and product discovery that malls provide.” With 15-20 boutique pods in the store, The Gathering Shops gives millennial shoppers direct access to the creations of diverse young designers. Putting a spin on the traditional “pop-up” concept, designers will have the ability to secure a short or long-term space in one of the most trafficked malls in America. “Emerging designers have so much passion and a burning for their artistry” says Director of Talent Acquisition Anna Maria Sandegren. “I like to know what they’re doing […]

From the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority: Spirit Brands returns to the Wildwoods Convention Center for three weekends of cheerleading competitions with hundreds of teams bringing their dance moves, pom-poms and spirit to compete in the Wildwoods Convention Center’s Oceanfront Arena! On Sunday, November 18, the ARSC Recreation and School U.S. Finals will be open to all recreational centers and school programs that are members of the American Recreation and School Cheer Association. Competitions will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. On Saturday, December 1, Spirit Brands will host the Spirit Brands Cheerleading Festival in conjunction with the Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Competitions will be held from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. On Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9, Spirit Brands is back with two days of competition. Competitions will be held from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. All competing teams in each event will perform on a 54’ by 42’ spring floor trying to impress the crowd and win the judges’ votes. All performances will be choreographed to music and sound effects, and the top chosen winning teams will be awarded […]

Looking for somewhere to have your Thanksgiving meal out this year, instead of cooking at home? Good news: The Cassidy in Maplewood is open for Thanksgiving! The restaurant, in the heart of Maplewood Village, is currently taking reservations for four different seatings: 1pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm and 4pm. The meal will be served family-style, and includes such options as Pumpkin Soup with Ancho-Cocoa Syrup, Cedar Brined Farm Turkey from a local turkey farm, and a host of delicious sides and desserts. Call 973-762-5433 to reserve. The Cassidy was named one of the state’s 25 Best New Restaurants by New Jersey Monthly. Read what the magazine’s food editors had to say: “Finding good food in Maplewood has never been a problem, but the Cassidy offers something downtown has not had: a large, stylish, contemporary space with a liquor license and cocktail program in sync with a kitchen turning out fresh, engaging, New American food. Maplewood residents Tom and Jennifer Carlin, who own Gladstone Tavern in Gladstone, set out to create a community magnet, but the pull will likely reach wider.” Prix Fixe family style dinner is $48 per person ($16 for child 10 and under) plus a 22.5% service charge. The Cassidy 160 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, […]

From Asbury Park Distilling Co: On November 8th, join Asbury Park Distilling Co owners Andrew Karas and Zack Ohebshalom, and Ho-Ho-Kus Inn house mixologist Caitlyn Ritz as they taste their handcrafted gin, vodka, barrel-finished gin, and double barrel bourbon whiskey and share their knowledge about these drinks and their unique qualities. Held at Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern. $50 Plus Tax & Gratuity Reservations Required. To register, here.

From Elevation Burger: Organic burger franchise, Elevation Burger, is excited to announce that they will be opening a new location this year at The Yard at College Avenue, a 14-story university apartment building on the Rutgers University – New Brunswick campus. In 2005, Hans Hess founded Elevation Burger with the goal of being more than just another burger chain. Hess wanted to create an environmentally-friendly, healthy menu that he’d be proud to serve his own children. Now boasting over 60 locations nationally and internationally, the company is devoted to delivering fresh and sustainably prepared food to its loyal consumers. Elevation Burger specializes in quality, organic burgers and operates ethically with animal welfare, the environment and consumer health in mind. Their beef is 100% free-range, grass-fed, halal-certified and free of harmful antibiotics and pesticides. Their locations are built with renewable materials, their fresh cut french fries are cooked in ​Bertolli® ​heart-healthy olive oil and their veggie burgers are made with organic whole grains and seasoning. From salads and shakes, to a “Vertigo Burger” that allows patrons to choose up to ten patties, Elevation Burger has a little something for everyone! “We’re excited to bring our organic burger concept to New Brunswick,” […]

  Reverse Happy Hour kicks off at Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern with a slate of late evening drink specials and elevated bar bites guaranteed to end your evening with a smile. Reverse Happy Hour runs Tuesday through Friday, from 9-11pm, in both the Library Bar and Tavern at this historic Bergen County inn. There’s something special to look forward to each night: flavorful handcrafted sangrias ($7) on Tuesdays; Sour Night with housemade cocktails like Gimlets, Lemon Drops and Margaritas ($7) on Wednesdays; Thursdays feature a selection of rosé + sparkling wines and well drinks for just $5; and classic cocktails take center stage Fridays with $2 off Old-Fashioneds, Martinis and Manhattans. The same drink specials and a new menu of snacks designed for sharing are also available at daily Happy Hour, 3-6pm. Reverse Happy Hour (& Happy Hour) Bar Menu Fried Pretzels 7 maple bourbon mustard, cheese sauce Cheese Board 15 prairie breeze, grana padano, marcona almonds, grapes House Pickles 9 marcona almonds, herbed olives Housemade Roasted Garlic-Pepper Hummus 7 pita, vegetables Triple Crème Grilled Cheese 9 kimchi, boursin, fontina, apple, sourdough

From the Paper Mill Playhouse: Paper Mill Playhouse (Mark S. Hoebee-Producing Artistic Director), recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award, is proud to announce casting and creative team for Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn, based on the film from Universal Pictures, with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, and book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge.  Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn will begin performances Wednesday, November 21, 2018, and will continue through Sunday, December 30, 2018, at Paper Mill Playhouse (22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ). Bank of America is the Major Sponsor of Irving Berlin’s Holiday. Paper Mill Playhouse’s 2018-2019 season is proudly sponsored by Investors Bank. Directed by Mr. Greenberg (The Baker’s Wife, 1776 – Paper Mill), and with choreography by Denis Jones (Mary Poppins – Paper Mill, Holiday Inn – Broadway, Tony nomination), music direction by Shawn Gough (Annie, Paper Mill), the principal cast will feature Paige Faure (Honeymoon in Vegas – Paper Mill) as Lila Dixon, Jordon Gelber (Avenue Q) as Danny, Ann Harada (Avenue Q) as Louise,  Jeff Kready (Thoroughly Modern Millie – Paper Mill) as Ted Hanover, Hayley Podschun (Peter Pan – Paper Mill) as Linda Mason, Nicholas Rodriguez (Tarzan) as Jim Hardy with Jian Harrell and […]

From Jersey Shore Restaurant Week: Jersey Shore Restaurant Week Deal: Enjoy a three-course meal with your choice of an appetizer, entree, and dessert for either $22.18 or $32.18 from Nov. 2 through Nov. 11. Restaurants both old and new are participating, some for the first time including: Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten and Asbury Lanes Diner in Asbury Park; Citrico’s Mediterranean Italian Grille in Bradley Beach; Proving Ground in Highlands; Joe’s Surf Shack in Lake Como; Graze in Little Silver; The Salty Whale in Manasquan; Bluefin Station 108 in Normandy Beach; 26 West on the Navasink in Red Bank; and Caneda’s White Rooster in Toms River. To view a full list of participating restaurants, click here.

From Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo: Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. welcomed dog owners and their pets to the Annual Essex County Strut Your Mutt Canine Costume Parades and Contests at the Essex County Brookdale Dog Park Bloomfield/Montclair and the Essex County South Mountain Dog Park in Maplewood/Millburn on Saturday, October 20th and the Essex County Hilltop Dog Park in North Caldwell on Sunday, October 21st. It was the first parade held in the Hilltop Dog Park, which opened in June 2018. “Our Dog Parks have become popular places for dog owners to bring their pets, and our Canine Halloween Costume Parades are another opportunity for the public to enjoy our historic Park System,” DiVincenzo said. “I am always amazed and impressed with the creativity of the costumes. Congratulations to the winners,” he added. Strut Your Mutt is the County’s annual Canine Halloween Costume Parade and Contest. Dog owners were invited to display their creativity and dress their canine pets in costumes. The parade was free and prizes were awarded to the winners in each category. Award winners at the Essex County Brookdale Dog Park Contest are as follows: Best in Show: Jasmine and Aiden Serrano from Wayne and their dog Sprinkles, who […]

Editor’s note: the Halloween festivities on Saturday, October 27 will now be held at a New Location: South Avenue Train Station Parking Lot. Westfield will host its inaugural ‘AddamsFest‘ this October in honor of one of its most creative residents: Charles Addams. Born in Westfield in 1912, Addams was one of America’s greatest cartoonists. His most well-known creation, The Addams Family, grew from an assortment of cartoons into a celebrated televisions series, a movie franchise, a Broadway musical, and, coming in 2019, a highly anticipated animated motion picture. Westfield’s AddamsFest celebrates this prolific talent and the hometown that inspired those creepy and kooky, mysterious and spooky (and all together ooky) characters. Provided by the Town of Westfield, the following is a list of ‘AddamsFest’ events: The Addams Family House on Mindowaskin Lake Beginning October 5 385 East Broad Street While following Lurch’s purple footprints throughout the park be sure to take a photo of the floating Addams Family house on Mindowaskin Lake. Playing off a beloved Westfield tradition, this Halloween house is a nod to the replica of the Presbyterian Church that signals the holiday season in December. The Wicked Windows of Westfield Beginning October 5 Downtown Westfield Destined to become an exciting […]

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

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

Summit Downtown, Inc. is pleased to announce a new way to 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! Summit Downtown’s Board of Trustees, which includes Summit Mayor Nora Radest and Common Council members Steve Bowman and Beth Little, wanted to incentivize people to shop Summit first and agreed that even though SDI manages the downtown district, SDI would manage the gift card to include all Summit businesses throughout the city.  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. SDI is also making plans to sell the Summit Gift Card at its events and at the Farmers Market. SDI is still actively adding businesses to the program, and 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. […]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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