Raritan Valley Road Runners Summer Race Series

Raritan Valley Road Runners Race Series returns on Tuesdays — June 28, July 12, and July 26. The races all begin at 6:30 p.m., making for a fun evening spent outdoors. The races traverse mostly grass and dirt terrain with long stretches along the scenic Raritan River. There will also be a Youth Series each evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. Registration for the Youth Series opens at 5 p.m. 

Participants should meet at Grove 4 (near the boat launch), Donaldson Park in Highland Park. 5K (3.1 miles) and 2.5K (1.5 mile) distances are available. Individual race admission is $20 or participate in all three events for $65. Purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/3NSj3cj. more

Shakespeare in Community Park, July 31

The Hudson Shakespeare Company presents the second of the summer’s two Shakespeare in the Park performances at the Community Park North/Pettoranello Gardens Amphitheater on Sunday, July 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. 

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Jon Ciccarelli, the Hudson Shakespeare Company is known for utilizing some of the best young and experienced actors, directors, and crew from around the tri-state area. Join them for a rockin’ summer party set in the sixties with Much Ado About Nothing, where revenge is put aside in favor of forgiveness. more

Treetop Adventure Courses at Turtle Back Zoo

Essex County features one of the top treetop adventure courses in the state at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. Summer is the perfect time to book a reservation at this park with thrill-seeking friends and loved ones. The sky high courses emphasize trust building, fun, excitement, and collaborations. They also leave one with a greater sense of accomplishment by looking trepidation in the face and overcoming it. more

Summer Opening Celebration at Zuzu Gallery

Image Source: https://www.zuzu-gallery.com

Located in the heart of historic downtown Lawrenceville, Zuzu Gallery will host a summer opening to celebrate the works of award-winning artist Sherri Andrews on Saturday, July 2 from 2 to 6 p.m. Stop in for food, drinks, chat with the artist and view her mixed media paintings and collages. 

Located at 23 Phillips Avenue (next to Vidalia Restaurant), Zuzu Gallery occupies a charming cedar storefront originally built in 1890. The location plays host to invited artists working in a variety of media, such as painting, pottery, sculpture, and photography.  more

Light Nights at Longwood Gardens

Image Source: https://www.facebook.com/LongwoodGardens/

Join Longwood Gardens on the second Friday of every month throughout Light: Installations by Bruce Munro for a fantastically fun themed Light Nights. Enjoy live music, fountain performances, family activities, and more — all inspired by Light — during these special evenings. more

The Story Behind Hoboken Farms’ Tomato Sauce

Hoboken native Brad Finkel never set out to enter the food business. In fact, back in the 1990s, he was more interested in touring the country with his musical group, trying to make an impact in the world as a working artist. 

However, when Finkel left Hudson County, he noticed that his fellow bandmates were homesick for fresh mozzarella, meats, homemade bread, and tomato sauce like the Italian Grandma’s made it. That meant nothing but the freshest ingredients and no additives like sugar. Nothing is dried and everything is bottled at the peak of freshness. In this way, Finkel sought to make his friends a little more comfortable.  more

Father’s Day Weekend at Hurricane Harbor

Get ready for a fun-filled day outdoors that is all about Dad, yet great for the whole family, too. It’s Father’s Day Weekend 2022 at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor on Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19 in Jackson Township. 

Swim, surf, dive, and slide your way into an exciting summer as your roam around Hurricane Harbor’s many slides and pools. After working up an appetite, take a seat at Steak & Fries or at the Tiki Bar to enjoy some fun drinks and savory snacks. more

June 2022 Entertainment Lineup in Atlantic City

Summer in Atlantic City attracts world-class stars and entertainers, and this year is no different. In fact, there is something for everyone’s taste. Browse this sampled June calendar of event listings below and book your tickets today!

Masters of Illusion – Summer Residency 2022

Thursday, June 9 – Sunday, September 4

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City 

Ticket prices $28.50+ more

The Story Behind Picklelicious

Picklelicious has been a regular vendor at the Princeton Farmers’ Market since the Market’s inception when it was just a few vendors on Hinds Plaza. Now located at the Dinky Train Station lot at 172 Alexander Street in Princeton, Picklelicious is a hands-down favorite and much-loved local product. 

Pickelicious founder Robyn Samra was raised on pickles and bagels. As a mother of two small children back in 1993, she sought to leave her waitressing job and start her own small business. The question was, what kind of business? Drawing on her Jewish heritage and love of pickles, she decided that she would invest her time and energy into producing pickles and selling them at local flea markets and farmers markets. more

2022 Montgomery Fireworks Display

After a two-year absence due to COVID-19, Montgomery’s annual Independence Day fireworks display will return the evening of Thursday, June 30 at Montgomery High School. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with vendors, music, and games for children.

The fireworks are once again funded by contributions from individuals, corporations, and small businesses, plus fees from local vendors, making this a true community event. To make a donation of any amount, visit montgomeryfireworks.org. more

2022 ETS Firecracker 5K

Join the 17th annual ETS Firecracker 5K, which will be held June 1-15. Participants are welcome to walk, run, or ride at their own pace throughout the two-week period. Proceeds from this event will support YWCA Princeton’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women through programs and resources that address inequity by creating opportunities for personal and professional development, wellness, and connecting with others. 

Visit https://www.ywcaprinceton.org/homepage/signature-events/5k/ to register. There is a $50 registration fee that will be built into the challenged $100 minimum fundraising goal. The YWCA Princeton’s overall goal for this year’s event is $20,000. more

Country Singer Jake Owen at The Stone Pony

Celebrated country singer Jake Owen will perform at Asbury Park’s iconic Stone Pony on Sunday, July 24 from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $49.50 in advance and $55 at the door. 

Owen’s music has risen to the top of country charts multiple times and his latest single “Made For You” is looking to do the same. Some of his best-known tracks are “I Was Jack (You Were Diane),” “Homemade,” “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” “Beachin,” “Anywhere With You,” “Alone With You,” “The One That Got Away,” and “American Country Love Song.” more

Washington Crossing Historic Park’s Memorial Day Ceremony

Washington Crossing Historic Park will hold its annual Memorial Day ceremony on Sunday, May 29 from 1 to 2 p.m. at the gravesite of Continental soldiers located near the Thompson-Neely House. 

The observation will include a Colonial color guard, fife and drum music, Revolutionary War reenactors, veterans, and other honored guests. The keynote address will be delivered by USAF veteran Frank Lyons. At the ceremony, the Daughters of the American Revolution will dedicate a plaque at the original gravesite of 24-year-old Captain Lieutenant James Moore. Moore served in Captain Alexander Hamilton’s New York Artillery Unit before his death on December 25, 1776. more

PPL Presents Princeton Community Pride Picnic

Celebrate Princeton’s LGBTQIA+ community on Friday, June 3 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Princeton Shopping Center. The special event will include music, games, activities, giveaways, and more. Rain date is June 5.

Families of all ages are welcome to participate. There will be a bubble show by OMG Bubbles, hula hooping with Color Me Hoopy, yoga, a community mural, and live tunes from DJ Mona of Mon Amie Events NYC. more

City of Long Branch 27th Annual Car Show

Celebrate the car lover in your life and cruise to the Jersey Shore for the City of Long Branch’s 27th Annual Car Show on Sunday, June 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place along the Long Branch Promenade (Ocean Boulevard and Madison Avenue).  more

Princeton Children’s Book Author Maggie Edkins Willis at Labyrinth

Labyrinth Books welcomes Maggie Edkins Willis and Samira Iravani for an in-person event (with the option of virtual) on Sunday, June 12 at 2 p.m. Willis will discuss her debut middle grade graphic novel entitled Smaller Sister, which touches on the author’s own real-life experiences navigating confidence, body image, and the everlasting bond of sisterhood.  more

Stairway to the Stars Lighthouse Climb in Cape May

Cape May Lighthouse offers visitors the chance to climb the 199 steps up to the historic, cast-iron spiral stairway and witness a staggering view of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Built in 1859, the lighthouse also offers visitors a chance to take in the surrounding nature trails leading to the beach and Cape May Borough. 

Interpretive panels on the grounds, at the base of the lighthouse, and at the top of the climb tell the stories of the lighthouse keepers and how the lighthouse functioned traditionally and today. Still an active aid to navigation, the structure was restored and is maintained by Cape May Museum + Arts + Culture (MAC). Since the Cape May MAC opened the lighthouse to the public in 1988, more than 2.5 million visitors have climbed to the top.  more

Princeton Primary & Urgent Care Center Meets Sports Injury Needs

Daily movement and exercise are central components of a healthy and active lifestyle. A strong heart and cardiovascular system have been shown to prevent a range of physical and mental degenerative diseases. With that being said, it is important that daily activity is balanced with stretching, hydration, and adequate rest. 

Did you know that a sprain is an injury to the joints of your body caused by the over-stretching or tearing of ligaments? The good news is the physicians at Princeton Primary & Urgent Care Center (PPUCC) can spot a sprain almost immediately and will be able to recommend a recovery plan that includes elevation of the injury and regular icing. more

Park Chateau Estate & Gardens Will Wow Your Wedding Guests

Nestled midway between Manhattan and Philadelphia at 678 Cranberry Road in East Brunswick, Park Chateau Estate & Gardens is quickly becoming the noteworthy wedding venue in New Jersey.

Spanning 15 rolling and manicured acres, visitors will be struck first by the 17th century classical French architecture and garden designs. This setting provides the bride and groom with a range of locations to move their wedding party through; from the chapel to the outdoor gardens and sparkling ballroom, every site is picture perfect. more

Pairing Wine, Cheese, and Charcuterie, June 2

Enjoy the ambience of Crossing Vineyards and Winery on Thursday, June 2 at 7 p.m. while you are guided through a tasting of 10 wines. At the same time, guests will be able to feast on artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and more. After the tasting, stay a while at McAvoy’s Bar and order a glass of wine from your favorite selection. This is a great introductory class on wine and cheese pairings for anyone who has ever been interested in assembling their very own charcuterie boards for family gatherings, events, and holidays. more

Seventh Annual Watershed Solstice Trail Run

Image Source: https://thewatershed.org

On Saturday, June 18 at 5 p.m., get ready to race in the Watershed Solstice Trail Run in Pennington!

Back and bigger than ever, the trail run offers both a 5K (3.1 miles) and 10K (6.2 miles) distance. Participants can run or walk virtually or in person. The in-person competitors will have the chance to enjoy the signs of early summer at the Watershed Reserve. No walk-ins are allowed, so all runners must purchase admission ahead of time at https://thewatershed.org/solstice-run/.  more

Fantasy Faire at WheatonArts, June 18 & 19

Located at 1501 Glasstown Road in Millville, New Jersey, join WheatonArts for the Fantasy Faire on Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19. This family-friendly festival will take place each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Fantasy Faire features talented performers as they bring to life the “Kingdom of Wheaton” by enacting a series of interconnected shows that tell the story of the day. Interact with strolling costumed characters portraying historical and mythical figures in their favorite fantasy garb. more

“Happy Birthday, Mr. Olmsted!” Parks Celebration

Celebrate the birthday of Frederic Law Olmsted on Saturday, May 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Anderson Park, located at 274 Bellevue Avenue in Montclair. The event is free to attend and open to all ages. The rain date is Sunday, May 15. Anderson Park is handicap accessible. more

Special Event Screening: “Beethoven in Beijing”

Princeton Garden Theatre, a nonprofit community arthouse theater located at 160 Nassau Street in downtown Princeton, presents a screening of Beethoven in Beijing on Wednesday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m.

Dispatched by President Nixon in 1973 to help open the bamboo curtain separating Chinese and American people, the iconic Philadelphia Orchestra now turns to its past as a cultural ambassador to strengthen its future at home. Mixing archival images and audio with present-day observational footage, and enlivened with animation, Beethoven in Beijing dramatizes how the revival of classical music in China is energizing the world of music.  more

Stage Left Steak Celebrates 30th Anniversary

A 30th anniversary is an impressive milestone for any business, but a restaurant? After two years of a worldwide pandemic, it’s even more extraordinary. That is why Stage Left Steak owners Mark Pascal and Francis Schott (best friends who met at Rutgers University in the early 1980s) will be throwing fabulous events all summer long. 

At Stage Left Steak, you can always expect great steaks and the finest cuts of meat dressed in a Neapolitan-Based, Brooklyn-influenced Italian cooking. Pare your steak with perfectly balanced wines and cocktails in the restaurant’s pleasant outdoor space.  more

Historical Fiction Book Group: “Libertie: A Novel”

The Historical Society of Princeton introduces their next historical fiction book group on Monday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. with Libertie: A Novel by Kaitlyn Greenidge.

Named by the New York Times Book Review as the Best Historical Fiction of 2021, Libertie is “a coming of age story, tracing the travails of a free-born Black girl raised in Deconstructionist-Era Brooklyn. Libertie Sampson defies her doctor mother’s stifling dreams that her daughter will follow in her footsteps, instead following her fiancée to his home country of Haiti — where Libertie escapes American-style racism but not the misogyny that leaves her subordinate to all men.” more

New Jersey’s Latest Hot Spot — Fresco Da Franco

Located at 15 Church Street in the bustling town of Montclair, Fresco Da Franco has attracted a lot of attention for its vibrant, party-like atmosphere combined with authentic Italian cuisine that is always fresh, and always made with love. 

Created by chef/owner Franco Porporino Jr., a first generation Italian American, Fresco Da Franco is a destination for brunch, lunch, and fine dining. The success of the place is owed a great deal to authentic cucina all nonna — delicious comfort food that it always satisfying and refined.  more

Seventh Annual Nassau Film Festival

The Seventh Annual Nassau Film Festival will take place in person on May 21 and 22 at Princeton Garden Theatre. Attendees can also participate virtually from May 23 through June 8 at nassaufilmfestival.festivee.com.

The event will screen independent short films and music videos from filmmakers all over the world. Guests can participate in a question-and-answer panel with selected filmmakers. Proceeds go toward the Lisa Goldstein Education Foundation, a nonprofit that provides scholarship money from West Windsor-Plainsboro District students attending college. Showtimes vary and ticket prices range from $15-25.  more

Food for Thought: “Julia” Film Screening and Supper Club

Photo Credit: Julia Child in her kitchen as photographed ©Lynn Gilbert, 1978, Cambridge, Mass. (wikipedia.org)

On Tuesday, May 24 at 6 p.m., Hopewell Theater presents never-before-seen archival footage, personal photos, first-person narratives, and cutting-edge food cinematography that traces Julia Child’s 12-year struggle to create and publish the revolutionary Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961), which has sold more than 2.5 million copies to date, and her rapid ascent to becoming the country’s most unlikely television star. It’s the empowering story of a woman who found her purpose — and her fame — at the age of 50 and took America along for the whole delicious journey.  more

Join ACP for an English High Tea

On Sunday, May 15 from 4 to 6 p.m., the Arts Council of Princeton will host a traditional English High Tea courtesy of Samira Ghani, known for her popular Instagram blog Slice of Gourmet (https://www.instagram.com/sliceofgourmet/). 

Each elegant station will represent a country’s traditional beverage and assorted small bites. Guests will have the chance to sample English High Tea, Greek coffee, Arabic Mint Kava, and Pakastani Kashmiri. As a bonus, stations will include literature about the country’s beverage customs. Wear your best hat and come hungry!  more