Community Corner

Weekend and Great Weather? Get Out Of The House

From Funny Things at the Forum to keeping the St. Paddy's Party going, get out and explore Jersey landmarks

Spring is in the air and you're just as anxious as the kids are to get out of the house and find something exciting to do! Patch is pleased to have NJ Mom's Guide provided you with some great ideas for having fun this weekend. As always, check out www.njmomsguide.com for more info on other family-related programs.

Union County Happenings:

SATURDAY 

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Find out what's happening in Summitwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"The Three Prince Charmings"

Where: Union County Performing Arts Center, 1601 Irving St., Rahway

Find out what's happening in Summitwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What: What happens when two dueling Prince Charmings meet an itinerant narrator named Steve? A fun intertwining of fairytales with an overbearing queen, a couple of nasty witches and a few beautiful princesses all trying to find a happy ending.

When: noon and 3 p.m., Saturday

How Much: $16 

Why: A fun intertwining of fairytales. 

Log on: http://www.ucpac.org/index.cfm

Call:  Box Office 732-499-8226

 

Eric Carle Storytime

Where: Barnes & Noble, 240 Route 22 West, Springfield

What:  Reading of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” with crafts and activities 

When: 11 a.m., Saturday

How Much: Free 

Why: Children will love to hear (no matter how many times) how the caterpillar munches its way to a variety of foods. 

Logo On: http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/store/1884 

Call: 973-376-8544

 

JUST FOR MOMS

Women’s Self-Defense Workshop

Where: Taekwondo-Do Center, 29 Alden Street, Cranford 

What: Please join us in a women’s self-defense seminar being presented by Master Robert Schneider, Certified Rape Escape Instructor. Participants will be offered options by learning signals, behavior and physical moves to help identify, avoid and survive an assault. This is a movement towards knowledge and awareness to help even the playing field. In addition to gaining knowledge and awareness, you will learn verbal confrontation skills in conjunction with safety strategies and physical techniques. This can enable someone to resist, escape and survive a violent attack. Self-defense training can increase our awareness, preparedness, choices and options.  

When: 1 p.m. – 3:30p.m., Saturday 

 Why: Calling all women, empower yourself to fight back against crime.

Log On: www.taekwon-docenter.com 

Call: 908-497-1100

 

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

"Clary’s Exodus"

Where: Union County College, The Theater Project, 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford

What: The production will be followed by a lively discussion with the playwrights, directors, actors and audience. “Clary’s Exodus” is set in Harlem in 1926. With Prohibition is full swing, and blues clubs sizzling hot, the story centers on a girl struggling to cope with a shocking truth about her past and a woman trying to find her own path to spirituality without losing her soul. Various musical styles help depict the characters’ very different background, including the driving sound of urban blues, Jewish religious music, and popular radio evangelist tunes. 

When: 3 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: Free

Why: Theatre on the cutting edge…

Website: http://www.thetheaterproject.org/ 

Phone: 908-659-5189

 

"Sleeping Beauty"

Where: Wilkins Theatre, Kean University Main Campus, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union

What: Kean Stage will present the Moscow Festival Ballet’s dazzling production of the ballet classic Sleeping Beauty in Wilkins Theatre. The Moscow Festival Ballet was founded in 1989 by legendary Bolshoi Ballet principal dancer Sergei Radchenko. The company, which incorporates classical elements of the Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies, will tell the classic story of a beautiful girl condemned to die, but saved by a century-long sleep, who wakes to find love with a dashing prince.

When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday

How Much: $30, adults; $20, students and children.

Why: Energized with dramatic expression and sensational steps. 

Log On: www.keanstage.com 

Call: 908-737-SHOW (7469) 

 

SUNDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

"Zany Zebras"

Where: Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, Summit

What: Create these black-and-white, horse-like animals with step-by-step drawing instructions, and fill them in with fun colored inks. (ages 6-9)

When: 10 a.m. – 11:30a.m., Sunday 

How Much: $35 

Why: Turn on the draw! 

Log On: http://www.artcenternj.org/ 

Call: 908-273-9121

 

"Realistic Zebras"

Where: Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, Summit

What: Using graphite pencils, students draw and shade a zebra using light and shadow, focusing on form and smooth gradations. (ages 9-12) 

When: noon – 1:30 p.m., Sunday 

How Much: $35 

Why: 1-2-3 DRAW! 

Log On: http://www.artcenternj.org/ 

Call: 908-273-9121

 

Garden State GreenFest

What: Kean University, Harwood Arena, 1000 Morris Avenue, Union

What:  The Garden State Greenfest is dedicated to educating, inspiring, and empowering children and adults, individuals and families, urbanites and small town folks to come together in their communities and workplaces to create a more sustainable planet for future generations.

When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday 

How Much: Adults: $10 in advance, $15 at the door; Children 17 and under: Free 

Why: Mission is simple: to educate, inspire, and motivate young folks to change the world, in small ways and big: whether by reducing their environmental footprint, becoming better earth stewards, advocating for environmental issues or growing up to work in a green field.

Log On: http://www.gardenstategreenfest.com/ 

Call: 908-735-8400

JUST FOR MOMS

"Bling"

Where: Arts Guild New Jersey, 1670 Irving Street, Rahway

What: Bling, by definition, refers to a lifestyle of ostentatious wealth. The word has its origins in hip-hop as slang that was first used in the 1990’s to describe over-the-top, extravagant jewelry, symbolic of prosperity and status. Today the word has become a commonplace term for flashy accessories, from rhinestone embellished t-shirts to 20” chrome car wheels, and more. This show gives a nod to the cultural origins of the term and acknowledges the concept as one of indulgence and excessiveness, while playfully applying the idea to our visual experience.

When: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday

Why: Shiny, glittery and bejeweled.

Log On: http://www.rahwayartsguild.org/index.html

Call: 732-381-7511

 

Essex County Happenings:

SATURDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Deeply Rooted Dance Theater

Where: NJPAC, 1 Center Street, Newark

What: Based on African-American traditions of storytelling and aesthetics, this Chicago-based dance company performing for one night only with pieces from their repertory choreographies. (ages 12 & up)

When: 2 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: Visit website for tickets

Why: Enjoy rich traditions of African-American dance and music.

Log On: http://www.njpac.org/show_events_list.asp 

Call: 888 GO-NJPAC

 

Kodo 30th Anniversary – One Earth Tour 2011 North America

Where: Community Theatre, 100 South Street, Morristown 

What: Watch the world’s greatest Japanese drummers explore the limitless possibilities of the taiko, transcending the barriers of language, cultures, and customs with this powerful musical performance of Japanese tradition.

When:  7:30 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: $42-$67 

Why: Kodo, the Japanese word for “heartbeat,” is also the name of an internationally group of Japanese drummers.  They’re like a Japanese version of Stomp. 

Log On: http://www.morristown.com/communitytheatre/ 

Call: 973-539-8008 

 

JUST FOR MOMS

"A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum"

Where: Paper Mill Playhouse, 22 Brookside Dr, Millburn

What: With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (the award-winning writer of the film Tootsie and the M*A*S*H TV series), this hilarious, slapstick farce is regarded by many as a high point in the history of Broadway musical comedy. Be prepared to laugh early and often – as the signature show tune puts it “Tragedy tomorrow, Comedy tonight! 

When: 1:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: $92

Why: Great, fun musical comedy! 

Website: http://www.papermill.org/ 

Phone: 973-376-4343 

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

Parents’ Night Out 

Where: South Mountain YMCA, 13 Jefferson Avenue, Maplewood

What: Enjoy a night out without the kids, while they have a special play date with friends at the Y. (ages 6 weeks to 9 years old) 

When: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday

How Much: One child: $30; Two children: $45; Three or more children: $70

Why: Kids get a night too! 

Log On: http://www.smountainymca.org/news/news-2.html 

Call: 973-762-3658

 

SUNDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Favorite Doll Tea

Where: Women’s Club of Glen Ridge, 219 Ridgewood Avenue, Glen Ridge

What: A traditional High Tea will be served, and a complimentary doll hair salon will be open for pampering, courtesy of the teenage Girls’ Club members of the Women’s Club. In addition, boutiques will be available for shopping. A raffle will be held throughout the festivities, featuring prizes from members and area businesses including the newest American Girl doll and much more.

When: 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Sunday 

How Much: $20, members and all children; $30, non-members. Space is limited; doors open at 3:30 pm 

Why: Its tea time! 

Log On: http://www.womensclubglenridge.com/WandMs.html 

Call: 973-748-5459

 

Classic Italian for Teens

Where: Kings Studio, 778 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills

What: Do you love Italian food? If so, come learn how to make an authentic Italian feast with instructor Maral Apelian-Banks! She’ll show you how to create dishes like Antipasto Salad, Spaghetti with Meatballs & Homemade, Tomato Sauce, Lasagna Rolls, Chicken Cacciatore, Garlic Bread, and Simple Tiramisu.

When: 3 p.m., Sunday

How Much: $75 per pair (registration required, please visit website)

Why: Mangia! 

Log On: http://www.kingswebsite.com/cookingstudio/index.cfm 

Call: 973-258-4009

 

STUDIO WOAC AT THE LOFT — artist demos, poetry, music and a performance by Luna Stage

Where: Wilshire Grand Hotel, 350 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange

What: The event will allow families to celebrate the arts in a new and exciting way.  The Arts Council will take its members’ studios to you, in a single location, on a single day. It will feature artist demonstrations where people can see techniques and watch the works evolve. Usually one sees the finished product, this time, you will see how it is actually done!  As an added plus, The Arts Council is partnering with Valley Arts District.

Why: Take part in celebrating a diverse range of artists and artwork.

Log On: http://woartscouncil.org 

Call: 972-324-9100 

 

PARENTS' NIGHT OUT

Newark Boys Chorus

Where: New Jersey Performing Arts Center 1 Center St. Newark

What: The Newark’s Boys Chorus, Princeton Girlchoir, and RockNRoll Chorus bring a program of choral literature that covers the best of classical, pop, folk, gospel and jazz.

When: 2 p.m., Sunday 

How Much: Visit website for ticket information 

Why: An opportunity to hear angelic voices.

Log On: http://www.njpac.org/ 

Call: 972-324-9100

 

Morris County Happenings:

SATURDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Matilda’s Bunny Brunch and Ten Carrot Tea Party

Where: The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 53 East Hanover Ave., Morris Township 

What: Meet rabbits and learn about domestic and wild rabbits. Enjoy an elegant tea, and make a garden craft to welcome spring.

When: 1:30 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: $25, members of The Friends of The Frelinghuysen Arboretum; $30, non-members 

Why: Learn all about these furry & cuddly bunnies. 

Log On: http://www.morrisparks.net/ 

Call: 973-326-7603 

 

Frogs in Love

Where: Pyramid Mountain, 472 A Boonton Ave., Montville Township 

What: Find out which frogs are singing love songs. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair for this easy-level hike. (ages 5 & up)

When: 1 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: $1 (pre-registration required)

Why: Bring water, wear comfortable shoes and enjoy. 

Log On: http://www.morrisparks.net/ 

Call: 973-334-3130

 

Astro Day

Where: Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown

What: Join the Morris Museum Astronomical Society for a day that will be out of this world! Throughout the day, families can participate in telescope training (bring your own, too), lectures, planetarium shows, craft activities, and a children’s science workshop. 

When: 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Saturday 

How Much: Free with museum admission: $7/child, $10/adult

Why: Curious about astronomy?

Log On: http://www.morrismuseum.org/ 

Call: 973-971-3718

 

JUST FOR MOMS

People StyleWatch Celebrity Stylist Event

Where: The Mall at Short Hills, 1200 Morris Tpk, Short Hills (Grand Court, lower level) 

What: Get The Star Treatment at the People StyleWatch Celebrity Stylist Event.  Find a Hollywood inspired look from a StyleWatch fashion expert, get expert beauty tips from a Clinique Consultant, receive a look book, swag bag and Starbucks Frappuccino coffee drink with a style consultation, and you’ll receive a special gift when you purchase spring essentials from People StyleWatch sponsors.

When: noon–6 p.m., Saturday 

 Why: Feel like a celebrity for the day. 

Log On: http://www.shopshorthills.com/ 

Call: 877-600-3397

 

Spring Glow Event

Where: Sephora – The Mall at Short Hills, 1200 Morris Tpk, Short Hills 

What: Time to say goodbye to winter and that dull dry skin! Make an appointment with a DDF specialist.

When: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Why: Give your skin the kick start it needs for the new season. Go get your glow on!

Log On: http://www.shopshorthills.com/

Call: 973-258-1919

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

A Streetcar Named Desire

Where: Shanghai Jazz Restaurant & Bar, 24 Main St, Madison

What: Asian cuisine and world-class jazz performances by musicians from the greater New York City area.

When: 6:30 p.m., Saturday; (reservations required)

How Much: Please visit website for menu.

Why: Featured in Zagat’s, The New York Times & The Star-Ledger to name a few.

Log On: http://www.shanghaijazz.com/

Call: 973-822-2899

 

SUNDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

Where: Mayo Center for Performing Arts 100 South St, Morristown

What: What has 15 cats, 10 dogs, 4 geese, 8 doves, 2 parrots, and a few clowns? Russian circus and juggling star Gregory Popovich and his very talented cast of performing pets stage hilarious stunts and skits in this delightful treat for animal lovers young and old!

When: 3 p.m. or 7 p.m., Sunday

How Much: $25

Why: European-style clowning, amazing juggling and balancing acts, and talented performing pets.

Log On: http://www.mayoarts.org

Call: 973-539-8008

 

Hearth and Home Family Day

Where: Macculloch Hall Historical Museum 45 Macculloch Ave, Morristown

What: Learn about children’s chores and family life in 1810. Was life at home different than it is today, or fairly similar? Where did people get their food? See how wool is spun into yarn, try on clothing styles from a long time ago, learn about reducing, reusing, and recycling then and now, enjoy a make and take craft and more!

Day & Time: March 20, 2011 from 1:00pm–4:00pm

How Much: Adults, $6; Seniors & Students, $5; Members and children under 12, free!

Why: Domestic life circa 1810 was hard work–just like today, except without electricity.

Log On: http://www.maccullochhall.org/

Call: 973-538-2404 ext. 10.

 

5th Annual Storytelling Festival of World Music & Story

Where: County College of Morris, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph

When: 12:30p.m.- 4 p.m., Sunday

How Much: $6

What: Outstanding storytellers will bring to life tales and tunes old and new. Be entertained by folk tales, family stories, fables and tall tales from many lands, cultures and times. Musician Andy Wasserman will present a vibrant demonstration of authentic wind, string and percussion instruments from around the world. Wasserman’s artistry connects music and storytelling in innovative ways.

Why: Effective storytelling is a fine and beautiful art.

Log On: http://www.ccm.edu/newsEvents/eventDetails.aspx?Channel=/Channels/Sitewide&WorkflowItemID=3ac11f5c-f269-47a7-8259-e8402387ae5b

Call: 973-328-5000

 

JUST FOR MOMS

Spring CraftMorristown

Where: National Guard Armory, Western Ave., Morristown

What: Contemporary art work, jewelry, furniture, home decor pieces, fashion and accessories by artists and craftspeople

When: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.. Sunday

How Much: $7; Children are free!

Why: Experience the extraordinary of crafters.

Log On: http://www.artrider.com/mtownS11.html

 

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

Spring Awakening Mini Yoga Retreat

Where: Riverdale Senior Community Center, 57 Loy Ave, Riverdale

What: Shed your winter coat and prepare to lighten your heart with Hatha Yoga, pranayama, meditation, a talk by Rev. Jaganath Carrera, a vegetarian lunch and much more. (Some yoga experience suggested) Bring a yoga mat.

When: 10a.m. – 4p.m., Sunday 

How Much: Register with a friend $108 ($54 per person) Walk-ins welcome at door $81 per person

Why: Whether you are a new or experienced yoga practitioner and whether you want to broaden your knowledge and experience or simply take some time out, going to a yoga retreat may be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.

Log On: http://www.yogalifesociety.com/About-Us.html

 

Hudson County Happenings:

SATURDAY

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

Kidgits Club Book Blast

Where: Newport Centre Mall 30 Mall Drive West Jersey City, NJ

What: During this year’s Book Blast!, Mayor Jeremiah Healy will be on-hand from noon to 2 p.m. to read selected books along with story teller and folk singer Jeslyn Wheeless, winner of the National Library Association’s Notable Children’s Recording Award 2000, who will be performing songs and stories for children. New York Life, event sponsor, will also be on-hand to talk to parents about the importance of saving for college education, protecting loved one’s financially and building wealth.  In addition, children can see a sneak peek of the all-new movie, The Little Engine That Could, premiering on DVD March 22.

When: noon, Saturday

How Much: Free (for Simon Kidgits Club members, can sign up at the Mall)

Why: Kidgits Club members receive a variety of goodies, including a Kidgits Club T-shirt, membership card, birthday gift, discounts and scheduled activities.

Log On: http://www.simon.com/mall/default.aspx?id=114

Call: 201-626-2078

 

Indian Festival of Color: Holi Hai

Where: Art House Productions 1 McWilliams Place -6th Floor Jersey City, NJ

What: The festival marks the end of winter and the abundance of the upcoming spring harvest season.

When: 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Saturday

How Much: Part 1- $15; Part 2- $25; Part 1 & 2- $35

Why: See this spectacular celebration welcoming spring in bursts of color. 

Log On: http://www.suratiinc.com/holihai2011/Suratiholi2011.htm

 

Youth Cabaret

Where: Monroe Center for the Arts, 720 Monroe St., Hoboken

What: The Theater Company of Hoboken presents a Youth Cabaret, featuring children ages 8-18 performing songs with live accompaniment after working with professionals on their presentation.

When: 7 p.m., Saturday

How Much: $10

Why: Stars on the rise…

Log On: http://www.thetheatercompany.org/YouthCabaret.html

Call: 201-795-5000

 

JUST FOR MOMS

Intermediate Digital Photography Course

Venue: Jersey City Art School, 326 Fifth St., Jersey City

What: This intensive workshop is aimed at photographers who already have a grasp of basic photographic principals and is ideal for those who have already attended a basic beginners Digital Photography course.  This course will concentrate on the structure of a photo and learning to think like a photographer, including: 1) Composition and use of light -Refining your cameras exposure by adding or subtracting light using exposure compensation 2) Use of fill flash -Creative blurs using pans, slow shutter speeds and zooms

When: 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Saturday

How Much: $150

Why: Take that picture!

Log On: http://www.jcartschool.com/

Call: 732-877-9116

 

SUNDAY

 

KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Where: Broadway, from 5th Street to 39th Street, Bayonne

When: 1 p.m., Sunday

How Much: Free!

What: Get decked out in green to watch dancers and bagpipers celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Why: Erin Go Bragh!

LogOn: http://www.saintpatricksdayparade.com/bayonne/bayonne.htm

 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party

Where: Bayonne Holy Family Academy, 239 Avenue A, Bayonne

What: Holy Family Academy in Bayonne is sponsoring a St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party on Sunday, March 20, following Bayonne’s 30th Annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.  All you can eat corned beef and cabbage, hot dogs, dessert, live entertainment & Irish step dancing.

When: 3:30pm, Sunday

How Much: $30, adults; $5, kids under 18

Why: Let the celebration continue!

Log On: http://www.hfa.bayonne.net/ibhfa/StPatsParty.pdf

 

JUST FOR MOM

Intermediate Digital Photography Course

Where: Jersey City Art School, 326 Fifth St., Jersey City

What: This intensive workshop is aimed at photographers who already have a grasp of basic photographic principals and is ideal for those who have already attended a basic beginners Digital Photography course.  This course will concentrate on the structure of a photo and learning to think like a photographer, including: 1) Composition and use of light -Refining your cameras exposure by adding or subtracting light using exposure compensation 2) Use of fill flash -Creative blurs using pans, slow shutter speeds and zooms

When: 11am – 5:30 p.m., Sunday

How Much: $150

 

Why: Take that picture!

Log On: http://www.jcartschool.com/

Call: -732-877-9116

PARENTS NIGHT OUT

Timing and Musicality Workshop

Where: Salsa Fever Academy 83 Franklin Street, Jersey City, NJ

What: Learn the secrets to have a great leading and follow. Common issues that happen on the dance floor will be addressed and how to fix them.

When: noon – 2 p.m., Sunday

How Much: $20

Why: This workshop really gets to the essence of dancing.

Log On: http://salsafeveron2.com/Home.html

Call: 201-792-1616


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here