Events in Rahway, NJ

Movies at the Library presents twice-weekly screenings. The lineup and schedule can change, so check the library’s calendar or contact staff for the most current list of titles. Library cardholders can also stream movies and TV at no cost.

A dedicated LEGO session held on the first Monday of each month is designed for older kids ages 8 and up. Participants can experiment, build, and let their creativity shine. No registration is required.

A book club for readers who like to read, then talk about the book. The group explores a range of genres and fosters insightful discussion around a shared title. Registration information is available, and a downloadable list of dates and titles is provided.

Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard hosts a community fundraiser benefiting the South Plainfield Soccer Association. Families and friends can enjoy frozen treats while supporting SPSA.

Liberty Harley-Davidson marks the start of leather-friendly riding weather with an end-of-summer bike night featuring complimentary food, chilled drinks, and music performed live. Expect a welcoming motorcycle community atmosphere with friends and fellow riders alongside a rock and roll vibe. The gathering is free and offers a final summer celebration in true Harley style.

Enjoy twice weekly movie screenings at the library. Schedules can change, so check the library calendar or call for the latest list of films and other details. Library cardholders can also watch streaming movies and TV at no cost.

The Union County Means Business Expo returns to Union County at Kean University Downs Hall. Created for local businesses and entrepreneurs, it offers opportunities to expand networks, showcase services, and find inspiration. Participants can engage with fellow business leaders and cultivate meaningful professional connections.

Two inventive Americana acts share the bill at Parker Press Park. Bandits on the Run brings a three-voice blend and a colorful mix of guitar, cello, suitcase drum, accordion, and playful toy instruments. Based in Brooklyn, this trio is celebrated for lively, genre-crossing performances and radiant vocal harmonies, growing out of an unexpected busking meeting in the New York subway into a group heard from subway spots to major venues. Their song Love in the Underground drew recognition from the NPR Tiny Desk Contest Top Shelf for its musicianship and storytelling, and their travels have included appearances at the Cambridge Folk Festival, Floydfest, Summerfest in Milwaukee, Americanafest, the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, Mile of Music, and the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival. Buffalo Rose, a modern folk and Americana group from Pittsburgh, features singers Lucy Clabby, Margot Jezerc, and Shane McLaughlin on acoustic guitar, with Malcolm "Mac" Inglis on dobro, Bryce Rabideau on mandolin, and Jason Rafalak on upright bass. Their sound has been likened to The Lumineers and First Aid Kit, and they have performed alongside The Infamous Stringdusters, Pokey LaFarge, and Tyler Childers. Members point to inspirations that include Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, the Punch Brothers, and Joni Mitchell.

A farmers market is held indoors in the Newark Strong Lobby.

Discover a beginner-friendly, women-only Muay Thai pad-drill class in a small group setting. The session emphasizes solid technique, purposeful movement, conditioning, and plenty of repetition, all in a welcoming space without the feel of a competitive gym. Participants work through guided combinations that mix punches, kicks, and knees with Thai pad work, along with drills that sharpen timing, balance, and coordination. Cardio and conditioning are part of the flow, and light, controlled sparring rounds are available for those who choose to try them. The focus is on learning, confidence, and consistency, not on going hard. This format suits adult women seeking fitness, self-confidence, practical striking skills, stress relief, and empowerment through movement.

Twilight Disciples perform dance, pop, and rock covers at Woodbridge Brewing Co. This set features upbeat, well known tunes and a steady groove from start to finish.

This event at The Sapphire Grand Woodbridge celebrates the lasting impact of the Ursula’s Promise Memorial Scholarship Fund. The evening serves as a culminating tribute to its mission, honoring Ursula’s dedication to lifting others and recognizing the many degrees earned by scholars through community support. Dinner will be served, there will be dancing, and complimentary drinks will be available from the bar. Formal evening wear is encouraged, and the event is open to attendees ages 16 and up. Centered on love, purpose, and community, the celebration aims to strengthen a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations.

Start your fitness journey with House of Fitness at Colosseum Gym. Coaches Rueben and Darlene lead a beginner-friendly workout set to music from DJ Mook. Bring hand weights and plenty of energy. This welcoming session is open to everyone.

Gain practical skills for working safely with herbs to encourage relaxation, support skin health, and promote overall wellness. This immersive, hands-on course welcomes massage therapists, wellness professionals, and holistic enthusiasts, offering a clear introduction to the craft and science of herbal preparations. Through guided practice, participants make infusions, salves, and compresses, learn appropriate application methods for client sessions and home care, and explore ethical ways to weave botanicals into professional routines and personal self care while staying within scope of practice. The curriculum covers straightforward preparation techniques, how to recognize herbs that benefit relaxation, skin integrity, and recovery, along with common contraindications and simple labeling essentials for longer term use. Open to all attendees. Licensed massage therapists can earn 8 CEUs. The cost is $120.

This event follows US Amateur rules. The entry fee is $80 per player. The format sets the winners side to a race to 7, the one-loss side to a race to 5, and the finals to a single race to 9.

Practice speaking English in a relaxed, friendly setting with a casual conversation group. It offers a fun and informal way to build your conversation skills through real-life conversation. You can attend one session or both, depending on your schedule. Please note that plans may change with little notice, so check the organizer’s website or calendar for any last-minute updates.

Chayanne brings the Bailemos Otra Vez Tour to Prudential Center. Ticket access includes a series of presales for the artist, CMN, label, venue, Ticketmaster, and registered fans, followed by a general public release. VIP packages are available with their own presale and onsale. Parking can be purchased in advance.

Each Sunday, a lively outdoor market spotlights Newark’s creators and small businesses with handmade pieces, seasonal produce, and food vendors, all set to music and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. The market continues through the warmer months with new finds week to week and a relaxed setting to connect with the city’s creative community. Entry is free, it is suitable for all ages, and activities take place outside, weather permitting.

Rescheduled because of inclement weather, the New Jersey chapters of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. will hold the fifth annual Rho Union NJ family cookout at Warinanco Park. This community gathering brings together Sorors, fellow Greeks, friends, and neighbors from across New Jersey for fellowship and celebration. Families are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to wear their colors to show unity and pride.

A relaxed and supportive women’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu session centers on improving technique, building confidence, and getting meaningful mat time in a welcoming environment. Training starts with guided drills that emphasize repetition and timing, escapes, smooth transitions, and solid positioning, along with mobility and flexibility work to refine mechanics and strengthen existing skills. After the instructional segment, an optional open mat offers controlled rounds where safety, respect, and learning come first. Participants can roll at a comfortable pace and focus on what matters most to them, whether that is technical growth, conditioning, consistency, or confidence on the mats. This training is designed for women who want to move, learn, and develop without pressure or ego.

At Parker Press Park, Davy Knowles leads an evening of blues, rock, and roots guitar, with Iain Matthews opening. Knowles first broke through with Back Door Slam’s Roll Away, earning early comparisons to Jimi Hendrix, then followed with Coming Up For Air, produced by Peter Frampton. His resume spans multiple top 5 showings on the Billboard Blues chart, appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live and CBS Good Morning America, and tours alongside artists such as Jeff Beck, The Who, Joe Bonamassa, Kid Rock, Lynyrd Skynyrd, George Thorogood, Brian Setzer, Chickenfoot, and Joe Satriani. He is known for moving between acoustic, mandolin, National steel, and electric guitar. His career has even reached space, including a live set broadcast to the International Space Station from mission control in Houston, with music later carried on orbit by astronauts Nicole Stott and Ron Garan. His recordings highlight a wide range, from the 70s classic rock feel of Three Miles From Avalon, to the stark delta blues of 1932, to the reflective folk of 2023’s If I Should Wander. Iain Matthews opens with a legacy that includes founding vocals on Fairport Convention’s first three albums and the creation of Matthews’ Southern Comfort, which scored a European No. 1 with Joni Mitchell’s Woodstock. After a stint in A&R at Island Records, encouragement from Robert Plant led him back to recording and touring, including a version of Peter Gabriel’s Mercy Street, a contribution to a Phil Ochs tribute, and work with Nanci Griffith. His current tour features songs connected to Fairport Convention’s Sandy Denny.

A gathering devoted to all things Italian American that celebrates heritage with celebrities, food, movies, music, live panels, comedy, and more. The program blends culture and entertainment in one setting.

Trace Adkins brings a 30th anniversary show to Carteret PAC in Carteret, delivering a night of classic country energy that spotlights his unmistakable voice, seasoned confidence, and audience-centered moments. Expect a set that celebrates three decades of music and invites fans to think about the songs they most want to hear.

The 30th Anniversary Tour highlights three decades of Country music from multi-platinum singer and actor Trace Adkins. Since his 1996 debut album Dreamin’ Out Loud introduced the No. 1 hit (This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing and the Top 5 single Every Light In The House, the Louisiana native has landed 40 hits on Country radio, sold 12 million albums, and released 14 studio albums. Recent live work includes a featured spot on Blake Shelton’s Friends & Heroes Tour followed by his own What Color’s Your Wild Tour, and this new headline run reflects a landmark career while keeping his sound evolving. His screen credits include Deepwater Horizon and a recurring role on King of the Hill, and he will reprise Scott Brickell in I Can Only Imagine 2 after appearing as Big Buck in Day of Reckoning, which featured his song That Someday in the closing credits. He is also a longtime supporter of the military community through work with the Wounded Warrior Project, helping raise millions for injured post-9/11 veterans, and has been recognized with honors such as the National Defense Industrial Association’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Award.

A Broadway standout brings a one night only performance to Rahway as Shoshana Bean tours in support of her newest album, Only Smoke, a deeply personal project shaped by heartbreak and healing that she has said she cherishes and is eager to share. Fresh from winning the 2026 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for The Lost Boys at the Palace Theatre in New York City, she arrives with a track record that includes Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen, where her portrayal of Jersey earned a Grammy, a second Tony nomination, and recognition from the Drama League and Drama Desk, along with a Lucille Lortel nomination for the Off Broadway run at the Public Theater. In 2022 she received Tony, Grammy, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama League nominations for Mr. Saturday Night opposite Billy Crystal. Previous Broadway roles include stepping in as the first replacement for Elphaba in Wicked and portraying Jenna in Waitress. Her six independent studio releases have topped iTunes and Billboard, including a number one on the Billboard Jazz chart. Tickets are priced from 46 to 130 dollars with all in pricing.

Paisan Con brings a three-day celebration of Italian American culture to APA Hotel Woodbridge in New Jersey, with movies, television, music, comedy, food, and community all gathered in one place. Diana Lynn, the Original Bada Bing Girl from The Sopranos, will be appearing. Attendees can meet well-known faces from film and TV, collect autographs and photos, enjoy live performances, take in celebrity panels with Q&A, experience the Paisan Film Festival, and shop a marketplace of vendors offering collectibles and merchandise.

Ease into the weekend with a laid-back acoustic set featuring familiar songs from the 1960s through the 2000s. A mellow mix keeps the vibe relaxed and unhurried, creating a low-key soundtrack for a chill night.

Pirates, privateers, corsairs, and buccaneers are invited to a moonlit celebration of the Harvest Season at The Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum. This fourth annual Moonlight Tavern Night fills the tavern yard with Irish folk tunes, sea shanties, and traditional tavern drinking songs performed by the Brooklyn Bards. The trio from Brooklyn performs on fiddle, mandolin, tenor banjo, tin whistle, guitar, and percussion, with each member sharing lead and harmony vocals. In the spirit of the sea shanty playlist and the Halloween season, pirate attire and accessories are encouraged. Beer, wine, and light hors d'oeuvres will be available, and rum-spiked mulled apple cider will help keep the autumn chill at bay. Guests can gather around the fire pits, raise a pint, toast marshmallows, and sing along with favorite traditional songs. Reservations are recommended. Tickets are $40 for the general public and $35 for museum members, and include tokens for spirituous drinks for those 21 and over as well as refreshments. This event is recommended for guests 21 and over. Planned for the outdoor tavern yard, weather permitting, with festivities moving indoors in case of inclement weather.

Bryson Tiller is set for an event at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

An end of summer 80s dance party featuring The SUSPECTS, an 80s dance party band, takes place at The VIC Tavern. The focus is on danceable hits from the decade for a seasonal sendoff.

The Puerto Rican Day Parade presents its 65th annual cultural celebration, filling the streets with tradition, music, and pride. The parade follows the Avenida Puerto Rico route, and the festivities continue at Parque Los Leones with the Music and Boricua Festival. Enjoy live performances, flavorful food, and cultural showcases in a welcoming community atmosphere that highlights heritage, unity, and community pride.

Laurie Berkner takes the stage for a solo Greatest Hits concert designed for singing and dancing. Families can expect classics like Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz), The Goldfish (Let’s Go Swimming), and We Are The Dinosaurs, along with newer favorites such as Waiting for the Elevator, My Bunny Goes Hop, and Chipmunk at the Gas Pump. As a special bonus, she will share a few beloved songs that are rarely performed at her full-band shows. Kids are encouraged to wear dancing shoes and bring a stuffed animal to perch on their heads. A limited number of VIP packages will be available and include a meet and greet plus a photo and autograph opportunity with Laurie. Babies under age 1 seated on laps are admitted at no charge, but a complimentary ticket must be picked up at the box office.

An outdoor summertime show brings the Eagles tribute band Winslow to Anchors Tiki Bar in Sewaren, Middlesex County. This is a make-up date for the Summer Series event that had been planned for Merrill Park in Woodbridge. The group delivers a concert that mirrors the sound and energy of the Eagles, featuring multiple lead vocalists, five-part harmonies, and meticulous instrumentation. Expect favorites like Hotel California and Take It Easy, along with deep cuts and select solo material from Don Henley and Joe Walsh. From the close a cappella blend of Seven Bridges Road to the interlocking guitar lines of Hotel California, the performance aims to capture the feel of a classic Eagles show.

Saints in the City perform at the Woodbridge Township Summer Concert Series in Woodbridge, bringing the signature sound of Bruce Springsteen with a high-energy, full-band show. Expect favorite songs, strong vocals, and moments that get the crowd involved. The concert takes place in a lively outdoor setting that welcomes families. Bring chairs, meet up with friends and neighbors, and sing along to timeless favorites. With vibrant music and strong community spirit, this performance delivers an energetic experience for all ages.

Parker Press Park hosts a concert featuring Shayna Steele, the Eli Yamin Jazz & Blues Band, and the WHS Jazz Choir as part of MC Jazz Fest Woodbridge. Steele is known for a powerful blend of soul and jazz, with appearances at major festivals like Monterey and North Sea alongside Snarky Puppy, and guest solo features with orchestras including Dallas, Rochester, and Detroit, where she premiered her blues program Nothin’ But the Blues with Grammy-winning conductor Jeff Tyzik. Her collaborations span Chris Botti and Moby on tracks such as Raining Again, Disco Lies, and Extreme Ways, and her original song Gone Under was selected by Michael League for Snarky Puppy’s Family Dinner, Volume 1. Her voice and presence extend to screen and stage, with credits on the soundtracks for Wicked, Hairspray, The Bourne Identity, and Sex and the City 2, appearances on The Sopranos and the Marvel series Penguin on MAX, and roles in RENT, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Hairspray. She has released four studio albums; her second, RISE, reached #2 on the U.S. iTunes jazz chart and #1 internationally, and she has backed artists including Bette Midler, Rihanna, and Kelly Clarkson. Pianist, composer, and producer Eli Yamin brings a career devoted to performance, education, and community building in jazz. He has toured as a U.S. jazz ambassador in more than 25 countries and performed at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the White House. His recordings include You Can’t Buy Swing, I Feel So Glad, Louie’s Dream with Evan Christopher, Live in Burghausen with Illinois Jacquet, and multiple albums with Claire Daly, including Swing Low, which is on display at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library. Yamin co-founded and directs Jazz Power Initiative and has created youth-focused musicals staged across the United States and internationally, including Message From Saturn presented in Harlem. A Steinway Artist, he has appeared at festivals such as Newport, the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, St. Petersburg, Guatemala, and Marciac, and has recorded eight albums of his own music. The WHS Jazz Choir completes the lineup.

This conversation features Dolph Lundgren discussing Fights Worth Fighting, his candid memoir. Known worldwide for portraying Ivan Drago in Rocky IV and for a career spanning more than a hundred films, he looks beyond the screen to share the challenges he has faced. He revisits his childhood in Sweden, his shift from studying chemical engineering to becoming a martial arts champion, and the journey to international movie stardom. The talk explores the pressures of fame, the emotional and physical costs of a demanding industry, and private struggles. He also addresses his fight with cancer and reflects on resilience and what it takes to keep going. A copy of Fights Worth Fighting is included with every ticket.

Embark on a five night Bermuda voyage created for breast cancer survivors, thrivers, and anyone whose life has been touched by cancer. Sailing roundtrip from Cape Liberty Cruise Port, this experience focuses on renewal, connection, and shared joy. Enjoy time to unwind at sea, moments for reflection and reconnection, and the beauty of pink sand beaches and clear blue waters that set the stage for lasting memories. For information, reach Viva Travel at Milla.vivatravel@gmail.com or 570-606-0316.

This competition uses a two stage format with races run under a modified R-5 Fargo structure. The entry fee is $80. A tour membership is available for $20 and remains valid through December 2027. Phone or message entries are not accepted, and sign ups take place on the day of the event.

Led by the Regimental Brewmeister, this immersive workshop explores the art and craft of zymology through authentic 18th-century brewing practices. It welcomes both seasoned homebrewers and newcomers, inviting experienced makers to test their skills without modern tools like clocks, thermometers, hydrometers, or chillers, while beginners learn the fundamentals step by step. The class malts the grain and brews the mash over the fire in true period fashion, with plenty of hands-on participation. Along the way, participants learn about beer’s role at the early American table and gain insight into what took place inside colonial taverns. Unlike a demonstration where you only observe, this experience puts you in the brewer’s role with guidance throughout. Each participant makes the wort by hand and takes a portion home in a provided growler to ferment, along with an airlock, yeast, and instructions to produce Spruce Beer in about 10 days. The fee is $99 per person and includes Colonial Beer. Wear work clothes and bring leather gloves. This workshop takes place outdoors, so dress appropriately.

Enjoy live jive in the open air at Wet Ticket Brewing, a leading brewery in Central Jersey. Expect an outdoor setting and a relaxed brewery atmosphere.

Salsa icon Tito Nieves, known as the Pavarotti of Salsa, presents the 50 Años La Historia Tour, a tribute to five decades in music and a celebration of his remarkable journey. Tickets are available through a public onsale along with presale options for fan club, Spotify, Ticketmaster, Loud and Live, radio, member, and local participants.

Created by Carl Palmer with his management and presented in cooperation with the estates of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake, this tour brings Emerson, Lake & Palmer together through modern production. Archival performances of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake from the 1992 Royal Albert Hall concert appear on large video walls, while Carl Palmer performs live on stage with two supporting musicians. The show is synchronized so all three play together as a band, honoring Emerson and Lake, who died in 2016. It is framed as an authentic ELP experience rather than a tribute act.

The Bangladesh Association of New Jersey announces BANJ Picnic 2026, a community gathering for the NJ Bangladeshi community featuring a day of engagement, delicious food, games, live music, and camaraderie. Families and friends are welcome. Advance registration is requested, and the organizers are available to assist with questions.

Experience art in the outdoors on a gentle 2 mile walk through the woods, presented in partnership with the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild. Along the trail, local poets will share their work at stopping points, highlighting the timeless relationship between nature and creativity. The hike concludes with a campfire. This group event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Registration is donation based to pay the poets, and every contribution goes directly to them. Registered attendees will receive additional information by email before the event.

The Rebel Y’all Band delivers big, hard-hitting vocals and breezy summer energy at Anchors Tiki Bar in Woodbridge, setting the scene for a lively party.

Lonestar, the American country group behind the worldwide hit “Amazed,” brings decades of heartfelt storytelling and a polished pop-country sound. The lineup features Dean Sams, Michael Britt, Keech Rainwater, and Drew Womack. “Amazed” spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the country chart and two weeks at No. 1 on the pop chart, and the band has earned 22 Top 10 hits on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs, including 10 that reached No. 1. Their breakthrough arrived in 1995 with the Top 5 single “Tequila Talking,” followed by chart-toppers like the rock-tinged “No News,” “Come Cryin’ to Me,” and “Everything’s Changed.” The quadruple-platinum album Lonely Grill in 1999 produced four No. 1 singles and solidified their place in modern country music. Their achievements include Academy of Country Music honors for New Vocal Group, Single and Song of the Year, and Humanitarian of the Year, along with Country Music Association awards for Vocal Group of the Year and the International Artist Achievement Award. With more than 10.5 million records sold worldwide, Lonestar remains an enduring and influential presence in country music.

Acclaimed actor and Woodbridge, New Jersey native Ronnie Marmo, with the blessing of Kitty Bruce and the Lenny Bruce Foundation, presents a solo theatrical portrait of Lenny Bruce directed by Joe Mantegna. The performance traces the groundbreaking comedian’s life and lasting influence, highlighting his uncompromising stand for freedom of speech that resonates as strongly today as it did in the 1960s. Through vivid storytelling that blends personal struggles with incisive social commentary and a freewheeling comedic style, the piece explores Bruce’s impact on modern art and politics. It also confronts the legal battles that defined his career, including multiple obscenity charges and arrests, his fight that reached the Supreme Court, and his death from an accidental overdose in 1966 while out on appeal. Praised by admirers and people who once knew him, Marmo’s portrayal aims to capture the electricity, insight, and audacity associated with Lenny Bruce. Please note that this production is intended for mature audiences and includes strong language, adult themes, and brief nudity.

Enjoy a lively marketplace set amid the charm of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, where artisans, great food, and live entertainment come together. Explore more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, with a new building added for 2026. Discover handmade treasures from Nova Scotian makers, including pottery, woodwork, glass art, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and more. Savor local flavors from food trucks on site both days, along with baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, beverages, and local wines. Take in live music and browse under outdoor tents as you wander. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are allowed inside buildings. Cash is recommended for the best experience. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.

An official two-day Wentworth convention returns to the Doubletree by Hilton Newark Airport to celebrate the series, its cast, and the dedicated fan community. The program includes official merchandise, cast panels and interviews featuring fan-submitted questions, professional photo opportunities, round table meet and greets, and a full autograph session with all attending guests. Featured guests are Danielle Cormack, Aaron Jeffery, Socratis Otto, Tammy MacIntosh, Kate Jenkinson, and Libby Tanner, with one more guest to be announced. Every admission ticket includes one autograph from each guest appearing. Attending for a single day includes at least four autographs, while attending both days includes at least eight.

A free Semiquincentennial celebration at the Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum honors 250 years of American history with hands-on activities and engaging living history. The day features outdoor hearth cooking, traditional ice cream making, and cider pressing, with tastings available. A blacksmithing demonstration by Matthew Dawson of Dawson’s Forge adds to the atmosphere of early American craft and skill. Guided tours invite visitors through the Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum and the historic Terrill Tavern, while a special Historic Rahway Cemetery Tour connects past and present. With the anniversary theme A More Perfect Union, costumed interpreters share stories of notable individuals laid to rest there and the people who helped shape the nation. A Wild Edibles Walk led by Debra Naha-Koretzky, a licensed nutritionist, foraging instructor, and author, explores edible plants on the museum grounds and in the cemetery and highlights connections between foraging and the experiences of the founders. Laird & Company, recognized as America’s oldest distillery, offers an applejack tasting paired with a look at the distillery’s history in the museum’s taproom. Throughout the event, local historic sites and civic organizations present exhibits and information that open doors to deeper learning about the community’s heritage. Presented in collaboration with the City of Rahway, this celebration brings together interactive demonstrations, living history, guided tours, and activities for all ages.

Enjoy food, music, and community giving with a $25 per person donation that covers a pig roast, barbecue, and a selection of beverages. Advance donations are $20. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new toy left unwrapped. The event will go on regardless of weather, with activities in the yard if conditions permit. Features live music from Against the Grain, bike parking, and a tricky tray. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the organizers. All proceeds benefit Elk Charities.

An annual celebration of cars, trucks, and motorcycles welcomes enthusiasts and families for a full day of automotive sights and sounds. Expect polished classics, brawny trucks, and sleek modern bikes lined up to admire, offering something for longtime gearheads and curious newcomers alike. Live music from local bands sets the soundtrack while food trucks serve up bites and vendors showcase merchandise and accessories. Children can explore a dedicated Kid's Zone with games and activities designed for them. The day also features awards, with trophies across multiple categories, including Best in Show.

Chill Act New Jersey offers complimentary autism pre-screening and a chance to connect with a wide range of family and community resources. Attendees can meet support organizations, speak with providers who offer activities for children and families, and explore services, engaging activities, learning opportunities, and ways to build connections. The event is intended for anyone with developmental or behavioral concerns and those seeking answers and support. Admission is free with registration.

GMF & SZ Fitness presents the 7th Annual Party in Pink Zumbathon at Alvin P Williams Memorial Park, featuring a lineup of presenters to help kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event brings together the ZIN community and supporters to benefit Breast Intentions, an organization that assists local warriors and survivors in New Jersey. Registration is available, with payments accepted via Zelle at gmfszfitness@gmail.com. Those interested in joining the team, donating an item, or sponsoring can reach out via direct message.

Illumination, a haunted concert by candlelight, welcomes fall with renowned organist Ian Fraser performing Halloween inspired selections on UCPAC’s 1928 Biggest Little Wurlitzer, the theatre pipe organ that remains in its original Main Stage theater. The program blends music and storytelling as Fraser shares technical and historical insights into the instrument and the background of the pieces he chose. Fraser’s path began in early childhood with a carousel band organ and led to theatre organ performance as a teenager after a silent film accompanied by Bernie Anderson sparked his interest. Self taught by ear, he is the house silent film organist at UCPAC, the Brook Arts Center in Bound Brook, NJ, The Grand Theater in East Greenville, PA, and the duCret Center of Art in Plainfield, NJ. He also serves as house organist at the St. George Theatre in Staten Island, NY, performing pre show concerts for classic movies and an arts in education series that regularly reaches audiences of more than 1,500 K-12 students. He won first place in the American Theatre Organ Society’s 2023 Young Theatre Organist Competition, and in 2025 presented the first ever drive in screening of a silent film with live organ accompaniment for the centennial of The Phantom of the Opera at The Mahoning Drive-In Theater in Lehighton, PA. The Biggest Little Wurlitzer is listed on the National Registry of Significant Instruments for its historic and musical importance. Compact in size yet powerful in voice, it offers an orchestral range through 500 pipes and built in percussion, and it is one of the few theatre pipe organs in New Jersey still heard in the venue it was designed for. The interplay of the chambers, the auditorium, and the instrument creates an enveloping sound that captivates listeners of all ages, making this candlelit concert an inviting choice for music lovers, history enthusiasts, and fans of beautifully spooky atmospheres.

An immersive tango gathering in Newark’s historic Ironbound neighborhood features three days of dancing supported by a curated slate of international tango DJs, live music, and a carefully tuned sound and lighting setup that keeps the floor energized. Along the way, enjoy a home-style culinary touch with homemade treats and comforting flavors. The atmosphere centers on great music, close embraces, warm hospitality, and a community of passionate dancers.

Janne Pehchaane Anjane brings Anupam Kher and Swaroop Sampat to the stage in New Jersey in a music-filled drama that reaches for the heart. The production blends emotion, melody, and vivid storytelling for a theatrical experience led by these two artists. Presented at the Union County Performing Arts Center, it offers an evening of heartfelt narrative and memorable performances.

This community-focused celebration marks the nation's 250th milestone with a focus on Union, New Jersey. Organized by the Union 250th Planning Committee, a coalition of residents together with historical and civic organizations, it highlights local heritage, life today, and the years ahead through shared storytelling, an emphasis on local history, and visible civic pride.

This large outdoor fair brings together artists and crafters, live music, delicious food, and games for children for a full day of family-friendly fun. Admission for spectators is free. Vendor application forms and more details are available on the organizer’s website, where a prominent red box points to the information. Booth space tends to sell out, so early reservations are recommended.

Chris Ruggiero returns to Avenel Performing Arts Center with a new show celebrating beloved hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Recognized from two PBS specials broadcast nationwide and features on Good Morning America and in Rolling Stone, he centers his performance on the music and the people it reaches. The program weaves songs from his four albums with personal stories and uplifting messages, all performed with a live band that includes brass. Expect the classics he is known for, like Unchained Melody and This Magic Moment, alongside fresh selections that revisit the roots of rock and roll and tunes he has not performed in years. The arrangements bring a bright, revitalized sound shaped by industry veterans connected with artists such as Frankie Valli, Barry Manilow, Julio Iglesias, Tony Orlando, Neil Diamond and Laura Nyro. Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers has praised Ruggiero for making timeless songs his own. The result is a warm, musically uplifting experience designed to linger well after the final note. Tickets are priced at $49.50, plus applicable fees.

Twisted Ginger marks its fourth birthday at Anchor's tiki bar with a feel-good atmosphere, high-energy music, and merchandise giveaways. The celebration salutes four years of getting Twisted with a lively soundtrack and plenty of party spirit.

NJ Symphony brings Hollywood to the concert hall at New Jersey Performing Arts Center with orchestral selections led by rising conductor Keitaro Harada. The program highlights music from the movie musicals West Side Story and An American in Paris, alongside Joe Hisaishi’s score from the Studio Ghibli film Spirited Away. This festive performance offers a lively welcome to the start of the season.

World-renowned psychic medium John Edward, known from Crossing Over and as a New York Times bestselling author, appears live in Carteret, NJ at the Carteret Performing Arts Center. Expect audience interaction through a Q&A, along with messages intended to connect attendees with loved ones who have crossed over, including pets. The atmosphere is designed to feel personal and healing. Two ticket options are available. Regular Admission provides entry to the 2-hour live event with reserved seating. The VIP Experience includes seats closest to the stage, an exclusive post-event Q&A with John, a complimentary one-month Evolve+ app subscription, and a bonus virtual event featuring additional readings and Q&A. Tickets are limited, and events sell out.

At Avenel Performing Arts Center, Vicki Peterson of The Bangles and John Cowsill of The Cowsills take the stage to share Long After The Fire, their debut Americana album built from songs written by John’s late brothers, Barry and Bill Cowsill. Peterson co-founded one of the defining pop-rock bands of the 1980s, scoring a number one with “Walk Like An Egyptian” and several other Top 10 singles. The Bangles earned more than six million gold and platinum album certifications, their songs have appeared on screens from Austin Powers to Stranger Things, and their reach endures with over six million monthly listeners on streaming platforms, 420 million views on TikTok, and more than half a billion views on YouTube as of 2024. Through the 1990s she recorded with Tom Petty, John Doe, Hootie & The Blowfish, and Belinda Carlisle, and toured with The Go-Go’s in 1994 and 1995 before The Bangles reunited in the new century to release four additional albums. John Cowsill began performing at seven with his family band. The Cowsills became a global sensation in the late 1960s with multiple Top 20 hits including “Hair” and “The Rain, The Park, & Other Things,” and appeared several times on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Johnny Carson Show, and The Johnny Cash Show. In 1981 he played on Tommy Tutone’s “867-5309 (Jenny),” toured with Jan and Dean, and later spent more than two decades with The Beach Boys touring band, handling guitar, piano, and drums while averaging about 180 concerts each year. His live and studio work has included collaborations with Bob Dylan, the Mamas & Papas, and Harry Chapin, and he is also a lead singer with The Smithereens. Their new album has earned praise for its melodies, harmonies, and timeless storytelling from outlets such as Twangville, Outsideleft, and Rock Cellar Magazine, with producer Butch Vig recognizing its classic spirit. This performance offers an intimate celebration of family songwriting, rich vocal blend, and the shared musical journeys of two veteran artists.

Dodge Poetry Festival, the largest biennial poetry gathering in North America, is sometimes nicknamed Wordstock or poetry heaven. Over three days, it offers a mix of readings, performances, and workshops that bring together acclaimed poets, slam champions, and songwriters in downtown Newark, New Jersey, to build community through spoken word. It was established in 1986 and is produced by NJPAC. Ticketing includes a public on sale along with member and local presales.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs arrives at the Union County Performing Arts Center in a family friendly ballet from The United European Ballet. Presented by Classical Arts Entertainment, this lively staging retells the classic story through expressive choreography, memorable characters, and a storybook atmosphere. Set to music by Bogdan Pavlovsky, it follows kindhearted Snow White, the jealous Queen, and seven spirited dwarfs whose humor lights up the stage. Audiences can look forward to hand painted sets, colorful costumes, and a bright production with a hint of Broadway flair. A distinguished international ensemble representing more than fifteen European countries, with leading artists from Ukraine among them, brings the tale to life with charm and wit. The ballet is performed in two acts with one intermission and is suitable for children and adults alike.

The punk poet laureate returns to New Jersey for an evening of songs and stories at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). Patti Smith is a true renaissance woman whose influence has touched literature, music, the visual arts, politics, and global culture for more than 50 years. She is the author of dozens of books, including the National Book Award winner Just Kids. Her landmark 1975 album Horses has been honored by both the GRAMMY Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress. Her many accolades include France’s Legion d’Honneur, Sweden’s Polar Prize, and the PEN Literary Service Award. This appearance is part of the Dodge Poetry Festival.

Chazz Palminteri, raised in the Bronx, first created A Bronx Tale in 1988 as a solo stage piece rooted in his own experiences. The story faces the rough edges of his childhood, including witnessing a mob-related killing at nine years old. In this production he inhabits 18 different roles, making the friends, adversaries, and family from his past appear vividly on stage in an autobiographical performance.

Louise Pigott Art participates in the 27th annual fall edition of the Rose Squared Art Show at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield, New Jersey. The event spans the weekend with Rose Squared Art Shows.

An annual celebration that spotlights local businesses, government, schools, and nonprofit organizations from Rahway and nearby communities. It provides an inviting space to meet community members, make connections, and learn more about the offerings and resources throughout Rahway. The Rahway Chamber of Commerce presents this event.

A charity softball game highlights benefactor Taylor Redondo. $100 team shirt sponsorships are available. The event includes 50/50s and a tricky tray, and donations of any kind are accepted.

Danny Simmons brings a Def Poetry Reunion to NJPAC as part of the Dodge Poetry Festival, creating an evening that dives into word flow, vivid verses, and lyrical landscapes. Honoring the legacy of the HBO series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry Jam, this experience gathers celebrated alumni with live music and a spirit of activism that recognizes prominent poets.

A Halloween concert featuring music that reflects the holiday.

Settle into a laid back weekend vibe with an easygoing acoustic set featuring highlights from the 1960s through the 2000s. A chill soundtrack for unwinding and taking it slow.

Author and filmmaker Nelson George, a lifelong Brooklyn resident, has devoted much of his career to capturing the borough’s spirit through his work. Notable projects include the documentary Brooklyn Boheme and his memoir City Kid.

Tusk presents a tribute to Fleetwood Mac, touring the country for more than 15 years with a show rooted in deep respect for the band’s legacy across over five decades. The five founding members are seasoned professionals whose shared history goes back more than forty years, from friendships formed in Little League and middle school band to years of playing together in original groups, jam bands, singer-songwriter circles, and alternative rock. That lifelong bond fuels rare chemistry, synergy, and intuition onstage, where even the smallest shift is caught with a quick glance and a private joke between bandmates. Promoted as the ultimate salute to Fleetwood Mac, their performance blends skill, experience, and close-knit trust into a tribute shaped by time and a family-like connection.

Brian McKnight brings a career-spanning R&B concert to the stage. The singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist is known for playing nine instruments, including piano, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, trombone, tuba, flugelhorn and trumpet. His discography includes 21 albums, among them four consecutive Motown releases that reached the top 10, with several titles achieving double and triple platinum status and more than 25 million albums sold worldwide. He has received 17 Grammy nominations and honors such as American Music Awards, Soul Train Awards, NAACP Image and Blockbuster Awards, along with Billboard Songwriter of the Year. Over more than two decades of touring and collaborations across genres with artists like Quincy Jones, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Jill Scott, Christina Aguilera, Rascal Flatts, Nelly, Vanessa Williams, Willie Nelson, Kenny G, David Foster, Earth Wind and Fire and others, he has built a catalog that includes favorites such as Back at One, One Last Cry, Love of My Life, 6 8 12 and Crazy Love. Tickets range from $63 to $159 with all-in pricing.

At The Coffee Box in Rahway, a relaxed morning unfolds as live jazz mingles with the aroma of coffee and easy conversation. People settle at tables to take in a few songs, then lean into friendly chats between sets. When the room fills, the gathering often moves onto the sidewalk, where small groups continue talking and enjoying the morning together. Friends reconnect, new faces are welcomed, and the music makes starting a conversation feel natural. This community meetup happens every other month on the third Sunday. Admission is free with no RSVP required. Food and drinks are pay-your-own, and free street parking is available.

Max Weinberg's Jukebox presents an interactive concert where the audience chooses the setlist. The band performs a seamless run of favorite hits based on those requests, creating a personalized night of live music and fun.

Jim Lauderdale appears at Avenel Performing Arts Center. A Grammy-winning artist with dozens of albums, he continues to view himself as a developing musician. His latest record, Game Changer, blends uplifting moments with heartbreak, drawing on his deep country roots. The music reflects his respect for classic country sounds and his drive to keep evolving, shaped by decades of collaborations and experience.

Little Big Town brings the For The Art Of It Tour to New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC). The Nashville-based country vocal quartet, formed in 1998, features Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, and Jimi Westbrook. Known for rich four-part harmonies and songs like Girl Crush, Pontoon, and Better Man, the group showcases the sound that made them a staple of modern country music. Ticket options include multiple presales, VIP packages, and cardmember offers.

A lantern-lit guided walk through Rahway Cemetery presented by the Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum explores the darker side of local history. A Spirit Guide leads guests across the historic grounds, sharing thirteen documented accounts of murder, tragic endings, and unexplained occurrences tied to this 300-year-old burial ground. Each tour lasts about an hour. Reservations are required, and tickets are $30 per person. After the walk, guests are welcomed back to the museum for hot mulled apple cider and refreshments.

TOAST pays homage to the music of Bread, billed as the No. 1 tribute worldwide. Rolling Stone credits Bread with helping launch early-1970s soft rock, and enduring hits like Make It With You, If, Baby I’m-a Want You, and Everything I Own continue to resonate. TOAST is committed to preserving that legacy with an uncannily accurate live sound that many describe as matching the original recordings. The show moves from tender, heart-tugging moments to lively favorites that spark dancing, creating a nostalgic journey powered by timeless songs and a reputation as a crowd favorite.

TOAST, The Ultimate Bread Experience, returns to Carteret, NJ at the Carteret Performing Arts & Events Center after strong demand. This tribute honors the soft rock legacy of Bread, spotlighting hits like Make It With You, If, Baby I'm-a Want You, and Everything I Own. Across their career, Bread placed 13 songs on the Billboard Top 100, and with the band’s David Gates and Robb Royer enjoying retirement, TOAST keeps that music alive on stage. The performance is known for remarkably faithful arrangements that echo the original recordings, and the set moves from tender ballads to upbeat favorites to spark fond memories and sing along moments.

Mavis Staples and Trombone Shorty reunite for a performance that blends soul, funk, and New Orleans roots. Longtime collaborators, they have appeared together at major gatherings including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and spent 2023 touring as a pair, with shows that have often featured classics like The Weight. Ticket access includes a member presale, a local presale, and a public onsale.

Residents, students, and local organizations are invited to help keep the Township of Union clean and beautiful. Volunteers can earn community service hours or simply make a positive difference close to home. The Department of Public Works will provide rubber gloves and litter pickers, so bring sturdy boots and plenty of energy. Check-in takes place at the DPW to pick up gear and assignments, followed by a cleanup across various township locations. The event wraps up with a celebration at Rabkin Park featuring a pizza party, a DJ, inflatables, and additional food. Registration is available on the township website.

This 9-ball event uses Fargo ratings and welcomes players at 675 and under with a minimum robustness of 200. It runs in two stages with a modified R-5 Fargo race format. The entry fee is $80. Membership costs $20 and is valid through December 2027. Day-of entries are not accepted by phone or message.

Experience the flavors of northern Italy in a hands-on cooking class led by Chef Daniel Rosati. Designed for adult pairs, the menu features Wild Mushroom Crostata, Risotto Milanese, Turkey Polpettine with brown butter sage sauce, braised peas with pancetta, and a ganache glazed chocolate olive oil cake. The cost is $135 per person. All sales are final, and each ticket admits one adult.

A laugh-filled night celebrating everything Jersey, featuring New Jersey 101.5 personalities Steve Trevelise, Bill Spadea, Jill Myra, Eric Potts, and Gemini as they share the observations many think about but rarely say aloud. Bill Spadea serves as host. He leads morning drive on 101.5 FM in New Jersey, spent seven years at the helm of the FOX TV show Chasing News with Bill Spadea, and brings more than 25 years of experience as a political strategist, analyst, candidate, and business executive. He also regularly emcees music festivals and comedy shows around New York and New Jersey. When he is not talking Jersey at night on New Jersey 101.5, Steve Trevelise takes his stand-up to theaters, clubs, and casinos across the tri-state, with credits that include opening for Pat Cooper, Robert Klein, Gilbert Gottfried, Louie Anderson, Richard Jeni, and Artie Lange. Jill Myra keeps drivers updated with New Jersey Traffic South, then steps onto comedy stages throughout the state. Eric Potts, a retired police detective and New Jersey 101.5 personality, performs nationwide and has opened for Rich Vos, Caroline Rhea, Bobby Collins, and Vic Dibitetto. Special guest Fred Rubino draws on a Lower East Side and Brooklyn upbringing, turning Italian American family life into crowd-pleasing stories, with headlining dates that have earned standing ovations and sellouts in places such as Minnesota, Chicago, and Boston. Gemini rounds out the lineup with a high-energy mix of stand-up, magic, ventriloquism, and audience participation for a show that blends astonishment with big laughs.

Violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman appears in a performance that showcases the exuberant spirit he brings to the stage. Celebrated worldwide for exceptional artistry, warm charisma, and humanitarian work, he holds a level of fame uncommon in the classical world. Known for an infectious joy in music making, he remains among the most sought after artists. Ticket access includes a members presale and a local presale, followed by a public onsale.

Journey brings a night of classic rock to Prudential Center in Newark, delivering soaring vocals, shimmering keys, and guitar spotlights that keep the energy surging from start to finish. Built for fans of the genre, the show leans on timeless favorites with big choruses that turn into shared singalongs, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Singer-songwriter Reagan Richards, known as half of the Asbury Park country duo Williams Honor, steps into the spotlight with Good Morning, Heartache, a solo program of torch songs and cherished standards from the Great American Songbook at the Avenel Performing Arts Center. The evening draws on a deeply personal source of inspiration. Richards first introduced the show in 2021 under the name With Love, Reagan as a tribute to her mother, Harriet, a big band vocalist who had performed with Les Paul and other bandleaders. Harriet watched proudly from the front row as Richards revisited the classics she learned as a child. When the show returned in 2023, it became a moving memorial following her mother’s passing. Listeners can expect interpretations of music associated with Judy Garland, Eydie Gormé, Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, and others, along with a few additional handpicked selections. Richards’ path has mirrored elements of her mother’s legacy. With Williams Honor, she has earned charting singles at country radio and opened at Madison Square Garden with Bon Jovi. She spent four years singing with Les Paul prior to his death in 2009, portrayed Patsy Cline in the two-woman stage production Always, Patsy Cline, and has provided backing vocals for David Gray, Debbie Harry, Johnny Rzeznik, Cheap Trick, and Alice Cooper. Backed by her band, she brings refinement and humor to a collection of enduring songs.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center presents a stand-up showcase featuring Jon Bramnick and Vinnie Brand. Bramnick, often billed as New Jersey’s funniest lawyer, mines his background in law and politics for razor-sharp observations delivered with crisp timing. Brand, the longtime owner of the Stress Factory Comedy Club, brings a fearless, rapid-fire style that has made him a fixture on the national comedy circuit. Together, the pair offers an evening of clever, relatable material, big personalities, unmistakable Jersey attitude, and steady laughs from start to finish.

Latinas Run comes together for a marathon journey across all five boroughs, covering 26.2 miles alongside the community. The course begins on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in Staten Island and concludes in Central Park in Manhattan. It is a chance to put training into action, move as a team, and celebrate every mile from the start to the finish.

Whispers in the Pines offers an immersive multimedia experience at South Plainfield Public Library, guiding attendees through legends that stretch across every one of the Garden State’s 21 counties. Encounter tales of cryptids, hauntings, and local folklore, including Sussex County’s Big Red Eye and the mysterious lights reported in Cape May. Each story is grounded in regional tradition and enhanced with vivid visuals, historical background, surprising tidbits, and interactive storytelling that brings these eerie narratives to life.

Mariza appears at New Jersey Performing Arts Center alongside special guests Derek Gripper and Duo Andalus. More than a singer, she embodies the Portuguese spirit as a cultural envoy who keeps evolving while staying true to her roots. Her music is rich with feeling, connecting tradition with the present and carrying memories into the future. Ticket access rolls out in several phases, including options for the general public, members, local presale, and official platinum.

The Weeklings present a distinctive tribute to the music and inspiration of the Beatles, powering through classic favorites, unveiling fresh arrangements of lesser-known gems, and showcasing Beatles-inspired power-pop originals. Lefty Weekling is Glen Burtnik. Zeek Weekling is Bob Burger. Rocky Weekling is John Merjave. Smokestack Weekling is Joe Bellia.

At New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Dante Gebel presents World Tour Despedida 2026, marking a heartfelt farewell. After a landmark tour that drew more than 700,000 attendees, he takes the stage for two and a half hours of stand-up and storytelling that flow from laughter to tears. Everyday anecdotes spark reflections on life, the neighborhood, death, and nostalgia, as humor and unfiltered sincerity meet to explore deep emotions. Ticket access includes a public onsale and presale options through Fan Club, Ticketmaster, Loud and Live, Member, Local, and Radio.

Celebrate the music of Bon Jovi with a high-energy tribute led by Steve Brown, a million-selling New Jersey rock figure known for his work with Trixter, Def Leppard, and Ace Frehley. With powerful vocals, an electrifying stage presence, and deep roots in the Jersey rock scene, Brown fronts an all-star lineup performing the hits that marked an era. The result is a rock and roll experience built to be unforgettable.

Mehak Entertainment brings a radiant Diwali celebration featuring a mix of cultural showcases, music, and dance in a regal setting. The Festival of Lights brings families and friends together for festive entertainment and a lively community atmosphere. The celebration takes place at Royal Albert Palace, providing a grand backdrop for the occasion.

At New Jersey Performing Arts Center, sitar virtuoso Niladri Kumaar presents a concert honoring his friend, mentor, and frequent collaborator, the late tabla master Zakir Hussain. Their close musical partnership was documented in the 2017 film The Space Between the Notes. The program features Kumaar’s original compositions alongside selections drawn from their work together. He will be joined by tabla player Satyajit Talwalkar, Charlie Lindner on keys with jazz and electronic textures, and Dèmitrio Albano on drums. Presented as part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival.

At New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), The Determination Symphony World Tour honors Toby Fox’s indie phenomenon Undertale. Celebrated by nearly four million players for its heartfelt story, offbeat characters, and Fox’s acclaimed score, the game reveals a hidden world of monsters sealed underground and introduces an option to resolve encounters without violence. This symphonic program highlights that music and the themes of empathy at the core of the adventure.

Dream Girl Dom G Ent presents the third Freestyle Takeover Concert at The Carteret PAC, assembling a roster of freestyle artists on one stage. Performers include Cynthia, The Jets, George LaMond, Johnny O, Nyasia, Denine, and Jennifer of Laissez Faire. Music is provided by DJ Lucho, DJ Ted Smooth, DJ WhiteBoy, DJ Blazerone, and DJ O. Hosted by Dom G, the show features live performances and DJ sets celebrating freestyle music.

DreamGirl and Dom G Entertainment present a high energy freestyle showcase at Carteret PAC with Freestyle Takeover 3. The lineup features Cynthia, The Jets, George Lamond, Johnny O, Nyasia, and Denine, with Dom G as host and Dare Goes Da DJzz featured. Enjoy live performances of classic hits in an electrifying atmosphere. An after party is available with a separate ticket, and it can only be purchased by show ticketholders.

Returning to Avenel Performing Arts Center by popular demand, the Cowsills Acoustic Trio offers an intimate evening of songs and stories. The Cowsills, the family band that inspired the television series The Partridge Family, became a leading pop act of the late 1960s with hits like "The Rain, the Park and Other Things", "Indian Lake", and "Hair". Their roots trace to siblings Bill and Bob singing Everly Brothers covers, soon joined by Barry and John as they played school dances and church socials around Newport, Rhode Island. Early recordings led to a Today Show appearance and a deal with Mercury Records, followed by a move to MGM in 1967, the addition of their mother Barbara, and a million-selling breakout with "The Rain, the Park and Other Things", later featured in the film Dumb and Dumber. National television appearances included the Ed Sullivan Show, the Johnny Cash Show, The Tonight Show, Merv Griffin, and Mike Douglas, along with an NBC special in 1968. They also recorded the theme for Love, American Style, a staple of their concerts. For this performance, siblings Bob, Paul, and Susan appear as an acoustic trio in a cozy 195 seat setting with state of the art sound and lights. Following a warmly received visit last year, this engagement is expected to sell out.

The legendary Rhode Island multi-platinum rock'n'roll group John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band, whose career began in 1973, rose to mainstream prominence in the 1980s with the Eddie & The Cruisers motion picture soundtrack. The hit single On The Dark Side held the number one spot on both the Billboard Rock chart and MTV's video chart for five consecutive weeks. Celebrating 50 years together, the band released Sound of Waves in the spring of 2025, a new collection that drew critical acclaim. The advance single Day in the Sun has earned five-star reviews, is climbing national classic rock radio and streaming charts, and is featured in Peter Farrelly's 2024 film Ricky Stanicky starring Zac Efron and John Cena.

At New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Canadian guitarist, composer, and producer Jesse Cook brings his distinctive rumba flamenco sound, blending traditional flamenco with classical, jazz, and global influences. With more than 1.5 million albums sold, a Juno Award for Free Fall, and over a billion streams worldwide, this performance highlights virtuosic guitar work and cross-cultural rhythms.

Chris Smither appears solo at Avenel Performing Arts Center, bringing the acoustic, blues-grounded guitar work and the steady, rhythmic foot tapping that define his sound. Born in Miami during World War II and raised in New Orleans, he began making music as a child when an uncle showed how a handful of chords on his mother’s ukulele could open the door to countless songs. Influences such as Mississippi John Hurt and Lightnin’ Hopkins shaped his fingerpicking and tone. In his early twenties he left anthropology studies for Boston at the encouragement of Eric von Schmidt, diving into the 1960s folk scene and forming enduring connections with fellow musicians, including Bonnie Raitt, who later recorded his songs Love You Like A Man and I Feel the Same. His discography spans early releases like I’m a Stranger, Too! and Don’t It Drag On on Poppy Records, Honeysuckle Dog with help from Lowell George and Dr. John, and a return to the studio with It Ain’t Easy. His twentieth release, All About the Bones, distills his music to stark, essential textures and imagery with a stripped-back ensemble. Coverage from outlets including the New York Times, Rolling Stone, MOJO, and NPR has charted a career often likened to a hero’s journey, marked by struggle, discovery, and a return to share what was found along the way.

American actor, comedian, podcaster, and author Matt McCusker, also known as The Shaman, is the focus of this event. He cohosts a popular Spotify podcast with Shane Gillis and released the Netflix standup special A Humble Offering in 2025. Ticket availability includes a public on sale as well as artist, member, and local presale options.

Comedian Billy Gardell brings a night of stand-up to the historic Main Stage at UCPAC. He currently leads the CBS comedy Bob Hearts Abishola from creator Chuck Lorre, a story about a Detroit compression sock businessman who falls for his Nigerian immigrant cardiac nurse. He portrayed Officer Mike Biggs in the CBS series Mike & Molly from 2010 to 2016, played Col. Tom Parker in CMT’s Sun Records, and had a recurring role on CBS’s Young Sheldon. Other television work includes Lucky, Yes Dear, Judging Amy, My Name is Earl, The Practice, Monk, and Gary the Rat. Film appearances include Avenging Angelo with Anthony Quinn and Sylvester Stallone, Bad Santa, and You, Me & Dupree. His specials include Billy Gardell: Halftime on Comedy Central and Billy Gardell Presents Road Dogs on Showtime. His stand-up draws on stories about a rough childhood, a wild adolescence, and his new family life. Tickets range from $51 to $97 with all-in pricing.

NEA Jazz Master Charles Lloyd brings a lifetime of artistry shaped since the early 1960s. Named a Chevalier of France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and honored as DownBeat’s Jazzman of the Year in 1967, he was also recognized as 2023 Artist of the Year for recent work that underscores his enduring influence. Rather than revisit the past, he continues to push ahead with refined focus and depth of expression. Tickets are available through member and local presales, followed by a public onsale.

Ease into the weekend with a mellow acoustic showcase featuring songs from across the decades. The music spans the 1960s through the 2000s, creating a relaxed, chill atmosphere from start to finish.

Hosted by the New Jersey Cavalry and Armor Association, this final Support Our Troops Casino Night brings people together to support the soldiers and families of the 1-102nd Cavalry. The evening focuses on connection and camaraderie with games, laughter, and plenty of good food. Returning guests know the spirit of the night, and newcomers can look forward to playing, meeting others, and sharing a memorable time with friends.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center presents an 80th birthday celebration for Ben Vereen, recognizing his enduring contributions to Broadway as an actor, dancer, and singer. Vereen appears alongside friends Shoshana Bean, Stephanie Pope, Melba Moore, and Lillias White in a heartfelt salute to his milestone.

Twilight Disciples bring a set of popular pop and rock cover songs to Woodbridge Brewing Co.

Dorthaan's Place is a jazz brunch series at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, curated by Dorthaan Kirk, known as Newark's First Lady of Jazz. Nico's brunch menu is served alongside a live set from trumpeter Wallace Roney Jr. and his quartet, Gangway, a New York ensemble on the rise. The music balances deep-rooted jazz tradition with exploratory improvisation, drawing inspiration from innovators such as Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis, and Ornette Coleman.