Upcoming events in Union County!
Please check ucnj.org in case of any event cancellations. For the latest Union County news, visit ucnj.org/press-releases/.
The long days of summer have finally arrived, and we couldn’t be more excited for music festivals in the park, cooling off at the pool or Wheeler Spray Park, and sunset movie nights under a blanket of stars!
This July, come watch a favorite Disney classic with us at UCPAC’s Hamilton Stage and participate in the historic anniversary celebrated across Union County—America turns 250!
Check back often for the latest on future programs, networking events, and various activities for residents of all ages coming to Union County this summer.
July
Empower & Protect
Self-Defense Essentials For Women ages 18 – 23 years old
July 22nd & 29th • 6-8pm
Union County’s self-defense class for women returns in time to prepare college-aged women to return to work or school feeling confident, aware and empowered with vital self-defense skills taught by law enforcement professionals. Free Class. Register today at ucnj.org/women.
Visit Your Neighborhood Library
Read, study, make new friends, or get creative at one of over 19 FREE Public Libraries in Union County!
Our local libraries are still the wonderful treasure troves of resources of the past, but when was the last time you visited? While they still offer a fantastic selection of books, there’s so much more to discover!
As we approach the thick of winter, check out your neighborhood library for your next great read, some local fun, or simply to get out of the house and lift your spirits! Check out below for upcoming events in February:
• Adults and children 8 and over can walk through an interactive wax museum & learn about Black history in Roselle.
• Children (grades K-5) can take a financial literacy class in Scotch Plains,
•Teens can join a crochet club in Rahway, take a painting class in Union, or play Dungeons and Dragons in Springfield!
• Library card holders in Kenilworth can access FREE virtual yoga classes for all ages and skill levels!
The list of recreational activities for all age groups includes movie nights, game nights, storytimes – even sing-alongs! Visit your local library today to learn more.
Click here to visit your local library’s website
2025 Model Train Show and Open House – Final week!
More than 200 Model Train Cars on a 40×40-foot Layout Tell the Story of NJ Railroads in the 1950s
• December 13 and 14 (Sat and Sun)
Tickets can be purchased online at themodelrailroadclub.org or at the door
At the Door: $10/adult, $5/child, $8/seniors
Children age 2 and under admitted FREE.
Learn More
The Holiday Train Show and Open House at Union County’s Model Railroad Club runs on weekends from Friday November 28 to Sunday, December 14.
The show features show train operations where special trains traverse the club’s huge 11,000 square foot layout.
Parents and kids can tour the trains and layout up-close, and get an insider’s peek at the expansion that’s currently under construction. See how track is being hand-laid, how mountains and scenery are created, and find out about the planning and engineering that goes into the club’s bi-level corkscrew loop. In addition to the HO-scale trains featured in the show, there are G-scale and N-scale layouts on display, a small play area, and gift shop.
Each hour at the bottom of the hour Jenny will make a return to tell her story of growing up on along our Trenton Northern railroad.
DATES
- Three Weekends: Nov 28-30, Dec 6 -Dec 7, and Dec 13-14
- Opening Day, Fri, Nov. 28 – 11 am – 6 pm
- Saturdays (Nov 29, Dec 6 & 13), 11 am – 6 pm
- Sundays (Nov 30, Dec 7 & 14), 11am – 6pm
- Jenny show times: 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30
LOCATION
- The Model Railroad Club, Inc. – Free Parking!
- Jefferson Avenue, off Route 22 East, Union Township, NJ
- (Behind The Home Depot)
- Building is Wheelchair-Accessible.
TICKETS & INFO
- www.themodelrailroadclub.org
- (908) 964-9724
- At the Door: $10/adult, $5/child, $8/seniors
- Children age 2 and under admitted FREE.
PRESS CONTACT:
Tim McCollum | 908-964-9724 | tim.mccollum@tmrci.org
The Model Railroad Club, Inc. is a tax-exempt public charity affiliated with the Union County, NJ Department of Parks and Community Renewal.
All proceeds support the operations of The Model Railroad Club, Inc., one of the largest railroad clubs in New Jersey. The Club has approximately 170 volunteer members who help to fulfill the mission of the club to educate the general public about the railroads and the industries they served in the New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania areas.
Sensory Friendly Theatre
These sensory-friendly movie screenings and performances are designed to provide an enjoyable experience for children and adults experiencing autism and other sensory sensitivities.
Lilo & Stitch
July 10 • 7pm
The classic Disney tale of a Hawaiian girl named Lilo and her growing friendship with the mischievous creature Stitch redefines the meaning of family and friendship. Doors open at 6 PM, and tickets are $5 per guest.
Activities for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs
2025 Inclusive Splash Nights
For Union County Residents, ages 12 & under
Thursdays, August 14th & 28th • 6:30pm – 7:45pm
Wheeler Spray Park, Linden
Registration Required. Click here to register.
2026 Sensory Friendly Summer Camp
August 17th – 21st
Registration to the 2026 sensory-friendly summer camp coming soon!
Art for All Abilities
For Union County Residents of All Ages • 5pm to 6:30pm
April 23rd: Artsy Bunch Night • Peterstown Community Center – Large Meeting Room, Elizabeth
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Inclusive Yoga
For Union County Residents of all ages
Wednesday, September 24th • 5:30pm – 6:15pm Trailside Nature & Science Center, 452 New Providence Rd., Mountainside
Friday, September 26th • 5:30pm – 6:30pm Elizabethport Community Center, 250 Second Street, Elizabeth
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Inclusive Karate for Children
For Union County Residents, ages 5 – 14
Mondays, March 24th & 31st • 7:00pm – 7:45pm
Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Inclusive Karate
For Union County Residents, ages 15 and up
Mondays, March 24th and 31st • 8:00pm – 8:45pm
Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
Registration Required. Click here to register.
NEW! Fun Fit for Kids
For Union County Residents, ages 5 – 10
Thursday, February 6th • 6:15pm – 7:00pm
Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive, Roselle
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Visit the Office for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs for additional events and more information.
Activities and Services for Seniors
Farmers’ Market Food Vouchers
Farmers Market vouchers are now available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $40 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.
For more information about the Farmers’ Market nutrition program, or any services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226, or visit online at www.ucnj.org/dhs/aging.
Meals To You
This vital program provides wholesome, nutritious meals directly to Union County seniors and individuals with disabilities who are unable to prepare their own meals or shop for groceries.
To check your eligibility, call Meals To You at 908-486-5100 or click here for more information.
Aging Services Kiosk
Residents seeking information about services for seniors and their care givers can come to Union County’s Aging Services Kiosk events and meet in person with professional staff for guidance on senior programs and resources, including help with filling out applications and forms.
ASK is a program of the Union County Department of Human Services through the Division on Aging and Disability Resources, serving seniors age 60+ and their care givers. Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and care givers connect with a variety of services including home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and support services for caregivers.
Any Union County senior or care giver can visit any ASK event, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Visit ucnj.org/aging for upcoming dates.
Workshops • Networking Events • Webinars
Career Opportunities
Now Hiring: Full Time Dispatchers
Union County Communications is seeking responsible individuals with a customer service background who are eager to take on new challenges. If this describes you, text @dispatch to 908-913-7910 and respond to the screening questions when prompted. If you meet the minimum requirements, you will receive a link to apply for the position. For any questions, please call Gareth Williams at 908-518.5629 or email at gwilliams@ucnj.org.
Volunteering Opportunities
Master Gardeners of Union County
If you love gardening, have a passion for teaching, and want to contribute to your community, consider joining the Master Gardeners of Union County!
The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County is now recruiting volunteers for the 2025 Master Gardener Program, offering residents 18 years and older interested in volunteering the opportunity to learn or enhance their gardening and horticulture skills while assisting Rutgers professionals in educating the public. Click here to register or visit the Master Gardeners website at mastergardeners-uc.org/ for more information.
Union County Trail Stewards
Do you love nature and being outdoors? If so, now is the time to get involved by joining the Union County Trail Stewards!
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks & Recreation invite all nature-loving residents to help preserve our local parks by becoming a Trail Steward through Union County’s Adopt-A-Trail Program. Click here to register or learn about the important role a Trail Steward plays in maintaining Union County’s hiking trails and pathways.
…or an Environmental Steward!
Are you passionate about the environment and eager to create a positive impact in your community?
Look no further than the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program! This dynamic program empowers individuals to learn from leading scientists and environmental experts about critical issues facing New Jersey. For more information or to register for the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program,visit go.rutgers.edu/RES2025. If you are committed to environmental stewardship, willing to learn, and ready to volunteer, this program is for you!
Volunteering in your community makes a difference! For additional volunteer opportunities, click here or visit ucnj.org/rce.
2026 Recycling Programs
For the complete 2026 recycling schedule, please call 908-654-9890 or visit ucnj.org/recycling.
Pool & Spray Park
The Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool and Wheeler Spray Park are now open for the 2025 season! Don’t miss out on the coolest place to be this summer and reserve your spot today. For updates on weather-related closures or changes to operating hours, visit ucnj.org.
Ice Skating at Warinanco Park
Our newly renovated Warinanco Sports Center is open all season long, offering affordable, family-friendly activities that include public ice-skating sessions, open hockey, private party rentals, and events for individuals with disabilities.
The café and snack bar nestled within the sports center offers plenty of seating, with snacks and refreshments available for purchase during your visit. With so many fun activities to choose from, we invite you to join us on the ice!
Cultural Events Around the County
July 2
7:30 pm
Westfield Community Concert Band’s – 114th Summer Concert Series in the Park
FREE CONCERT
Westfield Community Concert Band features great American music in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, including the music of Disney, Rogers and Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein, John Philip Sousa, Frank Sinatra, Stephen Foster, Aaron Copland, Robert Russell Bennett and others. This special Independence Day program features vocalist Kerry Stubbs and presentations by “George Washington” and Westfield’s very own “Towne Crier.” Bring chairs or blankets.
FREE
Mindowaskin Park, East Broad St., Westfield
The park is accessible for all persons, with level, paved pathways leading to the band gazebo area.
July 9
7:30 pm
Westfield Community Concert Band – 114th Summer Concert Series in the Park
FREE CONCERT
The Band performs great American music in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, including the music of Disney, Rogers and Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein, John Philip Sousa, Frank Sinatra, Stephen Foster, Aaron Copland, Robert Russell Bennett and others. Bring chairs or a blanket.
FREE
Mindowaskin Park, East Broad St., Westfield
The park is accessible for all persons, with level, paved pathways leading to the band gazebo area.
July 16
7:30 pm
Westfield Community Concert Band – Concert in the Park
FREE CONCERT
The Band’s 114th Summer Series concludes with more great American music celebrating of the nation’s 250th anniversary, including the music of Disney, Rogers and Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein, John Philip Sousa, Frank Sinatra, Stephen Foster, Aaron Copland, Robert Russell Bennett and others. Bring chairs or a blanket.
FREE
Mindowaskin Park, East Broad St., Westfield
The park is accessible for all persons, with level, paved pathways leading to the band gazebo area.
July 17-18-19
THEATRE
Fri & Sat @ 7:30pm, Sun @ 2 pm
Too Fat For China, written and performed by Phoebe Potts
Comedian Phoebe Potts’ one-woman show follows the surprises and painful realizations of her adoption journey with humor and candor. After a U.S. adoption goes horribly wrong, Phoebe Potts delves into international adoption – and her role as a middle-class Jewish white woman amidst it all. Follow her funny, honest, and poignant journey of trying, failing, and eventually succeeding to adopt a baby.
Tickets: Adults $35, Seniors $28, Students $20
DMK Black Box Theatre / Union Arts Center
1980 Morris Ave, Union
908-809-8865
Wheelchair-accessible venue. Large-print programs available upon request. Assistive listening devices available.
July 18
6 – 9 pm
POETRY / SPOKEN WORD (FREE)
“What’s The Word!”
ACP Arts Ink hosts its signature monthly event, A Night of Spoken Word/Poetry including a community Open Mic, with featured poets and the New Jeru Poetry slam. Hosted by world-champion slam poet RADI. This inclusive space for artists of all ages, includes professional and up-and-coming spotlight artists. Listen to thought-provoking work — and perhaps read one of your own poems at this event for both new and veteran poets. The third Saturday each month.
FREE entry
Melao Cafe & Creamery
1425 Irving Street, Rahway
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
July 23
7 pm
FREE CONCERT
Summer Symphony Concert from New Jersey Workshop for the Arts
A multi-generational orchestra performance.
Zion Lutheran Church
559 Raritan Rd, Clark
908-789-9696
Wheelchair-accessible venue
July 24-25-26
Fri & Sat @ 7:30 pm, Sun @ 2 pm
THEATRE
Kaleidoscope Kabaret, Laugh Version
The Theater Project presents their annual festival of songs and short plays from the Playwrights Workshop and Young Playwrights Competition — many have had work produced around the US and beyond. Enjoy work from local members of our arts community—you’ll be amazed at the talent that lies just outside your door. Catch this showcase of short plays from local writers, plus live music.
Tickets: Adults $35, Seniors $28, Students $20
DMK Black Box Theatre / Union Arts Center
1980 Morris Ave, Union
908-809-8865
Wheelchair-accessible venue. Large-print programs available upon request. Assistive listening devices available.
July 26
2 pm
FREE CONCERT
The August Symphony
The August Symphony Orchestra presents an unforgettable afternoon featuring renowned composers: Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances Suite 1; Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite; Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from “West Side Story”; and Ravel’s Bolero.
First United Methodist Church
1 East Broad Street, Westfield
www.tasonj.org
Venue is ADA-accessible.
July 27 – August 7
SUMMER ART CLASSES
City of Rahway Dept. of Recreation – Art Classes for Children & Teens
Each class meets 5 days, Monday-Friday.
Children Ages 6–11
(either or both weeks, Jul. 27–31, Aug. 3–7)
- Drawing: 9:00 – 10:30 am
- Painting: 10:45 am – 12:15 pm
- Sculpture: 12:45 – 2:15 pm
- Cartooning: 2:30 – 4:00 pm
Ages 12–1
(either or both weeks, Jul. 27–31, Aug. 3–7)
- Japanese Manga Cartooning: 9:00 – 11:00am.
- Acrylic Painting: 11:15 am – 1:15 pm
- Sculpture 3-D Art: 1:45 – 3:45 pm
Fee: $45 to $65 for a full week, depending on class,
Call 732-669-3600 or visit this page for more information
Register online (To register, click to Event Registration; create a community pass account or log in)
Classes held at Rahway Recreation Center
3 City Hall Plaza, Rahway
Wheelchair-accessible venue
July 9
6 pm
FREE CONCERT
Concert on the Lawn Series – Roselle Park Library
Take in the next concert on the lawn, featuring Blue Tuesday band, with Krow Azul, Jeff McKeon and Lisa Palacio — playing popular songs we all know and love.
FREE
Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library,
404 Chestnut St., Roselle Park
Venue provides wheelchair access per ADA, via ramps, elevator and restroom standards.
July 13
11 am – 12 noon
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN’S MUSIC (FREE)
Summer Sing-Along with Guitar Bob
Guitar Bob Summer Sing-Along is an interactive music program for children, featuring original songs from the artist. This program encourages families and children to participate through singing songs and dancing in a group setting.
FREE
Linden Free Public Library
31 East Henry St., Linden
908-298-3830
Venue is wheelchair-accessible with elevator to the 3rd floor program space.
July 30-31 & Aug. 1
Thu & Fri at 8 pm | Sat. at 2 pm
THEATRE
Stages of Madness – at CDC Theatre
Stages of Madness is a slightly unhinged night of original works by emerging and established playwrights. Blending comedy, satire, and unexpected storytelling, this year’s production features three distinct short plays that take audiences on a fast-paced journey through technology, absurdity and the human experience.
Tickets: $15
CDC Theatre
78 Winans Ave, Cranford
908-276-7611
Wheelchair-accessible venue.
Aug 8
6 pm – 9 pm
NJWA Jazz @ Quimby Street – Jazz & Rock Bands
NJ Workshop for the Arts presents jazz and rock bands on the corner of Quimby and Elm St. Enjoy free outdoor performances all evening.
FREE
Corner of Quimby and Elm, Quimby St., Westfield
908-789-9696
Street-level performance; wheelchair accessible
Aug 6–16
THEATRE
ALABAMA STORY by Kenneth Jones (presented by The Theater Project)
- 10 am weekday matinees: Aug. 7, 13
- 7:30 pm performances: Aug 6, 8, 14-15
- 2 pm Sunday matinees: Aug 9, 16
An Alabama librarian and two reunited childhood friends encounter the relentless forces of censorship and segregation during the American civil rights movement. In the Deep South, a librarian finds herself facing off against segregationist policy and censorship—all because of a children’s book about the marriage of a black rabbit and a white rabbit.
In parallel, two childhood friends—a white man and a Black woman—reconnect amidst the chaos, upheaval, and sparks of hope as the civil rights movement dawns. This breakout play by Kenneth Jones (published by Concord Theatricals) was a Finalist in the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center’s National Playwrights Conference and been produced at scores of theaters around the nation.
Tickets: Adults $35, Seniors $28, Students $20
DMK Black Box Theatre / Union Arts Center
1980 Morris Ave., Union
908-809-8865
thetheaterproject.org/alabama-story
Wheelchair accessible venue. Large-print programs available upon request. Assistive listening devices available.