Please check ucnj.org in case of any event cancellations.
Fall has arrived in Union County! From hayrides and campfires to cultural celebrations, historic tours, and the annual Pumpkin Sail, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season close to home.
Check back often for upcoming events, programs, and activities for residents of all ages. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a chance to learn something new, or an afternoon exploring our parks and communities, we look forward to seeing you this fall!
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, invites women ages 18 and older to participate in two free Empower & Protect: Self-Defense Essentials for Women classes this October.
The classes will be held on October 21, 2026 and October 28, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.
“Knowing how to recognize a potentially dangerous situation and respond with confidence can make a meaningful difference,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “These classes give women an opportunity to build practical skills in a supportive environment, and I encourage residents to take advantage of this free program.”
Led by trained and certified law enforcement officers, each hands-on class will cover practical self-defense maneuvers along with strategies for prevention, awareness, risk reduction and avoidance. The program is designed to help participants strengthen their confidence and develop skills that may be valuable in threatening or unsafe situations.
“The goal of this program is to give women practical tools they can understand, remember and use if they ever find themselves in a dangerous situation,” said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “Our officers will provide clear, hands-on instruction while helping participants become more aware of their surroundings and better prepared to protect themselves.”
Because the exercises involve paired practice, participants are encouraged to register with a friend or family member. Attendees should wear casual, comfortable clothing.
The classes are free, but space is limited and advance registration is required. To register, visit www.ucnj.org/women.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at the County’s Hispanic Heritage Cultural Festival on Saturday, October 3, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at UCPAC’s Hamilton Stage in Rahway.
Observed in Union County from September 15 through October 14, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the history, cultures, traditions and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.
“Hispanic Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to recognize the generations of Hispanic and Latino residents who have helped shape Union County and continue to contribute to the strength and character of our communities,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Our Cultural Festival brings residents together to enjoy the music, art, traditions and many cultures that make Union County such a vibrant place to live. I encourage everyone to join us for this special celebration.”
Held under this year’s theme, “Unidos, somos más • Together, we are more,” the free, family-friendly festival will feature live entertainment, cultural performances, community resource tables and activities for children and families, including face painting, coloring, bracelet making, maraca decorating, games and a photo booth.
Community organizations and agencies scheduled to participate include the Latino Action Network, PROCEED, Union County Social Services, PRAE, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, the Union County Board of Elections, We Are One New Jersey and the Union County American Job Center.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is deeply personal to me. As a Cuban-American, I carry my family’s heritage, traditions and story with me in everything I do,” said Union County Commissioner Lourdes M. Leon. “Since becoming a Commissioner, I have been proud to be part of this celebration and to see it continue to grow into something that brings so many families and communities together. The Cultural Festival is a chance for us to honor where we come from, share our traditions with one another and celebrate the incredible diversity of our Hispanic and Latino communities here in Union County.”
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites arts organizations and other New Jersey nonprofits to a free Cultural Accessibility Training Workshop on Wednesday, October 21, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. The virtual workshop will be hosted by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.
John McEwan, Executive Director of the New Jersey Theater Alliance, and Kat Lily, the Alliance’s Access Coordinator, will lead the session. A member of the Cultural Access Network Committee will also join them. Topics will include ADA policies, program accessibility, inclusive language and ways to communicate available access services to the public.
“Everyone should have the opportunity to take part in the arts and cultural life of our communities,” said Union County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This workshop gives organizations practical tools to welcome more people to their programs and make accessibility part of their planning from the start.”
Participants will receive resources from the Cultural Access Network, a program of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Theater Alliance that helps cultural organizations make their programs and facilities more accessible to seniors and people with disabilities.
Organizations that receive Union County Local Arts Program, History Grant or HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) funding are encouraged to attend. Other New Jersey nonprofits are welcome.
Registration is free at https://ucnj.org/cultural-access-training/.
The workshop is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
For more information, contact the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, at culturalinfo@ucnj.org or 908-558-2550.
Fall Events in our Parks
Tickets can be purchased at ucnj.org/ticket
Hayrides and Campfires
Tickets are $6 for Union County residents and $12 for non-residents
All tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at the event. Buy Tickets
Group sales are limited to 15 people, and no refunds or exchanges will be offered.
Friday, October 2
- Warinanco Park
- 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Sunday, October 4
- Trailside Nature & Science Center
- 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Friday, October 9
- Trailside Nature & Science Center
- 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Sunday, October 11
- Trailside Nature & Science Center
- 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Friday, October 16
- Trailside Nature & Science Center
- 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and families to enjoy a favorite fall tradition with the return of Hayrides & Campfires this October at Warinanco Park and the Trailside Nature & Science Center.
The annual program offers families an opportunity to enjoy a crisp fall evening outdoors with a hayride, campfire, entertainment, hot chocolate and marshmallows.
“Fall is one of the best times to enjoy Union County’s parks, and our Hayrides & Campfires give families a chance to spend an evening together outdoors and enjoy a tradition that has become a favorite for so many residents,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We encourage families and friends to make plans early, reserve their tickets and come enjoy a great night in our parks.”
Each ticket includes one hayride, entertainment, hot chocolate and marshmallows. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair to enjoy the campfire.
Upon arrival, participants should report directly to the check-in table, where their ticket will be exchanged for a numbered hayride pass. Hayrides depart approximately every 20 minutes, with passes assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Friday participants must check in before 8:00 p.m., and Sunday participants must check in before 5:00 p.m. Participants who arrive after those times are not guaranteed a hayride.
Haunted Hayrides
- Friday, October 23rd
- Saturday, October 24th
- Sunday, October 25th
- Rain Date – Monday, October 26th
- Buy Tickets
Participants will board a hay wagon alongside David Felt, the New York businessman who built Feltville in 1845. As the wagon moves through the fields and forest under the cover of darkness, and then into the Village itself, Mr. Felt will recount stories of tragedy and mystery that occurred in the area now known as the Watchung Reservation.
The tales are told so vividly that history seems to come alive. The journey culminates with a stop at the Village cemetery, dating back to the 1700s, where a chilling story is told that is certain to stir the imagination, and perhaps even the spirits.
The program is recommended for children age 6 and older, and strollers cannot be accommodated.
The full experience lasts approximately one hour and includes both a hayride and a walking portion through the darkened forest.
Participants are encouraged to dress warmly, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight.
Tickets are $8 for Union County residents and $16 for out-of-county participants. Purchases are limited to eight tickets per person and must be made in advance for a specific date and time.
No refunds or exchanges will be permitted, and tickets will not be sold on-site during the event.
Pumpkin Sail
- Sunday, November 1st
- Buy Tickets
The Union County Board of County Commissioners announces that tickets for the 2026 Great Pumpkin Sail will go on sale Thursday, October 1, at 9:00 a.m. at ucnj.org/ticket. The popular fall event will take place on Sunday, November 1, at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside.
“The Great Pumpkin Sail is one of those traditions that brings families together and makes fall in Union County feel special,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “There is nothing quite like seeing Echo Lake filled with glowing Jack-o-Lanterns, and we look forward to welcoming families back for another memorable evening.”
The Great Pumpkin Sail provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to have their Jack-o-Lantern added to a float and watch them sail on Echo Lake.
The event will take place on Sunday, November 1, at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside, with three sessions scheduled. Session One will run from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Session Two will run from 6:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Session Three will run from 8:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Tickets for the Great Pumpkin Sail are sold on a per-family basis, with one ticket covering up to six family members. Larger families may purchase an additional ticket to cover up to six more family members. There is a two-ticket limit per family.
The cost is $12 per ticket for Union County residents and $16 per ticket for non-residents. Each family ticket includes the right to float one pre-carved Jack-o-Lantern with a lid, weighing no more than eight pounds after carving.
Tickets must be purchased in advance, as space is limited. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date is Monday, November 2.
Four Centuries in a Weekend
- Saturday October 17th
- Sunday, October 18th
- Free
- View website for site information
- Special events, hours of operation, and programs coming soon
- Deserted Village will have special programs and exhibits from Noon to 5:00 pm each day
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and visitors to step inside the places where local history happened during Four Centuries in a Weekend, Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Unless otherwise noted, more than 30 historic sites across Union County will open their doors free of charge for tours, exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
“Union County did not simply witness American history. Our communities, residents and landmarks helped shape it,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “As our nation celebrates 250 years, Four Centuries in a Weekend gives us a special opportunity to walk through the places where that history unfolded and to share those stories with a new generation. I encourage families to choose a few sites, bring their history passports and make a weekend of exploring our County together.”
This year’s program celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States, while exploring the people, places and stories that shaped Union County before, during and after the American Revolution.
“What makes Four Centuries in a Weekend so memorable is that every stop offers something different,” said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca L. Williams, liaison to the Union County Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board. “You may hear a story you never knew, see an artifact that changes how you understand your hometown or watch your child become excited about history through a hands-on activity. I thank our local historians, site stewards and volunteers for opening these treasured places and making the past feel personal, welcoming and alive.”
The Union County Board of County Commissioners will recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October through the return of its pink lighting campaign, special awareness dates and the Union County United in Pink photo campaign, all focused on early detection, support and solidarity with those affected by breast cancer.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that awareness can lead to action, whether that means scheduling a screening, checking in on someone in treatment or simply standing beside a friend or family member,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “By lighting the Courthouse pink and coming together through Union County United in Pink, we are honoring survivors, remembering those we have lost and making sure no one facing breast cancer feels alone.”
As part of the Union County United in Pink campaign, the County will recognize Wednesday, October 7, as a day to wear pink and show support for breast cancer survivors, those currently undergoing treatment and the loved ones remembered.
Residents are encouraged to participate by wearing pink, taking a selfie and submitting their photo through the QR code included on the County’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month flyer. Submitted photos may be shared through Union County’s social media channels as part of the campaign.
From October 16 through October 30, 2026, the Union County Courthouse will be illuminated in pink as a visible reminder of the many lives touched by breast cancer and the importance of continued awareness, screening, research and support.
Union County will also highlight two important awareness dates during the month. On October 13, the County will recognize Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, honoring those living with advanced breast cancer and raising awareness of the continued need for research and support. On October 16, the County will recognize National Mammography Day and encourage residents to speak with their healthcare providers about screenings and the steps they can take to protect their health.
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 321,910 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026, and approximately 60,730 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ will be diagnosed. About one in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime, and more than 4 million breast cancer survivors are living in the United States. These numbers underscore the importance of awareness, early detection and continued support.
For more information about the Union County Office on Women and its programs and services, contact Jennifer Erdos at 908-527-4216 or Jerdos@ucnj.org.
Bellies 2 Bottoms Baby Item Collection
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is asking for your help with Bellies 2 Bottoms, a baby item collection serving vulnerable families throughout Union County communities.
From September 1–30, 2026, residents are encouraged to donate diapers, formula and baby wipes at participating Union County drop-off locations. Please remember to check expiration dates before donating.
Drop-Off Locations:
- Engineering Building
- 2325 South Ave., Scotch Plains
- 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
- Public Safety Building
- 400 North Ave. East, Westfield
- 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
- Social Services
- 200 West 2nd St., 1st Floor, Plainfield
- 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Prosecutor’s Office
- 32 Rahway Ave., Elizabeth
- 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Administration Building
- 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
- 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Every donation can help provide essential supplies to babies and families in need across Union County.
For questions, contact Judith Guest at 908-527-4388 or judith.guest@ucnj.org
Fall Festival for All Abilities
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents of all ages and abilities to attend the Fall Festival for All Abilities on Sunday, October 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Park, located at 136 Oak Ridge Road in Clark.
“Our Fall Festival is a chance for individuals of all abilities and their families to enjoy a fun morning together while also connecting with organizations and services available throughout Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “We are proud to offer events where everyone feels welcome, included and able to participate.”
The free event will feature a petting zoo, inflatables, live music, giveaways, arts and crafts, community resources, light refreshments and more.
Representatives from community organizations and service providers will be available throughout the event to share information and connect individuals and families with helpful programs, services and resources.
Admission is free, but advance registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.
“Events like this bring recreation and resources together in one welcoming space,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Families can enjoy the activities, meet others in the community and connect directly with organizations that may be able to support them throughout the year.”
The Fall Festival for All Abilities is presented by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services.
The Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs provides year-round recreational programs, educational opportunities, resources and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and special needs and their families.
For more information about the Fall Festival or other programs offered by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call 908-527-4781.
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.
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.
ASK Senior Services
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to attend the Aging Services Kiosk, or ASK, events scheduled
These events provide an opportunity to meet one-on-one with knowledgeable professionals and learn about programs and services available to Union County’s older adults and their caregivers. Bilingual assistance will be available.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is reminding residents of the final mobile paper shredding and household hazardous waste events of the 2026 season. Two scrap metal recycling dates are also scheduled for October. All three programs are free for Union County residents.
“These events make it easier for residents to clear out unwanted materials and dispose of them properly,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Whether you have sensitive documents, scrap metal or household chemicals to get rid of, I encourage you to check the October schedule and take advantage of these free programs before the season ends.”
The final two shredding events will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, or until the shredding trucks reach capacity:
- Saturday, October 10: Berkeley Heights Municipal Building parking lot, 29 Park Avenue, Berkeley Heights
- Friday, October 23: John Russell Wheeler Park, 234 W. Stimpson Avenue, Linden (for GPS directions, please use 248 W Stimpson Ave)
The program is for Union County residents only and is not open to businesses. There is a limit of four bags or boxes per vehicle, with each bag or box weighing no more than 10 pounds.
Only confidential or sensitive personal documents will be accepted. Magazines, junk mail and other nonsensitive papers should be placed in municipal recycling programs. Residents should remove bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other nonpaper materials before arriving. Staples are permitted. Pre-shredded, damp or wet paper will not be accepted.
Scrap metal recycling will be available on Thursday, October 1, and Saturday, October 17, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at both of the following locations. Residents may use either location on either date:
- Cranford: Emergency Services Complex, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
- Rahway: Rahway River Park Service Yard, 3 Parkway Drive
Accepted items include refrigerators and freezers with doors removed, metal cabinets, household appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, air conditioners, microwaves, washers, dryers, stoves, metal fencing, tire rims and wire hangers.
The final household hazardous waste event of the season will take place on Sunday, October 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools’ West Hall/Police Academy parking lot, 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.
Residents may bring accepted household materials including oil-based paints and finishes, motor oil and filters, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides and fluorescent bulbs.
Latex or water-based paint, medical sharps, and pressurized welding gas or oxygen cylinders will not be accepted. Leftover latex paint can be dried at home with a commercial paint hardener, sand, cat litter or sawdust. Once completely hardened, it may be disposed of with regular household trash.
All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only. Residents must remain in their vehicles while staff removes materials from their trunks. The events are funded through Recycling Enhancement Act grants that Union County applies for and receives through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
For the complete 2026 recycling schedule, please call 908-654-9890 or visit ucnj.org/recycling.
Cultural Events Around the County
October 3
5 pm
FREE OPEN MIC
Youth Poetry Open-Mic Event from ACP Arts Ink
Youth open expression, with music and chill atmosphere at local café. Come to just listen, or read one of your own poems.
Free entry
Melao Cafe & Creamery
1425 Irving St., Rahway
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
October 4
3 pm
CONCERT
Bill Charlap – Jazz Piano Concert from Afternoon Music
Grammy award-winning jazz pianist Bill Charlap brings his genius to the Afternoon Music series. Charlap has performed with many leading artists of our time, including Tony Bennett, Phil Woods, Gerry Mulligan and Wynton Marsalis.
The current Director of Jazz Studies at William Paterson University and a former Artistic Director of New York City’s Jazz in July Festival at 92NY, Bill Charlap has produced concerts for Jazz at Lincoln Center, NJPAC and the Hollywood Bowl.
Tickets: $30-$40
afternoonmusic.org
Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation
4 Waldron Ave., Summit
Event is wheelchair-accessible. Large-print programs available upon request to info@afternoonmusic.org
October 3–4, October 9–10-–11
8 pm evenings, 2 pm Sunday matinees
THEATRE
Morning’s at Seven
An American classic written by Paul Osborn, Morning’s at Seven centers around four aging sisters and their families, living in a small Midwestern town in the late 1930s. What appears to be a simple story is nothing but, as it deals with the ramifications as two family members begin to question their lives and want to make changes before it’s too late.
While dealing with hidden resentments and unfulfilled dreams, this is also a heartwarming and sometimes comical story about the true love and devotion of family.
Tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students and veterans with ID
Westfield Community Players
1000 North Ave. West, Westfield
908-232-1221
wcptheatre.org
Ground-floor theatre is wheelchair-accessible. Call ahead to reserve accessible parking or to request additional accommodations, to 908-232-1221.
October 4
2 pm
FREE CONCERT
Summit Symphony – The Orchestra Grows Up – especially for young audiences
Designed especially for young audiences, this lively introduction to the orchestra, directed by Michael Avagliano, explores more than 250 years of music, from Antonio Vivaldi to Aaron Copland.
Discover how the orchestra began, meet the different instrument families, and hear how new instruments created bigger and more exciting sounds over time. The Summit Symphony invites you to this free performance of “The Orchestra Grows Up!”
Summit High School
125 Kent Pl Blvd., Summit
summitsymphony.org
Venue is wheelchair-accessible, including main entrance. Designated accessible parking spaces available in parking lot. Early access to seating is available upon request. Large-print programs available in the lobby. For questions, email info@summitsymphony.org.
October 4
3 pm Reception
5 pm Concert
FREE CONCERT & RECEPTION
Imperial Brass – 35th Anniversary Reception & Concert
Anniversary Reception (light refreshments) and Mini-Concert commemorating 35 years of Imperial Brass, featuring guest Derek Lance, solo cornetist. Concert includes: Concertante, Caprice for Cornet, All There is of Me, Landmarks, Ascalon, Malaguena and Imperial March.
Presbyterian Church, 140 Mountain Ave, Westfield
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
October 8
3:30 – 4:30 pm
MUSIC & DANCE WORKSHOP
Mexico Beyond Mariachi
Come learn to dance to Mariachi music from Mexico. Children and families will be introduced to the music, dance and culture of Mexico. Mariachi is a traditional Mexican performance and culture. Learn about the stories, legends and myths interwoven together.\
Details at https://linden.librarycalendar.com/event/possible-childrens-program-7371
FREE, but registration is required by Oct. 1
Linden Free Public Library
31 East Henry Street, Linden (on third floor)
Building is wheelchair-accessible, take elevator to 3rd floor.
Oct. 9–18 | ASL-interpreted performance Oct. 10 (at 8 pm)
Fri/Sat at 8 pm | Sat/Sun at 2 pm
THEATRE
Psycho Beach Party
A hilarious send-up of Gidget and Frankie-and-Annette beach-party movies, with a dash of Hitchcock psychological suspense thrillers. Chicklet Forrest, a teenage tomboy, desperately wants to be part of the surf crowd on Malibu Beach in 1962.
One thing getting in her way is her unfortunate tendency towards split personalities. Her most dangerous alter ego is a voracious vixen named Ann Bowman, who has nothing less than world domination on her mind. Note: Psycho Beach Party contains some adult language.
Tickets: $23–$25
CDC Theatre, 78 Winans Ave, Cranford
Theater is wheelchair-accessible, including restroom, ramps, seating, and extra-wide aisle. Accessible parking on right side of building. ASL will be offered at the October 10th performance at 8 pm. For additional information, questions, assistance, or other accommodations, call 908-276-7611.
October 17
10 am – 2 pm
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Intro to Pinhole Photography
In this immersive 4-hour workshop, learn the history of pinhole photography, explore different types of camera builds, make your own pinhole camera, discuss composition and technique, then head out with your instructor to create pinhole photographs on paper that you’ll develop in the darkroom. No experience necessary. Visit the library calendar to learn more and register.
Presented by the Cranford Library.
FREE, but registration is required.
Cranford Community Center
220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
Building is wheelchair-accessible, including elevator and accessible restrooms.
October 17
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 a featured poet. Hosted by world-champion slam poet RADI, this inclusive event is for people of all ages, including 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.
FREE entry
Melao Cafe & Creamery
1425 Irving Street, Rahway
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
October 17 – November 1
Fri & Sat at 7:30 pm | 2 pm on Sundays
THEATRE
By the Water
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the Murphy family struggles to rebuild their Staten Island home and their lives. As old wounds resurface and loyalties are tested, each family member must decide what they’re willing to fight for — and what they’re willing to leave behind.
Filled with humor, warmth and deeply human characters, By the Water is a moving, contemporary story by Sharon Rothstein about family, community, and the meaning of home. Directed by Karen Thornton.
Tickets: $25
The Summit Playhouse
10 New England Ave., Summit
thesummitplayhouse.org/
Wheelchair-accessible venue.
October 17–18
8 pm Sat. evening, 2 pm Sunday matinee
THEATRE
Morning’s at Seven
An American classic written by Paul Osborn, Morning’s at Seven centers around four aging sisters and their families, living in a small Midwestern town in the late 1930s. What appears to be a simple story is nothing but, as it deals with the ramifications as two family members begin to question their lives and want to make changes before it’s too late.
While dealing with hidden resentments and unfulfilled dreams, this is also a heartwarming and sometimes comical story about the true love and devotion of family.
Tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students and veterans with ID
Westfield Community Players
1000 North Ave. West, Westfield
908-232-1221
wcptheatre.org
Ground-floor theatre is wheelchair-accessible. Call ahead to reserve accessible parking or to request additional accommodations, to 908-232-1221.
October 21
2 pm – 4 pm
POETRY
The Poet Is In
Visit with a poet and receive a personalized healing poem.
Presented by the Overlook Foundation.
FREE
Arbor Terrace, 1050 Springfield Ave., Mountainside
908-522-2894
Venue is wheelchair-accessible. Large-print materials available.