Events Calendar
Welcome to the calendar – your resource for 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/.
Spring has arrived, and we can’t wait to share with you all of the fun community events and activities we have in store!
In April, we invite you to celebrate Autism Acceptance, nominate your favorite SHERO, or take a relaxing class or stroll at one of our favorite parks in the county!
Stay tuned for updates on engaging seminars, networking events, and various activities for residents of all ages – including celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary – coming to Union County.
Lenape History in Focus
Tuesday, March 31 • 6pm
The history of New Jersey begins with the Lenape people.
In this presentation, Seton Hall University professor Sean P. Harvey takes us on a journey through the rich history and cultural significance of our ancestors, the “Lenni Lenape”, the original inhabitants of present-day northeastern Delaware, as well as parts of Pennsylvania, New York, and the beautiful Garden State we call home. Join us at the Trailside Museum Auditorium in Mountainside and register at ucnj.org/250.
Empowering Women
Who’s Your SHERO?
Nominate a SHERO no later than April 30, 2026
The Union County SHERO Award recognizes women 18 and older whose leadership, compassion, advocacy, and dedication have made a lasting impact across Union County. These honorees represent the spirit of service and empowerment that inspires others and helps shape a stronger, more connected community. Nominate your SHERO today at ucnj.org/women.
Empower & Protect
Wednesday, April 22 • 6pm
Self Defense Essentials for Women 18 and Over
Learn personal safety and self-defense techniques directly from seasoned law enforcement professionals. Invite your sister, mother, or friend and build your confidence together. Register for this free class today at ucnj.org/women or call 908-527-4216.
Spring Park Activities
2026 Wild Earth Fest
Sunday, April 26 • 11am – 5pm
Discover the wonders of nature with our interactive exhibits, engaging presentations and more at the annual Wild Earth Fest! You can pet live animals, listen to live music, or relax and enjoy some refreshments. There’s something fun for everyone! FREE ADMISSION with no registration required. For more information, visit ucnj.org/trailside.
Art Workshops for Adults
Saturday, May 2 • 10am
Join artist Dario Scholis for a creative monthly workshop that explores themes inspired by nature while learning the basics of using acrylic paint. Registration fee is $30 per resident / $35 for non-residents. Register at ucnj.org/trailside.
Nature & Forest Bathing
Saturday, May 9 • 10am
Join Park Naturalist and Nature & Forest Therapy certified guide, Delaney Fay, for a restorative spring walk in the Watchung Reservation. Registration fee is $15 per resident / $20 for non-residents. Register at ucnj.org/trailside.
Sound Bowl Meditation
Saturday, May 30 • 9am
Experience the rejuvenating benefits of sound bathing in a scenic environment with Reiki Master and sound healer Kellie Bogda as your guide. Registration fee is $30 per resident / $35 for non-residents. Register at ucnj.org/trailside.
February Festivities at Trailside
Saturday, February 14th • 10am
Winter fun awaits at the annual February Festivities event at Trailside! Spend the day learning how maple syrup is made, observing birds in their natural habitat, having an adventurous scavenger hunt nature walk, or painting your own winter woods masterpiece!
Dress warm and don’t miss out on the fun! Register today at ucnj.org/trailside.
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.
Toddler Time
Sensory hikes & activities for adults with children ages 3 & under
Parents with children ages 3 and under are invited to our Toddler Time program at the Trailside Nature & Science Center to connect with the natural world. Activities will take place on Thursdays or Saturdays at 10:00 a.m.
The fee is $12 for residents, and $14 for non-residents. Registration is required. Click here to register or visit ucnj.org/trailside for more information. For event cancellations or changes, please contact Trailside Nature and Science Center at 908-789-3670 or visit ucnj.org.
April 2026
Thursday, April 16 or Saturday, April 18 • 10:00am – Earth Day Play
Thursday, April 30 or Saturday, May 2 • 10:00am – Spring Scavenger Hunt
Back to Nature
Nature walks for families with children ages 4 & up
Our Back to Nature walks are an excellent way for families with children ages 4 and older to spend time together in the great outdoors, enjoying Union County’s largest park, the Watchung Reservation.
The fee is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Registration is required for adults and children. Click here to register or visit ucnj.org/trailside for more information.
For event cancellations or changes, please contact Trailside Nature and Science Center at 908-789-3670 or visit ucnj.org.
Fall Schedule
Saturday, November 23rd: Lenape Life
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.
Sleeping Beauty
April 12 • 2pm
Our Sensory-Friendly Theatre continues with a performance of the beloved fairytale, Sleeping Beauty!
New Jersey Ballet presents a classic retelling of the story of Princess Aurora, who falls under a spell that can only be broken by true love’s kiss. Meet Aurora, her fairy godmothers, and other interesting characters in this captivating performance, specially adapted for audiences with autism and other sensory sensitivities.
Big Bubble Bonanza
May 3 • 2pm
Bubbles inside of bubbles, PEOPLE inside bubbles – it’s a bubble party like you’ve never seen before when Jeff Boyer takes the stage in this year’s Big Bubble Bonanza!
This interactive performance is specially adapted for persons with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Click below and reserve your seat today!
Activities for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs
Inclusive Ceramics
For Union County Residents, ages 12 and up
Wednesday, April 1st • 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive, Roselle
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair
April 25 • 10am
Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with us at our annual, fun-filled event, featuring a live DJ, games, giveaways, and a touch-a-truck experience! Don’t forget to wear your favorite superhero costume!
Pre-registration is required. Visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or call 908-527-4781 today to reserve your spot.
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.
Inclusive Zumba
For Union County Residents, ages 13 & up
Thursdays, June 19th & 26th • 6:00pm – 6:45pm
Congress Donald Payne Center, 333 Russell St., Union
Registration Required. Click here to register.
2025 Sensory Friendly Summer Camp
August 18th – 22nd
Registration to the 2025 sensory-friendly summer camp is now open! Prospective campers must be Union County residents with a documented disability, demonstrating independence in basic self-care tasks, such as using the toilet and feeding themselves. While the camp warmly welcomes individuals who may require occasional prompting or redirection, it is not suitable for those with a history of fleeing, aggressive, or threatening behavior, who require restraints to manage or stop behaviors, or who require 1:1 staffing.
For more information or to register, click here or visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/.
Skating With Santa
December 20
Join us for a lovely afternoon of ice skating with friends, family, and jolly ol’ Saint Nick at our inclusive “Skating with Santa” event, where we provide a welcoming and accessible experience for residents with disabilities!
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 Zumba
For Union County Residents, ages 5 – 14
Thursdays, November 7th, 14th, and 21st • 5:30pm – 6:15pm
Cranford Community Center, 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
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.
Inclusive Ceramics for Kids
For Union County Residents, ages 5 to 14
Tuesday March 4th • 6:00pm – 7:30pm
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.
Empowerment Hour – Virtual Series
LGBTQ+ Empowerment Hour
August 12th • 6pm
Join us for the latest installment of the LGBTQ+ Empowerment Hour, a free virtual series covering a variety of LGBTQ+ topics. In this episode, Union County Surrogate Christopher Hudak will join the conversation to discuss adoption services and the importance of estate planning for LGBTQ+ families. Register today at ucnj.prg/lgbtq.
Activities and Services for Seniors
Farmers’ Market Food Vouchers
The market is back! Beginning May 1st, Farmers Market vouchers will be 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.
Senior Nature Walks
Our senior walks are a great opportunity for older adults to enjoy fresh air and engage in physical activity while discovering the beauty of our county parks, including the historic Watchung Reservation.
The fee is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents. Registration is required. Click here to register or visit ucnj.org/trailside for more information.
April 2026
April 17 • Plant This, Not That
Stories of a Lifetime Workshop
Transform your life experiences into a one-of-a-kind biographical performance at UCPAC’s Hamilton stage! – NEW! Wednesday Classes just added!!
NJ Seniors ages 55 and up are welcome to apply to the free 6-week writing workshop to engage in fun improvisation exercises, learn new writing techniques, and develop their unique story under the guidance of a professional playwright. The free workshop concludes with a special showcase where improv actors will perform your story for your friends and family. Registration is required. Call 732-499-8226 or visit ucpac.org to learn more.
Senior Art Exhibit – Call for Entries
On Exhibit: April 17 to May 27 • UCNJ, Union College of Union County NJ
Union County artists ages 60 and above, and of all levels of experience, are invited to submit their original artwork for the opportunity to be featured in the 2026 Senior Art Exhibit! Entry deadline is Sunday, April 12, 2026. For full instructions, email msturm@ucnj.org, call 908-558-2552/2550 or visit ucnj.org/senior-art.
Workshops • Networking Events • Seminars
Career Opportunities
Career Navigator: A Virtual Hiring Event
Residents seeking a rewarding career helping others find employment can apply to become a Union County career navigator through our virtual hiring event.
Submit your resume today to AJCBusinessteam@ucnj.org.
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
April
April 10
7:30 pm
FREE CONCERT
Westfield Community Concert Band’s Spring Concert
Now celebrating its 114th concert season, the Westfield Community Concert Band presents its annual Spring Concert, featuring the band’s premier performances of “Ballet Music from Faust” by CH. Gounod; “Cartoon” by Paul Hart; “Symphonic Songs for Band” by Robert Russell Bennett; and “Celebration” by Philip Sparke.
Free to all.
Edison Intermediate School Auditorium
800 Rahway Ave., Westfield
908-337-9073
westfieldcommunityband.com
Venue is ADA-compliant and wheelchair-accessible.
Apr 15
6 – 8 pm
FREE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Printing with the Sun
In this class, students will experience the magic of photo materiality! By combining chemistry, sunlight, and paper, beautiful artworks will emerge before your eyes. Explore two different ways to create photographic artwork using both Lumen Printing and Cyanotype — beautiful antique photography processes. No experience or prior knowledge necessary. Click here to learn more or to apply to participate. Program provided and presented by Cranford Public Library.
FREE
Cranford Community Center, Arts & Crafts Room
220 Walnut Ave., Cranford
The building is wheelchair-accessible, including an elevator and accessible restrooms.
April 15
1:00 – 3:30 pm
FREE ACTIVITY | POETRY
The Poet Is In
Visitors to Overlook Medical Center’s Main Lobby can meet with a published poet, have a brief conversation, and receive a personalized healing poem.
FREE
Overlook Medical Center
99 Beauvoir Ave., Summit
Medical Center is wheelchair-accessible. Large-print poems available.
Apr 17–May 27
Mon–Fri 9 am–5:30 pm | Open Tues. to 8 pm
ART EXHIBIT
2026 Union County Senior Art Exhibit
This annual exhibit showcases artworks by both professional and non-professional artists who are older adults 60+. The wide-ranging media displayed include everything from drawing and painting to sculpture and craft.
Made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs.
UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ (in the Conference Center on the UCVTS campus)
1776 Raritan Rd., Scotch Plains
culturalinfo@ucnj.org
Venue is fully ADA compliant.
Apr 18
2 pm
THEATER
Free Staged Reading
Two by Two 0 presented by The Theater Project
The Theater Project presents a script-in-hand live performance, followed by a lively discussion with the audience, playwright, director, actors. TWO BY TWO features short plays by Joseph Vitale and Stephanie Griffin. ‘Edifice Wrecks’ by Stephanie Griffin is a comedy exploring themes of power and propaganda. ‘The Cleaners’ by Joseph Vitale follows two night-shift workers who discover a torn-up love note that may offer them an unexpected opportunity!
FREE
Cranford Community Center
220 Walnut Ave., Cranford
Venue is a 110-seat theater and is fully ADA compliant. For access to a large-print program, please email cranfordlibrary@cranfordlibrary.org or call the Library Reference Desk by April 4 (2 weeks ahead) at 908-709-7272. A library staff member will be present to help assist anyone in need of special accommodations.
April 18
7 pm
CONCERT
Tchaikovsky Festival
Plainfield Symphony, under the direction of Charles Prince, presents “Tchaikovsky Festival,” performing Violin Concerto in D major, Opus 35, featuring Concertmaster Evelyn Estava on violin. Paired with this epic concerto is the emotional roller-coaster, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74 (“Pathetique”).
Tickets online or available at the door: $30 Seniors/Students | $45 General | $65 Reserved
Crescent Avenue Presbyterian Church
716 Watchung Ave., Plainfield
908-561-5140
plainfieldsymphony.org
Venue has accessible parking (first come first served). Building is wheelchair-accessible via parking lot, with a lift to the performance area and accessible rest rooms. PSO offers 3 assistive listening devices and large-print programs; please reserve these with advance notice to either info@plainfieldsymphony.org or 908-561-5140. Please see website for more information.
Apr 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.
This event is held monthly on the 3rd Saturday.
FREE event
Melao Cafe & Creamery
1425 Irving Street, Rahway
acpartsink.com
Wheelchair-accessible venue
April 19
3 pm
CONCERT
Afternoon Music presents Beautiful Dreamers: Ellis Island Vignettes
Stephanie Blythe, the world-renowned opera mezzo-soprano, performs with pianist Kayo Iwama. The program includes Alan Smith’s song cycle based on first-person accounts of immigrants, as well as Stephanie Blythe singing from the American songbook and accompanying herself on ukelele.
Stephanie Blythe has “left an indelible mark on operatic roles and the art-song repertoire.” She is a multi-talented mezzo-soprano, appearing on the major opera stages of the world. Kayo Iwama is an acclaimed pianist/vocal coach, an Associate Director of the Graduate Vocal Art Program at Bard Conservatory and on the faculty of the Juilliard School of Music.
Tickets: $30-$40
eventbrite.com/e/beautiful-dreamers-ellis-island-vignettes-tickets-1880505094359
Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation
4 Waldron Ave., Summit
Afternoon Music’s venue is wheelchair accessible. Large-print programs will be available upon request at the door.
April 19
3:30 pm
CONCERT
Chamber Music Concert – featuring two-time Grammy nominee
Mostly Music presents “New Colors for the Flute,” a chamber music concert featuring flutist Tara Helen O’Connor (two-time Grammy nominee), violinist Daniel Phillips, violist Paul Neubauer and cellist Peter Wiley. Don’t miss these world-class musicians from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, performing Mozart’s Flute Quartet in D Major and Flute Quartet in C Major; Bartók’s Duos for Viola and Cello; Reger’s Serenade for Flute, Violin and Viola; Haydn’s “London” Trio; and the East Coast Premiere of Ravaei’s iPod Variations for flute, violin and electronics.
Tickets: $50 | FREE for students
Temple Emanu-El
756 East Broad St., Westfield
908-789-8578
mostlymusic.org
Venue is ADA-accessible and on one floor, with seating for wheelchairs and walkers. Hearing devices are available on request.
April 21
12 pm (noon)
FREE MOVIE
“Sunset Boulevard” – presented by Downtown Cranford
Part of the film series for Union County seniors (55+). This 1950 classic film directed by Billy Wilder stars William Holden as a struggling screenwriter, and Gloria Swanson as former movie star Norma Desmond. After the film, enjoy a brief Q/A with an individual in the film industry.
FREE for 55+ seniors. Reserve tickets here.
908-709-7208
Cranford Theater
25 North Ave. West, Cranford
The Cranford Theater is fully wheelchair-accessible.
Apr 25 – May 10
7:30 pm Fridays & Saturdays | 2 pm Sundays
THEATRE
My Fair Lady – presented by The Summit Playhouse
The beloved musical My Fair Lady (book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner; music by Frederick Loewe) is based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion and the film adaptation of the play. Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney girl, takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins so that she may pass as a lady. Despite his cynical nature and difficulty understanding women, Higgins grows attached to her.
Tickets: $30
The Summit Playhouse
10 New England Ave., Summit
thesummitplayhouse.org
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
April 30
7 pm
FREE CONCERT
Celebrating Japan & Golden Week
One of the most festive times of year in Japan is a holiday period known as “Golden Week,” from April 29-May 6. Enjoy an electrifying aural and visual performance that captures the vitality and culture of life in Japan. Experience thunderous rhythms of ancestral Japanese Taiko drums and the sounds of bamboo flutes performed by Taikoza. This festive experience draws from Japan’s rich tradition of music and performance.
FREE
Kenilworth Public Library
548 Boulevard, Kenilworth
Wheelchair-accessible entry via the parking lot at the back of the library.
May
May 1–17
Fridays/Saturdays at 8 pm | Sundays 2 pm
MUSICAL THEATRE
Fiddler On The Roof
A Broadway Classic! Fiddler On the Roof is the multi-award-winning tale of Tevye the Dairyman and his family’s struggles in a changing Russia.
A true musical theatre tradition. CDC production produced by Joel Remount; directed and choreographed by Emma Taylor Schwartz. Book by Joseph Stein; Music by Jerry Bock; Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. Original Production Directed & Choreographed by Jerome Robbins, based on Sholem Aleichem’s stories, by special permission of Arnold Perl.
Tickets: $27-30
CDC Theatre
78 Winans Ave, Cranford
908-276-7611
cdctheatre.org
Building is wheelchair accessible, first floor has fully accessible bathroom. Accessible parking spots. ASL-interpreted performance on May 17.
May 3
3:30 pm
CONCERT
Chamber Music Concert
Mostly Music presents “Romantic Impressions,” a chamber music concert featuring Haydn’s elegant Piano Trio in C Major, Ravel’s jazzy Violin Sonata No. 2, Kreisler’s nostalgic Miniatures, adapted for cello and piano; and Arensky’s dramatic and passionate Piano Trio No. 1, performed by pianist Roman Rabinovich, violinist Oliver Neubauer and New York Philharmonic’s principal cellist Carter Brey.
Tickets: $50 | FREE for students
Temple Emanu-El
756 East Broad St., Westfield
908-789-8578
mostlymusic.org
Venue is ADA-accessible and on one floor, with seating for wheelchairs and walkers. Hearing devices are available on request.
May 5
12 noon
FREE MOVIE
“To Kill a Mockingbird” – presented by Downtown Cranford
Part of the film series for Union County seniors (55+). Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize–winning novel by Harper Lee, this 1962 classic film stars Gregory Peck in a truly iconic performance. After the film, enjoy a brief Q/A with an individual in the film industry.
FREE for 55+ seniors. Reserve tickets here..
908-709-7208
Cranford Theater
25 North Ave. West, Cranford
The Cranford Theater is fully wheelchair-accessible.
May 13 (also Jun 17 – class comprises two dates)
6 – 8 pm
FREE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Solargraphy
Learn solargraphy, an alternative way to create a pinhole photograph that allows you to capture the movement of the sun in the sky. It’s a magical and fun photography experience. This workshop will take you through the step-by-step process of creating your own. It is a two-part workshop on two evenings. No experience or prior knowledge is necessary. Click here to learn more or to apply to participate. Program provided and presented by Cranford Public Library.
FREE
Cranford Community Center, Arts & Crafts Room
220 Walnut Ave., Cranford
The building is wheelchair-accessible, including an elevator and accessible restrooms.
May 16
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.
FREE entry
Melao Cafe & Creamery
1425 Irving Street, Rahway
acpartsink.com | @acp_arts
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
May 17
5 pm
CONCERT (live + video for ticket-holders)
Summit Chorale presents “Liberty & Justice for All”
The Chorale will perform works by Florence Price, John Adams and Randall Thompson. The choral works related to events that shaped the course of American History and the leaders who chose the path, from Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln to Richard Nixon — reflecting the tragedy and triumph of American History. attend in person? No worries! Your advance ticket purchase includes access to the post-concert video, made available to all ticket purchasers after the concert, so you can enjoy the concert in the comfort of your home.
Tickets: $25 In Advance, $30 At the Door, $15 Student
Saint John’s Lutheran Church
587 Springfield Ave., Summit
ticketleap.events/tickets/summit-chorale/spring-concert-2026
Venue is ADA-accessible. Digital version of print program available for easy magnifying; post-concert video provided to all advance ticket purchasers. For other accessibility needs, email events@summitchorale.org before the event.
May 19
12 pm (noon)
FREE MOVIE
“La La Land”– presented by Downtown Cranford
Part of the film series for Union County seniors (55+). This acclaimed musical comedy-drama film stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as struggling artists pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles. After the movie, enjoy a brief Q/A with film-industry professional.
FREE for 55+ seniors.
Reserve tickets here
908-709-7208
Cranford Theater
25 North Ave. West, Cranford
The Cranford Theater is fully wheelchair-accessible.
May 31
4 – 6 pm
FREE CONCERT
Happy 250th, America!
This free symphonic concert is presented by the Society of Musical Arts, commemorating and celebrating the semiquincentennial of the United States — with Gould’s American Salute and Locklair’s Independence Day, along with Aaron Copland’s stirring Lincoln Portrait for narrator and orchestra. Music Director Stephen Culbertson conducts.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
414 East Broad St., Westfield
Venue is wheelchair accessible.