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/.
Get ready for a summer packed with fun and exciting events in Union County! Below, you can find information about upcoming recreational activities, educational programs, networking mixers, and career opportunities happening in your community. Be sure to check back regularly for the latest updates!
Summer Park Events
Union County is turning up the heat this summer with the return of Family Fun & Flix and Summer Arts Festival! Enjoy watching popular animated films beneath the night sky, unwind with friends at our outdoor yoga sessions, or see your favorite artist take center stage at one of our free summer concerts. With so many activities and magic in store this summer, make sure to mark your calendars and don’t miss out on the fun!
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.
Nature & Forest Bathing
May 24th • May 31st
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.
Art Workshops for Adults at Trailside
May 31st
Artist Dario Scholis leads this nature-themed, acrylic painting workshop series at the Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside. Registration fee is $30 per resident / $35 for non-residents.
Toddler Time
Sensory hikes, stories & 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 Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. or Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. or 11:00 a.m., as indicated below. Please dress appropriately for the outdoors and bring a baby carrier or sling as strollers are not recommended. Maximum 4 family members per class.
The fee is $10 for residents, and $12 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.
May 2025
Saturday, May 31st • 9:30am & 11:00am: Woodpecker Wonders
2024 Model Train Show and Open House
More than 200 Model Train Cars on a 40×40-foot Layout Tell the Story of NJ Railroads in the 1950s
December 14th & 15th (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 29 to Sunday, December 15.
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.
By popular demand in celebration of our 75th anniversary we are pleased to announce that Jenny is coming home. 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 29-Dec 1, Dec 7-Dec 8, and Dec 14-15
- Opening Day, Fri, Nov. 29 – 11 am – 6 pm
- Saturdays (Nov 30, Dec 7 & 14), 11 am – 6 pm
- Sundays (Dec 1, Dec 8 & 15), 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.
Visit Your Neighborhood Library
Enjoy literature, art, and something new at one of over 19 FREE Public Libraries in Union County!
Local libraries are the perfect place to read and study, but did you know they host a variety of fun events for all ages throughout the year? Whether you’re in the mood to read the latest mystery novel, are new to the neighborhood and would like to meet the locals, or need ideas on entertaining restless little ones, don’t let the weather keep you inside! Your neighborhood library has much more beyond books to explore.
The list of recreational activities includes movie nights, game nights, book clubs, storytimes – and even sing-alongs! Visit your local library today to learn more.
Click here to visit your local library’s website
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!
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.
Disney’s ‘Encanto’
September 26th • 7pm
Union County proudly presents a sensory-friendly adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film, ‘Encanto.’ Join Mirabel on her journey to uncovering her true gifts as she strives to save her family, the Madrigals, from losing theirs. This heartwarming story is a celebration of love, family, acceptance, and the importance of embracing your true self.
Activities for Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs
Inclusive Splash Nights
For Union County Residents, ages 12 & under
Thursdays, July 10th, 17th, & 31st • 6:30pm – 7:45pm
Wheeler Spray Park, Linden
Registration Required. Click here to register.
2025 Summer Fair
July 27 • 11am – 1pm
Our favorite summer fair for persons with disabilities and special needs returns to Union County with games, activities – even a petting zoo! Join us as we celebrate inclusivity and acceptance making new memories together in this annual celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act. See you there!
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 14th
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!
Click here to register. To learn more about our inclusive events, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/.
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 Ceramics
For Union County Residents, ages 15 and up
Tuesday, May 13th • 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Congressman Donald Payne Meeting Center, 333 Russell St., Union
Registration Required. Click here to register.
Inclusive Yoga
For Union County Residents, ages 13 and up
Wednesday, May 28th • 5:15pm – 6:00pm
Trailside Nature & Science Center, 452 New Providence Rd., Mountainside
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.
Activities and Services for Seniors
Farmers’ Market Food Vouchers
Beginning May 15th, 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.
Visit your local 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 Walks
Nature walks for seniors, led by a Trailside Naturalist
Our senior talks and 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 $6 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.
May – June 2025
Tuesday, May 27th • 11:30am: Peregrine Falcons
Tuesday, June 3rd • 11:30am: Pollinators
Stories of a Lifetime Workshop
Transform your life experiences into a one-of-a-kind biographical performance at UCPAC’s Hamilton stage!
The Stories of a Lifetime Workshop is an exciting three-week program exclusive to Union County seniors, ages 65 and up. Participants will 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. Register here or call 732-499-8226. Visit ucpac.org to learn more.
Employment Opportunities
Volunteering Opportunities
Discover how volunteering in your community makes a difference!
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.
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.
…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!
For additional volunteer opportunities, click here or visit ucnj.org/rce.
Workshops • Networking Events • Seminars
Union County Women Mean Business
May 28th
This once-a-year conference returns to bring together women entrepreneurs & professionals to learn from and connect with each other over common topics of interest, including work-life balance, career development, and much more. Mark your calendars, ladies – you won’t want to miss this unforgettable event!
Register today at ucnj.org/ucwmb.
Recycling
Call 908-654-9890 or visit ucnj.org/recycling for any recycling tips, questions, or more information, including the 2025 recycling schedule.
Cultural Events Around the County
July 3
7:30 pm
FREE CONCERT
Outdoor Concert by Westfield Community Concert Band – the 113th Summer Concert Series
Westfield Community Concert Band presents a free concert in historic Mindowaskin Park, East Broad Street, Westfield. The band will perform contemporary, classical, popular and patriotic selections, including music by Gershwin and favorites from Broadway shows including Hello Dolly, Mame, and Chicago. Lawn chairs and/or blanket are recommended.
In the event of rain, concert is held in the Community Room, at Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.
Mindowaskin Park
East Broad Street, Westfield
(Rain location: Community Room, Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.)
908-337-9073
Level paths are accessible from Mindowaskin Park Drive.
July 10
7 pm
FREE CONCERT
Irish Music – Land of the Leprechaun
Come hear stories, melodic ballads, pennywhistle tunes, and jigs that reflect everyday Irish life. Lively music performed on a variety of traditional instruments will set your feet to dancing. Presented by Mary Knysh.
Kenilworth Public Library
548 Boulevard, Kenilworth
908-276-2451
Venue is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair entrance via parking lot.
July 10
7:30 pm
FREE CONCERT
Outdoor Concert by Westfield Community Concert Band – the 113th Summer Concert Series
Westfield Community Concert Band presents a free concert in historic Mindowaskin Park, East Broad Street, Westfield. The band will perform contemporary, classical, popular and patriotic selections, including music by Gershwin and favorites from Broadway shows including Hello Dolly, Mame, and Chicago. Lawn chairs and/or blanket are recommended. In the event of rain, concert is held in the Community Room, at Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.
Mindowaskin Park
East Broad Street, Westfield
(Rain location: Community Room, Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.)
908-337-9073
Level paths are accessible from Mindowaskin Park Drive.
July 15 (raindate July 16)
6:30 – 9:00 pm
FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT
Jazz & Rock from NJ Workshop for the Arts – Sweet Sounds of Downtown in Westfield
NJ Workshop for the Arts provides Jazz and Rock at the Foundation Park location of Sweet Sounds of Downtown Westfield. Scheduled date is Tuesday, July 15 (rain date iWed., July 16).
Foundation Park
454 South Ave. W, Westfield
9087899696
Outdoor at street level (near the traffic circle)
July 17
7:30 pm
FREE CONCERT
Outdoor Concert by Westfield Community Concert Band – the 113th Summer Concert Series
Westfield Community Concert Band presents the final free concert in historic Mindowaskin Park, East Broad Street, Westfield. The band will perform contemporary, classical, popular and patriotic selections, including music by Gershwin and favorites from Broadway shows including Hello Dolly, Mame, and Chicago. Lawn chairs and/or blanket are recommended.
In the event of rain, concert is held in the Community Room, at Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.
Mindowaskin Park
East Broad Street, Westfield
(Rain location: Community Room, Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad St.)
908-337-9073
Level paths are accessible from Mindowaskin Park Drive.
July 19 (3rd Saturday every month)
6 – 9 pm
POETRY & OPEN MIC (Free)
What’s The Word!
Enjoy Spoken Word/Poetry in the heart of Rahway from ACP Arts Ink. Thought-provoking artists convene to bring beautiful words of passion. Every show features professional artists and spotlights up-and-coming artists.
Admission is free.
Melao Cafe and Creamery
1425 Irving St., Rahway
www.acpartsink.org
Venue is wheelchair-accessible.
July 20
2 pm
CONCERT (Free)
The August Symphony Orchestra in Concert
This year’s summer concert includes The Pines of Rome by Respighi; Mother Goose Suite by Ravel, and famous opera arias —featuring mezzo-soprano Cheri Rose Katz. Conducted by Michael Avagliano, a prizewinner in the 2023 Ionel Perlea International Conducting Competition.
Admission is free.
Free admission. Donations accepted.
First United Methodist Church
1 East Broad St., Westfield
www.tasonj.org
Venue is wheelchair accessible.
July 24
6:30 pm
CONCERT (Free)
Patriotic Celebration Day
Enjoy patriotic music, featuring familiar selections.
Admission is free.
Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library
404 Chestnut St., Roselle Park
908-245-2456 www.roselleparklibrary.org
Venue is ADA-compliant with ramps, elevator, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking spaces.
July 24
7 pm
MUSIC & DANCE (Free)
World Mosaic of Music & Dance
This interactive musical adventure features an eclectic mix of musical sounds including Italian mandolin, bagpipes, Irish penny whistle, African Kalimba, Peruvian panpipes and Hawaiian ukulele. Experience Spanish flamenco dancing, Chinese ribbon dancing, Irish Step dancing, and Mexican rope-spinning too. Program is presented by Richard Stillman.
Admission is free.
Kenilworth Public Library
548 Boulevard, Kenilworth
908-276-2451 www.kenilworthlibrary.org
Venue is wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchair entrance is via parking lot.