Back To School Party
School’s back, and so is the fun. Kick off the weekend at the Back to School Party on Friday, Sept 12 from 5PM-8PM in The Backyard at 58 Vose Ave. Enjoy ice cream from SOMA Sweets, tasty bites from Giorgio’s, sparkling Fairy Hair by EnchanTresses by Kim Shriver, and something special from The Charmery, all available for purchase.
Best of all, enjoy free live music from Mark Murphy’s student band and The Brand New Steadys! Come celebrate downtown, support local businesses, and give back. 5% of SOMA Sweets profits benefit the Achieve Foundation.
This event is featured as part of Downtown on Display: celebrating local businesses with unique events just for you!
Wildly Floral co. Autumn Wreath Workshop
Learn to create a unique Autumn wreath, made with seasonal blooms and fragrant foliages. No experience necessary; all materials will be provided.
Back to School Bike Parade at South Orange Community Day
At the Back to School Bike Parade by Flood's Hill...
All-ages bike ride/scoot/walk
Decorating station for your ride
Get ready for SOMA Bike Bus
Learn about the Greenway
Free bike tune-ups
Register your bike with the SOPD
Helmet checks, safety tips & free bike bells
Artistic crosswalk painting
ICE CREAM TRUCK!
And more fun happening at the same time at South Orange Community Day by the Duck Pond...
Inflatables, yoga, and music
Learn about municipal departments
Meet your elected officials
Three Birds Yoga Studio The Flow of Uncertainty: Mindfulness for Parenting
The Flow of Uncertainty: Mindfulness for Parenting A 90 minute workshop for parents of all ages and stages Parenting is one of life’s most important roles—and one of its most overwhelming. You're asked to stay calm in the chaos, present in the pressure, and loving in the face of exhaustion. In this interactive workshop, we’ll take an honest look at the stressors of modern parenthood and explore how mindfulness and self-compassion can help us meet the challenges with more ease, space, and grace.
Through guided meditation, reflective journaling, and real conversation, you’ll gain practical tools to soften reactivity, soothe anxiety, and reconnect to your values—no matter your child’s age or stage. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or a seasoned practitioner, this workshop offers space to reflect, reset, and remember that you’re not alone.
South Orange Downtown Monthly Board Meeting
Join South Orange Downtown's monthly board meeting with staff and the board of directors
Autumn Equinox Flower Workshop featuring Dahlias
Come and create your own gorgeous vase arrangements with everyone's Fall favorites: dahlias + have a personalized astrology session with Caitlin of Adharca Astrology
What to expect from this session:
🍁 Learn flower arranging tips and tricks, as well as flower care for extending vase life. Then make your own fabulous Fall arrangement to bring home and enjoy.
💫 Personalized astrological guidance from Caitlin based on your birthday, time and location that will help you navigate the months ahead with intention and grace.
South Orange Downtown Beer Fest
Experience the ultimate beer fest in the heart of south orange
Sat Sept 20th from 2PM-6PM
Join South Orange Downtown and South Orange Village for the Second Annual South Orange Beer Fest!
Tickets go on sale July 15!
Raise a glass and support your community at South Orange Downtown’s Second Annual Beer Fest, taking place at the Sloan Street Parking Lot (12 Sloan Street). Enjoy a wide variety of craft brews from some of New Jersey’s favorite breweries—perfect for both dedicated beer fans and casual drinkers.
*This is a 21+ event. Valid ID will be required for entry.
Proceeds from Beer Fest directly support South Orange Downtown’s mission to strengthen and promote our local business community. Your participation helps fund year-round events, public art, beautification projects, and initiatives that drive foot traffic, foster vibrancy, and keep our downtown thriving.
Spend the afternoon with friends while enjoying live music from DJ Phillip Lee, interactive games, and engaging activities. Local food vendors will be on-site with tasty bites available for purchase to pair with your brew of choice.
PRE SALE GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET: $45 (Full Price $50)
Admission to Beer Fest
1 Tasting Glass
PRE SALE DESIGNATED DRIVER TICKET: $15 (Full Price $20)
Admission to Beer Fest (NO ALCOHOL)
REFUND POLICY: NO REFUNDS
*You must be 21+ to enter this event. No one including infants/children will be permitted to enter unless they are 21+ with a valid ID. ID’s will be verified on site. Dogs are permitted as long as they are leashed.
Kitchen a la Mode Asian Dumpling Class
Discover the art of making shu mai shrimp dumplings, steamed potstickers filled with chicken, and restaurant quality sauces to dip them in. Crafted from scratch, these delicacies are enjoyed together in a communal setting.
Craft Club Studio Mini World Crafting
Fairies, animals, monsters, mythical creatures and more! During this workshop, we'll create our own mini fantasy worlds using a variety of upcycled materials, figurines and found objects. Then we'll create our own storybook about the characters in our world.
MAPSO Family Follies Talent Show Auditions
3rd Annual MAPSO FAMILY FOLLIES TALENT SHOW
Returns with OLD-TIMEY ACTS and QUIRKY FUN!
SAVE the DATES:
In-Person Auditions: Wednesday, September 24th, 6 - 8pm at The Woodland (60 Woodland Rd., Maplewood) Video Auditions: Submit online by September 30th at 12 midnight. Link: maplewoodartsandculture.org/follies
Follies Show: Thursday, October 23rd, 7:30 - 9pm ($10 tickets, doors open 7pm) Tech/Dress Rehearsal (mandatory): Wednesday, October 22nd, 6:30 - 8:30pm. Both at The Woodland (60 Woodland Rd., Maplewood)
Hey friends! There’s still time to throw together a 3-minute act to audition for the MAPSO FAMILY FOLLIES Old-Timey Talent Show! It’s not a contest, so don’t over think it. Just your low-stakes opportunity to showcase a known or lesser-known talent, and our heartwarming way to charm and delight with old-school, variety fun!
Grab a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or family member and come up with a comedy bit, a dance routine, or harmonize an acoustic song. Or sing opera, yodel, or do bird calls; step dance, tap, clog, or ballet; recite slam poetry; perform drag; do magic or juggle; bring us a cheer or a baton routine from your high school days; break out your ventriloquist doll or pointe shoes; act out a dramatic skit or a short scene from your favorite movie or tv show—the more quirky and unpredictable the better.
Audition Rules: 3 minutes per act, no drum kits/amps, and no solos! You’re all invited to try out—ages 9 to 99—open to Maplewood/South Orange and surrounding communities. Time Commitment: One in-person dress rehearsal and then the show!
The FOLLIES Team loves multi-cultural and generational acts. Last year’s sold-out, standing-room-only show at The Woodland had a line-up of parent/kid acts—including a family circus act—plus a hilarious crew of neighbors, with fabulous local groups of singers and dancers in between. We even had a theremin player and a roller-skating chicken! So dust off that ribbon stick and join creative forces. We encourage up-tempo, up-beat, fun, or funny collaborative acts. Do you have something from a musical or recital you can pull out of your back pocket? Are you currently taking lessons with a group? Is your uncle a ham? Does your nana play harmonica? The more the merrier on stage and the more creative the better. Our FOLLIES motto is: “Have fun!” You should totally join us.
The FOLLIES Team encourages new acts to audition every year, however, if you were in last year’s show, you may audition a new act with varying performers or a different vibe. The MAPSO FAMILY FOLLIES is made possible by the invaluable efforts and generous support of Andrea Teutli, Miriam R. Perez, and Stacey Ross-Trevor of the Division of Arts & Culture of Maplewood Township. Tori Chickering returns as Director/Emcee along with Katy Chapman as Co-producer, Cat Delett as Talent Coordinator, Ridley McIntyre as Stage Manager, and Elizabeth Sarkesian heading up Stage/House Crew. Sybil Rodgers returns as our Follies Consultant, with Craig Stout as Designer. If you’d like to volunteer for the FOLLIES Team, please reach out to the producers at mapsofollies@gmail.com with the subject: Follies 2025 - Volunteer Help. More audition details, photos, FAQs, and tickets can be found on our FOLLIES webpage: maplewoodartsandculture.org/follies
Kitchen a la Mode Vintage Cake Decorating Class
Discover the art of vintage cake decorating in this expert-led class on September 26 at 6:30 pm. Learn precise piping techniques and master buttercream application to create a stunning cake with timeless charm. Perfect for a girls' night out or a unique date night, you'll leave with a beautifully crafted cake to share and enjoy. Elevate your baking skills and impress with classic elegance.
Taught by Emily from Bakes by Izzy
Kitchen a la Mode
Fiesta en La Placita
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the first-ever Fiesta en La Placita, an exciting evening of food, music, and dance in the heart of downtown South Orange. This free outdoor event brings the community together for a festive night featuring live entertainment, Latin dance, and authentic Mexican street food.
Enjoy a live mariachi performance, salsa dancing in the park, and music throughout the evening. Tacos and other delicious food will be available for purchase from Jus’ Tacos, and guests 21 and over can enjoy beer and hard seltzers from the onsite bar presented by South Orange Downtown.
Whether you're coming to dance, eat, or simply soak in the celebration, Fiesta en La Placita has something for everyone.
About the Salsa Lesson
At 8:30 PM, join a high-energy salsa dance lesson led by Christina Piedra, a world-renowned Latin dance performer and master instructor. Christina is the Artistic Director of NJ’s Legacy Dance Company and has over 20 years of experience performing and teaching Salsa, Mambo, and Bachata around the world.
About Jus’ Tacos
Discover delicious tacos right in your neighborhood.
Jus’ Tacos is an authentic Mexican street taqueria offering traditional tacos and Mexican drinks made with real, fresh ingredients. Their tortillas are made daily from 100% nixtamalized, gluten-free corn masa, with ingredients imported from Mexico and free of GMOs and preservatives.
Head Chef Edith, born and raised in Morelos, Mexico, brings generations of culinary knowledge and deep expertise in the history of Mexican street taquerias. Jus’ Tacos honors the roots of street taco culture — serving up bold flavors that reflect the hard work, creativity, and tradition of Mexico’s taco makers.
Performance Schedule
7:30 PM – Live Mariachi Performance by Mariachi Classico VIP
8:30 PM – Salsa Dance Lesson with Christina Piedra
7:00–11:00 PM – DJ Mixxx spinning Latin hits throughout the night
Fall Festival
Mark your calendar and join us as we welcome Fall in the heart of downtown at the South Orange Downtown Fall Festival on Sun September 28th from 11AM-1PM!
Join us in Spiotta Park for a joyful afternoon filled with FREE fall-themed fun for the whole family. Kids can dive into pumpkin decorating, seasonal crafts, games, and more—brought to you by some of your favorite downtown businesses.
The South Orange Public Library will host storytimes every 30 minutes starting at 11:30 AM, and DJ Phillip Lee will be spinning upbeat tunes to keep the energy high throughout the event.
Be sure to come hungry—delicious bites and sweet treats will be available for purchase from Jus’ Tacos and SOMA Sweets.
This year’s participating businesses include Craft Club Studio, Little Brain Lab, Oh Canary, Kumon Learning Center, and Artistry by Ampy Salon, each bringing something creative and hands-on to the park.
We’d also like to give a heartfelt thank you to our Pumpkin Patch Sponsors, The Lichtman Rabney Group of Hearth Realty. These longtime champions of South Orange Downtown have been dedicated supporters of our community programming, and their generosity helps make events like this possible.
Featured as part of Downtown on Display: celebrating local businesses with unique events just for you!
Fashion Show
The South Orange Downtown Fashion Show returns to Spiotta Park this October, kicking off Disability Employment Awareness Month. Now in its fourth year, the event will showcase models from JESPY House on the runway, featuring the latest trends from Sadie’s and stylish creations by Artistry by Ampy Salon. Guests will enjoy small bites and refreshments from Three Daughters Baking Co., along with a cash bar benefiting JESPY House.
This celebration not only brings fashion and community together but also shines a light on the meaningful contributions of the JESPY House community. Many local businesses proudly employ JESPY clients, and the Fashion Show serves as an opportunity to highlight their talents, independence, and the value of inclusion in the workplace.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, Oct 9th | 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Spiotta Park (20–32 Village Plaza, South Orange, NJ 07079)
Free Admission
Rain Date: Friday, Oct 10th | 6:00–8:00 PM
Featured as part of Downtown on Display: celebrating local businesses with unique events just for you!
South Orange Downtown Monthly Board Meeting
Join South Orange Downtown's monthly board meeting with staff and the board of directors
Through Our Eyes – A Survivor Art Gallery Event
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Through Our Eyes will showcase artwork—including paintings, crafts, and designs—created by survivors of domestic violence. This powerful event will highlight resilience, bravery, and healing, and will include a survivor speaker, community reflection, and opportunities to support the underfunded DREAMS program.
Tickets: $20 in advance | $25 at the door
Event Page & Tickets: https://www.familyconnectionsnj.org/dreams-event/
Seton Village Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
Seton Village Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival is Friday, October 17th!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with music, mouthwatering food, refreshing craft beer & wine, and so much fun! The Seton Village Food Truck Festival is Friday, October 17th from 5-9:30pm, featuring some of the best food trucks from the area, serving up a wide range of culinary delights. Whether you're a foodie looking to explore new flavors or just in the mood for some classic comfort food, there’s something for everyone.
Calling all beer lovers! Our Beer Garden sponsored by Gaslight Brewery is back by popular demand, offering a variety of craft beers to enjoy while soaking in the festive atmosphere. With great music, delicious food & drinks, this is the perfect event to gather with family, friends, and neighbors.
Don’t miss out—join us on Irvington Ave for a night of food, fun and community in the heart of Seton Village!
MAPSO Family Follies Talent Show
Follies Show: Thursday, October 23rd, 7:30 - 9pm ($10 tickets, doors open 7pm) at The Woodland (60 Woodland Rd., Maplewood) Tech/Dress Rehearsal (mandatory): Wednesday, October 22nd, 6:30 - 8:30pm.
Follies Mission: To charm and delight our community with low-stakes, old-school, heartwarming variety family fun—and it’s not a contest!
Get those wheels turning now—the MAPSO FAMILY FOLLIES needs YOU to come up with an act for fall auditions, September 24th! So grab a friend, neighbor, or family member and create a comedy bit, dance routine, or an acoustic song. Or you could sing opera, yodel, do impressions or bird calls; step dance, clogging, tap, or ballet; recite original poetry; perform drag; do magic, juggle, or ventriloquism; act out a dramatic skit or a short scene from your favorite tv show. The only 3 rules are: 3 minutes per act, no drum kits, and no solos. Open to Maplewood/South Orange and surrounding communities, ages 9 to 99. Our FOLLIES motto is: “Have fun!”
Last year’s sold-out, standing-room-only show had two father/daughter acts, a mother/sons act, a family circus act, plus a hilarious crew of neighbors, with fabulous groups of local singers, musicians, and dancers throughout. We even had a theremin player and a roller-skating chicken. So dust off that baton or ribbon dance stick and collaborate creative forces—(Hint: the FOLLIES Team loves multi-cultural and/or generational acts.) We encourage up-tempo, up-beat, fun, or funny acts, so choose your music wisely. Are you taking lessons with other students? Is your uncle a ham? Do you have something from an old show you can pull out of your back pocket? The more the merrier on stage, and the more creative the better. It’s your opportunity to showcase a lesser-known talent in a supportive, low-stakes environment. Surprise your friends and impress/embarrass your kids! The FOLLIES isn’t a contest and there’s no winner. Our goal is charming, quirky, old-timey fun—a heartfelt way to build community.
The FOLLIES Team encourages new acts to audition every year, however, if you’ve been in the show, you may audition a new act with varying performers or a different song or vibe. The MAPSO FAMILY FOLLIES was created by Lara Tomlin and will be made possible by the invaluable efforts and generous support of Andrea Teutli, Miriam R. Perez, and Stacey Ross-Trevor of the Division of Arts & Culture of the Township of Maplewood. Tori Chickering returns as Co-producer/Director/Emcee, Katy Chapman as Co-producer, and Cat Delett as Talent Wrangler, Craig Stout is this year’s Designer, Ridley McIntyre is Stage Manager, and Elizabeth Sarkesian is heading up Stage Crew once again. If you’d like to volunteer for the FOLLIES Team, please email mapsofollies@gmail.com with the subject line: “Follies 2025 - Volunteer Help” and join us!
Follies FAQs, tickets, and photos, visit: maplewoodartsandculture.org/follies
22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA
22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA
South Orange & Maplewood, NJ – May .., 2025 – The vibrant communities of South Orange and Maplewood, NJ, are thrilled to announce the 22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA, a beloved celebration of local artistry. This free, self-guided tour will take place on November 1st and 2nd, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, inviting visitors to explore the creative spaces and works of over 100 talented artists across both towns.
For two days, artists will open their studios or showcase their work at local venues, offering a unique opportunity to experience a diverse range of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and more. From intimate studio visits to dynamic displays in community spaces, Studio Tour SOMA highlights the rich artistic talent that thrives in South Orange and Maplewood.
Launched 22 years ago, this cherished community event continues to foster connection between artists and art enthusiasts while showcasing the cultural vibrancy of the SOMA area. Visitors can expect an inspiring weekend filled with creativity, conversation, and the chance to purchase one- of-a-kind pieces directly from the artists
22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA
22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA
South Orange & Maplewood, NJ – May .., 2025 – The vibrant communities of South Orange and Maplewood, NJ, are thrilled to announce the 22nd Annual Studio Tour SOMA, a beloved celebration of local artistry. This free, self-guided tour will take place on November 1st and 2nd, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, inviting visitors to explore the creative spaces and works of over 100 talented artists across both towns.
For two days, artists will open their studios or showcase their work at local venues, offering a unique opportunity to experience a diverse range of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and more. From intimate studio visits to dynamic displays in community spaces, Studio Tour SOMA highlights the rich artistic talent that thrives in South Orange and Maplewood.
Launched 22 years ago, this cherished community event continues to foster connection between artists and art enthusiasts while showcasing the cultural vibrancy of the SOMA area. Visitors can expect an inspiring weekend filled with creativity, conversation, and the chance to purchase one- of-a-kind pieces directly from the artists.
South Orange Downtown Monthly Board Meeting
Join South Orange Downtown's monthly board meeting with staff and the board of directors
South Orange Downtown Monthly Board Meeting
Join South Orange Downtown's monthly board meeting with staff and the board of directors
Oh! Canary Crafty Moms Night
Disconnect from your phone and give yourself one night a month to let your creativity flourish. No perfect or finished work is needed; get your hands and brain to work and share some time with fellow moms. Bring your own craft project or acquire some kits/materials at the event; you will return home with your creation.
We will offer embroidery, stickers, beads, watercolor, and paper collage materials to create!
Unveiled 25
South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) presents Unveiled 25, a Studio Tour SOMA preview exhibition, at the Herb + Milly Iris Gallery (One SOPAC Way, South Orange). Showcasing works by over 70 Studio Tour artists, the exhibition features diverse mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and ceramics. It runs from September 11 to November 1, 2025. Gallery hours are Monday–Saturday, 12 PM–6 PM, and two hours prior to SOPAC performances. The gallery is closed on Sundays, including November 2. For the first time, SOPAC will host artists in its loft space during the Studio Tour on Saturday, November 1, 2025, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative process
Ruben Studdard
Experience the soulful sounds of Ruben Studdard, Grammy Award nominee and beloved winner of American Idol Season 2:
Chart-Topping Artist: Ruben’s platinum-selling debut album Soulful and gospel follow-up I Need an Angel produced hits like “Flying Without Wings,” “Sorry 2004,” and “Change Me,” earning him over 2 million albums sold and a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Versatile Entertainer: Beyond the charts, Ruben has starred as Fats Waller in the national tour of Ain’t Misbehavin’—which led to a Grammy-nominated soundtrack—and appeared on Broadway in Ruben & Clay’s Christmas Show.
Celebrated Collaborator: Known as “The Velvet Teddy Bear,” he has toured with Clay Aiken, most recently on the 82-show Twenty The Tour celebrating their 20th anniversary since Idol.
Ruben’s journey from singing in church to R&B stardom has inspired millions, and he remains a powerful voice in pop, gospel, and soul.
Three Birds Yoga Studio Family Yoga: Connect, Play and Breath
Engage & connect as a family in a fun, playful yoga class. Enjoy poses, breathing, games, and mindfulness activities for all ages! Mary's Bio: Specializing in Kids, Family, Gentle, and Prenatal Yoga, Mary Blackstock is a registered yoga teacher (200-hour RYT) with 15+ years of experience. A devoted yoga student for over two decades, Mary has studied with renowned teachers, including Seane Corn and Shiva Rea, in the many different styles of yoga. It was while practicing prenatal yoga, 18 years ago, that Mary became inspired to teach. She has since spent over 1,000 hours teaching at schools and studios throughout New Jersey. Learn more about Mary at: maryblackstock.com/yoga
Kitchen a la Mode Knife Skills Class
Elevate your culinary expertise with Chef Gill’s Knife Skills Level 2 class on September 7th at 10am. This advanced session focuses on precise techniques including filleting and butterflying meat, supremely segmenting citrus, and mastering the use of a whetstone for blade sharpening. Perfect for those looking to refine their skills with expert guidance and enhance their kitchen efficiency.
Friends of the Brothers
Experience the ultimate tribute to the Allman Brothers Band. This group is composed of musicians deeply connected to the original band, ensuring an authentic and passionate performance.
Dynamic Performances: Each night is unique, with songs from every era of the Allman Brothers Band's career.
Deep Musical Knowledge: Performers draw from their deep understanding of the band's history and roots, delivering performances with unrivaled depth.
Authentic Connections: Members like Junior Mack, Andy Aledort, and Peter Levin have performed with the Allman Brothers Band, bringing first-hand experience to the stage.
Stella Cole
Experience the enchanting voice of Stella Cole, a rising star in the jazz scene, known for her captivating performances and timeless style.
Timeless Sound: Stella brings a classic charm to her music, blending jazz standards with modern flair.
Viral Sensation: With over 1.6 million followers and millions of views on social media, Stella has gained recognition from celebrities like James Taylor and Michael Bublé.
New Album: Her third album, It’s Magic, takes songs that are familiar, but somewhat unconventional, including “Stairway to the Stars,” “My Ideal,” and “Fools Rush In,”
Destined for greatness, catch Stella Cole in the intimate venue that is SOPAC while you still can!
Family French Cooking
Bring your child and enjoy a fun, hands-on evening of French cooking designed for all skill
levels! This interactive class is the perfect way to bond over delicious food while learning
essential kitchen skills together.
In this family-friendly class, you’ll prepare a playful and satisfying French menu:
- Kid-Friendly Croque Monsieur
A toasty ham and cheese sandwich with a golden crust – made simple and fun for kids to
assemble.
- Citrus Herb Chicken
Tender chicken marinated with fresh herbs and citrus, then cooked to perfection for a
bright, flavorful main dish.
- Crepe Cake
A sweet and stackable dessert made with layers of soft crepes and cream – perfect for little
chefs to build and decorate.
This class is designed for fun, learning, and making memories in the kitchen. No experience
necessary!
All ingredients and tools are provided. Class includes time to sit down and enjoy your meal together
DANNY LIPSITZ & THE BRASS TACKS
Join us for an evening of FREE live music in the heart of South Orange Downtown! Bring a chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the amazing local restaurants, relax, and enjoy the warm weather with great tunes and good company in a casual outdoor setting.
This event is weather permitting — visit our Threads page for the most up-to-date weather info and cancellation announcements.
Channeling the performative schools of Louis Prima, Little Richard, and Cab Calloway, Danny Lipsitz leads The Brass Tacks in a dynamic ride of hit mid 20th century music in spectacular style. A high-energy ensemble of world-class talent, The Brass Tacks expertly navigate swing, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, klezmer, jump blues, and traditional pop with Danny showcasing up to five instruments in a set. The captivating, feel-good music for people from all walks of life has earned the band a dedicated following. The band has enchanted audiences around the world at jazz clubs, performing arts centers, swing dance events, and festivals in both large configurations and as small as 4 pieces. A 14-piece version of the group headlined at Lincoln Center’s Summer For The City for an acclaimed night of ballroom dancing. A former beloved public school music teacher for 11 years, Danny developed a highly successful, standards-aligned curriculum about the saxophone in rock ‘n’ roll music, which The Brass Tacks have presented at countless schools in New York City.
Outdoor Yoga Experience
FREE OUTDOOR YOGA EXPERIENCE
Downtown on Display: Celebrate 4 Years of Three Birds Yoga Studio
We’re celebrating the 4-year anniversary of Three Birds Yoga’s South Orange location with a special FREE outdoor yoga class right in the middle of our downtown on Thursday August 28th from 6PM-8PM. Join us in Village Plaza (next to Spiotta Park) for an all-levels yoga session led by Three Birds Co-Owner Sarah Bodnar, set to music from DJ Pap.
After class, stick around to hang out with neighbors and enjoy fresh juice from Juice Hub as we highlight all that makes our downtown active, welcoming, and alive in the summer.
Location: Village Plaza (next to Spiotta Park)
Date: Thursday, August 28 6PM-8PM
Cost: Free
Pre-registration encouraged: https://momence.com/Three-Birds-Yoga-Studio/Free-Yoga-on-Village-Plaza--4-Year-anniversary/118217492
Bring: A yoga mat and any props you need
SCHEDULE
6:00–6:30 PM – Check-in and get settled
6:30–7:30 PM – Yoga with Sarah Bodnar + DJ Pap
7:30–8:00 PM – Social time + juice from Juice Hub
Join us as we put our downtown on display and celebrate local business, wellness, and community.
Rain date: Fri Aug 29 6PM-8PM
Mead Street Bike Lane Paint Night
Volunteers Wanted to Paint the Mead Street Bike Lanes Green!
Wednesday, August 27 between 5-8 PM
(rain date Thurs Aug 28)
Sign up to volunteer here!
Thanks to an AARP Community Challenge Grant, Walk Bike Ride South Orange is partnering with Meadowland Park Conservancy to make streetscape safety improvements to Mead St. In total, the project will paint artistic crosswalks, add green paint to bike lanes, and install delineators to protect walkers and cyclists.
On August 27, we want your help painting on the bike lanes. Volunteers should be adults, but you may bring kids if needed, as we'll have some chalk etc for them to play in the closed street. Afterward, stick around for South Orange Movie Night (Wicked) on Flood's Hill at 8 PM.
Free Haircuts at Desire Hair Salon II
FREE Haircuts for All Ages and Genders! Join us at Desire Hair Salon II on Wednesday, August 27th, from 12 PM to 5 PM at 130 S Orange Ave!
Whether you're getting ready for back to school, a special event, or just want to treat yourself to a fresh new look, come on down! No appointments needed—just walk in and get that fresh cut!
the b side
Join us for an evening of FREE live music in the heart of South Orange Downtown! Bring a chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the amazing local restaurants, relax, and enjoy the warm weather with great tunes and good company in a casual outdoor setting.
This event is weather permitting — visit our Threads page for the most up-to-date weather info and cancellation announcements.
https://www.threads.com/@southorangedowntown
The B-Side (Isabel Auleta & Ayla Katz) are a local pop, rock and folk duo covering music's greatest hits from the 1960s and beyond. With Izzy on guitar and Ayla on keys, The B-Side’s crowd-pleasing set list spans the decades with a mix of artists from The Beatles, Carole King and Dolly Parton to Billy Joel, Coldplay, The Weekend and Chapelle Roan.
ERIC & ALINA
Join us for an evening of FREE live music in the heart of South Orange Downtown! Bring a chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the amazing local restaurants, relax, and enjoy the warm weather with great tunes and good company in a casual outdoor setting.
This event is weather permitting — visit our Threads page for the most up-to-date weather info and cancellation announcements.
https://www.threads.com/@southorangedowntown
Eric & Alina are an acoustic cover duo based in central NJ. Made up of Alina Bardaji on lead vocals and Eric Drylewicz on lead guitar, these two can provide everything from soulful R&B melodies to upbeat pop hits and classic rock. Formed in 2023, Eric and Alina have played at several venues across NJ and have refined their sound since then. Now two years later, they are excited to share their take on chart-topping hits with the folks of South Orange.
Adult Swim!
Calling all Yachties!
Adult Swim Night is back at the South Orange Pool!
Friday, August 15 | 5–8PM
Grab your floats, rally your crew, and dive into an evening of Yacht Rock tunes with DJ Lou Smith, dinner poolside, and summer night energy!
Open to South Orange adult residents (18+) + their guests
Guest passes are $5
Residents must show ID badge or proof of residency
Let’s make waves—see you poolside!
Soma Sweets Ribbon Cutting
Sweet News, South Orange! Join us as we officially welcome SOMA Sweets to their new location at 58 Vose Ave with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, August 15th at 12 PM!
Monica and Steven Hafif’s dream of creating a fun, community space has come to life – a place for candy, ice cream, and sweet memories. Come celebrate their hard work and dedication, and enjoy some treats while you're at it!
We can’t wait to see you there and support this amazing local business!
Papillon 25 - National Prosecco Day
Papillon 25 - National Prosecco Day
Start your night with some bubbly for National Prosecco Day!
TYCOON DOG
Join us for an evening of FREE live music in the heart of South Orange Downtown! Bring a chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the amazing local restaurants, relax, and enjoy the warm weather with great tunes and good company in a casual outdoor setting.
This event is weather permitting — visit our Threads page for the most up-to-date weather info and cancellation announcements.
https://www.threads.com/@southorangedowntown
Tycoon Dog is a 7-piece band known for its fun, family-friendly music blending rock, blues, reggae, funk, soul, pop, and country. Featuring Scott Bailey, Suzanne Fiore-Haywoode, Jenn Miller, Joe Piteo, Kip Sophos, Matt King, and Sean Harkness, the band has been performing for over 25 years, earning strong press and radio play. With hundreds of shows across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, they've shared stages with renowned artists like Dark Star Orchestra, The Byrds, and members of Steely Dan. Now, they primarily perform 15-25 outdoor concerts annually in the NJ/NYC area.
WHISKEY & SUGAR
Join us for an evening of FREE live music in the heart of South Orange Downtown! Bring a chair or blanket, grab takeout from one of the amazing local restaurants, relax, and enjoy the warm weather with great tunes and good company in a casual outdoor setting.
This event is weather permitting — visit our Threads page for the most up-to-date weather info and cancellation announcements.
https://www.threads.com/@southorangedowntown
Whiskey & Sugar is a dynamic NJ-based duo, trio, and full band that’s been rocking stages since September 2023. With over 50 shows across beer halls, festivals, and weddings, Matt Stone’s soulful vocals and guitar blend seamlessly with Jess Frank’s rich harmonies and crowd-energizing presence. Their setlist spans classic rock, Americana, 90s alt-rock, guilty-pleasure pop, and reimagined acoustic hits—designed to get audiences singing, dancing, and loving every moment.
