| Explore Warren

 

“April prepares her green traffic light, and the world thinks, Go!” – Christopher Morley, American journalist and novelist

April is bringing a breath of life into this edition of Wanderings with the return of the CSA programs at farms across county including the Community Supported Garden at Genesis Farm where we gleaned this month’s newsletter photo.

Centenary Stage Company presents the Women Playwrights Series, one of many area productions coming in April. Roy’s Hall is jammin’ every weekend with live music, while Rutherfurd Hall continues its Jazz Series. And Belvidere’s own Country Gate Players are performing Neil Simon's The Odd Couple

Hope’s annual Go Green with Hope will be just one part of a larger town-wide event including yard sales, craft show, an art show and clothing drive. You might even see the Explore Warren folks there!

Ramsaysburg Homestead is hosting an Arts and Antiques Fair, a great way to spend a spring day, find some treasures and celebrate Earth Day (officially April 22, but earth-loving events occurring the weekends before and after). There are also various community cleanups happening, great for families and anyone looking for community service hours, listed in our Community Corner section.

With that longish introduction, we wish everyone a happy weekend, Happy Easter and Happy Wanderings!

 

Spring into Wanderings April 2024

Coming Up: 

Backwards, Forwards, Back @ CSC

A National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere tells of a soldier who returns from war carrying the ghosts of the tour and faces a sobering decision: whether to address their alarming PTSD with Virtual Reality therapy, or risk losing access to their family forever.  Can this new technology recalibrate the brains and bodies of wounded soldiers?  This electric, vivid, one-person show explores the power of healing and finding strength in vulnerability. The Sunday, April 7 performance will include a Symposium afterward with a guest panel of veterans involved in PTSD issues.

Cars and Coffee @ Island Dragway

Saturday, May 4, 2024 -
9:00am to 1:00pm

Happening every Saturday of the month at Island Dragway, enjoy cars, coffee, hot chocolate or a breakfast sandwich.

Patrick Fitzsimmons Album Release Concert @ Roy's Hall

Patrick, a member of From Good Homes, a band he co-founded back in the '90s, celebrates the release of his eighth solo album "Apple Tree Days" featuring some of North Jersey’s most talented musicians. He's opened shows and toured with Bob Dylan, Dave Mathews Band, Hootie and the Blowfish, Joan Osborne, Wide Spread Panic, David Crosby and Bob Weir.

UACNJ Saturday Astronomy Talks 2024

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 8:00pm
Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 8:00pm

UACNJ kicks off its free public programs for 2024 at Jenny Jump State Forest, presented Saturday evenings April-October. The live presentation is followed by stargazing on the club's telescopes until 10:30pm, weather permitting.

Wine Blending Series @ Brook Hollow Winery

Sunday, July 28, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Sunday, November 24, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Channel your inner winemaker series for a fun night of wine blending and friendly competition. Compete as a team or on your own and each session includes light appetizers, non-alcoholic drinks and 5% discount on bottles of wine.

Women Playwrights Series @ CSC

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - 7:00pm

Centenary Stage Company's Women Playwrights Series is back in April, with three shows. The WPS is a developmental program dedicated to providing a working forum for the unique voice of women writing for the theatre today. Each season new plays are selected for a collaborative workshop process, with a professional director and actors, which takes place in a brief rehearsal period of approximately one week, allowing time for the playwright to hear and adapt their work with other professionals. The process culminates in a presentation of the work for the general public as part of the series, giving CSC audiences larger exposure to new work. This year's WPS features Abigail, Wasabia and For a Brighter Tomorrow.

Plant This, Not That! presented by Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Friday, April 26, 2024 -
12:00pm to 1:00pm

Rutgers is offering a Zoom series about invasive and native plants. After the three-part series concludes, come to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension office to pick up three native plant seedlings based on specific growing conditions on your property.

House of Hamill @ Roy's Hall

Whether they’re ripping through a set of original jigs and reels, adding lush three-part harmonies into traditional folk ballads, or cracking up an audience with stories from the road, House of Hamill puts on a show that captivates audiences from the very first note.

CycloneCon @ Centenary University

Get ready for a pop culture convention with something for everyone! This will be a day filled with activities, Exhibitor Hall vendors and artists, a cosplay catwalk, story time with a superhero, photo ops, workshops, panels, a video game tournament, food trucks, kids fun room, and more.

Opening Weekend of the Arbor @ Alba Vineyard

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, April 21, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, April 28, 2024 - 1:00pm

Kick off the opening weekend of Alba Vineyard with Jeff Bellfy and Lorenzo Branca.

Chris Smither @ Roy's Hall

“Smither is an American original, a product of the musical melting pot, and one of the absolute best singer-songwriters in the world.” - Associated Press. He has always traveled his own road and stayed true to his musical vision.

The Lightning Thief @ CSC

Adapted from the best-selling book, The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, comes an action-packed mythical adventure featuring the half-blood son of a Greek god, Percy Jackson, who discovers new powers he can't control, a destiny he doesn't want, and a mythology textbook's worth of monsters on his trail. Featuring a thrilling original rock score, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is "worthy of the gods" - Time Out New York.

"Night at the Races Beefsteak" presented by DASACC

A fun night for a great cause! "Night at the Races Beefsteak" promises an exhilarating evening featuring horse races from the '90s, presented on a large screen with commentary from some of America’s most acclaimed professional announcers. Attendees will have the opportunity to place bets, with a chance to win one of more than 30 exciting prize baskets. All the suspense and close-up action will make you feel like you are at the racetrack!

Wines N' Wicks @ Four Sisters Winery

Begin your journey with a fascinating exploration into the rich history of Four Sisters winery, with a guided wine tasting experience, candle making class and snacks!

Dom Flemons @ Roy's Hall

Flemons is a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, music scholar, actor, slam poet, record collector, and the creator, host, producer of American Songster Radio Show on WSM in Nashville, TN. He's known as The American Songster® since his repertoire covers over one hundred years of American roots music.

Ramsaysburg Art and Antiques Fair

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
10:00am to 5:00pm

From hand blown glass to freshly spun wool to handmade jewelry to antiques galore, by the river and under the trees at Ramsaysburg for a day of treasure hunting with a blending of 30 artisans and antique vendors, indoors and out, utilizing a large historic barn and the natural riverside amphitheater. Food truck will be on site. Free admission, rain or shine.

4X4, Classic Car and Tractor Show @ NWR

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
11:00am to 3:00pm

Join in the fun with this free event at North Warren Regional High School complete with vendors, live music by The Cellar Dwellers, food, prizes and trophies.

The Odd Couple @ Country Gate Players

Saturday, April 20, 2024 to Sunday, April 28, 2024

One of the most celebrated American comedies of all time, “The Odd Couple” is a hilarious take on the conflicts between two friends when they attempt to live together after Felix Ungar's wife has divorced him.

Spring Cabaret Show @ Rutherfurd Hall

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 7:00pm

The Bolshoi Studio Cabaret of 6 talented singers will perform a 90-minute show of Cabaret/Broadway standards, with some Pop music and Blues mixed in. Our Cabaret has several hilarious actors who will keep the audience laughing and engaged all evening, along with a balance of singers who perform deeply moving pieces.

“Go Green With Hope” Green Fair

Saturday, April 27, 2024 -
10:00am to 2:00pm

 Enjoy free admission to glean environmental and sustainability information and wares from more than 50 exhibitors, talk to vendors, pick up some free seedlings and books, enter raffles and more! You may drop off unused medications and electronic waste. A food truck will be on site, and there is also a town-wide Yard Sale, Clothing Drive, Craft Show and Art Show in town that day. "Hope" to see you there!

Town-Wide Events in Hope

Saturday, April 27, 2024 -
10:00am to 3:00pm

April 27 is a big day in the Village of Hope! In addition to the annual "Go Green With Hope" Green Fair being held at the elementary school, there will be a town-wide Yard Sale; a Craft Show; an Art Show and a Clothing Drive! Yard sale locations and times will vary; a Google map will be provided that day. The Green Fair wraps up at 2pm and all other events end at 3pm. All events rain or shine!

Katie Henry Band @ Roy's Hall

Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 8:00pm

With fiery guitar chops and natural charisma, Katie soon became a New York City jam scene favorite. Those who were there remember songs of many genres, blues, rock, R&B, funk, pop, soul, and country, and her stage presence evoked Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin at their most magnetic. Warming the stage for Katie is blues-rocker Dustin Douglas, prefacing his appearance with his band The Electric Gentlemen at Roy's Hall in June.

Music Under the Arbor @ Alba Vineyard

Saturday, May 4, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, May 5, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 11, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, May 12, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 18, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, May 19, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 1:00pm
Sunday, May 26, 2024 - 1:00pm
Monday, May 27, 2024 - 1:00pm
Friday, May 24, 2024 - 6:00pm
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 6:00pm

Jam to music at Alba Vineyard with Joe Wagner Jazz Trio 5/4; Kathy Phillips 5/5; Barbie Tatum 5/11; Lorenzo Branca 5/12; Tom McMillan Quartet 5/18; Jeff Bellfy 5/19; Corinne Mammana Duo 5/24; (1 p.m.)Darla Rich Trio 5/25;(6 p.m.)Walt Bibinger 5/25; Tony Forliano Trio 5/26; Barbie Tatum 5/27             
                            
 

 
Continuing: 

Barefoot Grape Stomping @ Four Sisters

Saturday, April 27, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Are you ready for a smashing good time? The Barefoot Grape Stomping is a one-of-a-kind experience, sure to intoxicate all your senses. The event begins with a formal wine tasting, followed by a Chicken Parmesan dinner, then dessert paired with dessert wines. Reservations required, and price includes souvenir wine glass.

Little Ridge Vineyards Music in April

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 1:00pm

Live music in April featuring Dave Read 4/6; Allan Wilcockson 4/13; Peter Amadeo 4/20; Jeni Hackett 4/27; Greg Stier 4/28.

Brook Hollow Music in April

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 2:00pm
Sunday, April 21, 2024 - 2:00pm
Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 2:00pm
Sunday, April 28, 2024 - 2:00pm

Enjoy Brook Hollow's weekend music live with Stan and Elise 4/6; Ally Brown 4/7; Scott Messina 4/13; Kate and Paul 4/14; Michael Long 4/20; Rich Ortiz 4/21; Bill Ruddy 4/27; Joe Janci 4/28.

Country Line Dancing @ Brook Hollow Winery

Thursday, April 25, 2024 - 7:00pm
Thursday, May 9, 2024 - 7:00pm
Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 7:00pm
Thursday, June 13, 2024 - 7:00pm
Thursday, June 27, 2024 - 7:00pm

Taught by Country Fusion Certified instructor, Jennifer Horsey! Great for all levels of dancing abilities! Buffet dinner offered as extra. This event is limited to the first 100 people who purchase tickets.

Weekend Warrior Yoga

Sunday, April 21, 2024 - 10:30am
Sunday, May 19, 2024 - 10:30am

Weekend Warrior Yoga, led by certified instructor, Mary Walker-Golden of M-Power Yoga & Wellness will be held every third Sunday this Spring from 10:30-11:30am at Pure Skys Spa & Yoga Studi

Murder Mystery Happenings @ Four Sisters

Sunday, April 21, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Sunday, May 19, 2024 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

It’s not a typical who done it. It’s the guests in the audience that create a witty, weaving story line. As the plot thickens, the victim falls prey and the detectives investigate with deductive reasoning to reveal the murderer. Attendees will also enjoy a formal wine tasting, delicious Chicken Parmigana dinner with pasta, salad, bread and dessert.

Little Ridge Vineyards Music in May

Saturday, May 4, 2024 - 2:00pm
Sunday, May 5, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 11, 2024 - 2:00pm
Sunday, May 12, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 18, 2024 - 2:00pm
Sunday, May 19, 2024 - 1:00pm
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 1:00pm

Live music in May featuring Allan Willcockson 5/4; Lauren Christine 5/5; Scott Messina 5/11; Mother's Day 5/12, Live music by Jeff Bellfy, Cousin's Maine Lobster food truck, Mama Dee's Empanada food truck, Chuck Schubert 5/18; John Cain 5/19; Jeni Hackett 5/25.

 
Community Corner: 

Eyes of the Wild @ Richard D. Gardner library

Learn how to be a friend to animals and the earth with this interactive animal adventure. Come see a variety of interesting animals presented by the always entertaining Eyes of the Wild. Registration required.

SOLD OUT Spring Break Comedy Night to Benefit Family Promise of Warren County

Get ready for an evening of laughter and camaraderie as Family Promise of Warren County presents Spring Break Comedy Show Fundraiser. This promises to be a night filled with top-notch comedians, hilarious anecdotes, and good vibes, all while supporting a great cause!
Buns on the Go food truck will be available until 9 p.m. Tickets are only $25.

Job Fair hosted by Warren County EDC

Are you looking for a job or looking for new employees? The Warren County Economic Development Committee will be hosting a job fair co-sponsored by the Washington Business Improvement District and the Warren County Habitat for Humanity.

3rd Annual Loving Lopatcong Earth Day

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
10:00am to 12:00pm

Lopatcong is calling all its residents to love your community and help clean up the streets. Bags, gloves, and safety vest will be available.

Celebrate Earth Day with Belvidere

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
10:00am to 3:00pm

Sponsored by the Belvidere Garden Club, The Belvidere Business District Earth Day Seed Trail is back. Start your day by visiting any of the participating retail shops to pick up a map, have the map hole punched and receive a complimentary packet of flower seeds from each store. Once you’ve visited all the participating stores, bring your completed map to the Community Center @ Belvidere to be entered to win a Grand Prize basket packed with gifts from all the shops!

Hands on Arts Program Series @ Hackettstown Free Public Library

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
12:30pm to 2:30pm
Saturday, December 14, 2024 -
12:30pm to 2:30pm

Join Amanda for a hands-on seasonal cupcake decorating demonstration, learning the basics of icing and piping techniques including written messages, making borders, and other decorations creating spring themes like blooming flowers, running rabbits, and sunny days.

Roast Beef Dinner at Buttzville UMC

Saturday, April 20, 2024 -
4:00pm to 6:00pm

Roast Beef boxed dinner, including dessert. $19 per meal. NEW: You may stay in your vehicle and use the drive-through lane OR park in the main parking lot and enjoy your boxed meal inside in Fellowship Hall.

Ballet Magnificat! The Scarlet Cord

Saturday, April 27, 2024 - 3:00pm

The Scarlet Cord, is a timely piece for today’s audience depicting an incredible drama of two missionaries as they live and minister in the midst of one of the cruelest regimes the world has ever known, the communist Soviet Union.

Wellness Walks with Warren County Parks

Sunday, April 28, 2024 - 10:00am
Sunday, May 19, 2024 - 10:00am
Sunday, June 9, 2024 - 10:00am

Take charge of your year with Wellness Walks led by Warren County naturalist Jen. Walks will vary in time and length and held once a month on a Sunday. Registration required.

Spring on the Farm @ Genesis Farm

Sunday, April 28, 2024 -
11:00am to 3:00pm

Genesis Farms presents an Earth Day Open House with workshops, hayrides, kids’ activities, garden lunch, artisans, plus a very special guest.

Clothing Drive sponsored by FPCH

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 -
6:00pm to 8:00pm
Saturday, May 4, 2024 -
8:00am to 9:00am

Donations will be collected in the parking lot both days and the funds received will be used by the deacons in support of their compassionate ministries.

Poetry in May presented by WC Arts

Saturday, May 11, 2024 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm

All are welcome to attend the readings of Elaine Koplow and Jane Ebihara's latest works along with comments on inspiration, forms and other aspects of writing.

Refreshments, discussion and open mic to follow.

 
More Things to Do: 

Warren County Grains and Grapes Trail Passport Program

Embark on the Warren County Grains & Grapes passport adventure! There's still time to collect three stamps at each of the nine unique wineries and breweries by April 30, 2024, and earn yourself an exclusive commemorative hoodie featuring the Grains & Grapes partners. Immerse in the serene landscapes and rich history of Warren County, as you indulge in the finest local wines and craft beers. Discover the charm of Warren County – your gateway to the best of local brews and vines! Learn more at the link. Must be 21+ to participate."

 
Plan Ahead: 

4th Annual Rock & Roll Steampunk Fair hosted by Washington BID

Saturday, May 4, 2024 -
10:00am to 5:00pm

The 4th annual Rock & Roll Steampunk Fair is a day filled with live music, artisan vendors, street performers, and general steampunk shenanigans. Come dressed for the occasion! Featured performers are Crash Gordon & Debra Dynamite, Frenchy and the Punk, and Victor and the Bully.

24th Annual Run for the River hosted by MWA

Sunday, May 5, 2024 -
10:00am to 12:00pm

Run for the River is live and in-person this year with a scenic loop that passes streams, pastures, historic buildings, and the beautiful Musconetcong River on a mostly flat course. The run is an annual fundraiser for the nonprofit Musconetcong Watershed Association.