| Explore Warren

 

"In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours." - Mark Twain

We’re not foolin’! The photo of the blooming Willow tree at the historic VanNest-Hoff-Vannatta Farmstead was taken this very morning amid a chilly 37 degrees!  Meanwhile, this April Wanderings is brimming with county entertainment, music and fairs. Get your arts and crafts pants on with sip-and-paints and soap making. There are also several interesting and informative lectures being conducted.

Head over to our Easter page for festive happenings around the county; Centenary Stage Co. heats up the boards with its annual Women Playwrights Series; and Roy’s Hall might be heard in the next county with its jammin’ schedule!

Hope celebrates its 12th year of Go Green with Hope, a town-wide event with yard sales, arts, crafts, local vendors, government entities and more. And if you’re down towards Washington, head over to the Steampunk Rock and Roll Fair filled with music, vendors, food and yours truly, Explore Warren!

So let's hit it! Happy Passover, Happy Easter, Happy Earth Day and Happy Wanderings!

 

Spring Has Sprung - April 2025

Coming Up: 

Women Playwrights Series featuring Wasabia @ CSC

The World Premiere of Wasabia, written by Wendy Herlich and featured in CSC's Spring 2024 Women Playwrights Series, takes center stage with the unexpected friendship of Vivian and Carla, two women helping the other through life's tough decisions.

Spring Trucks and Coffee @ OK4WD

This a free event with coffee supplied by The Stone Bean, no registration, and all vehicles are welcome! A raffle, garage sale and prizes will be available during this event.

2nd Annual CycloneCon @ Centenary University

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

Pierogi Tasting @ Villa Milagro

Every culture has its own version of pierogi - like Italian ravioli, Chinese dumplings and other stuffed packages of deliciousness. Krakus Polish Deli will be making these doughy delights for sampling. Complement them with some of Villa's legendary wine. $15/person.

The Art of Pruning @ Alba Vineyard

Take a walk with Alba Vineyard winegrower Nick Sharko for a focus on the art of pruning, including methods used on the estate to enhance the unique qualities of each vineyard block. The experience concludes with a tasting which includes unreleased wines.

Sip N' Paint @ Four Sisters Winery

Paint a Shetland cow with a floral wreath headband, drink wine and eat charcuterie at Four Sisters with Painting with Friends NJ instructor Donna Paino. Seating is limited.

Eldorado Slim featuring Scott Sharrad @ Roy's Hall

Led by Little Feat guitarist Scott Sharrard, this six-piece lineup consists of some of New York City’s finest musicians. Inspired by the consciousness expanding and hypnotic, improvisational funk of the era, music by artists like Grant Green, Eddie Harris, Lonnie Smith, The Crusaders, Cannonball Adderley, King Curtis, Chico Hamilton and Stuff.

Paint & Sip @ Man Skirt Brewing

Join Chelsea of the Traveling Palette at Man Skirt for a instructional painting workshop creating a wood “Welcome” porch sign featuring lilacs, cherry blossoms, and a charming bird’s nest. Limited spots available. 

Lessons from a Jellyfish - WPS @ CSC

Despite her disabilities, humor and difficulty with her mom, Ariela becomes an artist and the master of comebacks, challenging those who love her to rethink what it means to create and connect. Lessons from a Jellyfish is part of CSC's Women Playwright Series in 2025.

"Fun Friday" in the Village of Hope

The Hope Township Creative Team is hosting a Resident Artist Show at the Hope Distillery featuring talented local artist Crystal White. The show will kick off at the town's Fun Friday event on April 11, and run through April 26 after the Green Fair. The exhibit will showcase a diverse collection of artwork, including paintings and sculptures created from sustainable materials.

Annual River Cleanup hosted by MWA

Dirty hands make a clean river! Join MWA for its annual river cleanup along the Musconetcong River. Choose from 21 locations from Lake Hopatcong to the Delaware River. All supplies are provided for each volunteer.

Martin Barre: An Acoustic Trio @ Roy's Hall

More than a concert, this is an intimate and interactive meet & greet experience with legendary Jethro Tull guitarist Martin Barre, joined by Dan Crisp and Alan Thomson. “Tull Unplugged” will be an intimate evening with anecdotes from Barre's 43-year career as lead guitarist for Jethro Tull. Expect acoustic guitars and basses, mandolins and flutes, all put together in a totally exclusive and unique performance with an addition of good humor!

SOLD OUT The Long Goodbye lecture and fundraiser @ Rutherfurd Hall

Historian of Rutherfurd Hall, Joan Leckie Salvas, explores one of the most poignant chapters in American history with the final days of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his enduring connection to Lucy Mercer Rutherfurd. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Salvas will bring to life the emotional and historical weight of those last moments.

Crime Fiction - WPS @ CSC

From crime journalist to fiction writer, Maddie is excited to learn from a best-selling author who finds herself in the middle of a crime story with a stalker. Fiction Crime is part of CSC's Women Playwright Series in 2025.

YARN @ Roy's Hall

Roy's Hall, once again, welcomes Yarn, an ever evolving Americana/jam/rock group based out of Brooklyn and Raleigh with "Born, Blessed, Grateful, & Alive", their first studio album in eight years. The new music reverberates with echoes of past classic rock and country from the 1970s and 1980s with apparent sonic references to artists such as Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, John Prine, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Dwight Yoakam, and Lowell George.

Cold Process Soap Making - Spring Theme @ Propagate Studio

Saturday, May 17, 2025 - 2:00pm

Create your very own soaps from scratch using Olive oil, Coconut oil and a few other simple ingredients along with your choice of fragrance and color.  Propagate's experienced instructor will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you leave with a 24oz of soap loaf. Bring yourself & your DIY enthusiasm!

The Mighty Four - WPS @ CSC

How far will these parents go to protect their child after he commits a violent act of racism? The Mighty Four is part of CSC's 2025 Women Playwrights Series.

Carrie the Musical @ CSC

Based on the novel by Stephen King comes Centenary's musical performance of Carrie, a teenage outcast who longs to fit in and is continually bullied at school by the popular crowd. What none of them know is that Carrie has just discovered her special power, and if pushed too far, she's not afraid to use it.

"Night at the Races" presented by DASACC

Friday, April 25, 2025 - 7:00pm

A fun night for a great cause! "Night at the Races" promises an exhilarating evening featuring horse races 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! Doors open at 6pm.

Spring Artist Workshop Day @ WC Arts

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
8:30am to 4:00pm

It's not all about straight out of the tube greens but rather how an array of colors can change the look and feel of the greens we see in nature. Join painter Mike Dziomba for a demonstration touching on various techniques on creating trees, grasses and shrubs to enhance the look of your landscapes.

5th Annual Rock & Roll Steampunk Fair hosted by Washington BID

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
10:00am to 7:00pm

Come dressed for the occasion! The 5th annual Rock & Roll Steampunk Fair is a free event in downtown Washington Borough and features a full day of live music, streets lined with vendors, fabulous costumes, street performers, local specials, activities and so much more! 

“Go Green With Hope” Green Fair

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
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!

Group Hikes on the Paulinskill Valley Trail

Saturday, April 26, 2025 - 10:00am
Saturday, June 7, 2025 - 10:00am
Saturday, June 14, 2025 - 10:00am
Monday, September 1, 2025 - 10:00am
Saturday, November 1, 2025 - 10:00am

A hike of roughly four miles along the Paulinskill Valley Trail with the Paulinskill Valley Trail Committee (PVTC) friends group. The cinder-based trail provides easy, level walking. Bring lunch and a drink. Meeting in Columbia (at the river), Green and Washington Streets. Please RSVP, click MORE for details.

Empanada Tasting @ Villa Milagro

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
11:00am to 5:00pm
Sunday, April 27, 2025 -
11:00am to 5:00pm

Something to Taco About is an authentic South-of-the-Border eatery making empanadas at Villa Milagro for a tasting weekend. 

Argyle's Fish and Chips @ Brook Hollow Winery

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
4:00pm to 6:00pm

Eat in or take out another infamous fish fry from Argyle's. Enjoy battered fish, fries and slaw. This event is limited to the first 100 people who purchase tickets.

The Joe Cirotti Trio 10 Year Anniversary Celebration @ Roy's Hall

Saturday, April 26, 2025 - 8:00pm

Get ready to celebrate 10 years with The Joe Cirotti Trio live at Roy's Hall. This Northwest Jersey Appalachian band will be playing full-band renditions of Joe Cirotti's remarkable catalog of original songs from his three full-length record releases.

Watercolor Workshop with Christina Podabed presented by WC Arts

Saturday, May 10, 2025 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm

Learn to paint realistic animals with Christina Podabed using watercolor supplies. Please bring watercolor paper, paints, brushes, mixing palette and water container. Please bring a reference photo of your pet or other creature that appeals to you.

 
Entertainment: 

Brook Hollow Music

Friday, April 25, 2025 - 6:00pm
Saturday, April 26, 2025 - 2:00pm
Sunday, April 27, 2025 - 2:00pm

Enjoy Brook Hollow's weekend music live with Rich Ortiz 4/4; Stan and Elise 4/5; Ally Brown 4/6; Water Street 4/11; Kate and Paul 4/12;  Pete Cline 4/13; Scott Messina 4/14; Katy Gerhold 4/19; CLOSED FOR EASTER 4/20; Rich Berry 4/25; Water Street 4/26;
John Cain 4/27.

Live Music @ Tiptons Tavern

Saturday, April 26, 2025 - 8:00pm

Tipton's has live music every weekend in April featuring Abby Rose 4/4: Jeff Bellfy & Co. 4/5; Chuck Schubert & Co. 4/11; Harmony Garage Band 4/12; Eric Lear Music 4/18; Bobby Clark (solo) 4/19; Naked Jake 4/26.

Little Ridge Vineyards Music

Saturday, April 26, 2025 - 2:00pm
Sunday, April 27, 2025 - 1:00pm

Little Ridge has live music in April featuring John Cain 4/5; Rene Avila 4/6; Jeff Bellfy 4/12; Ralph James 4/13; Scott Messina 4/19; Peter Amadeo 4/26; Henry McCormack 4/27.

Little Ridge Vineyards Live Music

Saturday, May 3, 2025 -
2:00pm to 5:00pm
Sunday, May 4, 2025 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm
Saturday, May 10, 2025 -
1:30pm to 4:30pm
Sunday, May 11, 2025 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Little Ridge has live music in May featuring Eric Lear 5/3; Dave Read 5/4; Jeni Hackett 5/10; Jeff Bellfy & Chel 5/11.

 

Live Music @ Tiptons Tavern

Friday, May 2, 2025 - 8:00pm
Saturday, May 3, 2025 - 8:00pm
Friday, May 9, 2025 - 8:00pm
Saturday, May 10, 2025 - 8:00pm
Friday, May 16, 2025 - 8:00pm
Saturday, May 17, 2025 - 8:00pm
Friday, May 23, 2025 - 8:00pm
Friday, May 30, 2025 - 8:00pm
Saturday, May 31, 2025 - 8:00pm

Tipton's has live music every weekend in May featuring Bottlecaps 5/2; Swagger 5/3; Michael Patrick 5/9; Skin of my Teeth 5/10; Cowboy & the Hippies 5/16; Bobby Clark Band 5/17; Cody Templeton (solo) 5/23; Werner Sommer 5/30; Blaming Amy 5/31.

 
Continuing: 

Friday Night Meal Deal @ Brook Hollow Winery

Friday, April 25, 2025 - 6:00pm

Back by popular demand! Brook Hollow invites you to a Friday night Meal Deal, perfectly paired with live music and extended happy hour specials. Talk about the ultimate pairing for your night out! Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.

Trivia Night @ Buttzville Brewing Co.

Who doesn't love a good pub trivia night? Buttzville will be hosting a fun night of quizzes and games to test your knowledge. Win prizes, have fun with friends, and support local craft beer!

 
Community Corner: 

Spring Paper Shredding hosted by Hackettstown Rotary Club

All communities are welcome to participate in Hackettstown Rotary's bi-annual paper shred taking place in the Fulton Bank parking lot. $5 per bag or box and all proceeds support the many community organizations that the Rotary supports. Abilities of New Jersey will be on-site for electronic recycling.

Roast Beef Dinner at Buttzville UMC

Saturday, April 26, 2025 -
4:00pm to 6:00pm

Offering both eat-in and drive-through Roast Beef boxed dinner, including assorted desserts. $19 per meal. 

 
Plan Ahead: 

‘Halfway to Halloween’ Costume Ball presented by Abilities of Northwest New Jersey Inc.

Saturday, May 3, 2025 -
5:30pm to 9:30pm

Witches and warlocks, zombies and vampires, ghosts and goblins, don’t despair you are invited to a grand affair! Abilities of Northwest New Jersey Inc. is embarking on their first Halfway to Halloween Costume Ball Saturday, May 3. Sponsorships are available and all proceeds support programs for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection for Warren County Residents

Sunday, May 18, 2025 -
8:00am to 12:00pm

Warren County residents only. This is for Household Hazardous Waste collection only - no electronics will be accepted. No containers larger than 5 gallons. This event is sponsored by the Pollution Control Financing Authority of Warren County.

Bicentennial Community Day

Saturday, June 28, 2025 -
12:00pm to 9:30pm

SAVE THE DATE! Join in celebrating Warren County's bicentennial held on the grounds of Warren County Community College, with live music (two stages), food trucks, craft vendors, amusements and activities for kids, and FIREWORKS after dark! Fun for the whole family.

2025 Tour De Farm

Saturday, September 13, 2025 -
7:00am to 2:00pm

Registration is now open! Gear up for the 13th Annual Tour de Farm and Fondo Cycling Tours through the northwest NJ farmlands, a cycling and culinary journey like no other! Start the day with a delicious farm-cooked breakfast, choose from one of the routes to visit farms, and then complete your day with a farm-cooked lunch. The tour begins and ends at Race Farm. There is a driving option for non-cyclers. This helps support our NJ farmers and their farms.

Please be advised that we do our best to make sure the information in this message is accurate at the time it is sent. But things happen, plans change, weather can be fickle... you get the idea. Please click on the links provided to other websites to obtain further details and updates.