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"He turns not back who is bound to a star." - Anonymous

This issue is filled with stars, from the return of Saturday night talks with UACNJ Astronomy Club at Jenny Jump State Forest to Centenary Stage Company's The Niceties, pictured above, opening tomorrow (April 9). Speaking of things that are "nice," we have a pair of complimentary tickets to Friday night’s show! Send an email to tourism@co.warren.nj.us with The Niceties in the subject line, and those tickets could be yours!

In other CSC news, its Women Playwright Series continues tonight and next week; a unique perspective on the creative process and an opportunity to interact with the playwright.

For the true stars of our nation, the Warren County Division of Aging & Disability Services is hosting its 2nd Annual Veteran and Military Family ExpoVeterans and loved ones can head over to Belvidere Manor Banquet Hall for resources and guidance, and perhaps make some new friends.

Any dancing stars out there? Get ready to kick up your heels next weekend for some line dancing at Little Washington's Boots in the Borough and then and Shimmy over to Rutherfurd Hall to do the Charleston and more at a Roaring '20s Benefit for the Warren County Historical and Genealogical Society Museum!

Look for locals starring in The Miracle Worker at Country Gate Players, premiering next weekend.

Are you seeing stars yet? 

Be the star of your own show by reading this issue to find out  more and make your plans! And if you haven't grabbed your Grains and Grapes passport or have yet to complete the trail, you have until April 30 to claim your tote bag and a chance to win the grand prize! Hop over to the Grains and Grapes page to learn more!

Happy Wanderings!

The Stars Above and Below April 8-19

Coming Up: 

Women Playwright Series presents Breeders by Megan Campisi at CSC

Six soon-to-be-parents meet in a childbirth class, ensuing in a comic crucible as they confront their opinions, fears, and baggage about becoming parents. Since 1992, CSC’s developmental program (Women Playwright Series) has featured and helped to develop the new work of over 80 female playwrights from around the country and produced 20 World Premieres in as many years.

Revolution Radio Music Bingo at Living Spirits

Thursday, May 14, 2026 - 7:00pm
Thursday, June 11, 2026 - 7:00pm

Compete for prizes in each round, enjoy craft cocktails, and settle into the Lounge. It’s free to play and packed with great tunes, awesome prizes, and of course, great beer. Grab your friends and get ready for a fun night out!

The Niceties at CSC

An accomplished Ivy League professor holds routine office hours with an ambitious young student to discuss her thesis: if history is written by the victors, who tells the story of the oppressed?

Spring Trucks and Coffee at OK4WD

Bring the whole family and enjoy free coffee, food truck, a community raffle, and Paint the Jeep for the kids! This is a free event with no registration required.

Phillipsburg Art Walk

Experience a day where art, culture, and community come together in the heart of Phillipsburg with the 2nd Annual Phillipsburg Art Walk; a vibrant, walkable celebration of local artists, creative businesses, and downtown charm. Pick up a map of Historic Downtown Phillipsburg featuring all participating locations and artists at Phillipsburg Indoor Market, visiting every stop and you’ll be entered to win gift cards from participating businesses!

Third Annual CycloneCon @ Centenary University

Dive into a full day of comics, anime, cosplay, video games, board games, and sci-fi/fantasy fun. With 90+ vendors, artists, and authors—plus panels, workshops, trivia, and interactive activities—there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Pierogi Tasting at 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.

Tulip Festival Weekends at Von Thun Farms

Saturday, April 18, 2026 to Sunday, April 19, 2026
Saturday, April 25, 2026 to Sunday, April 26, 2026
Saturday, May 2, 2026 to Sunday, May 3, 2026
Thursday, May 7, 2026

Von Thun's is opening for Early Bloom this weekend! Tulips symbolize rebirth, especially appropriate that they bloom at the start of spring, a new beginning following winter. Von Thun Farms is excited to open the Tulip Festival every weekend starting April 11 - May 7! Advanced tickets are available now!

Guided Mindfulness Nature Walk hosted by RVC

Join Kripalu certified Mindfulness Outdoor Leader Beth Haessig as she takes you on an inner journey, outside in nature, at the Limestone Ridge Preserve. By finding stillness, heart-centered awareness and communing with the powerful presence of trees, the stress of the week, will surely fall away. Suitable for adults and children, 10 and older.

Hard Seltzer Fest at Man Skirt Brewing

Delicious eats from Tacos Chicas and treats by Coot’s Kitchen, limited-edition merch, live music by Rick Barth at 7pm and pop-up vendors
Stop in for a quick drink or stay and work your way through the whole lineup. Either way, it’s going to be a celebration you won’t want to miss.

UACNJ Saturday Astronomy Talks 2026

Saturday, April 18, 2026 - 8:00pm
Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 8:00pm

These are free public programs 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.

Women Playwright Series presents Not It! by Kathleen Coudle-King at CSC

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 - 7:00pm

After the death of their last remaining parent, three sisters gather to organize and hold a garage sale along with deciding who will care for their "baby sister", now 30, who is developmentally disabled. Since 1992, CSC’s developmental program (Women Playwright Series) has featured and helped to develop the new work of over 80 female playwrights from around the country and produced 20 World Premieres in as many years.

2nd Annual Warren County Veteran Expo

Thursday, April 16, 2026 -
2:00pm to 6:30pm

All Veterans and their families are welcome to attend. Services include resume building, employers, organizations, Veterans and community resources.

Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary at the Roseberry House

Saturday, April 18, 2026 -
10:00am to 4:00pm

Step back into the 18th century at the Roseberry House with the Bachmann Players! The day will feature lively, hands-on history demonstrations, traditional skills and pastimes such as knitting, crafts, and a classic hunters’ presentation will be happening alongside colonial-appropriate light refreshments. The Warren County Community Singers will present a quartet featuring patriotic and Old America folk songs.

Ravioli Tasting at Villa Milagro Vineyards

Saturday, April 18, 2026 -
11:00am to 5:00pm
Sunday, April 19, 2026 -
11:00am to 5:00pm

Every Italian makes their own special ravioli, little pillows of pasta dough traditionally stuffed with delectable cheeses and drizzled with marinara or seasoned butter. Come try a sampling from Francesco’s Italian Pizzeria, along with your favorite VM wine! 

The Miracle Worker @ Country Gate Players

Saturday, April 18, 2026
Sunday, April 19, 2026
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Sunday, April 26, 2026

A child trapped in silence. A family desperate for hope. The Miracle Worker tells the powerful true story of Helen Keller and the determined teacher who broke through the darkness to reach her. Witness a moving journey of frustration, resilience, and love as one family fights to unlock the world inside their child—and discovers the miracle of connection.

A Night at Rutherfurd Hall - Roaring '20s Benefit

Saturday, April 18, 2026 -
7:00pm to 10:00pm

The Warren County Historical & Genealogical Society invites you to return to the Roaring '20s for a swank soiree in Rutherfurd Hall, the turn-of-the-20th Century, Tudor-style mansion in Allamuchy visited by notables including President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Gatsby was great, but this will be even greater, with the requested donation of $45 per person including food from Mama's Catering of Mama's Cafe Baci, Hackettstown; drinks; dancing; and music by Moetta, a five-piece jazz combo. Proceeds support repairs to the WCHGS Museum in Belvidere, ensuring that it can be open during this year's America250 celebration. Period dress welcomed but not required.

Bread Baking 101 at Brook Hollow Winery

Sunday, April 19, 2026 -
1:00pm to 3:00pm

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread and you can learn how to make it yourself with Meg Viola-Eliopoulos, a small-batch artisan bread baker. This class is all about learning by doing, developing intuition with dough, understanding fermentation, and mastering the basics so you can create beautiful, flavorful bread at home. Space is limited. 

Mystery Flame Awakening: A Candle Crafting Experience at Four Sisters Winery

Sunday, April 19, 2026 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Let a mystery flame choose you from East Mtn Culture’s six foundational qualities and craft your own 12 oz soy intention candle with guided education on safe pouring and mindful blending. Practice two breathwork exercises: 4-7-8 to calm your nervous system and Breath of Joy to uplift your energy. Wine and snacks are included.

 

 
Entertainment: 

Live Music at The Draught House

Friday, April 17, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, June 5, 2026 - 7:00pm
Saturday, August 8, 2026 - 8:00pm

The Draught House is open and crankin' the tunes! Diamond Eye Jack 3/26; Dean Shot and His Solid Senders 4/10; Rumble City Records 4/17; Pink Floid NYC 6/5; Whiskey and Roses 8/8.

April Music at Panther Pub

Friday, April 17, 2026 - 8:00pm
Friday, April 24, 2026 - 8:00pm

Panther Pub continues with tunes Friday tunes featuring Karen Payne Duo 4/3; Carden Raquet 4/10; Juke Box Trio 4/17; Maribyrd Duo 4/25. 

Live Music at Living Spirits Distillery

Friday, April 17, 2026 - 6:30pm
Saturday, April 18, 2026 - 2:30pm
Thursday, April 23, 2026 - 6:30pm
Friday, April 24, 2026 - 7:00pm
Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 2:30pm

Hackettstown's own distillery, Living Spirits, is open and bringing the live music featuring DJ Cadillac Kid- The 90's Set 4/10; Lelia & Mike 4/11; Spirits and Many Sounds, Open Mic and Hootenanny 4/12; Gabby Toledo 4/17; Six String Stories 4/18; Acoustic Name that Tune 4/23; DJ Sean Henry, Vinyl Lounge Friday 4/24;  B.D. Lenz 4/25.

Brook Hollow Live Music - April 2026

Friday, April 17, 2026 to Sunday, April 19, 2026
Friday, April 24, 2026 to Sunday, April 26, 2026

Enjoy Brook Hollow's weekend live music with OPEN MIC NIGHT 4/10; Stan and Elise 4/11; John Cain 4/12; Katy Gerhold 4/17; 2 Way Street 4/18; Water Street 4/19; OPEN MIC NIGHT 4/24; Michael Long 4/25; Phil Carollo 4/26.

 
Continuing: 

Friday Night Meal Deal at Brook Hollow Winery

Friday, April 17, 2026 - 6:00pm
Friday, April 24, 2026 - 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.

Murder Mystery Dinner @ Four Sisters Winery: "A Bad Vintage"

Saturday, April 18, 2026 -
1:00pm to 4:00pm

Fun and suspense are guaranteed for anyone who loves a good puzzle and some dramatic twists. Bring your detective skills and team up to crack the case ("A Bad Vintage") before time runs out! Enjoy a three-course meal, educational wine tasting, chance to win small prizes, and souvenir wine glass along the way! 

Warren County Wednesday Walks

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 - 10:00am

Join Warren County Park Naturalist Jennifer for a monthly hike at a different park. Registration is required.

 
Community Corner: 

"Fun Friday" in the Village of Hope

Head out to Hope for one more Fun Friday before renovations start on the Community Center. Come for a relaxing get-together, the usual card and board games will be available, craft possibilities and everyone is invited to participate in the potluck.

Working with Abstraction presented by WC ARTS

Join Trish Goginsky as she discusses foundational ideas in Abstract art such as simplification, stylization, symbolism, mark-making and expressive color. Guided by the discussions and creative prompts, participants will create a series of small original compositions that explore these ideas.

Phillipsburg Indoor Winter Market

Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 10:00am

The Phillipsburg Farmers Market has moved indoors for the winter, open the 2nd and 4th Saturday from January through April, each with a theme. Customers can continue to buy their favorite fresh and local foods while supporting community vendors. 

Spring Paper Shredding hosted by Hackettstown Rotary Club

Saturday, April 18, 2026 -
9:00am to 12:00pm

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.

Search and Rescue Me 5K at Riverfront Park

Saturday, April 25, 2026 - 9:00am

Run or walk to benefit the Search and Rescue Teams of Warren County at Riverfront Park in Hackettstown. $30/ person with a price increase after April 24.

Warren County Small Business Networking Event

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 -
5:00pm to 8:00pm

Calling all small business owners! Join other Warren County business friends for a networking event sponsored by the Warren County Economic Development Committee at Man Skirt Brewing in Hackettstown. This is a free event with food and cash bar. Please RSVP by April 24.

 
Plan Ahead: 

Herb Workshop at Flowerland Growers

Friday, April 24, 2026 -
10:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday, April 25, 2026 -
10:00am to 3:00pm

Create and personalize a planter with the herbs that you prefer, and enjoy your creation over and again with each recipe you make! Bring in your own container or purchase one at Flowerland, and fill it with your choice of a large selection of herbs and edibles. Registration is required, so please call 908-750-4567 to book your hour-long time slot on Friday or Saturday between 10am and 3pm.

Area 57- Flying Objects and Other Fun at WCCC

Saturday, April 25, 2026 -
11:00am to 5:00pm

Area 57 is all about tech and aviation, highlighting the Drone demonstrations by Warren Community College. This year's event will also feature Combat Robots, organized by the newly formed Garden State Combat Robotics League and of course, hot air balloons.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection for Warren County Residents

Sunday, May 17, 2026 -
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.