Welcome Montclair Girl readers! Whether you’re heading out or staying in — this week’s Montclair + beyond events guide has got you covered with the launch of The Montclair Girl {giveaways all weekend long}, a Black History Month film series, a sleep-out event to help homeless youth in Essex County, free dance classes, and much more happening. Check out this list of all the virtual and in-person events happening in Montclair, Bloomfield, and beyond this weekend {February 26th – March 2nd}.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please contact the host directly.
Virtual Events
Launch of The Montclair Girl
Friday, February 26th | All day long
Join us for the launch of TheMontclairGirl.com with giveaways all weekend long on our Instagram @themontclairgirl!
Lotion Stick Making Virtual Workshop
Friday, February 26th | 7:00PM-8:00PM
Join a virtual lotion stick-making class. Lotion sticks, also known as lotion bars, are a travel-friendly moisturizer that helps keep your skin soft and smooth. You will make them with all-natural oils, butter, and fragrances. Register in advance to reserve your materials for shipping or local curbside pick up. Please provide your shipping address when registering. Learn more here.
Covenant House: Sleep Out Event To Support Homeless Youth
Friday, February 26th | 8:00PM-9:00AM
For some of us it’s time to stay warm at home, but know that in NJ every night over 3000 homeless youth are on the streets. On Friday, February 26th, the Junior League of Montclair-Newark will host Sleep Out: Montclair Community Edition from home. The link will be sent to registered participants prior to the event. Next, locate a sleeping bag and find a spot to Sleep Out. This can be in your own backyard, deck, porch, or car! Participants are expected to approach the event with an open heart, an open mind, and a willingness to work hard for something outside of their comfort zone. All participants are required to fundraise before the event, but you’re not on your own. The team provides coaching, materials, and support to help you reach your goal. Learn more here.
Tree Planting Virtual Class
Saturday, February 27th | 10:00AM-11:00AM
Join a virtual tree planting class sponsored by the The Montclair Foundation’s Van Vleck House and Gardens. The price for the class ranges from $10 to $15. Learn more here.
Creative Dot Work Class Hosted by Montclair Art Museum
Saturday, February 27th | 1:00PM-3:00PM
Dot art is a perfect art form for anyone who is interested in spiritual drawings, art therapy, and meditation. Perfect for rocks or spirit stones, found objects, or work on paper. No prior art skills required for beautiful results. This workshop is online with live instruction. The event is for people ages 16 and older. Register here.
Crazy Quilting Virtual Workshop
Saturday, February 27th | 2:00PM
Learn how to take items like old clothes, sheets, curtains, and scrap fabrics and turn them into one-of-a-kind quilts with fun patterns. During the class, you will also discuss the significance of quilting in African American History – the origins of quilting in African culture, and how it was brought to America. $25 per participant. DIY Kit provided. Register in advance to reserve your materials for shipping or local curbside pick up. Please provide your shipping address when registering. Sign up here.
Hone Your Food Writing Skills Event
Saturday, February 27th | 2:00PM-3:30PM
Part of the Montclair Literary Festival’s Do the Write Thing workshop series, this 90-minute interactive class will help you hone your food writing skills, whether you’re working on fiction or non-fiction, want to write a blog or cookbook, or just create better Yelp reviews. We’ll discuss what makes copy stand out, and look at how your voice, storytelling, and reporting make a good food story. Requirements: Please bring a slice of pizza to eat during the online session – anything from a slice of your favorite to something from your freezer. Learn more here.
Bilingual Poetry Reading
Saturday, February 27th | 3:00PM
Join a bilingual poetry reading curated by Marta Lopez Luaces in collaboration with Montclair State University and The New York Public Library. Learn more here.
Self-Publish Like a Pro Event
Saturday, February 27th | 4:00PM-5:30PM
Part of the Montclair Literary Festival’s Do the Write Thing workshop series, in this 90-minute interactive class you will learn the critical steps you’ll need to take before clicking ‘publish’ with confidence and authority. This workshop is for authors of all genres. Eva will review the steps an author should take before starting the publishing process, the different types of self-publishing routes there are – from complete DIY to working with self-publishing companies – and actionable strategies to self-publish like a pro. Everything a savvy indie author needs will be covered in this workshop. Learn more here.
Black History Month Cinema Celebration Hosted by Montclair Film
Now-Sunday, February 28th
Join Montclair Film as they celebrate Black History Month with a robust program of films in their Virtual Cinema! With short films and contemporary features that examine the Black experience in America, Montclair Film continues its commitment to the black artists and stories that shape our culture and community. Learn more here.
76 Days: Virtual Film Hosted by Montclair Film
Now-Sunday, February 28th
On January 23rd, 2020, China locked down Wuhan, a city of 11 million, to combat the emerging COVID-19 outbreak. Set deep inside the frontlines of the crisis, 76 DAYS tells indelible human stories of healthcare workers and patients who struggle to survive the pandemic with resilience and dignity. Tickets are $8 for members and regular tickets are $10. The event is hosted by Montclair Film. Register here.
Portrait of Jason: Free Virtual Film Hosted by Montclair Film
Now-Sunday, February 28th
PORTRAIT OF JASON is a film about Jason Holliday and serves as a potent reminder of what the world was like for black gay men in the heat of the Civil Rights movement and before the Stonewall Uprising. Tickets are free. The event is hosted by Montclair Film. Register here.
Our Right to Gaze: Black Film Identities Virtual Cinema Series Hosted by Montclair Film
Now-Sunday, February 28th
In this collection of six shorts, filmmakers gaze at themselves and their world, attempting to make sense of what they see reflected back. From gripping drama to heart-warming comedy, OUR RIGHT TO GAZE: BLACK FILM IDENTITIES features timely stories from Black artists that take us outside of the ordinary. Tickets are $8 for members and regular tickets are $10. The event is hosted by Montclair Film. Register here.
Nickel Creek Virtual Concert Hosted by NJPAC
Sunday, February 28th | 7:30PM
Take part in a virtual Nickel Creek concert as they perform from Santa Barbara, California. Tickets are $25. The event is hosted by NJPAC. Register here.
3 Doors Down Virtual Concert Hosted by NJPAC
Registration is now open | Friday, March 5th | 9:00PM
Register now for a virtual 3 Doors Down concert as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their multi-platinum debut album The Better Life with a live show streaming from Nashville, Tennessee right to your living room. This virtual concert will feature the full band playing all of their greatest hits like Kryptonite. Tickets start at $20. The event is hosted by NJPAC. Register here.
Register for A Gathering of Givers: Reshaping Our Communities and Our World
Registration is now open | Monday, March 8th | 7:00PM
Registration is now open for this event. Join the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on International Women’s Day for the third annual Gathering of Givers free virtual event. Learn more here.
500 Years of Fashion Subordination: How the Corset Shaped the Dress Virtual Class
Registration closes on Wednesday, March 3rd | 6:30PM
This class will focus on how undergarments have shaped dresses throughout different eras. Presenting a visual history starting with the first Spanish farthingale in 1540 which made skirts wide, and moving in detail through centuries, countries, and styles. It covers skirts, bodices, sleeves, and the bustle. Registration closes on Wednesday, March 3rd. Register here.
Artemisia Gentileschi: The Spirit of Caesar with the Soul of a Woman Virtual Class
Registration closes on Tuesday, March 9th | 2:00PM-4:00PM
This class will focus on Artemisia Gentileschi, the most famous female painter of the 17th Century. Although trained by her father, she went on to have a successful, independent career, only to fall into obscurity after her death in 1656. She did astonishing work, mostly portraying courageous and rebellious female protagonists. Come and hear what inspired her— her story is as dramatic and powerful today as it was 400 years ago. Registration closes on Tuesday, March 9th. Register here.
Pioneering Women Photographers: 1850-1950 Virtual Class
Registration closes on Thursday, March 11th | 6:30PM-8:00PM
From the dawn of photography, the new medium has been primarily recognized as a pursuit meant for men. This lecture presents female photographers who, in the first 100 years of the camera’s existence, in different forms and capacities left their mark on the art of photography. Registration closes on Thursday, March 11th. Register here.
Women Leaders of the Long Civil Rights Movement Virtual Class
Registration closes on Wednesday, March 17th | 6:30PM-8:00PM
This class will examine the critical role that African American women played in what historian Jacqueline Dowd Hall calls “The Long Civil Rights Movement,” beginning in the 1930s. Students will learn about the civil rights activism of Mary Church Terrell, Mary McCleod Bethune, Ella Baker, Rosa Parks, Jo Ann Robinson, Fannie Lou Hamer, Diane Nash, and other African American women who played a central role in demanding Black people’s rights as citizens and as human beings. Registration closes on Wednesday, March 17th. Register here.
Jewels in Town – The Architecture of Montclair Class
Every Saturday | Now- Saturday, March 20th | 3:30PM-5:00PM
This class explores the city through its architecture, citing a number of Montclair’s landmark buildings, and culminating with the original Beaux Arts building of the Montclair Art Museum, the jewel in Montclair’s crown. This class is online with live instruction. The event is for people ages 16 and older. Register here.
Register for a Free Dance Class
Available online
Classes are available online every day and include Salsa, West African, hip-hop, and more. Classes are hosted by Alvin Ailey Studio. Register here.
In-Person Events
The West Orange Arts Council’s Objet Trouve: An Exhibit of Found Objects
Now-Saturday, February 27th
Join virtually or head over to The West Orange Arts Council to view their Objet Trouve: An Exhibit of Found Objects which comes to a close on Saturday, February 27th. The West Orange Arts Council is located at 551 Valley Road in West Orange. Learn more here.
Learn How to Ice Skate
Now-Thursday, March 4th
Register for skating lessons through the Essex County Parks System until Thursday, March 4th. Classes will begin on Friday, March 5th. Skating classes are available for adults as well as children 3 or older. Register here.
Black History Month Beer Series at Montclair Brewery
All month of February
Celebrate Black History Month at Montclair Brewery. Every year, Montclair Brewery releases a special beer series during Black History Month that are beers inspired by African culture and prominent black figures. This year they have added 3 new beers, including one dedicated to the late Chadwick Boseman named Boseman Wild Ale which is brewed with juniper berries. Boseman is a famous African American actor who is most known for his starring role in The Black Panther. Learn more here.
Tour Van Vleck House and Gardens
Open daily | 9:00AM-6:00PM
Take a free tour of Van Vleck House and Gardens which is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Montclair. A center for horticulture, education, music, art, and quiet contemplation, the gardens are open to the public for their enjoyment and the house is available to non-profits for meetings and events. The grounds are open every day from 9:00AM to 6:00PM. Virtual tours are also available online. Van Vleck House and Gardens is located at 21 Van Vleck Street in Montclair. Learn more here.
Attend an Exclusive Viewing Dinner of Hell’s Kitchen Season 19
Every Thursday | 7:30PM
Attend an exclusive viewing dinner of the new season of Hell’s Kitchen at MC Hotel’s Allegory in Montclair, located at 690 Bloomfield Avenue. Show participants and chefs will be in attendance. The viewing dinners will be offered until both chefs are eliminated, or crowned victorious. Space is limited. To book, call Allegory at 973-329-5600. Learn more here.
Take a Hike at Eagle Rock Reservation
Open daily | 9:00AM-9:00PM
Take a hike at Eagle Rock Reservation which has more than 400 acres along the Watchung Mountains ridgeline located between West Orange, Montclair and Verona. The 40 mile Lenape Trail {yellow blazes} skirts the eastern edge of the park. The hiking trails and footpaths that crisscross the woodland {and sometimes boggy} areas of the park are friendly for hikers of all ages and abilities. The Eagle Rock Reservation is located at Eagle Rock Avenue and Prospect Avenue in West Orange. Learn more here.
Kid-Focused Events
Take Home Read Across America Truffula Tree Craft
Friday, February 26th +Saturday, February 27th | All day
Stop by the Circulation Desk for a take-home Read Across America truffula tree craft, perfect for ages 4-9. Sponsored by the Friends of the Livingston Library. While supplies last. Sign up here.
Virtual Drawing and Comic Book Club
Registration is now open | Wednesday, March 10th | 7:00PM-8:00PM
Join a virtual drawing and comic book club. The event is open to 5th – 12th graders living in West Orange. Sign up here.
Studio Explorers: Celebrate Friendship Class
Every Saturday until March 20th | 10:00AM-11:00AM
Join a small group of budding artists and a MAM Teaching Artist for the in-person Winter Studio Explorers class. This season’s theme, celebrate friendship, cultivates kindness and community as kids create art inspired by playful companionship. From invisible playmates to beloved animals, and favorite games to acts of kindness, kids will enjoy making friends artistically! Each four-week session will feature different projects. Classes are limited to 12 children who will be spaced 6-feet apart and provided with an individual Creativity Kit of carefully curated mixed-media art materials. Sign up here.
Take and Make Saturdays
Every Saturday | Now-June 12th | 11:00AM-4:00PM
Register for a craft project each week, pick it up on Saturday during the library’s Public Browsing Hours, and do it at home! While supplies last. One kit per child. For all ages. Sign up here.
Dungeons and Dragons Club at West Orange Library
Every Friday | Now-June 18th | 3:15PM-5:15PM
Join an epic quest awaiting teens who join the DnD club. DnD features role-playing, storytelling, strategic thinking, math skills, problem-solving, and teamwork all rolled into one. The event is open to teens living in West Orange. Sign up here.
Visit the Turtleback Zoo
Open daily | 10:00AM-3:00PM
Take a trip to the Turtleback Zoo to catch their incredible Sea Turtle Recovery exhibit, Sea Lion Sound, and much more. Virtual tours are also available through the website. The Turtleback Zoo is located at 560 Northfield Avenue in West Orange. Learn more here.
Greater NJ/NY Events
Virtual MET Museum Tour
Saturday, February 27th | 3:00PM-4:00PM
Join the Hillsdale Library for a virtual private tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with an expert guide. The Modern & Contemporary Art tour encompasses a wide range of world art from the Met’s 20th and 21st centuries collection. Sign up here.
Upcoming Weekday Events
Forgotten Newark Riots Conversation
Monday, March 1st | 6:00PM
Take part in a free, virtual conversation about the riots and uprising that have taken place throughout Newark’s long history, each one revealing deep divisions in the social and political fabric of the city. The event is hosted by NJPAC and the Newark History Society. Register here.
Watercolor Painting Class at Montclair Art Museum
Every Monday in March| March 1st-March 22nd | 11:30AM-2:00PM
This class is for beginners who want to explore the world of watercolor painting in a comfortable, supportive environment. Various methods will be explored including painting wet on a dry surface, wet on a wet page, dry brush, splatter, and how a flat wash and gradation are done. This class will take place in MAM’s Leir Hall. In the event that the museum must close, the class will continue online via Zoom. Register here.
MAM Conversations: Todd Gray
Thursday, March 4th | 6:00PM-7:00PM
Join MAM Conversations with photographer Todd Gray in Los Angeles. Todd’s work explores issues of black masculinity, diaspora, and power, both historical and contemporary. He is inspired by cultural connections to West Africa, particularly Ghana, which has become his second home. Recent projects will be discussed as well as MAM’s new acquisition of his work, Euclidean Gris Gris: Tropic of Entropy. Register here.
Ways to Give Back Locally
Covenant House New Jersey
Covenant House began more than 40 years ago when six young runaways were given shelter from a snowstorm, in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. In 1989, Covenant House began its work in New Jersey by providing basic services to homeless youth on the streets of Newark and Atlantic City. Outreach staff travel in vans to these areas offering food, clothing, counseling, and referrals for shelter. All of the services are free. There is no cost and people do not need insurance. Covenant House New Jersey is there for young people for as long as they need help, which includes even when they are living completely on their own. Learn more here.
Junior League of Montclair-Newark
The Junior League of Montclair-Newark {JLMN} is a volunteer organization of women committed to Promoting Volunteerism, Developing the potential of women, and Improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The JLMN is a nonprofit organization of trained volunteers. Through hands-on projects and partnerships, members build a better community by promoting education, health and wellness, literacy, and the arts for children at risk each year. Learn more here.
The Community FoodBank of New Jersey
The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ), a member of Feeding America®, is the leading anti-hunger and anti-poverty organization in the state. What started as a modest enterprise in the back of our founder Kathleen DiChiara’s station wagon in downtown Newark in 1975, became an incorporated non-profit in 1982 and has grown to two warehouse facilities in Hillside and Egg Harbor Township, the combined size of five football fields. These locations serve area programs and community partners- over 1,000 in 15 of 21 New Jersey counties- within which 760,000 food-insecure neighbors in need reside. Learn more here.
