Happy St. Patrick’s Day and happy weekend! Whether you’re heading out or staying in — this week’s Montclair + beyond events guide has got you covered with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, new art shows, performances, and much more happening. Check out this list of all the virtual and in-person events happening in Montclair, Bloomfield, and beyond this weekend {March 17th – March 23rd}.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please contact the host directly.
St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day at Just Jake’s
Monday, March 15th-Wednesday, March 17th
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Just Jake’s with yummy menu items like a Tullamore Dew Bread & Butter Pudding with Ice Cream. Call ahead for reservations. Just Jake’s is located at 30 Park Street in Montclair. Learn here.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Halcyon Brasserie
Wednesday, March 17th | 12:00PM-Close
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Halcyon Brasserie. Halcyon is located at 114 Walnut Street in Montclair. Learn here.
St. Patrick’s Day Livestream concert with Gaelic Storm
Wednesday, March 17th | 8:00PM
Raise ’em up! Drink ’em down! Join a St. Patrick’s Day livestream concert with Gaelic Storm. The show will be a 2 hour, online special and available to watch for up to 30 days. To watch, login to the account you create at checkout. It will be a St. Patrick’s Day unlike any other with a virtual concert. The band missed 2020, but is getting in on the action for 2021. This time around they will be singing a mixture of their own songs, some traditional pub songs that they’ve never recorded before, and a brand new Gaelic Storm song too! Sign up here.
2021 Shamrock Shuffle Free Virtual 5K
Now-Sunday, March 21st
Join a St. Patrick’s Day Free 5K race which will be held virtually. Sign up here.
2021 Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 Mile Run Walk
Now-Wednesday, March 31st
Leprechaun costumes, traditional Irish food, and running, of course, there’s no better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than completing the Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 miler event. Celebrate your race and the “Luck of the Irish” with runners from all 50 states and around the world. Complete each distance one at a time or if you’re feeling lucky complete all 4 miles. Either way, we encourage you to wear your finest St. Patrick’s Day attire and have fun! Your virtual event can be completed any time from March 1st, 2021 until March 31st, 2021. Sign up here.
Virtual Events
The African Diaspora Virtual Event
Wednesday, March 17th | 6:00PM
Join a free, virtual event discussing the African Diaspora hosted by the Newark Public Library. Register here.
Women Leaders of the Long Civil Rights Movement Virtual Class
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.
History at Home: Montclair Train Stations Hosted By Montclair History Center
Now-Thursday, March 18th | 12:00PM-7:00PM
Join an educational, free, event featuring Montclair’s history, which is inextricably linked to the two rail lines that came through town in the 1800s. Board Trustee Helen Fallon has researched the six Montclair train stations, uncovering some great drawings, maps, and photos beginning with the early days of photography. Learn which station was made entirely of iron, which housed a family of five, and why Park Street Station became Watchung Station. Register here.
Virtual Trivia Night Hosted By SOPAC
Now-Thursday, March 18th | 7:30PM
Join a free, virtual trivia night hosted by the South Orange Performing Arts Center. This will be an informal, fun competition to see who has the greatest knowledge of general, holiday, and seasonal trivia. And, for the winners, there will be prizes! Register here.
Holistic Lamaze Course Hosted By Montclair Baby
Now-Thursday, March 18th | 7:30PM
This virtual course, Holistic Childbirth Education, is inspired by the book, Birthing from Within and based on The Six Care Practices that Support Normal Birth. Register here.
Womyn’s Werq Exhibit at Studio Montclair Gallery
Zoom reception: Friday, March 19th | 7:00PM-8:00PM | On display now- April 9th
This exhibition—an exhibit in honor of Women’s History Month—is a hybrid of both virtual and onsite components of art pieces serving as visual narratives based on the mantra that the personal is political. “Womyn’s Werq”, described by curator Donna Kessinger as an “old school,” LGBTQIA-friendly, radical feminist art exhibition, features over 60 pieces of artwork including videos, sculpture, and two-dimensional creations in a great variety of mediums, there will also be special installations in the gallery windows. A virtual exhibit that will include audio from the artists will be on the Studio Montclair website. Viewings will be by appointment only until further notice. Studio Montclair Gallery is located at 127 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. Learn more here.
Vulnerable Virtual Exhibit
On display now-Friday, March 19th
“Vulnerable” is created by all artists who showed her/his own voice. The show has storytelling – starting from confusion, depression, searching yourself, expressing frustration, finding a balance, lots of pain, lots of crying, yet finding ‘true you’, realization, acceptance, dream and hope to the future again in the pandemic. Yukako, a Japanese artist, is curating “Vulnerable”. The exhibit is a compilation of works from artists around the world that attempt to display the range of emotions perceived during the pandemic. Learn more here.
CNN’s Don Lemon in Conversation with MSNBC’s Joy Ann-Reid Hosted By The Montclair Literary Festival
Saturday, March 20th | 7:00PM
The Montclair Literary Festival’s Global Voices event series continues with a special event featuring CNN Anchor, Don Lemon, in conversation with MSNBC Host, Joy Ann-Reid to discuss his new book – This is The Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism. The book is an urgent, deeply personal, riveting plea which he hopes will “help heal America.” The event is on Saturday, March 20th at 7:00PM. Tickets cost $30 and include a copy of the book {value of $28}. The first 100 people to register will receive a signed copy of the book. The event will be held on Crowdcast and a sign-up link will be sent after ticket purchase. Books can be picked up at Festival partner Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, or shipped to your home address {additional cost, select option when selecting ticket; shipping available within the US only}. The MLF is also a fundraising program to support the literacy programs provided by Succeed2gether to low-income families in Essex County. Please check their site for a full list of events and ways to help. Register here.
Author Douglas Stuart in Conversation with Actor Alan Cumming Hosted By The Montclair Literary Festival
Sunday, March 21st | 7:00PM
The Montclair Literary Festival’s Global Voices event series continues with a special event featuring Scottish-American author Douglas Stuart as he speaks with fellow Scot and award-winning actor, author, filmmaker, and activist Alan Cumming about his 2020 Booker Prize-winning debut novel Shuggie Bain. The event is on Sunday, March 21st at 7:00PM. Tickets cost $20 and include a copy of the book {value of $17}. Online event only tickets are available for $10. The first 100 people to register will receive a signed copy of the book. The event will be held on Crowdcast and a sign-up link will be sent after ticket purchase. Books can be picked up at Festival partner Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, or shipped to your home address {additional cost, select option when selecting ticket; shipping available within the US only}. The MLF is also a fundraising program to support the literacy programs provided by Succeed2gether to low-income families in Essex County. Please check their site for a full list of events and ways to help. 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.
Free Community Knitting Virtual Class
Every Wednesday | 7:00PM-9:00PM
Join a free community knitting virtual class every Wednesday from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. All fiber crafts are welcome. Register here.
American Sign Language Course Hosted By Montclair Baby
Now-Sunday, April 14th | 11:30AM-12:30PM
Jumpstart communication with basic American Sign Language through a fun combination of music, books, and engaging activities for baby. Caregivers will learn to help babies express their needs before they are able to convey them verbally. This program will teach signs for both daily routine and fun things that motivate the baby to communicate. Sign language accelerates verbal development, strengthens cognitive skills, reduces frustration and tantrums, increases self-esteem, and enhances child-caregiver bonding. Get ready to learn, have fun, and make new friends. 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
Watercolor Painting Class at Montclair Art Museum
Every Monday in March| Now-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.
Family Meal Program
Every Wednesday | 2:30PM-3:30PM
If you or someone you know is in need of food, The Family Meal program is available every Wednesday from 2:30PM-3:30PM. The event is located at the Geyer Family Y Parking Lot at 159 Glenridge Avenue in Montclair. Learn more here.
The Montclair Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday | 8:00AM-1:00PM
The market takes place every Saturday at the Walnut Street Train Station located at 86 Walnut Street in Montclair. The Montclair Farmers’ Market brings you an array of local farmers and food artisans offering fresh fruits & vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, cheeses, gluten-free baked goods, prepared foods, condiments, honey, flowers, wine, pickles, and so much more. Learn more here.
Visit the Montclair Art Museum
Virtually + in-person
The Montclair Art Museum has officially reopened its doors with over 3 new exhibitions including Fragile Freedoms. MAM was founded in 1914 and was the first museum in New Jersey to grant access to the public + focus only on art. It has preserved American and Native American Art since its inception and contains over 12,000 pieces of artwork including sculptures, ceramics, artifacts, and more. Dream Act by Maggie Meiners is on display now until June 13th. Tickets to the museum must be reserved prior to entering and Fridays from 11AM to 12PM are reserved for immunocompromised persons as well as seniors. MAM’s artwork can be enjoyed virtually on the website as well. 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
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.
Ways to Give Back Locally
Toni’s Kitchen {73 S Fullerton Avenue}
2020 provided a challenge for many, especially when it came to hunger and food insecurity. Toni’s Kitchen, an organization that has provided the community in need with food resources, shifted its response to accommodate those rising numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Toni’s Kitchen now provides 20,000 meals every week which is an increase of 4,300 pounds per week since 2019. Because of the support of generous donors and volunteers, 800+ families are no longer worrying about the next meal. Learn how to get involved here.
Human Needs Food Pantry {9 Label Street}
The COVID-19 pandemic brought on the highest rates of hunger in the United States ever. In New Jersey alone, over 1.1 million people are food insecure. The Human Needs Pantry has been able to add over 1,000 additional homes to service during this time of need. Through the help of generous donors and volunteers’ residents in need in Montclair and neighboring Essex County towns are able to pick up food or have a home delivery grocery service. Close to 3,000 groceries are donated weekly through the area. Learn more here on how to get involved.
Jazz House Kids {347 Bloomfield Avenue}
Founder Melissa Walker was prepped to be a lawyer before opportunities in music kept showing up all around her. She attributes her ability to follow her heart and be a jazz artist to great mentors in her life. Now, through Jazz House Kids, Melissa is providing students the opportunities she had by mentoring them. Jazz House Kids combines music, mentoring, education, and leadership to help serve students in the community who may face a financial gap to being involved with music. Her program opens opportunities to learn and grow with music. Support from donors is needed to keep her “little wishes” going. Learn more here on how to get involved.
Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris {33 South Fullerton Avenue}
Mental health is often highly stigmatized in society and the media. Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris is working to reverse this stigma and provide support to those living with mental illness as well as the caregivers. Through advocacy, education, prevention, early intervention, treatment, and services, the organization is working to achieve its mission. Case management services, suicide prevention work, and housing opportunities are just a small sample of the community work of this organization. Learn more here on how to get involved.
Montclair Fund for Women {41 Watchung Plaza}
Originally known as the Young Colored Women’s Christian Association, this organization was founded by African American women who came to Montclair in search of education, employment, and opportunity. As time passed, the organization not only changed its name, it joined forces with women of all backgrounds and became a prominent force in the community. Since its inception, the Montclair Fund for Women has given over $800,000 in grants to provide opportunities to women. Learn more here on how to get involved.
Pound Animal Welfare Society {PAWS}
Hundreds of animals need adoption across the state of New Jersey. For over 41 years, the Pound Animal Welfare Society has been helping place homeless animals. PAWS does not have a facility to house animals in need, but the support of generous volunteers makes the work possible. In addition to fostering animals, supplies are needed. Learn more here on how to get involved.
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.
