Happy Pride Month! Whether you’re heading out or staying in, this week’s Montclair + beyond events guide has got you covered with kid-friendly activities, 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 (June 9th – June 15th).
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please contact the host directly.
Pride Events
‘Rainbow Eyes’ Artwork Fundraiser to Support GLSEN During PRIDE
Month of June
Montclair artist, Rebecca Russo, is selling her artwork titled ‘Rainbow Eyes’ during the month of June in support of GLSEN + PRIDE. Each piece normally sells for $600 but is currently priced at $350. 50% of the sales will be donated to GLSEN which works to ensure that LGBTQ+ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment. Contact Rebecca here.
Nutley PRIDE Proclamation Celebration
Thursday, June 10th | 6:30PM
Nutley will be proudly kicking off Pride month with “Nutley PRIDE” by celebrating the pride within the community through a ceremony. All are welcome! Learn more here.
Dog Adoption Event to Support Pride with L & B Healthy Pet Market
Saturday, June 12th | 12PM-5PM
Join L & B Healthy Pet Market on Saturday, June 12th for their next adoption event and photoshoot. The event will be sponsored by @smallbatchpets and @boccesbakery. Small Batch will be providing free rainbow-colored freeze-dried heart treats in support of Pride Month. In addition, @sweethomemontclair will be providing chocolate for humans and Bocces will be giving treats to the pups. Learn more here.
12th Annual Garden State Equality Pride Walk
Sunday, June 13th | 1:30PM-3:30PM
Join the Out Montclair team in the 12th Annual Garden State Equality Pride Walk at the First Congregational Church of Montclair located at 40 S. Fullerton Avenue in Montclair. This is Garden State Equality’s largest annual community fundraiser. Register or donate via Out Montclair’s team. Learn more here.
Out at Night
Wednesday, June 16 | 7PM
Out Montclair’s is hosting an “Out at Night” gathering to celebrate Pride at Egan & Sons. RSVP required, here.
Register for the Fleet Feet Montclair Pride Stride Run & Walk
Registration now open | Event: Thursday, June 17th | 6:30PM
Registration is now open and filling up fast for the 3rd annual Fleet Feet Montclair Pride Stride Run & Walk on June 17th at 6:30PM in partnership with Montclair Brewery and Diadora. Funds raised and registration fees will be donated to OUT Montclair, a new organization dedicated to fostering community and providing support and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ population of Montclair. Sign up here.
Luna Stage – Gay History for Straight People
Friday, June 18 | 8PM
The in-person, outdoor performance by Will Nolan and his comedic alter ego Leola guides audiences through the complexities of the “LGBTQYMCA community – everything from GAY to Z.” In addition to being named the 2020 Outstanding Cabaret Performer by BroadwayWorld, Leola has appeared across the country in fringe festivals, regional theaters, and at middle-aged birthday parties, winning the Long Island City Flying Solo Festival two years in a row. Tickets are pay-what-you-wish and available here.
In-Person Events
Roses to Rock Gardens at Van Vleck House + Gardens
Friday, June 11th + Saturday, June 12th | 11AM-4PM
Tour the beautiful, private gardens in the Montclair area with some friends and be inspired. Learn more here.
Theater League of Clifton Present ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ Rock Opera
Friday, June 11th + Saturday, June 12th | 7:30PM
The Theater League of Clifton will present the musical Jesus Christ Superstar at Clifton’s Weasel Brook Park, 770 Park Drive (adjacent to the historic Vanderhoef/Westervelt House). Additional performances will be staged at the park on June 5, 11, and 12. All shows will begin at 7:30PM. Learn more here.
Dog Days of Summer Exhibit & Music on Main
Friday, June 11th | 5PM-9PM | Every Friday
Take in an amazing night of art, music, shopping at unique independent shops, and eclectic dining at the Dog Days of Summer mural located at Church and Main Street. Learn more here.
Live Music: Engineers Band at Montclair Brewery
Friday, June 11th | 7PM-9:30PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for live music provided by Engineers, a folk-rock group with a jazz twist. Learn more here.
Charity Yard Sale and the Lodge
Saturday, June 12th | 8AM-1PM
The Cervetto Craftsman’s Club will be conducting its tenth Semi-Annual Charity Yard Sale at the Lodge building on Saturday June 12th between 8AM and 1PM. The Lodge is located at Church and Wood Streets in Tuckerton Borough. The event is rain or shine. All donations made will benefit the Lodge charity fund and building maintenance fund. Learn more here.
Clothing Drive Hosted by Boy Scout Troop 309
Saturday, June 12th | 9AM-2PM
Clara Maass Medical Center Blood Drive
Saturday, June 12th | 9AM-3PM
Clara Maass Medical Center, a facility of RWJBarnabas Health, is holding a community blood and platelet drive on June 12 from 9AM to 3PM in The Learning Center located at 1 Clara Maass Drive in Belleville. Learn more here.
Virtual Get On Board
Saturday, June 12th | 9AM
The State Council of New Jersey Junior Leagues presents Virtual Get On Board, an immersive, half-day program from 9AM-12PM is designed to provide training in the essential elements for being an effective and meaningful non-profit board member. Learn more here.
Saturday Skate Sesh with Boardroom Skate
Saturday, June 12th | 10AM-12PM | Every Saturday
Join Boardroom Skate for a skate session every Saturday at Rand Courts. Beginners are welcome. Learn more here.
L.E.A.F Festival of Flowers Blooms in Meatpacking District
Saturday, June 12th + Sunday, June 13th | 11AM-7PM + 11AM-6PM
L.E.A.F is a city-wide festival of Flowers, a celebration throughout Manhattan, but centered in the Meatpacking District, for all New Yorkers to come together and enjoy the beauty of nature. Learn more here.
Summer Shop at the Manahawkin Elks
Saturday, June 12th | 9:00AM
Summer Shopping from 9AM-3PM with over 40 vendors. Learn more here.
The Benjamins at Just Jake’s
Saturday, June 12th | 11:30AM-12AM
Stop by Just Jake’s on Saturday, June 12th to watch The Benjamins play. The band offers a unique combination of classic, modern, elegance, and edge. Learn more here.
Outdoor Nimbus Arts Festival’s Family Arts & Culture Day
Saturday, June 12th | 1PM
DJ Ritters at Montclair Brewery
Saturday, June 12th | 1PM-5PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for some live music from 1:00PM-5:00PM provided by DJ Ritters. Learn more here.
New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Brass Ensemble
Saturday, June 12th | 7PM
Family Roller Skating at Branch Brook Park
Saturday, June 12th | Multiple Times Available | Every Saturday
Head over to Branch Brook Park for family roller skating every week. It’s open to all ages. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sign up here.
Fragile Freedoms Exhibit at the Montclair Art Museum
Now-Sunday, June 13th
The Montclair Art Museum hosts the exhibit “Fragile Freedoms”. “Dream Act” by Maggie Meiners is on display now until Sunday, 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.
Live Music: BARD Band at Montclair Brewery
Sunday, June 13th | 6:30PM-9:30PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for live music provided by BARD, a Renaissance Rock band breathing new life into old English folk music. Learn more here.
Sweetheart Coast Grand Opening
Wednesday, June 14th | 2PM
Jersey Shore’s Samantha “Sammi Sweetheart” Giancola is hosting a meet + greet at her new store Sweetheart Coast. The first 50 shoppers will be able to meet the Jersey Shore star. The event will take place at 1356 Boardwalk in Ocean City. Sign up here.
Point of Action: New Art Installation at Crane Park
Ongoing
Montclair residents and artists Nina Cooke John and Charlie Spademan bring this installation to Montclair at no cost to the township for about four to six weeks. Crane Park is located at 1-9 Greenwood Avenue in Montclair. Learn more here.
Tour Van Vleck House and Gardens
Open daily | 9AM-6PM
Take a free tour of Van Vleck House and Gardens, a center for horticulture, education, music, and art. The gardens are open to the public and the house is available to non-profits for meetings and events. Learn more here.
Virtual Events
New Beginnings: A Virtual Concert
Thursday, June 10th | 7PM
New Jersey Festival Orchestra, under the baton of David Wroe, is back with a musical message of hope, rebirth and enrichment. Stars from the Broadway stage, international opera houses and Dance Theatre of Harlem join NJFO to present New Beginnings, a virtual concert set to restart the artistic engines with the joy of orchestral masterpieces, renowned tenor fare, dazzling dance classics and Broadway favorites. Register here.
Open Mic Series: Jersey Fresh at Home Hosted by NJPAC
Thursday, June 10th | 7PM | Every Thursday
NJPAC is shining the spotlight on homegrown stars. Every week, they are showcasing up-and-coming talent from all over New Jersey via Facebook Live. Register here.
Submissions Open for the 2021 Montclair Film Festival
Regular Deadline: Now-Friday, June 25th
Submit your film for the 2021 Montclair Film Festival. This year, Montclair Film Festival is celebrating ten years. The festival has established itself as New Jersey’s leading film non-profit, with hundreds of screenings, events, education programs, and community partnerships providing opportunities for diverse audiences to connect with filmmakers working in all different genres and forms. The 10th Annual Montclair Film Festival will happen from October 21-October 30, 2021. Register here.
Montclair Film’s Virtual Cinema
Ongoing
Montclair Film’s Virtual Cinema is the best way to watch the latest movies from home while supporting the non-profit organization. Films in the Virtual Cinema are new, independent releases, available for rent at home before they show up on other platforms, featuring new indies, documentaries, foreign films, and restored classics, with new selections available every Friday. Learn more here.
Kid-Focused Events
Girls Try Hockey Free Program
Saturday, June 12th | 9:15AM-7:15PM
The New Jersey Devils Youth Hockey Club invites girls of all ages to participate in the Try Hockey Free program! Players should bring helmets from home, but there will be loaner skates. This program is four sessions and players can attend as few or as many sessions as they want. Sign up here.
Music with Michaela: Outdoor Music Class for Little Ones
Saturday, June 12th | 11:15PM- 12PM | Every Saturday
Little ones will learn seasonal songs, play instruments, move their bodies + have fun with Michaela. The event will take place in the grassy area on the corner of Essex Street + Chestnut Street in Montclair. Register here.
Take and Make Saturdays at the Nutley Public Library
Now-Saturday, June 12th | 11AM-4PM
Register for a craft project each week, pick it up on Saturday during the library’s public browsing hours and do it at home. Sign up here.
Training For A Purpose Co-Ed Soccer Clinic
Now-Friday, June 18th | 3PM | Every Friday
This soccer clinic is for kids ages 2-7. Sign up here.
Dungeons and Dragons Club at West Orange Library
Now-Friday, June 18th | 3:15PM-5:15PM
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.
Girls in Gears Bike Program
Now-Sunday, June 27th | 9:30AM-11AM
Join Bike & Walk Montclair for an eight-week program for any rider who identifies as a girl ages 10-13 and wants to build confidence on and off their bikes. This weekly meeting will focus on a mix of emotional development, conversations, and riding skills. Sign up here.
Upcoming Weekday Events
An Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Monday, June 14th | 10:30AM-11:30AM | Every Monday
Mindfulness is a meditation practice that cultivates a positive state of mind like gratitude, kindness, and compassion. The following topics will be covered: mindful breathing/body, mindful emotions, development of the heart, interpersonal mindfulness, everyday stress reduction, and empathy. Register here.
Beginner Mah Jongg
Tuesday, June 15th | 6:30PM-8PM | Every Tuesday
Learn how to play the ancient Chinese game of Mah Jongg. Register here.
Poetry + Interpretive Movement Virtual Class
Wednesday, June 16th | 6:45PM-7:45PM | Every Wednesday
Join Simone Coonrod over Zoom for a three-part workshop incorporating poetry and dance. Each session will feature a poem that the participants will collaboratively interpret through creative movement. Register here.
Film Club Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Wednesday, June 16th | 7PM-8PM | Every Wednesday
See assigned movies, which are on widely available streaming services, then join classmates to talk about themes, plot, characters, acting, directing, cinematography, costumes, score, trailers, and/or viewer’s expectations. Register here.
Free Community Knitting Virtual Class
Wednesday, June 16th | 7PM-9PM | Every Wednesday
Join a free community knitting virtual class every Wednesday. All fiber crafts are welcome. Register here.
Ways to Give Back Locally
Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris | 33 South Fullerton Avenue
Mental health is often stigmatized in society and the media. The 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. Learn more here.
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. Learn more here.
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. Learn more here.
Articles to Help You Plan Your Weekend
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Your Guide to Sopranos Landmarks in North Jersey
Delicious Plant-Based Dishes in Montclair, According to a Local Dietitian
Remember to tag us on Instagram in your adventures @themontclairgirl or #MontclairGirl for a potential repost. xo
The ULTIMATE Montclair Bucket List
A hub for artists, performers, industry moguls, and students alike — Montclair is truly one of a kind. With the rich history of icons from Yogi Berra to Stephen Colbert to respected institutions and organizations like Montclair State University, Van Vleck Gardens, and the Wellmont Theater, this town is special in so many ways. Thousands pass through for events like Montclair Film Festival and highly acclaimed restaurants throughout the year. In short, the culture is rich and there is always something new to do in “the Brooklyn of New Jersey.” Read on for a must-do Montclair bucket list to get the most out of what the city has to offer.
Things to Do
Visit the historic Van Vleck Gardens during the spring and summer to take in the beautiful flowers and plants that originated all over the world. The estate itself used to serve as a family home for the renowned Van Vleck family in 1868.
Tour the Montclair Art Museum which opened in 1914 for interactive and educational exhibits about American and Native American art.
See the WW1 memorial that was constructed circa 1925 in Edgemont Park, a public park that is great for a serene picnic or outdoor activities with a group of people.
Book tickets to a concert at Wellmont Theater which was founded in 1921 as a vaudeville and stage play venue and has evolved into a staple for all types of live entertainment.
Reopened under the ownership of Montclair Film, The Claridge was founded in 1922 and serves as a film venue that hosts exhibits and other film events throughout the year.
Built in 1925, Montclair Public Library provides endless opportunities for learning, discovery, and community engagement through a vast collection of books, films, historical documents, events, and more.
Read More: Things to Do on Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair
Walk the expansive Montclair State University campus and even catch baseball or football games.
Stop by the Alonzo F. Bonsal Wildlife Preserve, a 30-acre wilderness and wildlife sanctuary that is a prime location for nature trails, camping, fishing, and more.
Book a tour of the historic Crane House and YMCA or attend educational in-person programs at Montclair History Center, founded in 1965.
Walk through Presby Iris Gardens, a 6.5-acre garden that was built in 1922 and contains over 10,000 irises of approximately 1,500 varieties and produces over 100,000 blooms over the course of the season.
Catch a New York Red Bulls II soccer game when the sport is in season.
Discover more about the iconic baseball player for the Yankees + Mets at his namesake museum, Yogi Berra Museum, located on Montclair State's campus.
Pick up a new book to dive into at Montclair Book Center, Iris, or Watchung Booksellers, all of which have good reads in every genre available.
Stop at the city's first-ever sculpture park, across from Hillside School, to view works by local artists.
Try your hand at indoor rock climbing (all levels welcome) at The Gravity Vault.
Attend a jewelry-making class at The Eclectic Chic Boutique. Add-ons like gemstone wire wrapping and pearl knotting are available if you want to take it to the next level.
Put your golf skills to the test at Montclair Indoor Golf Club.
Create custom-fragranced candles, home, and body products with a variety of scents at Alchemy Scent Bar.
Take pottery classes at Montclair Mud Clay Studio.
Shop paper goods and unique vintage objects at Parcel.
Try a much-needed scalp massage at Aura Head Spa.
Grab a crystal-infused drink at Thought in Motion Waterbar and recharge from a long day.
Shop vintage and locally sourced clothing, accessories, and home goods items at Acorn General Store.
Sip on morning brew while in the company of adorable cats at Catfe Montclair.
Make DIY crystal-infused candles in a candle-making class at Crystals + Candle.
Visit Avis-Campbell Gardens, a 70-year-old property dutifully cared for by The Garden Club of Montclair. The garden hosts a variety of other plants, like yarrow, azaleas, lambs ears, ferns, and alliums.
Montclair is home to various unique boutiques — and we have a roundup of the best ones here.
Places to Eat
Pick up a box of the highly sought-after doughnuts from Montclair Bread Co.
NJ's first 100% gluten-free restaurant, Samba — which specializes in Brazilian cuisine, is a must-try. We recommend... everything.
Originally a farm in the 1840s, Applegate Farms has been a longstanding spot for handmade ice cream and other classic treats.
Dive into a pasta dish at De Pepo — we recommend the spaghetti carbonara. Also, Watchung Booksellers is right next to the restaurant — be sure to stop by to grab a book to read.
Enjoy a plate of fish and chips with a side of a Guinness at Irish pub Egan + Sons.
Take in the beautiful views at Montclair's only rooftop bar, Alto, located in the MC Hotel. While you're there, have dinner downstairs at The Allegory.
Try a mini cheesecake at She Imagined Sweets.
Try authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Mesob.
Clink IG-worthy cocktails at Faubourg, an expansive and modern French brasserie.
Treat yourself to Laboratorio Kitchen, an upscale Cosmopolitan eatery that specializes in American cuisine.
Indulge in Mediterranean dishes at Zeugma Grill — the babaganoush is a must-try.
Eat french fry-stuffed gyro at Efi's Gyro.
Book a reservation for your next large party at Turtle + the Wolf which serves delicious family-style meals.
Eat fresh seafood at Halcyon. The lounge upstairs is beautifully decorated.
Cure your hangover with none other than Raymond's, a diner and staple in the community.
Everything at Nicolo's Italian Bakery + Deli is made fresh, a true old-school deli with something for everyone.
Pick up freshly made pastries at Mattarello Bakery + Café.
Spend the day with friends at Montclair Brewery.
Kai Yang's menu is inspired by the owner's upbringing in Thailand, making it a go-to for the authentic Thai in the area.
With over ten pies and additional home-baked British sweets and savories, The Pie Store has something for every craving.
Plan your next brunch at The Corner — an eclectic cafe-style restaurant.
Aesthetically-pleasing design + packaging is just the tip of the iceberg at Vesta Chocolate. The organic cocoa beans used for the housemade chocolate treats are worth the visit.
Enjoy wood-fired pizza at Brick + Dough — there are gluten-free and vegan options as well.
Order your next special occasion cake from Sweet Kitchen, it won't disappoint.
If you love soul food, Sweet T's Southern Eatery should be at the top of your list.
A staple in the Upper Montclair community since 1923, Montclair Diner is a true gem.
Stop into Marcel Bakery + Kitchen for seasonal Mediterranean eats.
Grab-and-go with freshly churned artisanal gelato at Benvenuti Montclair.
Dig into Thai cuisine at SLA Thai, a low-key spot with a beautiful outdoor dining space.
Dine-in at Luigino's Parmigiana — the MG team recommends the chicken parm sub.
A vibrant Syrian and Middle Eastern restaurant, Le Souk serves up great food and sells unique gifts.
Visit one of Montclair's many coffee shops in the area, including Lit Cafe, Bleu Coffee, Artazu, Insomnia Coffee, Paper Plane Coffee Co., and Java Love.
A family-owned bakery, Le French Dad Boulangerie is a must-visit for French desserts.
See More: Alcohol-Free Activities in Hoboken + Jersey City
Festivals + Events
Montclair Literary Festival — May
The Montclair Literary Festival was first launched in 2017 to promote literacy and reading for all in Montclair’s vibrant and diverse literary scene. The festival raises funds and awareness to further the work of Succeed2gether.
Montclair Pride Festival — June
The Montclair Pride Festival is a day filled with performances, art, culture, food, and music celebrated across downtown Montclair, with special guest speakers and LGBTQIA+ talent, surrounded and supported by institutions and businesses.
Montclair Jazz Festival — August-September
Locals can enjoy live jazz performances and events throughout the summer in the heart of Montclair leading up to the Montclair Jazz Festival.
Montclair Film Festival — October
Montclair Film Festival is a highly-anticipated event that features the year's latest movies and celebrities for exclusive viewings and Q+A panels. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers from around the world and gives special recognition to New Jersey artists.
