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 {May 12th – 18th}.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please contact the host directly.
Virtual Events
Poetry + Interpretive Movement Virtual Class
Wednesday, May 12th | 6:45PM-7:45PM | Every Wednesday
Join Simone Coonrod over Zoom for a three-aprt series workshop incorporating poetry and dance. Each session will feature a poem that the participants will collaboratively interpret through creative movement. There will also be some related inspired writing. Register here.
Film Club Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Wednesday, May 12th | 7:00PM-8:00PM | Every Wednesday
See assigned movies {which are mostly on Netflix, but may include Amazon Prime, Hulu, and On Demand} 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, May 12th | 7:00PM-9:00PM | Every Wednesday
Join a free community knitting virtual class every Wednesday from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. All fiber crafts are welcome. Register here.
Play Ball! Art and Sports Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Thursday, May 13th | 2:00PM | Every Thursday
Looking at the history of the sport through the lens of the artist’s imagination can teach us lessons about social changes as well as about the nature of the sport itself. Sign up for this interesting class on the history of sports through art. Register here.
Tarot + Astrology Lecture Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Thursday, May 13th | 6:30PM-8:30PM
Join The Montclair Public Library for a Tarot + Astrology lecture. Esoteric pathways are better understood as intersections of signatures that reinforce and clarify one another, rather than isolated bits of information. In this lecture, you will explore some of the meandering wisdom of the stars in the cards + cards in the stars. Register here.
Open Mic Series: Jersey Fresh at Home Hosted by NJPAC
Thursday, May 13th | 7:00PM | 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.
Re-envisioning Community: Exploring Restorative Justice
Thursday, May 13th | 7:30PM-8:45PM | Every Thursday
Join the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair for a series of conversations with New Jersey Advocates for Restorative Justice for six Thursday evenings from 7:30PM to 8:45PM via Zoom. Register here.
Beginning Ukulele Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Friday, May 14th | 1:30PM-2:30PM | Every Friday
In this beginner’s ukulele class, you will learn basic chords and strums, and some fun, easy songs. No music background or experience necessary. Register here.
Straight No Chaser: Virtual Insanity Hosted by NJPAC
Friday, May 14th-Sunday, May 16th | Multiple Times
The male vocal group Straight No Chaser revolutionized a capella for the modern age when their viral YouTube video landed them a deal with Atlantic Records. Now, they delight fans around the world with their sophisticated harmonies and captivating charm. Join SNC for Virtual Insanity, a three-show Livestream concert series with special guests. Register here.
Regina Carter Listening Party Hosted by NJPAC
Saturday, May 15th | 2:00PM
Regina Carter hosts an afternoon listening party featuring the faculty of NJPAC’s Geri Allen Jazz Camp. Hear what recordings, musicians, soundtracks, and concerts grabbed hold of them and wouldn’t let go—leading them to the engaging world of jazz and improvisation. Hosted by Regina Carter {violin}, Artistic Director of Geri Allen Jazz Camp. Register here.
Estate Planning for Seniors + How to Protect Your Assets
Register by Sunday, May 16th
Aging in Montclair presents a program on estate planning featuring attorney Brenda McElnea, who specializes in Elder Law. This presentation is part of an ongoing series of programs offered by AIM to inform and educate our community on topics of importance. Register by Sunday, May 16th. Register here.
Spring Cleaning Special: De-Clutter Deluxe Package Offer by Space Composer
Use by Friday, May 21st
Receive a 30-minute virtual consultation to create a project strategy, a product recommendation list created and tailored just for you, an 8-hour on-site session with two organizers to do the hands-on work, and more through Space Composer’s De-Clutter Deluxe Package Offer. Register here.
NJ Tri-County CycleNation
Now-Wednesday, May 26th
The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is hosting CycleNation to raise awareness + funds to change the statistics. The digital experience will take place during May, American Stroke Month, where participants can ride solo or create a team to “rack up their miles”. Learn more here.
Submissions Open for the 2021 Montclair Film Festival
Earlybird Deadline: Friday, May 28th
Submit your film for the 2021 Montclair Film Festival. The 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 a unique opportunity for our diverse audience to connect with filmmakers working in all different genres and forms. The 10th Annual Montclair Film Festival will happen on October 21-October 30, 2021. Register here.
Farmstead Arts Virtual Art Exhibit
Now-Friday, May 28th
Farmstead Arts presents its virtual spring art show. This exhibit features the diverse works of eighteen talented artists whose works are inspired by the energy, beauty, and hope of a new spring. Register here.
Virtual Caterpillar Walk/Run For Fibromyalgia
Now-Monday, May 31st
Register for the Virtual Caterpillar Walk/Run for Fibromyalgia to raise awareness + funds for people living with the condition. Register here.
In-Person Events
The JumpStart Open Mic Networking Event
Thursday, May 13th + Thursday, May 27th | 7:30PM
Spoken word artists, singers, rappers, and anyone who would like to share their music, words, + build with like-minded people are invited to this event. New and nationally recognized performers will be performing. This is a Covid-conscious environment. Sign up here.
Blood Drive at the Montclair Women’s Club
Thursday, May 13th | 1:00PM-7:00PM
New York Blood Center is in dire need of blood! They are hosting a blood drive on Thursday, May 13th from 1:00PM to 7:00PM at the Montclair Women’s Club located at 82 Union Street. Sign up here.
Montlcair Art Museum Food Drive for Toni’s Kitchen
Friday, May 14th-Sunday, May 16th
Save the date for Toni’s Kitchen Food Drive from May 14–16. Receive one gallery admission ticket per item or bag of shelf-stable food donated to MAM between May 14–16. Book your ticket online as “Community Access” and choose “Food Drive” to book your admission, then bring your food item{s} when you arrive. Learn more here.
Live Music: Howlin Poets at Montclair Brewery
Friday, May 14th | 7:00PM-9:30PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for some live music from 7:00PM-9:30PM provided by Howling Poets, a Rock Band with Blues, R&B, Funk, and Soul influences. Learn more here.
The Montclair Farmers’ Market
Saturday, May 15th | 8:00AM-1:00PM | Every Saturday
The market takes place every Saturday at the Walnut Street Train Station located at 86 Walnut Street in Montclair. It offers an array of local farmers and food artisans offering fresh fruits + vegetables, meats, cheeses, gluten-free baked goods, and more. Learn more here.
Toni’s Community Closet Yard Sale
Saturday, May 15th | 9:00AM-3:00PM
Toni’s Community Closet is hosting a major yard sale from 9:00AM to 3:00PM on May 15th on the lawn of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church located at 73 South Fullerton Avenue in Montclair. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Toni’s Kitchen, a food ministry of St. Luke’s. Toni’s Closet is a thrift shop project of Toni’s Kitchen. Learn more here.
Girls + Non-Binary Folks Skate Sesh
Saturday, May 15th | 10:00AM-12:00PM | Every Saturday
Boardroom Skate invites girls as well as non-binary people to a skate session at Rand Courts. Beginners are welcome. Learn more here.
Donation Class for Medical Aid for Palestinians with Shelby Sweats
Saturday, May 15th | 10:30AM
Join a workout class with Shelby Sweats on Saturday, May 15th at 10:30AM where the proceeds will be donated to medical aid for Palestinians. Sign up here.
DJ Ritters at Montclair Brewery
Saturday, May 15th | 1:00PM-5:00PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for some live music from 1:00PM-5:00PM provided by DJ Ritters. Learn more here.
Family Roller Skating at Branch Brook Park
Saturday, May 15th | Multiple Times Available | Every Saturday
Head over to Branch Brook Park for some family roller skating every week. It’s open to all ages. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sign up here.
Bash & Pop Vinyl Dig at Montclair Brewery
Sunday, May 16th | 10:00AM-4:00PM
Head over to Montclair Brewery for the Bash & Pop Vinyl Dig event hosted by Bash and Pop Records. Thousands of LPs, CDs, cassettes, collector’s items + more will be available. The Brewery bar opens at 12:00PM and masks are required. Learn more here.
HypnoBirthing Class Hosted By Montclair Baby
Now-May 18th | 6:00PM-8:00PM
In a series of four confidence-building classes, attendees will learn the logic behind why labor doesn’t have to hurt and what you can do about it. Armed with knowledge, the pattern of calming breathing techniques, and deep relaxation, you will start to develop everything you need to know to reconnect with your birthing instincts and create an amazing birthing experience. Register here.
Spring In Living Color at Westfield Garden State Plaza
Now-Sunday, June 6th
Spring is in full bloom at the Garden State Plaza Mall! The Floral Escape presents “Spring In Living Color”. A series of five floral activations designed for you to capture memorable moments. Learn more here.
Point of Action: New Art Installation at Crane Park
Ongoing
Montclair residents and artists Nina Cooke John and Charlie Spademan are bringing the 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.
Fragile Freedoms Exhibit at the Montclair Art Museum
Now-June 13th
The Montclair Art Museum is hosting the exhibit Fragile Freedoms. 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. Van Vleck House and Gardens is located at 21 Van Vleck Street in Montclair. Learn more here.
Kid-Focused Events
Illustration for Teens Hosted by Montclair Art Museum
Now-June 2nd | 4:30PM- 6:00PM
Students explore visual strategies for communicating concepts and individual expression with a professional illustrator. In addition to technique-based instruction, there will be a variety of assignments reflective of the range of approaches and possibilities in the field of illustration. Students must provide their own materials. Register here.
Take and Make Saturdays
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. Sign up here.
Dungeons and Dragons Club at West Orange Library
Now-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-11:00AM
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 is a weekly meeting that 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, May 17th | 10:30AM-11:30AM | Every Monday
Mindfulness is a meditation practice that cultivates a positive state of mind like gratitude, kindness, and compassion. Techniques for feeling more connected to your body and emotional state will be covered. The following topics will be covered: mindful breathing/body, mindful emotions, development of the heart, interpersonal mindfulness, everyday stress reduction, and empathy. Register here.
American Cancer Society’s Giving Day 2021
Tuesday, May 18th | All-day
The first-ever American Cancer Society Giving Day brings everyone together for one big day to celebrate all that they have accomplished and raise funds to lead the fight for a world without cancer. You can donate any amount of money as well as share the event, create a one-day Facebook fundraiser, and raise awareness through social media frames and graphics. Give back here.
Beginner Mah Jongg
Tuesday, May 18th | 6:30PM-8:00PM | Every Tuesday
Learn how to play the ancient Chinese game of Mah Jongg! This game is not hard to play but complex to learn. Register here.
Poetry + Interpretive Movement Virtual Class
Wednesday, May 19th | 6:45PM-7:45PM | Every Wednesday
Join Simone Coonrod over Zoom for a three-series workshop incorporating poetry and dance. Each session will feature a poem that the participants will collaboratively interpret through creative movement. There will also be some related inspired writing. Register here.
Film Club Hosted by The Montclair Public Library
Wednesday, May 19th | 7:00PM-8:00PM | Every Wednesday
See assigned movies {which are mostly on Netflix, but may include Amazon Prime, Hulu, and On Demand} 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, May 19th | 7:00PM-9:00PM | Every Wednesday
Join a free community knitting virtual class every Wednesday from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. All fiber crafts are welcome. Register here.
AAPI Montclair’s Lantern Festival for Justice and Remembrance
Thursday, May 21st | 7:00PM-9:00PM
AAPI Montclair will host its first-ever Lantern Festival for Justice and Remembrance at
Edgemont Memorial Park in Montclair on May 21st from 7:00PM to 9:00PM {rain date: May 22nd}, illuminating the park with over a thousand white paper lanterns as a memorial to all victims of racial
violence and injustice. The event will take place at Edgemont Park. Register here.
Ways to Give Back Locally
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. Learn more here.
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. 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.
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. Learn more here.
