Get your holiday spirits on at one of a number of Christmas pop-up bars, which will be decked out to the nines with holiday décor and slinging next-level drinks with seasonal inspiration.

Miracle will return to locations in Freehold, Nutley, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Verona, Long Branch and Morristown. Miracle started in the East Village of NYC in 2014 and quickly expanded to other U.S. locations, plus Canada, Australia, Panama, Norway, the Cayman Islands and Costa Rica, for a total of 160 participating locations worldwide this year.

While the decor is Instaworthy on its own, the true star of the show is the cocktail menu. Noteworthy drinks at Miracle locations include the Christmapolitan, a twist on the classic made with vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, rosemary, lime and absinthe mist and for those who have been naughty, there’s the Hot Buttered Rum, served hot. Other deliciously merry cocktails such as Carol Barrell, Snowball Old Fashioned, Koala Kooler and Christmas Cricket are sold in mugs and glasses you can purchase for your at-home Christmas parties.

And the restaurants serve holiday food specials, too, so if you can’t find a babysitter, you can take the kids out with you.

Miracle on Centre at Cowan’s Public
229 Centre St., Nutley

Miracle on Mercer at Franklin Social
292 Barrow St., Jersey City

Miracle on George Street at Catherine Lombardi’s
3 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick

Miracle on Bloomfield at The Parkside Social
706 Bloomfield Ave., Verona

Miracle at The Bistro
Inside iPlay America, 108 Schanck Rd., Freehold

Miracle at Avenue
Avenue, Pier Village, 23 Ocean Ave. N., Long Branch

Miracle at Parkside Tavern
Parkside Tavern, 9 Speedwell Ave., Morristown

Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County has its own share of holiday pop-up bars. Previously known as The Schnapps Shack, the Jacques Torres Cocoa Cabin is located adjacent to the Glice skating rink in front of the Crystal Springs Clubhouse at 1 Wild Turkey Way in Hamburg, has toasty fire pits where you can enjoy your hot signature cocktails or snacks like chili con carne, pretzels with warm cheese, and churros with warm cocoa sauce. The opening date is November 28.

Or, let the spirit of the season take you to Frosty’s Cantina & Winter Workshop, located at Minerals Hotel, 2 Chamonix Dr., Vernon Twp. Order a spiked hot chocolate or a vanilla latte to wash down a beef hot dog or chili. The Winter Workshop is fun for all ages and includes marshmallow roasting, fire pits and axe throwing. Hours of operation are 3-8 pm Fridays and Saturdays, starting November 28.

The exterior and interior of The Waiting Room in Hoboken have a “Home for the Holidays” winter wonderland theme, with an array of lights, ornaments, garland, Christmas trees and assorted decorations, which dazzle through January 31. Festive cocktails include White Christmas )Tequila, Triple Sec, Coconut Purée, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup), Sugar Cookie (Vanilla Vodka, Amaretto, Bailey’s, Sweet Cream), Maple Old Fashioned (5 Springs Maple Bourbon, Simple Syrup, Orange Bitters) and Peppermint Espresso (Vodka, Kahlua, Espresso, Peppermint Purée).

Sinner’s Steakhouse in Point Pleasant Beach is transforming into a jolly ol’ sinful Christmas extravaganza – but for the whole family.

Try a signature cocktail like Reif Rum Coquito, Cousin Eddie’s Egg Nog or Scrooge’s Usual; or you can make your own hot chocolate. Desserts will get a festive twist. And the full menu will be available. You can sit inside or on the heated terrace. Dates are November 4 to January 4.

Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille in Cape May transforms the Jersey Shore establishment into a winter wonderland for Jingle Bar. The décor is top-notch, with people lining up down the avenue to see all the Instagram-worthy decorations. The specialty cocktails include festive drinks like Mistletoe Margarita, Blue Christmas, Snowflake Eggnog, Peppermint Tini and The Grinch. The pop-up is open Thursdays to Sundays from November 14 to December 31.

Jingle Bell Bar returns as a pop-up at 1927 Lounge at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

Located off the casino floor, this adults-only party has festive cocktails and themed entertainment.

Cucina Calandra in Fairfield is bringing back the Grinch’s Grotto, through January 4. Your heart will grow three sizes during lunch, happy hour or dinner when you come to this Grinch-themed pop-up. Specialty cocktails will be made with flavors like cranberry, cinnamon and peppermint. The Holly Jolly Lounge at Calandra’s sister location, Il Vecchio Cafe in Caldwell, is all about holiday cheer, with twinkling lights, tinsel, holiday-inspired cocktails like St. Nick’s Old Fashioned or Mistletoe Mule.

BarBacoa’s Christmas Cantina is open in Summit from December 1 to 31, with a festive lineup of Christmas Cantina cocktails served in holiday-themed glassware. Highlights include Down the Chimney, a smoky-meets-bright blend of mezcal, cranberry, lemon, and ginger beer; Santa’s Milk & Churros, a dessert-inspired mix of dark rum, Baileys, churros, and coffee liqueur; Christmas in Cabo, a tropical-leaning combination of añejo tequila, coconut, pineapple, lime, and mint; the bourbon-forward Comet’s Cup with spiced demerara and angostura; and Mama Coco’s Hot Cocoa, a warming reposado tequila hot chocolate topped with marshmallow foam.

Candy Cane Land at Agave Maria in Belleville is a Christmas candyland, found only by going through a secret door inside the Xaman Room to this holiday speakeasy pop-up. Once inside, you’ll see decorations in every corner of the room, plus holiday menu items like Bad Santa, Don’t Steal My Reindeer, Santa Strawberry Surprise, salmon a la pina, and skirt steak.

And don’t miss out on a trip to NYC to see The Queen of Christmas-inspired bar at Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Pop-Up. Located this year at the Untitled Hotel, there are festive photo ops, martinis named after Mariah (and featuring the Black Irish brand), and lots of Christmas music and decor from November 14 to December 28. The Elf Bar Christmas Pop-Up Experience at Continental Sports Bar and Lounge will have hundreds of elf figurines are set up around the bar from December 4 to 24; plus elf cocktails and elf-themed games, and lots of photo ops against a magical Christmas backdrop.

Check each restaurant’s or bar’s site for opening dates, operational dates, hours and menus.

We’re giving away a $100 gift card to the Miracle Bar Pop-Up at The Bistro at iPlay America in Freehold. Click here to enter.

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The post These Epic Christmas Pop-Up Bars Are Back for Holiday Cheer appeared first on NJ Family.

Speakeasies are having a moment, with semi-hidden entrances, dark, moody lighting and next-level craft cocktails combining for a unique night out. Now Fever, the event platform behind pop-up experiences like Candlelight Concerts and Dining in the Dark, is bringing a Halloween-themed speakeasy to Ridgewood, Newark and Atlantic City.

The Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Chapter Two (this is the second year Fever has brought this Speakeasy to spots all over the country) invites guests to sip their way through four eerie Poe tales, each paired with a cocktail to match the vibe.

The 90-minute experience brings four new tales from Poe’s dark imagination to life by historians. Organizers say there’s no need to have seen the original Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy to enjoy Chapter Two. Version two of this immersive cocktail experience is meant to transport visitors into the tales of The Cask of Amontillado, Annabel Lee, The Pit and the Pendulum, and The Fall of the House of Usher.

Each story will be thoughtfully paired with four expertly crafted spooky cocktails:

The Pale Blue Eye which is made with blueberry vodka, lemon juice, rose syrup and La Croix.

Cocktail of Red Death which is made with 100-proof vodka, cherry herring, benedictine liquor, lime juice, pineapple juice, and bitters.

Edgar’s Twisted Brandy Milk Punch which is made with equal parts Kentucky Bourbon and French Brandy. Mixed with vanilla cream, milk syrup, and half-and-half, it’s topped with star anise.

The Nevermore which is made with orange peach blossom vodka, lime juice, and secret spices.

Fever bills it as “a night of gothic elegance and macabre delight” for those “brave enough to attend” so grab your girls for this 3-day pop-up.

Tickets are $55 per person (21+ only) and are on sale for 90-minute time slots (many are already sold out) over 3 days in these spots:

This Thursday through Saturday (Oct. 23 – 25) at The Woman’s Club in Ridgewood
Nov. 6-8 at Newark Symphony Hall in Newark
Nov. 13-15 at the Anchor Rock Club in Atlantic City

See what the buzz is about on our Instagram page.

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram!

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The post Make This Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy Your Next Night Out appeared first on NJ Family.

With a background in Journalism, Megan Redzia decided to pursue a career path in public relations, eventually joining 3E Public Relations in Pine Brook as a partner and executive vice president. A true Jersey Girl, she and her husband grew up in Fair Lawn and moved to Oakland 13 years ago to raise their sons, James, 9, a fourth grader, and Robert, 5, a kindergartener. We asked her about her favorite PR moment (hint: she loves her boy bands); how 3E Public Relations sets itself apart; how the rise of artificial intelligence is affecting the industry; and her kids favorite places in New Jersey.

New Jersey Family: What inspired you to get into PR?

Megan Redzia: I went to Quinnipiac University in Connecticut as a Journalism major because I had a passion for writing and storytelling and had been on the staff of my high school newspaper. I knew enough about public relations to be interested in how it would intersect with journalism, so I took a PR101 class, and it was the professor of that class who sparked my interest in the industry. She had a diverse background in both non-profit and consumer PR and listening to her talk about the exciting campaigns she implemented and the differences they made for the organizations she represented led me to change my major.

When I was a junior, I completed an internship with the public relations department at People magazine and that solidified my choice. The excitement I got from watching the PR team pitch stories and coordinate press interviews assured me I was pursuing the right career path.

NJF: You’ve worked with everything from fashion to food to finance—what’s your proudest PR moment to date?

MR: One of my proudest PR moments was our involvement in the Pop 2000 tour at Westfield Garden State Plaza shopping center in Paramus. The event included a throwback pre-party and outdoor concert featuring live performances by artists synonymous with the 2000s, including Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, O-Town, Ryan Cabrera, 98 Degrees, BBMAK and LFO. It was the first time our agency promoted a concert, and we were successful in securing a tremendous turnout of media and influencers at the VIP meet-and-greet and the concert exceeded attendance goals with almost 5,000 people in the audience. Standing on the stage at the mall where I grew up shopping, with the bands I grew up listening to and staring into the sea of people we helped get there that day was an incredible milestone in my career.

NJF: PR is changing so rapidly. What’s changed the most for you in how you approach your work and what clients are looking for as the media landscape changes faster than it ever has. 

MR: Securing great media coverage and posting engaging social media content used to be enough to drive results for clients, but as the digital landscape made it more challenging to reach and impact target audiences, we needed to shift our approach. 3E PR was originally a department within a marketing communications agency, so having the knowledge of how public relations integrates with a broader marketing strategy allowed us to pivot to be strategic communications managers. For most of our clients, we go beyond traditional public relations and social media to ensure there is alignment between a brand’s owned and earned media strategies. Clients are looking for that more holistic approach as they struggle to navigate the rapidly changing world of communications.

NJF: And how are you navigating the rise of AI?

MR: Our agency has embraced the use of AI to streamline processes such as transcribing interviews, conducting research, and gathering insights. We use a variety of AI-powered data analysis tools to track media coverage, brand mentions and perception, and monitor social media. What you will not see us doing at 3E PR is using AI as a replacement for creativity and human judgment. Our unique approach to PR writing, understanding what reporters are looking for sources to provide, and building media relationships is what makes us successful. AI can’t replace those skills.

NJF: Your PR mantra focuses on 3Es (Entertain, Educate and Engage) – how do you apply those to your work and your life as a mom of two?

MR: The 3E PR mantra was created to address how we create meaningful interactions with our clients’ target audiences. It isn’t enough to just get in front of a potential customer, prospect, or purchaser today, you need to retain their attention by keeping them entertained, educated and engaged. The same is very true with children. My husband and I put a big emphasis on helping our children learn through entertaining and engaging activities that open their eyes to new things and opportunities.

NJF: What’s one lesson you’ve learned as a female founder that you wish more women knew?

MR: I think the greatest lesson I have learned as a woman in business is to build a strong network. It can be very easy in a fast-paced industry like PR to keep your head down and just focus on achieving day-to-day goals, but there is only so much you can do on your own. Connecting with other like-minded individuals and mentors can give you valuable perspectives, opportunities for growth, and support in the areas where you have weaknesses. It took me a while to realize the value in building a network and it has made a big difference in how I operate as a business owner.

NJF: What PR skills (hello multitasking and crisis communication) have you used in your parenting?

MR: A career in PR means you are constantly on the clock to meet a deadline or on the go to get to a meeting or an event – pretty much just like being a mom. Being in this industry made the transition to a parenting schedule easier because I had strong time management and multitasking skills. I also use a lot of my active listening and communications skills that I have honed as a PR professional when I am parenting.

NJF: PR is such a 24-7 job. How do you unplug with your family? Any favorite spots?

MR: Two years ago, we purchased a cabin in a community on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Poconos and we are so grateful for all the screen-free memories we are making there as a family. I make a conscious decision to take off the PR hat when we pull into the driveway and just focus on my family. We all look forward to the weekends we get to spend at the lake, embracing the outdoors, exploring the local area, playing games, and making meals together. This past spring, we lost power late on a Saturday afternoon, so we sat around in the dark telling ghost stories with a flashlight. I know I’ll cherish the simplicity of that unplugged memory forever and I hope moments like that encourage our boys to do the same when they have children.

NJF: If your life had a PR tagline, what would it be?

MR: I think my tagline would be “I’ve got you covered.” I am terrible at saying “no” or “I can’t” and I tend to take control and offer help even when I’m at my maximum bandwidth. I learned it from my mother, who still seems like she can conquer any challenge all by herself.

NJF: What’s next for you and 3E? How do you see the field evolving over the next few years?

MR: 3E PR is focused on growing our team and diverse client roster, while remaining committed to what makes our agency so special – our people. We have been fortunate to build a staff of talented individuals who are as dedicated to one another as they are our clients. I think this differentiator will be more valuable than ever over the next couple of years as clients lean on their agencies to continue guiding them through uncertainties and evolving business landscapes.

NJF: What do you love most about living in Oakland?

MR: I love the sense of community in our town, incredible school system, friendly atmosphere, and shared commitment to our children. I have been coaching rec soccer in Oakland for four years and that has really exposed me to more people in town. I get such a good feeling every time I leave the field seeing how kind the children are to one another and how supportive the parents are of not just their kids, but everyone on the team.

NJF: What are some of your kids’ favorite places in NJ?

MR: My kids love going to the Jersey Shore to visit Jenkinson’s Aquarium, walk the boardwalk and eat lunch at Frankie’s Bar & Grill in Point Pleasant. They are also both animal lovers, so they really enjoy visiting Essex County Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange and Bergen County Zoo in Paramus. We also love going to the many wonderful farms in our state, especially during the fall, such as Abma’s Farm in Wyckoff, or Farms View Roadstand in Wayne.

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!

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The post Mom Crush: Get to Know Megan Redzia of 3E Public Relations appeared first on NJ Family.

From the outside, Huddy House Bed and Breakfast is a beautiful classic Victorian home  along Main Street in Toms River. But step through the front door, and you’re transported into a space that feels equal parts beach retreat, historic site, and old glam.

We got a sneak peek of the new B&B last week before it officially opened to the public. The first thing that catches your eye is a gorgeous stained glass door, which opens into a bright, sun-filled room with beachy, Jersey Shore-inspired decor. Just to the left, there’s a  speakeasy-style parlor complete with a vintage card table, a collection of vinyl records, and a box of cigars.

Looking straight ahead, you are struck by the incredible interior architecture of the grand foyer of the 1891 house. There is an old-fashioned staircase leading upstairs to the bedrooms, a fireplace with ornate moulding, and furniture from the early 1900s that looks untouchable (but is actually quite comfortable). The welcome table has a nostalgic lamp just steps away from a grandfather clock and a bureau decorated with antique china; innkeeper Vicki Weiss said all of the teaware and a lot of the other items were donated for display.

The space has multiple living areas, a cozy bar tucked into the dining room, a library, and a game room. Guests can play the piano, try their hand at a round of giant table chess, or walk through the home taking in all the thoughtful details. Don’t forget to look up at the ceilings, woodwork and beautiful chandeliers.

Upstairs, four guest rooms each offer their own personality. With names like Princess Isabella, Lady Laura, Queen Nicole, and King Peter Michael, there’s an old school Royal feel. Room sizes vary, from doubles to a king suite, with two large shared bathrooms available for overnight guests. Every detail—from the nightstands to the wall art—feels thoughtfully curated.

With your stay, you get a gourmet breakfast or breakfast basket delivered to your room; you can book an afternoon tea service, reserve the dining room for you and 7 other guests, or find a restaurant in the area to meet your lunch and dinner needs.

With your stay, you’ll also have access to chairs and towels to bring to the beach.

The Huddy House has options for weddings, birthdays, bridal or baby showers, family reunions, corporate get-togethers and holiday parties, whether or not you want to stay for the night. You can plan a themed night, murder mystery dinner, vintage tea party, retreat, or arts and crafts workshop. It’s the perfect spot for a staycation, since it feels like a home away from home in the middle of New Jersey. It’s upscale, but with a pretty pink room with double beds, your kids can stay here, too.

Another historical fact: the house is named after Captain Joshua Huddy, who commanded the Toms River Blockhouse fort during the Revolutionary War. Toms River was a target because of its salt works industry. He was captured by Loyalists and hanged.

The Huddy House is located across the street from its sister property, the Mathis House B&B, another luxurious property known for its Victorian tea room and full calendar of events like princess tea parties, Elvis night, Filipino dinners and holiday soirees.

While in the area, explore Toms River’s downtown, which has walkable restaurants and shops with year-round festivals and street fairs; plus the beaches, marinas, boardwalks, wineries, ballparks and museums Ocean County has to offer. Kids are especially drawn to the nearby Insectropolis bug museum, Popcorn Park Zoo, Barnegat lighthouse, and popular towns like Pt. Pleasant, Seaside Heights and LBI.

The Huddy House Bed & Breakfast is located at 801 Main St. in Toms River. The Mathis House Bed & Breakfast and Victorian Tea Room is located at 600 Main St.

Take a tour of the beautiful B&B via our Instagram page.

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The post Inside Huddy House: A Stunning New B&B with Deep Roots in South Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

Adriana Carrig knows firsthand how game-changing a kind word or gesture can be for someone going through a rough time. Throughout most of her childhood and teen years, the Chatham mom of two boys, Ford, 4, and Jett, 2, remembers how it felt to be bullied. For Carrig, it wasn’t always the obvious mean girl bullying. “It was really just competitive cruelty,” she says. “I felt like people were never about supporting one another. They were just about themselves and tearing other people down.”

It wasn’t until college that Carrig experienced a feeling of unwavering support in the form of sisterhood, and she found it in the very world that often gets a bad rap for exclusion. “When I joined Delta Zeta at The College of New Jersey, I discovered that girls can be nice to one another,” she says. “They can lift each other up and support each other’s dreams. That was really the first time I felt that.”

That feeling of being seen and supported inspired Little Words Project, the multi-million dollar jewelry and lifestyle brand that promotes kindness and positivity through its super cute beaded bracelets. Beyond its massive online presence, LWP has 13 shops in several states, the first of which opened in Manhattan’s West Village in 2021, plus a kiosk at Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, Fl. The newest Little Words shop opened this spring at The Mall at Short Hills, where Carrig shopped as a teen growing up in Livingston.

As Delta Zeta’s VP of membership at The College of New Jersey back in the day, Carrig’s job was “to keep the love circulating” among her sorority sisters, literally. “What better way to do that than through these bracelets that I’d been making for myself over the years to get through difficulty and navigate the bullying,” she says.

You are all you need.

BUILDING A BRAND FROM THE GROUND UP

The idea was to give her handmade bracelets with kind and inspiring words to others with the hope that each one would eventually be passed on to someone else who needed it. “The concept of paying it forward happened intrinsically in that group,” she says. Today, Little Words remains true to that mission. Each bracelet comes with a unique code, letting wearers share their personal stories online and track each bracelet’s journey. “Every bracelet becomes a one-of-a-kind story,” she says. “It’s profoundly personal.”

Carrig’s first monetary investment into Little Words came after college, when instead of getting a full-time job or going to law school, she decided to put $5,000 into the business. She set up shop in her parents’ basement, with her mom hand-filling each beaded letter with black marker and her dad handling shipping. Carrig credits her parents not only for working alongside of her as she launched the company but also for teaching her that she could do anything. “My mother’s proof of that,” Carrig says, sharing her mom’s journey as a Mexican immigrant who built a new life for her family in New Jersey.

Her husband Bill, Carrig’s college sweetheart from TCNJ, was also hugely supportive. It was Bill who named the company Little Words Project. Today, he serves as the company’s co-CEO alongside Carrig.

CELEB FANS, COLLABS & A MISSION THAT MATTERS

In the early days of trying to get her bracelets into stores, Carrig met with resistance from jewelry manufacturers. “They would say things like, ‘My kid could make this.’” Her gut told her to keep pushing.

Fast forward to 2013, when she officially launched Little Words. More than a decade later, the company has a huge online and social presence, and has been worn by A-list celebs like Lance Bass, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Alicia Keys, Sophie Turner, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, Cynthia Erivo, Millie Bobby Brown, Jessica Alba and many more; and has collaborated with powerhouse brands like Nordstrom, Target, Disney, Wicked, and the WNBA.

Business grew steadily, picking up huge wins when Nordstrom and Target began stocking her bracelets. Nordstrom placed its first order of Little Words bracelets in 2018. “It was surreal,” Carrig says. “Suddenly, we had to figure out how to fulfill these major orders…things we never imagined when we were making bracelets in my basement.”

Asked when she experienced her first pinch-me moment as a founder and entrepreneur, Carrig points to being profiled in Forbes. “Seeing Little Words in Forbes was an ‘I made it’ moment,” she says. “I’d always dreamed of making the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and even though I missed the age cutoff, that article was proof I was on the right path.”

Over the years, Little Words bracelets became more and more popular, with customers buying them not only as gifts of support and encouragement but to celebrate life’s milestones and friendships. The words “strength” and “believe” are perennial best-sellers, and online stories tie both words to overcoming everything from infertility to breast cancer. One of her most meaningful partnerships is with S&P Pharmacy, which gives fertility patients a bracelet engraved with the word “hope” alongside their medication. Carrig herself struggled with infertility before welcoming her sons, making the “hope” bracelet especially poignant for her.

fill your own cup.

Carrig’s perspective as an entrepreneur and founder changed dramatically when she became a mother. Now she feels even more intentional about the words she uses with her sons and herself. “Kindness begins with self-talk,” she says. “Motherhood taught me the importance of giving myself grace.”

It’s particularly fitting that Little Words’ first-ever Word of the Year for 2025 is Grace, an initiative that came on the heels of Carrig’s first book, The Power of Little Words: How One Kind Word Can Change Everything. The book shares her stories of adversity and how important the words we tell ourselves are as we try to achieve our goals—in her case while she grew her company and family.

It’s the kind of book you’ll want to keep on your nightstand and pick up when you need a bit of motivation, advice or inspiration. From creating your own destiny to treating other with kindness, the book follows Carrig’s journey while sharing advice to thrive in whatever it is you set out to do while staying kind. Inspiring quotes—like “Share your authentic self, put your mission out there, and you will find your people”—are spread throughout the book along with words like courage, self-love, resilience and gratitude.

Today, Little Words Project has 46 corporate employees at its New Jersey headquarters in Mountainside, along with additional staff at its retail locations. As she looks to what’s next for the business, Carrig is also carving out time to mentor young entrepreneurs and women navigating challenges. Her nonprofit, Herself Co., aims to promote self love and mental wellness in young women. She’s also the co-host of The Glow Through It podcast (with her bestie Mariah Grippo), which features conversations about motherhood, business, friendship and more.

HOMEGROWN IN THE GARDEN STATE

Carrig is grateful to be able to raise her boys in New Jersey, a state she credits for much of her resilience. “Everything about this state shaped who I am,” she says. Her Jersey ties run deep as evidenced by this fun fact: Her grandmother once ran a jewelry business in East Orange.

These days she loves spending weekends with Bill and the kids walking through downtown Summit or Montclair or heading to the beach in Long Branch (where she has a shop at Pier Village) or Manasquan. She also loves that shopping trips to Short Hills now include a stop at her own store, where you can not only buy bracelets and charms but also make your own creations at the Bead Bar, an experience that speaks to the community behind the brand.

“At the end of the day, this business is about more than bracelets,” Carrig says. “It’s about empowering people to believe in themselves, share kindness, and know they’re not alone. I built Little Words Project from that feeling, and it’s still the heart of everything we do.”

Adriana gives us a shout-out on her Instagram page. See what she has to say about her article on njfamily.com.

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!

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The post Adriana Carrig’s Little Words Project: How an NJ Mom Turned Kindness Into a Multi-Million Dollar Brand appeared first on NJ Family.

Planning a couple’s getaway is not always easy – figuring out childcare, booking flights and researching a destination for restaurants and activities can all make it something that drops to the bottom of the to-do list. But when a fabulous new hotel recently opened in my town, I knew this was a great way for my husband and me to spend time together without all of the hassle that goes along with planning a longer trip.

The Graduate by Hilton Princeton opened last summer. The Graduate hotels are part of a collection of hotels based in university towns, and it was very exciting when this one came to Princeton. Until recently, I’d only had a drink there with friends (which was great!). Of course, it makes sense that I wouldn’t have stayed over in a hotel that’s just a five-minute drive from home. But then I got to thinking that this was actually a brilliant plan. My husband and I could easily get away for 24 hours and since we didn’t have to go far, we’d be able to maximize the fun.

We started our evening at Ye Tavern Restaurant, the bustling eatery on the ground floor of the hotel. The menu features elevated pub favorites and unique pre-Prohibition Era cocktails. I tried the Cantina Cooler, a tropical cocktail made with rum, coconut-kiwi, pineapple, falernum, lime and green chartreuse. While my husband opted for a Diet Coke, I was impressed that they also had a full list of mocktails. For appetizers, we shared an impressive charcuterie board. My husband had the soup, a corn bisque that was very savory and delicious. Then for entrees I had the Ale Braised Chicken, and he had the Fish and Chips. All around, it was a top-notch meal.

Fully satiated, we decided to take a walk around Princeton. It was funny that the streets we walk along each day took on a different vibe. We were on vacation! We returned to our room which was decorated in a collegiate manner, a nod to Princeton University. The best thing about the Graduate is all of the attention to detail – even our room keys were “student IDs.” We stayed in the King Princeton One Bedroom Suite and the living room felt like an opulent study complete with a wet bar. The bedroom had a king-sized bed and looked out onto Nassau Street and the campus. I particularly loved the wallpaper in the bathrooms. Every detail throughout the hotel was well thought out, but best of all, everyone we encountered from the front desk to the restaurant was friendly and welcoming. I also noticed lots of four-legged friends coming and going so this hotel is pet-friendly if you want to bring your pooch.

Though we went home after our amazing overnight, there’s so much to do in Princeton if you decide to visit. My top recommendations are:

Flower Picking at Terhune Orchards – Many people know about the fantastic seasonal fruit-picking here, but few know that you can also pick your own flowers. Visit the farm store to get scissors and a container and then stroll through a gorgeous field of flowers to create your own bouquet!

Princeton Canoe and Kayak Rental – Spend the afternoon paddling on the D&R Canal and/or nearby Lake Carnegie. This is such a scenic and serene way to spend some time, and the dock is located right near the Princeton train station.

Morven Museum & Garden – This National Historic Landmark is situated on five acres in the heart of Princeton. There’s a full schedule of events here from a twilight garden stroll to afternoon tea.

The Bent Spoon – No trip to Princeton is complete without a visit to this artisan ice cream shop featuring unique flavors such as lemon lilac, NJ organic strawberry and dark chocolate sorbet. And yes, if there’s a line, it’s worth the wait!

Graduate by Hilton Princeton is located at 10 Chambers Street, Princeton. Ye Tavern Restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily until 9 pm, and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

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The post Princeton Staycation: Plan an Overnight at the Graduate Hotel appeared first on NJ Family.

If the idea of planning a girls’ trip sounds too daunting, start by looking closer to home. On a recent spring weekend, my sister and I headed south for a quick but fun-filled overnight trip to Philly. We were impressed with how much fun we managed to pack into 24 hours but if you can get away for longer, I highly recommend it.

Depending on where you are in the Garden State, Philadelphia is about 1-2 hours drive, which means that you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying. Arriving on a rainy Friday afternoon, we checked into Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square and breathed a sigh of relief that it was time for a short break from work, parenting and all the other everyday stuff. We left our car with the valet, which meant we wouldn’t have to worry about parking or driving for the rest of the trip. Since most places we were going were a short walk or Uber drive away, this was ideal.

The Sofitel lobby had a cool, contemporary French look. The concierge asked if we needed help arranging any plans for the evening and was surprised to learn that we were going to see Marilyn Manson perform at the Metropolitan Opera House (I’m a huge fan!).

After getting checked in, we took the elevator up to our room and when we opened the door, we were excited to find a relaxing oasis with two double beds and a marble bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower. The newly renovated room was super chic and just the perfect, comfortable setting for our short sojourn.

After getting changed, our first stop was Bolo, a Latin American restaurant and rum bar. Chef Yun Fuentes’s colorful restaurant transports guests to the islands, specifically his family home of Puerto Rico.

Bolo has a full rum-focused bar program with a variety of classic and signature cocktails and craft beer, and we were excited to try some drinks. I went with a classic daiquiri. If your idea of a daiquiri is some frozen concoction made from a grocery store mix – this is not that! Made simply with rum, lime and sugar, it was a fresh and delightful drink. My sister chose a bubbly glass of cava to start the celebration.

And of course we couldn’t leave without sampling Bolo Light, made by My Local Brew Works, a local custom craft brewery I had actually made my own beer at last year while working on a story. The beer was as delicious as I remembered, and it was perfectly suited to this festive setting.

Next, it was back to the Sofitel for dinner at Liberté Lounge. My sister went for the steak frites and I had the Liberté Burger with an order of truffle fries. Her cocktail, the Liberté, was made with pear infused Tito’s vodka, St. Germain, lemon and sparkling wine. I opted for a glass of brut rosé. Overall, the whole meal was top tier, and the relaxing atmosphere and friendly service solidified this as a perfect spot to eat, drink and unwind.

When it was time to head to the show, we hopped in an Uber which whisked us over to The Met. The historic Metropolitan Opera House opened in 1908 and is an amazing and intimate concert venue. Even though my sister lived in Philly, she didn’t know The Met, so we were both happy to discover this fabulous historic theater. I love seeing shows at places small enough to actually see the performers (not video screens) and MM did not disappoint. Upcoming shows include The Head and The Heart, Danny Go! Live! (for the kids – if you know “The Wiggle Dance,” you know), James Blunt and Barenaked Ladies, to name a few – you can check all upcoming shows here.

The next morning, we hit Kismet Bagels, an adorable bagel shop. The line that flowed out onto the sidewalk confirmed that these bagels were top notch (don’t worry, the wait was not that long). With our bagel and a schmear to go, we hit the road back home, ready to plan our next sister adventure.

Sofitel, 120 S.17^th St., Philadelphia
Bolo, 2025 Sansom St., Philadelphia
Liberté Lounge, 120 S.17^th St., Philadelphia
The Met, 858 N. Broad St., Philadelphia
Kismet Bagels, 1700 Sansom St., Philadelphia

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The post Why Philadelphia Is the Girls’ Trip You Didn’t Know You Needed appeared first on NJ Family.

Pickleball has exploded in popularity throughout NJ. This paddle sport (oddly named after a food, though legend has it pickleball was named after a pup named Pickles who loved to chase his ball around Bainbridge Island in Washington) combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong—and will have you working up a sweat in no time. According to a report from USA Pickleball, New Jersey has almost 1,000 courts, with about half indoors. Here’s where you can play around the state:

Anchor Golf Center

21 New Jersey 10, Whippany
973-887-0898

Angela Hibbard Park

600 Drum Point Rd., Brick
732-262-1000

Avalon Community Hall

8th Street Complex on Dune Drive, Avalon
609-967‑3066

Beach Haven

Nelson and Bay Ave., Beach Haven
609-492-0111

Bergen County Pickleball Club

Outdoor Courts
411 E. Clinton Ave., Tenafly
201-399-3888

Indoor Courts
101 North Summit Street, Tenafly
201-399-3888

Brookside Racquet & Swim Club

480 Brookside Ave., Allendale
201-825-7786

Brigantine Community Center

265 42nd St., Brigantine
609-264-7350

Centercourt Academy

222 N. Passaic Ave., Chatham
973-635-1222

185 Amboy Rd., Morganville
732-965-1065

Cherry Hill Health and Racquet Club

1820 Old Cuthbert Rd., Cherry Hill
856-429-1388

Colts Neck Racquet Club

36 Artisan Pl., Colts Neck
732-431-9500

Courtside Racquet Club

1115 Rte. 31 South, Lebanon
908-713-1144

Fort Monmouth Rec Area

2566 Guam Ln., Tinton Falls
848-456-4278
Note: The parking lot at Fort Monmouth Recreation Center is closed until further notice. Parking is available along Guam Lane. 

Greater Morristown YMCA

79 Horse Hill Rd., Cedar Knolls
973-267-0704

Heritage Middle School

20 Foxcroft Dr., Livingston
Contact livepickleball@yahoo.com for more info

Hudson Pickleball

Hoboken Southwest Park, 64 Harrison St., Hoboken
201-565-4677

Iron Peak Sports & Events

137 Mountain View Rd., Hillsborough
908-758-2739

Kroc Center

1865 Harrison Ave., Camden
856-379-6900

Lavallette

Bay Blvd. and Magee Ave., Lavallette
732-793-7477

Manalapan Township Recreation Center

120 Rte. 522, Manalapan
732-446-8353

Marlboro County Park (Marlboro Swim Club)
Masepe Trail, off Gordon’s Corner Road, Marlboro
732-617-0100

Marlboro Recreation Center

1996 Recreation Way, Marlboro
Also: Marlin Park, Nolan Park and Robertsville parks
732-617-0367

Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club

370 Sullivan Way, Ewing
609-883-MBPC

Mercer County Park Commission Tennis Facility

Mercer County Park, 1638 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor
609-448-8007

Hopewell Valley Golf Club Tennis Courts
114 Pennington-Hopewell Road, Hopewell Twp.
May to September: 609-639-9100, ext. 1
October to April (offseason): 609-448-8007

Michael J. Tighe Park

65 Georgia Rd., Freehold Twp.
732-294-2190

Montclair Pickleball
21-05 Morlot Ave., Fair Lawn
Seaview Hotel, 401 S. New York Rd., Galloway
New Jersey Athletic Club, Lawrence Twp.
Montclair State University, Montclair

Moorestown Recreation Center

North Church Street Recreation Center
111 W 2nd St., Moorestown

Mount Pleasant Park & Fields

Upper Twp.
Tuckahoe Rd., Tuckahoe

New Jersey Athletic Club

4152 Quakerbridge Road, Lawrenceville
609-275-8900

Ocean City Courts

18th St., and Haven Ave., Ocean City
609-525-9307

Overpeck County Park-Ridgefield Park Area

40 Fort Lee Rd., Leonia
201-336-6000

Pickleball Kingdom

1100 Negron Dr., Hamilton Twp.
609-288-7036

Pickleball Smash-It

114 Christopher Columbus Blvd., Atlantic City
516-613-7300

Princeton Racquet Club

150 Raymond Rd., Princeton
732-329-6200

Proshot Pickleball

6725 E. Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp.
609-867-6439

Rahway River Park

401 Parkway Dr., Rahway
908-391-6509

Robbinsville Pickle House

153 W. Manor Way, Robbinsville
609-322-5700

South Jersey Pickleball

DeCou Courts
Cropwell Rd., Cherry Hill

SPORTIME Pickleball Wayne

77 Willowbrook Blvd., Wayne

The Rec Center at St. Mathew’s

31 W. Academy St., Williamstown
856-629-2050

Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club

915 Glenview Rd., Ridgewood
201-447-1503

Warren Health & Racquet Club

149 Mt. Bethel Rd., Warren
908-647-0400

Weehawken Recreation

19th Street Courts, Weehawken
201-319-6061

William T. Birch Park

8th Street, Fort Lee
201-592-3500, ext. 2505

YMCA of Red Bank

166 Maple Ave., Red Bank
732-741-2504

To get in on the action, check out our reel on Instagram.

Jennifer Amato contributed to this story.

Editor’s Note: Always check hours of operation and weather updates before heading out.

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!

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The post Where to Play Pickleball in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

A night out without the kids calls for a pretty cocktail on a rooftop. These rooftop bars are all about views, drinks, next-level dining and live music.

Red Rock Tap + Grill
Red Bank

Overlooking the Navesink River, Red Rock Tap + Grill is a cozy bar where you can dance the night away since the upper deck has plenty of space. The string lights set up around the rooftop light up the night sky and there are 19 HDTVs and 16 beers on tap. Try a specialty cocktail with tropical or southern flavors with a kick. During the summer, dine on their seasonal special Lobster Rolls, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and Tuna Tartare Nachos. 

The VÜE Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Atlantic City

Located at The Claridge Hotel on the 23rd floor, The VÜE offers a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can order wines by the glass or bourbons, tequilas, cognacs and draft beers. Come for daily happy hour and $5 dollar wines. There’s live entertainment every Saturday.

Daddy O Restaurant & Bar
Long Beach Island

Located by the modern boutique Hotel LBI, this bar is just a few minutes from the ocean, so if you’re looking for a bite to eat or a drink, try Daddy O Restaurant & Bar for outdoor dining. During the summer, the hotel opens up its outdoor dining at the bar for cocktails and sushi. The Daddy O Bar is open on weekends then after mid-June, they are open every day. Going for dinner? Try the Local Flounder Piccata or their Colossal Crab & Shrimp Scampi. 

Pour Abbeys Bar & Grill
Newark

Plan a night out at Pour Abbeys Bar & Grill, home to delicious Portuguese-inspired dishes and a selection of mojitos. Locals here love the whiskeys, calamari, chicken wings and burgers. Come on Fridays for live music on the rooftop. 

Avenue Nuit
Long Branch

Down the shore, The Beach Club’s beach bar, Avenue Nuit, has gorgeous views. The Beach Club at Avenue is a club that hosts events and private parties. Visit The Roof Lounge for its amazing pool and views of the beach plus live music every Monday. This rooftop gem is also right near the vibrant shopping in Pier Village. 

Nohu Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Weehawken

Nohu Rooftop Bar & Restaurant has epic New York City views. Come for the golden hour, the bar’s happy hour, every Monday through Thursday from 5-7 pm. On Sundays from 12-3 pm, come for a Latin Jazz Brunch featuring live music or check out Beat Weekends on Friday and Saturday nights. Feast on a Cajun-Spiced Tuna Bowl or Grilled Bourbon Butter Steak. Reserve for a VIP Experience and get the best views of the Manhattan skyline. 

The Ashford
Jersey City

The lush Garden Rooftop sets this bar apart from the others. The Ashford is made for Instagram. Guests come for gardens and the Newark Pedestrian Plaza. The rooftop is open rain or shine thanks to its canopy. Come for a Tiki Cocktail or take advantage of Happy Hour Monday through Thursday from 4-7 pm and Five Dollar Fridays where you’ll find $5  bellinis, $3 mimosas and more. 

Alto
Montclair

Alto is a unique rooftop bar with an exterior unlike any other. The colorful dining setup and giant arch offer up a vacay vibe. The bar has 3,000 square feet of interior and exterior space combined. Order a handcrafted cocktail or sparkling red, white or pink wines and apps. The menu also boasts artisanal pizzas like Margherita or Cacio e Pepe. The locals here especially love the view during sunsets. 

Watermark
Asbury Park

Watermark is Asbury’s go-to rooftop beach bar. Come for a drink while taking in views of the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the second floor of the First Avenue Pavilion, Watermark has over 8,000 square feet of interior and exterior space, surrounding the carousel, the casino and the Empress Hotel. The bar specializes in finger foods and craft cocktails. The mixologists here offer up everything from Lemonadas to tequilas like Spicy Pear Cactus. 

La Terrazza
Ridgewood

Felina Restaurant & Bar opened La Terrazza, Ridgewood’s first rooftop bar with room for up to 85 guests. The bar specializes in rosé wines and frosé drinks, as well as pizzas made from their specialty ovens. 

Wave Resort
Long Branch

The Wave Resort in Pier Village is a high-end hotel with several types of bars. Its rooftop bar also serves as the hotel’s Pool Bar. Featuring oceanfront views and a swim-up bar, come for a specialty cocktail and relax on a lounge chair. On the rooftop, you’ll also be able to wind down by the cabanas as you take in the salty ocean air.

Rooftop at Exchange Place
Jersey City

Host your private events or catch a view of the New York City skyline at Rooftop at Exchange Place, which recently unveiled its renovated outdoor space. Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 4-6 pm so enjoy that block of time to get drinks for the best prices. The bar has a cocktail lounge so you’re in pure relaxation while witnessing the Hudson River and Statue of Liberty from above. The design of the bar has a retractable glass roof and walls plus an outdoor patio with a fireplace that is perfect during the summer season. Try their rooftop entrees like Bang Bang Shrimp, the RXP Burger or the Spumoni Bomba.

Look at the beautiful views of Rooftop at Exchange Place via our Instagram page.

Town Bar + Kitchen
Morristown

Here you’ll find the only rooftop bar complete with a fireplace, called Town Bar + Kitchen. Check out the selection of wines, premium beers and specialty cocktails that include La Fiesta Rosa or a TOWN Grapefruit Rumble. This rooftop bar has brick walls surrounding the building with red lounge chairs to match the aesthetic of the bar. The string lights and the fireplace make the bar feel cozy, but with a night sky you get a feel for how beautiful Morristown can look. 

Rooftop at Hotel LBI
Long Beach Island

If you are down the shore make sure to visit Hotel LBI’s Rooftop Bar, where you’ll encounter bay views and handcrafted cocktails. Relax in their cozy outdoor lounges on this all-white decorated rooftop that is surrounded by a garden of flowers and trees. The deck is similar to a beach house, with wooden tables and umbrellas all around. Bask in the sun while you sip on Guava Coladas or Atlantic Lemonade from their cocktail lemonades so you feel right at the shore. Enjoy game nights by playing ping pong, corn hole and connect four as they are scattered all around the rooftop. Their food menu consists of a selection of pizzas made by the hotel’s kitchen.

City Bistro
Hoboken

Known for its Italian American-inspired menu, City Bistro is a three-floor restaurant including a bar, rooftop and a lounge. You’ll get views of the Manhattan skyline while the sun sets during the evenings plus their roundtable bar and HDTV outside. Try their brunch, main, dessert, cocktail, wine and beer menus for endless possibilities for the whole family. For foodies you’ll love their cocktail menu because of their creative drinks with flavors unique to an ordinary cocktail, for example the Tupelo Honey or Innerbloom. 

Concourse Club
Woodridge

Described as a swanky airport lounge, the Concourse Club is the rest stop for all visitors of the town. This chic spot is designed to look like you’ve teleported to the past with its vintage interior. The bar is accompanied by an amazing view of the most stunning hills and the vibrant city. The rooftop bar has a strict dress code in order to ensure guests are experiencing the upscale atmosphere that the bar creates. This is another trendy spot with lots of photo-ops for your social media, so dress the part and take a look at the vintage view. While you feast on the views, sip on their grand selection of wines, whiskeys from Japan, and food from classic American to Japanese to Spanish. 

Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
Cape May

Outside of Cape May’s shore you’ll find Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille that has now become an award-winning rooftop bar. Bring friends on a night out to enjoy their famous orange crushes, fresh seafood and signature sandwiches. The bar is next to Cape May’s Montreal Beach Resort.

Salvation
Asbury Park

If you’re looking for a fancy night, like celebrating an anniversary or a birthday, head over to The Asbury Hotel’s rooftop bar Salvation. This is Asbury Park’s chic-yet-chill rooftop bar housing some of the best sunset views, live music, and many times where you can dance. This bar also has a casual sophisticated dress code to mimic the upscale design of the bar. Try their canned drinks and handcrafted cocktails including Lavender Lemonade, Raspberry Park Spritz, and many more. 

The Bradford
Bridgewater

Watch the sunset overlooking the town of Bridgewater at The Bradford, with their handcrafted cocktails and small plates. The bar has lots of Instagrammable shots of the rooftop with its glass fence, paired with tropical plants that make you feel right at a summer getaway. The bar has a perfect photo-op in front of the rose arch and the heart-shaped The Bradford sign, plus chandeliers and white roses on the ceiling of the rooftop bar and a pool table. Make sure to check their dress code before you go in as they do keep an upscale atmosphere for their rooftop bar and check out their Happy Hour, Tuesday through Thursday from 5-7 pm. 

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!

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The post The Best Rooftop Bars in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 11, and there are lots of ways to celebrate the special women in your life! Whether your kids plan to make you breakfast in bed or if you’re going out to brunch, you can still plan a fun weekend activity.

Kid-oriented activities are fine the other 364 days of the year, so make sure that on Mother’s Day you get to do something that you want to do! While children may prefer a day at the arcade over time spent at a garden, this is your day mama, so get everyone dressed up in their colorful spring clothes and go frolic outside (if that’s your thing). One of my favorite Mother’s Days was one we spent at Wave Hill in the Bronx, but there are plenty of other beautiful local gardens, from NJ Botanical Garden to Rutgers Gardens to Grounds for Sculpture to choose from.

My other favorite thing to do on Mother’s Day, when it’s feasible, is a spa day (okay, spa hour). At Alchemy Mind & Body, they have outdoor hydrotherapy tubs that you can soak in before or after your treatment (now that is a Mother’s Day dream come true!). The Spa and Salon at Golden Nugget Atlantic City is offering the Mom’s Sweet Serenity Package, which includes a warm citrus massage followed by a brightening facial, and the Bahama Mama Manicure & Pedicure.

Treat your family to a staycation, like at the ultra-luxe Pendry at Natirar. Hike nature trails, book a service at the spa, sit for high tea, or take a cooking class at Ninety Acres. Cape May is never a bad idea and one of my favorite things to do there is railbiking with the fam. Or plan afternoon tea at a lovely tea room in NJ.

Here are some other great ways you can spend the day dedicated to you!

May 8-11

Mizuho Americas Open
Liberty National Golf Club, Jersey City
Thursday – Sunday
Golf fans can watch as pros from the LPGA, plus 24 of the top junior golfers, compete on the course. There are opportunities for you to volunteer on the course or behind the scenes.

May 9-10

Kelly Clarkson
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City
The Grammy Award-winning singer and talk show host hits the stage in AC.

May 9-11

Mother’s Day Wine Trail
Throughout New Jersey
There are dozens of wineries and vineyards through the Garden State Wine Growers Association that will have events with tastings, food and live music.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
NJPAC, Newark
For the past 26 years, this has been a Mother’s Day Weekend tradition. Each performance is a slightly different mix of African American cultural heritage set to spirituals, song-sermons, gospel and holy blues.

May 10

May Blooms Sip & Shop Vendor Market
Garden State Distillery, Toms River
This free local craft and vendor market – in time for Mother’s Day gift-giving – brings together local makers, artisans and small businesses where you can shop for one-of-a-kind items while sipping craft drinks.

Mother’s Day Carriage Rides
Howell Living History Farm, Hopewell Twp.
Go back in time at this gem where you’ll be pulled around the pasture in a horse-drawn carriage.

Azalea Festival
Sayen Gardens, Hamilton Twp.
The annual Mother’s Day weekend event includes a magnificent display of over 250,000 flowering bulbs, dogwoods, azaleas and rhododendrons, which you can see as you do some vendor shopping, order from food trucks, listen to live music, and take a tour inside the Sayen House. Mothers can head inside the house for free family portraits.

Gardens of Cape May Tour
Cape May
During the self-guided tour, you’ll visit two private homes, the Colonial House and the Emlen Physick Estate. At Emlen you can walk through the gardens of the Victorian estate and museum, shop from local vendors, talk with Rutgers master gardeners, and have some free wine courtesy of Cape May Winery.

Downtown Hopewell Mocktail Crawl
Downtown Hopewell
Hit 15 different businesses that will be serving alcohol-free drinks as you shop local.

Brunch & Bingo
Inn of Cape May
Compete for prizes during bingo, check out the fashion show by Lace Silhouettes/Cotton Company, and have a breakfast buffet.

Mothers’ Day Crafts & Collectibles Show
Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May
Shop for – or with – your mom from a selection of handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts at this outdoor crafts & collectibles show. You can also purchase a ticket to the Garden Tours of Cape May and enjoy a wine tasting on the grounds. Live music will be played by C. Lynne Smith.

Mother’s Day Planting Make n’ Take
Terhune Orchards, Princeton
Young gardeners will pot and decorate a flower (or herb) pot, and make a handmade card, as a gift for their mom or grandmom.

May 10-11

Asbury Park Spring Bazaar
Grand Arcade at Convention Hall, Asbury Park – Saturday and Sunday
The Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park – Sunday only
The weekend will feature shopping, arts & crafts and music to celebrate Mother’s Day. Activities include shopping, a photo wall, a flower bouquet bar, Mother’s Day brunch at Seahorse, food and drinks at Asbury Oyster Bar, face painting and workshops.

Season Opening of Doo Wop Museum
Doo Wop Experience Museum, Wildwood
One of the best pop culture museums in the U.S., as voted by USAToday readers, will reopen for the season during Mother’s Day weekend, with its nostalgic displays, giant neon signs, Tiffany lamps and jukebox.

Resin Cheese Board Workshop
The Bloomin Cottage, Phillipsburg
Make a resin cheese board designed like the ocean at a workshop. Every mom will get a flower and a crystal to take home.

Mother’s Day Open Swim
Five Star Swim School
Saturday: Cherry Hill, East Hanover
Sunday: Deptford, East Brunswick, Eatontown, Edison, Galloway, Princeton
Families can swim together in the heated pool for an hour, with mom having fun for free.

Mother’s Day Revolutionary Weekend
Museum of the American Revolution, Philadelphia, PA
Celebrate the inspiring, trailblazing women who played vital roles during the Revolutionary War – from flag makers to camp followers to an American prisoner-of-war. Weekend highlights include the new Banners of Liberty exhibit, a Mother’s Day card craft, a make-your-own pincushion activity, a talk on The Baroness von Riesdesel, a performance by Elizabeth Freeman, and a pen-and-ink sketch of Continental Army soldiers and campers. Moms get a free carnation on Sunday.

Mother’s Day Celebration
Sesame Place Philadelphia, Langhorne, PA
The celebration includes the Furry Friends “Mommy & Me” Dance Party, a Mother’s Day craft, and a sticker giveaway. You can reserve a spot at the Mother’s Day Dine with Elmo & Friends.

May 11

Mother’s Day Express
Woodstown Central Railroad, Woodstown
Take an old-fashioned train ride, where you’ll travel 18 miles round-trip between South Woodstown and Mannington, traveling over Salem County’s first railroad line that dates back to 1863. You can sit in coach or the caboose, and opt for a Continental brunch or Charcuterie BYOB.

Mother’s Day Pamper & Bloom Spa Mixer
Angela Branch Skin Care, Elizabeth
During this wellness brunch, the relaxing spa-inspired atmosphere will include chair massages, mini facials, manicures, custom mocktails and mimosas, gift bags, giveaways, and women-owned vendors. Every mom will get a curated gift bag.

George Wallace’s Mother’s Day Celebration
NJPAC, Newark
Celebrate mom — and all the special ladies in your life — at one of two shows with the comedy legend.

Mother’s Day Jewelry Making Party
Eclectic Chic Boutique, Montclair
You and the kids can design a necklace, bracelet, earrings or keychain together using colorful beads, charms and accessories.

Plant & Sip Terrarium Workshop
Fern & Fossil in Newark
Spend Mother’s Day designing your own succulent and crystal ornament.

Sussex County Miners Mother’s Day Barnyard Brunch
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Before the Minor League Baseball team takes the field against the Trois-Rivières Aigles, have a pre-game brunch at the stadium’s newest restaurant, The Barnyard. After the game, kids can run the bases and get autographs from their favorite team members.

Moms Climb Lighthouse & World War II Tower
Cape May Lighthouse and World War II Tower, Cape May
Climb the 199 steps up the original, cast-iron spiral stairway to the top of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse and see a beautiful view of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean, Cape May Point State Park, and Cape May Point Borough. You can also climb the World War II Tower to see the sixth-floor spotting gallery. You’ll see a Wall of Honor that pays tribute to local residents who served during World War II.

Spring Pop-Up Shop
Seaview Hotel & Golf Club, Galloway
During brunch, families can enjoy a photo booth and a pop-up flower shop powered by Absecon Bloom. There will also be a curated selection of handmade goods who will offer items for last-minute Mother’s Day gifts.

Mother’s Day at The Track
Monmouth Park Racetrack, Oceanport
Free activities include admission to the track for moms, clowns, face painting, pony rides and a bounce house in the picnic area.

May 17

Zen and Petals Mother’s Day Retreat
Van Saun Park, Paramus
Mothers and mother figures will be treated to some much-needed TLC with a free yoga class and flower arranging workshop.

• Jennifer Amato contributed to this story.

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