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Happy Star Wars Day, UC neighbors!
“May the Fourth be with you!” 🙂
This week brings a mix of midweek and weekend plans, from Cinco de Mayo spots across the county to the return of Summit First Thursday with an expanded all-day lineup. We’ve also got a few low-key finds, including a live concert in Fanwood and some easy ways to get out without dealing with big crowds.
With Mother’s Day this weekend, you’ll find a couple of simple ideas mixed in too (nothing over the top—just thoughtful and local). Whether you’re heading out for tacos, browsing a street fair, or keeping things low-key, there’s plenty to work with this week.
Last Week’s Poll: Housing Mindset
Most of you are staying put—for now.
67% said you’re happy where you are, while about 1 in 5 are thinking about moving within the next year. Only a small group said they’re actively looking right now.
🏡 Local Real Estate Insight: Meet Samantha Perez-Gora
If you’ve spent time around Westfield real estate, there’s a good chance you’ve come across Samantha Perez-Gora of Coldwell Banker Realty.
A lifelong Union County resident, Samantha brings a ground-level understanding of how each town actually lives day to day—from walkability and downtown energy to the nuances that don’t show up in listings.
That perspective matters whether you’re thinking about selling or just starting to explore a move. With a background in finance, she helps clients make sense of pricing, timing, and trade-offs—so decisions feel grounded, not rushed.
In a market where lifestyle and value are increasingly intertwined, having that local context can make all the difference.
Looking to explore your options locally? Samantha welcomes the conversation.
This Week’s Poll
Curious who’s reading each week and what your day-to-day looks like.
What best describes you right now?
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo
Barbacoa
10 Maple St., Summit
If you’re looking for something a step up from the usual Cinco spots, Barbacoa brings a more polished take on Mexican cuisine with a strong focus on tacos, shareable plates, and cocktails. It’s a good middle ground—festive enough for the occasion, but not as chaotic as some of the bigger party venues.
Expect a lively dinner crowd, solid margaritas, and a menu that leans a bit more refined than your typical grab-and-go taco spot. A good option if you’re planning a sit-down night out rather than just stopping in for drinks.
La Colina Mexican Cantina
2 S Ave. W, Cranford
A go-to in Cranford for a lively Cinco night, La Colina leans into the cantina vibe with tacos, margaritas, and a steady dinner crowd. It’s a solid middle ground—festive enough to feel like a night out, but still approachable if you’re planning to sit down and actually enjoy a meal.
Got a local tip?
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Coming Soon: Star Wars: The Last Jedi in Concert
New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark
The New Jersey Symphony brings The Last Jedi to the big screen with a live orchestral performance of the score. A full film screening paired with a live orchestra makes this more immersive than a typical movie night—and a fun option for Star Wars fans or anyone looking for something different.
Things To Do This Week
Monday, May 4
May the 4th Be With You: Star Wars Craft — 3:00 – 4:00 PM
Clark Public Library, 303 Westfield Ave, ClarkA drop-in Star Wars–themed craft session for kids, just in time for May the 4th. Expect simple, hands-on activities inspired by the galaxy far, far away—an easy, low-key option for families looking to mark the day locally. Free to attend. Best suited for younger kids.
Tuesday, May 5
To Kill a Mockingbird (Senior Film Series) — 12:00 PM
Cranford Theater, 25 N. Ave. West, CranfordDowntown Cranford’s Senior Film Series continues with To Kill a Mockingbird on the big screen. A classic midday showing and an easy, low-key outing—especially for anyone looking to enjoy a film without the usual evening crowds.
Wednesday, May 6
Imperial Brass Concert (with New York Staff Band) — 7:30 PM
The Presbyterian Church in WestfieldA special midweek concert featuring Imperial Brass alongside the New York Staff Band, bringing a full brass ensemble sound to Westfield for one night. Expect a mix of traditional and contemporary brass repertoire in an intimate church setting with strong acoustics.
Thursday, May 7
Summit First Thursday — 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Downtown SummitAfter a short hiatus, Summit First Thursday returns with an expanded, all-day lineup. At the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, a Midday Gardening Tour (12–2 PM) kicks things off, followed by spring exhibitions and light refreshments (5:30–7 PM). Across downtown, expect late shopping, live music, and pop-ups—an easy, walkable way to spend a Thursday.
Friday, May 8
My Fair Lady — 7:30 PM
Summit Playhouse, 10 New England Ave., SummitA classic done right, right here in Union County. My Fair Lady is running at the Summit Playhouse till May 10, with a Friday night performance kicking off the weekend. Expect a polished community production with all the familiar songs and a great excuse for a local date night or something a little different than the usual dinner plans.
Saturday, May 9
Nature & Forest Bathing — 10:00 AM
Watchung Reservation
Take a slow, intentional walk through one of Union County’s most scenic parks. This guided forest bathing experience is led by a Park Naturalist and certified Nature & Forest Therapy guide, designed to help you unplug and reset in nature.
Cost: $15 (UC residents) / $20 (non-residents)
Registration: Required (via Trailside Nature & Science Center)
Hot Rods & Harleys | UCPAC Open House — 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Union County Performing Arts Center (Downtown Rahway)
One of Rahway’s biggest spring traditions is back. The 23rd Annual Hot Rods & Harleys brings together classic cars, custom bikes, live music, and plenty of food — all right outside UCPAC’s main stage.
Scotch Plains Farmers Market — 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Scotch Plains Municipal ParkThe Scotch Plains Farmers Market is back for the season with fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and local vendors each Saturday morning. An easy, low-key way to start the weekend and pick up something fresh while supporting local businesses.
The Whispering Tree + Max Bartos — 7:00 PM
Patricia M. Kuran Cultural Arts Center, 135 Watson Rd., FanwoodA laid-back evening concert featuring folk duo The Whispering Tree alongside singer-songwriter Max Bartos. Hosted at the Carriage House in Fanwood, the setting is intimate and close-up—well-suited for acoustic sets and a more relaxed listening experience.
Tour of Notable Homes — 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Westfield (various private residences)Hosted by the New Jersey Festival Orchestra, this self-guided tour offers a rare chance to step inside some of Westfield’s most distinctive homes while supporting local arts programming. Expect a mix of architectural styles and thoughtfully designed interiors across multiple stops throughout town.
Sunday, May 10 - Mother’s Day 💐
Mother’s Day Idea: Something a Little Different
If you’re looking to switch things up this year, a terrarium is a simple but thoughtful option—something living that lasts longer than flowers and adds a bit of calm to any space. You can pick one up locally or, for a more hands-on approach, try building one together at Nature Behind Glass.
It’s an easy, low-key activity and a nice way to spend time together—plus you leave with something that sticks around well past the weekend.
Summit Farmers Market — 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Park & Shop Lot #1 corner of DeForest Avenue and Woodland Avenue, SummitA local favorite returns for the season with fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and specialty vendors just steps from downtown. It’s an easy, low-key way to start Mother’s Day — grab a coffee, pick up something fresh, and take a stroll before brunch plans.
A quick, fact-based read to start your day—1440 breaks down the news without the noise.
Smart starts here.
You don't have to read everything — just the right thing. 1440's daily newsletter distills the day's biggest stories from 100+ sources into one quick, 5-minute read. It's the fastest way to stay sharp, sound informed, and actually understand what's happening in the world. Join 4.5 million readers who start their day the smart way.
Beyond this week - Upcoming Events
Coming Soon: Westfield GreekFest — May 29–31
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Westfield
One of the biggest food festivals of the season returns to Westfield at the end of the month. Expect three days of Greek specialties, live music, dancing, and a lively outdoor setup that draws visitors from across Union County. Worth marking your calendar early.
📚Volunteer Spotlight: Literacy Volunteers of Union County
Looking for a meaningful way to give back this spring? Literacy Volunteers of Union County is seeking volunteer tutors to help adults improve their reading, writing, and English language skills. No teaching background is required — volunteers receive training and ongoing support before being matched one-on-one with a learner.
Just a few hours a week can make a lasting impact, whether you’re helping someone prepare for a job, earn a diploma, or simply gain confidence navigating everyday life. If you’ve been thinking about getting more involved locally, this is a powerful and personal way to do it.
Learn more about becoming a volunteer at literacynj.org/volunteers.
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One last thing before you go…
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