Photo courtesy of ©istockphoto.com / gilaxia
Head to one of these events and venues with your partner, or organize a girls night out with some of your mom besties this month, all without the kiddos.
All Month Long
Marina Grille in Belmar
If you’re heading to Belmar and looking for something a little more low key than Bar Anticipation, opt for a calmer night at this new waterside eatery that offers gorgeous views of the marina. Choose from ocean-inspired small plates, like Clams Casino or Crab and Spinach Fondue or go for a comfort app like wings or pretzel dippers. There’s also a full raw bar and tons of steak and seafood options. FYI: It gets super crowded on the weekends, so skip the parking-induced headache by calling an uber or walking if you’re in the area.
Just Opened: Waterfront Biergarten in Jersey City
Cozy up to your S.O. while taking in a spectacular view of the NYC skyline at Lutze Biergarten on the waterfront. The upscale outdoor space has German brews, like Weinenstephaner and Radeburger, plus other stouts and IPAs for just $7 a pint. There’s also a raw bar and crab cakes from Jake’s Seafood. And if you’re really hungry and feeling adventurous, try the Bacon-Wrapped Sausage from You Bacon Me Crazy. A game of cornhole and or (gigantic) Jenga at the biergarten is all you need to make your night feel complete.
June 2-4
Lehigh Valley Food and Wine Festival
Head to a grand tasting Saturday or Sunday in order to try tons of food samples from Greater Lehigh Valley’s premier spots. Tickets to the grand tasting grant you access to the champagne and spirits sipping room, cooking demos and wine seminars. Enjoy live entertainment from the Craig Thatcher Band, and get exclusive tix to a culinary demo by beloved Chef Emeril Lagasse on NOLA-inspired cuisine.
June 4
Promise Music Festival Benefiting CHOP
This grassroots festival was created by saxophonist Nick Stefanacci two years ago—so it’s safe to say you can expect top-notch performances. This year, half the proceeds will benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Jay Leno at the State Theatre
Get up close and personal with the former host of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno at his first State Theatre performance in 13 years. Listen to Leno’s most recent stand-up bits, and, of course, have a few laughs. Before you head to the 7:30 show, grab a bite to eat at the Frog and the Peach or Catherine Lombardi’s, both high-end spots that require a reservation. If you’re looking for a more casual night out, take advantage of college bars on Easton Avenue like Old Queens Tavern, Golden Rail (which has awesome karaoke) and The Scarlet Pub
June 6
After Dark at the Zimmerli Museum in New Brunswick
Get your girlfriends together and get creative at a curated tour of this beautiful (and surprisingly big) museum. Some of the exhibits on display are Innovation and Abstraction: Women Artists and Atelier 17, Guerrilla (And Other) Girls: Art/Activism/Attitude and Three American Painters: David Diao, Sam Gilliam, Sal Sirug. Here’s what truly sets this experience apart: Musicians from the Mason Gross School of the Arts and the New Brunswick Jazz Project perform as you take in the art.
June 10-11
Civil War Weekend at Historic Speedwell in Morristown
Head to one of Morris County’s most historic landmarks (Yes, George Washington spent A LOT of time here!) to check out live cannon and musket firings and real-life battle reenactments between the Union and Confederate soldiers. Don’t miss period-era medical demonstrations and your chance to learn how use a bayonet correctly.
June 16
Pour Into Summer Wine Festival
Beachgoers can take a load off by sipping on some local Chardonnay or Shiraz while taking in some live music. There will be tons of treats from beachside spots like Carmen’s (try the short rib ravioli if you can get your hands on it), Bistro 14 and Crust & Crumb’s Bakery. Local vendors will also be on hand displaying their work. Is there any better way to ring in the summer?
June 18
Earthquake & Friends Father’s Day Comedy Show at NJPAC
Treat the special guy in your life to an unforgettable night with some of his favorite comedians just in time for Father’s Day. Listen to wisecracks from funny guys like Earthquake (you might remember him from Everybody Hates Chris), Donnell Rawlings from The Chappelle Show, and many others.
June 24
Nothing is Impossible Food and Wine Pairings Event
Dive into a full five-course meal matched with the perfect local wines at this fundraiser for local families in need. Bring your dancing shoes so you can break it down to a live band or hang by the tables and enter raffles to win prizes.
June 24–25
Washington Lake Park Wine Festival in Sewell
Uncork your favorite bottle of vino at this annual South Jersey festival that features housemade wines from 16 local vineyards. Head over to Mexi-Flip Taco Truck for some south of the border faves or stick with seafood from the Shark Bait NJ truck. Stick around for some live music from Stealing Savannah and Right Turn at 40 and browse the wares of the many jewelry and artisan vendors on hand.