As the summer heat begins to fade and the leaves begin to crisp, we can feel the onset of Autumn and all that comes with it. Pumpkin flavored drinks, orchards flush with apples, and the newest fall craze to hit the states, Oktoberfests. Over the last few years, the historic German holiday that celebrates Bavarian culture has become a very popular event for townships across the US to join in on to bring the community together. Extra large pretzels, bratwurst and amazing seasonal beer selections are at the epicenter of the celebrations. Many local breweries, international brands and domestic favorites showcase their new flavors and old classics and West Essex will be hosting many events though September and October. Here is a list of a few of the local Oktoberfests in our area this year!

We mentioned Ales and Tails in our last post which will be hosted at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange on Saturday October 5th at 6PM. Funds raised at this event will go towards the Essex County Parks Foundation who support local events and activities. Tickets are limited and are $60 for admission and $15 for designated drivers to attend. Find out more at their Official Event Page. This event is 21+.

Montclair Brewery will be hosting their Oktoberfest event on Saturday September 28th at their headquarters on Walnut Street in Montclair at 1:30PM. Their event will be suitable for all ages and will include indoor and outdoor activities, live music and a costume contest. They will also be showcasing two new seasonal beers for atendees to enjoy. There is a limited capacity for this event so make sure to RSVP on their Official Event Page if you are going to attend!

The Bloomfield Center Alliance will be hosting their Harvest Fest on Saturday October 12th on Broad Street between Bloomfield Ave and Belleville Ave at 11AM. Their festivities will include a mile-long outdoor market with rides, food and games for the whole family to enjoy. This is a free event so feel free to just stop by and enjoy the day! To learn more, follow their Official Facebook Event Page.

Verona will be hosting its Annual Our Lady of the Lake Oktoberfest festivities on Saturday September 28th at their location on Lakeside Ave at 5:30PM. This event will have it all, giant pretzels, seasonal beers and musical performances by The Nerds! This event is 21+ and will cost $75 for advanced tickets ($80 at the door). Be sure to visit the Event Page for more information. 

Autumn is nearly upon us, so get your tickets and enjoy the season!

Hearth Realty Group is the #1 Independent Real Estate Agency in Verona, South Orange & Maplewood. We are a technology driven boutique real estate agency made up of experienced service-focused local experts who support our clients beyond the transaction. We strive to have a meaningful impact on the communities we serve through volunteer work and financial contributions to local charities. If you are interested in selling your home, feel free to make use of our Free Home Evaluation Tool. If you are looking to rent or buy a home in northern New Jersey, make sure to use our Homes for Sale Search Tool. To learn more about Hearth Realty Group, click here. 

This September, South Orange is proud to present its 3rd annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree! You heard that right, from noon September 7th until noon September 8th there will be nonstop music in and around Spiotta Park in downtown South Orange. Downtown South Orange is widely known as one of the local musician hotspots with artists and concertgoers flocking in day and night. This event was originally supposed to take place in July but due to the intense heat-wave that struck the Garden State, the event organizers decided that, in the interest of public health and safety, it would be best to move the event into September when the climate would be much more pleasant. Due to the rescheduling of the event, some of the initial lineup may change but the event coordinators are working tirelessly to confirm all of the previous acts. You can keep up with the lineup and event info by following the 24 Hours of Music Page and The Official Event Page. 

This event will be directly sponsoring the South Orange Rescue Squad which is made up entirely of volunteers who provide emergency medical services to anyone in need in Maplewood, South Orange and the surrounding areas. Their organization is funded entirely by donations including events such as the 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. This is another great event where the community can come together for a beautiful day of music and family-friendly fun while helping to provide services to help make their neighborhood an even safer place to live and visit. If you are interested in being a part of the 24 Hour show, event organizers encourage you to join the fun and reach out to them on their page to discuss your acts and talents. The event is free but an RSVP on the Facebook Event Page is encouraged. See you there!

Hearth Realty Group is the #1 Independent Real Estate Agency in Verona, South Orange & Maplewood. We are a technology driven boutique real estate agency made up of experienced service-focused local experts who support our clients beyond the transaction. We strive to have a meaningful impact on the communities we serve through volunteer work and financial contributions to local charities. If you are interested in selling your home, feel free to make use of our Free Home Evaluation Tool. If you are looking to rent or buy a home in northern New Jersey, make sure to use our Homes for Sale Search Tool. To learn more about Hearth Realty Group, click here. 

Maplewood is known for many things; a bustling arts scene, easy access to New York City and definitely dining options. It is simply impossible to pick the best of the best, but here is a short list of great places to try out if you are in the area and looking for a delicious meal!

Arturo’s Osteria & Pizzeria
Arturo’s is heralded as one of the top 50 restaurants to try in all of the state of New Jersey. They serve most Italian fare including pasta, sandwiches and salads but are most notably known for their artisanal pizzas made with farm to table fresh ingredients. From truffle oil to soppressata and a wide assortment of fresh veggies, Arturo’s takes a high-quality approach to unconventional pizzas to the next level. They do not deliver and usually have a sizable wait but everyone agrees, it’s totally worth it!

Restaurant Lorena’s
Since opening their doors in 2005, Restaurant Lorena’s has been widely praised, and for good reason. Their menu is defined as Chef Campos’s interpretation of haute cuisine deeply rooted in french technique and inspired by the seasons. The establishment runs with finite precision and poise while simultaneously delivering beautiful dishes just bursting with life and flavor. This fine dining experience is one of the best options in North Jersey and should not be overlooked. Diners are encouraged to bring their own bottle of wine to enjoy with their meal.

Coda Kitchen & Bar
Coda is a contemporary restaurant & bar serving cocktails and New American fare in a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown Maplewood, this laid-back eatery is great for walk-ins or nights out with friends and family. They offer lunch, brunch and dinner options to suit your palate at any hour of the day. When choosing between tacos, burgers, sandwiches, salads, Seafood or just a few apps, there is always something for you to enjoy. 

Palmers Sweetery and Cafe
Palmers is a family owned bakery specializing in small batch, handcrafted sweets and savories. Although they opened in 2016, the owners have been mastering their craft as a family for decades. With a wide variety of cakes, pastries, brownies and cookies, this place is a sweet-tooth’s dream! Palmers also offers catering options for larger crowds as well. Be sure to stop in for a coffee, some sweets and a smile! 

Hearth Realty Group is the #1 Independent Real Estate Agency in Verona, South Orange & Maplewood. We are a technology driven boutique real estate agency made up of experienced service-focused local experts who support our clients beyond the transaction. We strive to have a meaningful impact on the communities we serve through volunteer work and financial contributions to local charities. If you are interested in selling your home, feel free to make use of our Free Home Evaluation Tool. If you are looking to rent or buy a home in northern New Jersey, make sure to use our Homes for Sale Search Tool. To learn more about Hearth Realty Group, click here.