Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest 2019

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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. 

Turtle Back Zoo

A Brief History of Essex County’s Turtle Back Zoo

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The Turtle Back Zoo is one of the many historic landmarks of Northern New Jersey. Let us briefly review its history and impact on the community over the last 56 years.

“In 1962, President William Wachenfeld and the Essex County Park Commission awarded a $400,000 contract to Max Drill, Inc. to build a zoo on a 15.5 acre section of The South Mountain Reservation. It was to be a seasonal zoo designed for children. Tjark Reiss was hired to design the zoo and he created exhibits based on Hans Christian Anderson’s nursery rhyme themes and other children’s stories. Turtle Back Zoo officially opened on June 3, 1963 with a collection of 140 animals of 40 species. By 1973 the zoo’s animal collection had grown to 850 animals of 275 species. In 1975 a Zoological Society was established that could promote the zoo and provide funding support through memberships and other fundraising efforts. In 2000 the zoo completed a new master plan with accreditation from the American Zoo and Aquarium Association as its major focus. The zoo began to replace the antiquated 1960’s style cages with larger naturalistic habitats for its animals. In 2005 the zoo completed the new 1.8 million dollar Essex County Animal Hospital at Turtle Back Zoo to serve the zoo’s animal residents and serve as a quarantine facility for a growing animal collection. In September 2006 Turtle Back Zoo was granted accreditation by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. This distinct honor places Turtle Back Zoo amongst the elite zoos and aquaria of the United States and means that the zoo adheres to the highest standards for zoos in the country.” – Turtle Back Zoo

Be sure to check out their Family Night events on Wednesdays and Thursdays through the summer where the Zoo will be open later than usual to accommodate after-work hours and cooler temperatures. They also offer behind the scenes tours for many animals such as penguins and nocturnal animals. Although there are many events geared towards younger audiences and families, there are some events for older crowds such as Ales and Tails which features craft beers in early October. Feel free to visit their event calendar to find events that fit you and your family! The Turtle Back Zoo is, has and will always be such a wonderful part of our local community!

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. 

24 Hours of Music

3rd Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree

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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. 

Hearth West Essex Banner

West Essex Market Report for July 2019

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The real estate market is in a constant state of fluctuation. It can be beneficial to review the state of the market to see whether or not local areas are appreciating in value. Many Realtors use monthly market reports to gauge the quality and quantity of homes on the market which can directly influence the sale of your property. This is a snapshot of the market during the month of July 2019 from a few towns in West Essex. These statistics include the purchase price, selling price, days-on-market, yearly trends and more. All of the information included was taken directly from the GSMLS.

CLICK THROUGH THE GALLERY TO VIEW ALL OF THE REPORTS BELOW

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 Restaurants

Excellent Maplewood Restaurants

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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. 

verona labor day classic 5k

Verona Labor Day Classic 2019

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The Essex Running Club was founded in 1983 and prides itself on being North Jersey’s friendliest running club. They have hosted events for over 30 years which have benefited local charities, scholarships and foundations from across Essex County and neighboring areas. This September, The Essex Running Club will be hosting their 37th Annual Verona Day Classic 5K race! This is a USA Track & Field (USATF) sanctioned grand prix event held on a certified course through the streets of Verona starting on Lakeside Avenue and finishing in scenic Verona Park. There will also be a 1 mile fun run and health walk around Verona Park at 9:00am. The official 5K will begin at 9:30am on Monday September 2nd.

The event will be monitored by electronic chip timing provided by CompuScore with results published on their website linked here. There will also be awards and Fleet Feet gift certificates to the top 3 finishers in each 5 year range. On top of that, the overall 1st place male and female will be awarded running shoes by Fleet Feet! All pre-registered runners will receive T-shirts with any remaining shirts available on the day of the run while supplies last. There will also be bagels, fruit and other refreshments provided at the end of the race.

Registration will cost $25 unless you are a USATF member, in which case the entry cost will be $20. There will be no extra fees for online registration. You can register online at either RaceForum or CompuScore. You can also register in person at Fleet Feet Sports (603 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair) through Sunday September 1st or on race day in Verona Park. Registration will be open until Thursday August 29th at midnight. This event is organized entirely by volunteers from Verona UNICO and the Essex Running Club with all proceeds going towards local charities and scholarships. Feel free to download the race application here. All other information can be found on the Official Facebook Event Page. Be sure to check out Essex Running Club for more events in the future!

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. 

Verona Restaurant Week 2019

Verona’s Second Annual Restaurant Week

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What could be better than a night spent eating delicious meals with the ones you love? How about 5 nights in a row with discounted rates! The Township of Verona and the Verona Chamber of Commerce proudly present Verona’s 2nd Annual Restaurant Week! Enjoy 5 nights of delicious meals at Verona’s wide variety of amazing restaurants! Three-course Prix Fixe Dinner menus will be available for $25 at each participating location. Other specials will be going on all week as well! Reservations are highly recommended but walk-ins welcome. Show us your meals, use #VeronaNJEats & #VRW2019! Visit the Town’s Web Page or Official Facebook Event for all up-to-date info!

Currently, the participating restaurants are as follows…

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. 

Essex County Summer Movie Screenings

Essex County Local Movie Screenings

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Looking for something fun to do with the whole family this summer? As always, West Essex has you covered! Between the end of July and all through August, multiple towns in our area are showing free movies and drive-in movies!

Applegate Farm in Upper Montclair is in the midst of their Family Fun Night events which includes music, magic, movies and ice cream! You can view their event pages here for more information and showtimes. Their next two movies will be Incredibles 2 (July 31st) and Hotel Transylvania 3 (Aug 7th). 

In downtown Montclair, Montclair Film will be hosting multiple movie screenings including Gnomeo and Juliet (July 26th) and Aquaman (Aug 16th) at The Montclair Public Library and Rand Park. Both events are free and moviegoers are encouraged to arrive early to picnic before the movie beings.

The Township of Verona and Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch will be hosting a screening of the movie A Dog’s Way Home (Aug 20th) on the Civic Center lawn. Admission is free and moviegoers are encouraged to bring their own outdoor seating.

This one is for everyone interested in the classics. The Township of West Orange is hosting a drive-in-movie screening of the 1978 hit Grease (Aug 3rd)! The event will take place at Conforti Field (West Orange High School) with a cost of $5 per car, and the sound from the movie will be transmitted directly into your car as you watch! This event will operate on a first come first serve basis.

With so many films to choose from, there’s bound to be a screening that fits your taste and schedule. Happy viewing!

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. 

Spend a day in South Orange

Spend A Day in South Orange

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If you are planning on visiting the South Orange area but don’t know where to spend your time, this list should give you a few fun ideas to consider! If you plan on arriving early, start your day off with a big delicious breakfast from the Village Diner. New Jersey is known for its abundance of diners and the Village Diner is one you won’t want to miss. After breakfast, you should consider looking west to the South Mountain Reservation, which is full of great outdoor activities like hiking, fishing and boating. At the northernmost point of the reservation you’ll find the Turtle Back Zoo which is home to over 1,400 different animals from every continent in the world except Antarctica! The Turtle Back Zoo opened 56 years ago and has been a staple of education and fun in the West Essex region ever since. As we start to reach mid-day, let’s talk lunch. Jackie and Son is an excellent option for lunch or brunch with a plethora of mediteranian style dishes, healthy options and fresh juices. As for nightlife activities, look no further than the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC). Their calendar is covered in events from musicals to concerts to comedy and more. SOPAC is one of the most prominent venues in northern New Jersey due to its wide diversity and overwhelming popularity. Finally, sit down for dinner and a nightcap at The Fox & Falcon in downtown South Orange. Their menu features a variety of elevated American cuisine and artisanal cocktails served in an inviting and open atmosphere. South Orange is a vibrant and beautiful community just waiting to be explored. We’ll see you around!

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. 

VERONA NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Verona National Night Out

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A strong community takes time and effort to build and Verona is making excellent strides to bring the town closer together with National Night Out. This event will take place on Tuesday August 6th at 6pm and will be held in the Community Center Complex on Bloomfield Ave. National Night out will serve as an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. These strengthened relationships will help to make Verona an even safer place for people to live, work and visit. Furthermore, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Verona’s event will feature all of its emergency services including the Verona Fire Department and Verona Rescue Squad as well as the Verona Police Department. The event will have plenty of family-friendly activities, including children’s activities & games, live demonstrations, obstacle courses and a variety of educational information. Also, look out for local food trucks serving up delicious meals on-site! The event will be held rain or shine; indoor activities will still be available in the case of inclement weather. Come help Verona build a stronger community and enjoy a wonderful evening in the process! Check in with the official facebook event here for more information and updates.

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.