The 12th annual Newport Tree Lighting is tonight, Jersey City! The event kicks of at 4:30pm at 100 Town Square Place, and once the sun sets, Mayor Steven Fulop will do the countdown to the lighting of the 30-ft. tree. Local NJ media star and Hudson County resident, Marisa Brahney, will be emceeing the entire event.
The lighting will be followed by a synchronized light and music show, and an exclusive Ice Theater of New York performance to mark the opening of Newport Skates—Jersey City’s only outdoor, uncovered skating rink—for the season. After that, the rink (95 River Dr. South) is open to everyone for FREE skating until 8pm.
When you need a break from the action, warm up with hot cocoa, coffee and pastries from Skylark on the Hudson and meet Santa and his elves.
There will be unique vendors (think crafty things like homemade beauty products, one-of-a-kind jewelry, stationery, all-natural candles, handmade baby products and leather goods), and live music 11am-4pm at Van Vorst Park. Fun for the whole family!
Pershing Field’s Charlie Heger Ice-Skating Rink (807 Summit Ave.) officially opens for the season tonight. Opening Ceremony is at 5pm, and the ice will be open for free skate until 10pm. Plus, skating is free in another way—free admission and free skate rentals this evening. Woo-hoo!
The recently renovated rink will have increased public ice time this season, as well as a Learn To Skateprogram for children and adults under Mayor Fulop’s plans to expand the city’s recreational offerings and encourage community participation.
Art House Productionsis hosting “Late Night Curiosities.” Arrive in costume at 1 McWilliams Place, 6th floor, to find out what it’s all about. $5 at the door. Prizes included.More info here.
Corkscrew’s Halloween Party:Bust out your costume and head to the ‘Screw for candy, games and more. $5 drink specials (think: Red Devils, Witches Brew…and of course, pumpkin beers). There will be prizes for scariest, sexiest and best homemade costumes.
Classic Horror Film screenings at Loews Jersey City: Friday is Black Sunday (6:30pm). Saturday is Bride of Frankenstein (6:30pm). Immediately following at 8:30pm, the original 1925 Lon Chaney silent film Phantom of the Opera will have the acclaimedBernie Anderson, Jr. performing on the Bob Balfour 4/23 Morton Wonder Organ. Finally, celebrate with your fellow audience members at the ball, The Phantom’s Masquerade, Sunday at 7pm.
Saturday, October 26th
The Village Merchants Association (VMA)is treating shoppers to a variety of special deals including 10% to 70% off at participating stores, as well as a raffle that shoppers can participate in to win a $20 gift certificate to a VMA store of their choice.
Newport hosts aHalloween Pet Paradebegins at 12pm at the Canis Minor pet shop (31 River Drive South). Most creative pup and owner will be announced at 2:30pm.
“The Ghost of Uncle Joe” Masquerade Rock ‘n Roll Ball Benefit is an all-day concert in Harsimus Cove Cemetery (435 Newark Ave.) beginning at 2pm. $10 donation for entry, but as I always say about this non-church affiliated, non-government property, please give more if you can. My last concert day here was a blast.
In the cemetery’s words: “Every month we need to raise between $2000 to $3000 just to operate and purchase equipment & supplies. If 300 people would donate only $10 each, we would be all set for the month!” Please help our amazing restoration work by contributing today athttp://www.jerseycitycemetery.org.
Sunday, October 27th
This Sunday marks the last farmer’s market of the season at Riverview Fisk Park but it doubles asHalloween Dog Parade! I am luckily puppy-sitting my little sister Sheba this week, so we will be there. Arrive by 11:30am. Prizes will be awarded around noon. How festive!
Wednesday, October 30th
Family Fitness Mixed Martial Arts Halloween Party. All students must come in costume. Lil’ Dragons 3:45pm or 6pm. Juniors/BBC 4:30 or 6:45pm. Red/Black belts 5:15pm. Also, please note:All classes canceled Oct. 31st.
Thursday, October 31st
Downtown Halloween ParadeBring your children dressed in their costumes for candy, face painting, pictures and a parade, which begins at 4pm at Gymboree and ends at the Grove Street Path Plaza at 6pm with a Halloween party.
Boca GrandeandCraig Mahoneypresent anArt, Comedy and Music Spectacular. 7pm kicks off the Halloween-themed art show. At 8pm, Craig will host a comedy show, followed by music performances and an open mic comedy show.
LITM Halloween Party:Arrive in costume at 8pm to enjoy the festivities.
Friday, November 1st
Orale Day of the Dead:Bring your costumes and your killer attitude for a party at Orale Mexican Kitchen including a DJ, mariachi band and my personal favorite, face painting. Prizes, too.