The 25th annual Jersey City Art & Studio Tour kicks off tonight, Jersey City! Perhaps one of the most anticipated events in Jersey City, JCAST (as it’s referred to by residents) is set to make even more of a mark this year.

JCAST features over 800 artists during its weekend-long event. It’s not only a great opportunity to meet your local artists and purchase unique pieces at reasonable prices, it’s a fine time to get to know your neighbors, government officials and connect with the burgeoning city’s ever-growing diverse community of eclectic citizens.

Tonight is the kick-off opening gala presented by Mayor Steven Fulop, the JC Municipal Council and the Office of Cultural Affairs at the JCAST Flagship Gallery Pop-up at the Lackawanna Center (629 Grove Street). Free transportation is provided via shuttle bus from the Grove Street PATH every half hour from 7pm-11pm and by Lyft (code: JCAST2015). Parking is available on-site in adjacent lots: 16th and Grove Street and 18th Street between Grove St. and Jersey Ave. Or take advantage of our newly-installed Citi Bikes at stations: JC009 & JC034. Directions here.

The event is free and open to the public, and offers an array of entertainment for all ages: Interactive fun provided by Hudson County Art Supply; Film Screenings by the Jersey City International Television and Film Festival; Small bites from The Hamilton Inn, The Kitchen at Grove Station, and Mill Creek. And then for the 21+ crowd: Adult bevvies provided by Raval, Satis Bistro, and Lucky 7’s.

Find out about all Saturday and Sunday showings here. I always try to soak up as much as I can, but it is nearly impossible to see everything over the two days; choose wisely and plan well. If you somehow make it to every stop, please let me know!

Here are some of my past memories from JCAST weekend.

Celebrate Our Local Artists!
JCG