(Expats) Summer Festivals....

Once the summer arrives in New Jersey it is often hard to muster the enthusiasm to head home to the UK for a couple of weeks of English "summer". The weather never compares even if they have a few good days at Wimbledon you know within moments the covers will be on and the crowds will be sitting in the pouring rain up on Henman Hill or Murray Mount or whatever they are calling it now. To justify a trip home, I have to book before we see the sun here. 

Otherwise, there is so much to enjoy outdoors in New Jersey - beaches, parks, arboretum, festivals and more. I will however, miss the good old British pub garden with wooden picnic tables, swings and such - yet to be replicated here. Always popular with my family even on a grey day. 

In the meantime there are festivals to plan for....here's a look at summer fun, Jersey style: 


July 4 - Independence Day

Slightly ironic and yet as British expats we celebrate America's independence from the UK every year. During the American Revolution the thirteen original colonies separated from Great Britain following the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776.

There are a ton of events in Maplewood from 5k races, bike parade, relays, softball, karaoke, Circus and more .....  plus a live music from 4pm until fabulous firework display at night. Not to be missed!
Maplewood Details:
http://www.maple4th.com/index.html

Other towns have equally as much fun planned:
Millburn Details
http://www.mshjuly4th.com
And more:
http://www.new-jersey-leisure-guide.com/july-4.html



July 12-13 - Maplewoodstock

Every year there is much talk about the artists performing at Maplewoodstock - a local music festival held over two days at the Memorial Park by the train station. The grassy hill is covered with locals and families all day and night listening to original and cover tunes. Hanging out with friends and neighbors.

This year the closing act on Sunday night features Grammy award winner Norah Jones. I am absolutely gutted that I won't get to be there.

Here's the schedule for Saturday:
http://maplewoodstock.com/day1.php

Here's the schedule for Sunday:
http://maplewoodstock.com/day2.php

Norah performs in a group right now - here's the scoop: www.pussnbootsmusic.com




And in South Orange....

Get "Downtown after sundown"
Live music in the heart of town every Friday and Saturday night.

Or enjoy "Concerts in the Park" every Wednesday on Floods Hill through the summer.

www.sovillagecenter.org




Come and visit for these fun events! Check out my other posts:
Maplewood is 'cool'...
Walkable suburbs near New York


More info on moving to the area is one click away:
www.the-british-agent.com