The Weekend: The Best Things in Life Are Free

Maplewoodstock, a bicycle ride, outdoor concerts, a gardens tour – some of the best things in life (and summer) are local this weekend, and most are free!  Read on for a list of exciting events happening in our area during the next few days that won’t be a drain on your wallet. Slather on some sunscreen, pack a bottle of water and head out for a good time!

Maplewoodstock is the grooviest 2-day music and arts festival in our area. will be transformed as the weekend features bands such as Chris Berry and Panjea; James Maddock; Ollabelle; and Shamekia Copeland. The festival includes food and arts vendors, a KidsZone and lots of fun with your neighbors. Free; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.; Maplewood

A bike ride, a coffee date and shopping the best farmers market in the area, all rolled into one trip! SOMbike (South Orange Maplewood Bicycle Coalition) invites you for a ride starting at , meeting up with folks from Bike Walk Montclair for coffee, then visiting the Montclair Farmers Market. Roundtrip is about 12 miles, with a few hills. Free; Saturday at 10 a.m.; South Orange

Poodle skirts and DA’s will come to mind when you enjoy the Doo Wop sounds of Beauty and The Grease at Livingston’s this Sunday. Bring a lawn chair and the entire family for a fun evening of outdoor music. In case of rain, the show moves into the high school auditorium.  Free; Sunday at 7 p.m.; Livingston

Nothing says summer like fresh produce. Stop in at the parking lot behind and pick up fresh fruits and veggies, as well as other treats, including Gourmet Dried Fruits and Nuts. It will start your weekend off on the right foot! Free; Friday noon to 6 p.m.; West Orange

Bring along a lawn chair or blanket to and kick back to enjoy an evening with one of New Jersey’s finest oldies bands, Reminisce. Ice cream and other refreshments will be available for purchase. Free; Sunday at 7 p.m.; Millburn

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers tours of its 28-acre landscape and beautiful blooms. Designed as a private estate for Joseph and Pauline Day and their family, the estate was purchased by Peter P. Blanchard, Jr., and his wife, Dr. Adelaide Childs Frick Blanchard, as a country retreat in 1949. Now a non-profit, the Gardens are open to the public. Free for members, $10 for non-members; Saturday at 10 a.m.; Short Hills

Stop in, browse, and maybe pick up a few books for summer reading at the Book Sale at . With thousands of titles to choose from, as well as CDs, DVDs and audiobooks, the trouble may be how many you can carry home! Fill a bag (provided by Friends) for $8 or fill a Friends’ tote for $14. Individual book prices are: Hardbacks and Trade or Larger Paperbacks–6 for $5; Mass Market Paperbacks–3 for $1. Free admission; Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Maplewood

Greek Night at will feature the Stavros Theodorou Band to keep you dancing all night!  Feast on the great food, wine and cocktails while enjoying the rhythmic moves of the belly dancer. No cover charge; Friday 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Livingston