The first weekend of September is here and there’s plenty to do. From a free Wynton Marsalis concert by the waterfront to the opening of Nukkad on Greene Street, here’s the best of what’s happening in Jersey City this weekend.
Where To Eat
Ghost Truck Kitchen (356 Varick) is debuting a new football-inspired menu this weekend. The new menu includes a Beyond Meat Vegan Bratwürst, Spicy Chicken Sausage on a Pretzel Bun, Cheesesteak on a Baguette (pictured), Pulled Pork Empanadas, and Bacon Mac & Cheese. They’re also debuting extended hours: Tuesdays to Fridays (2pm to 10pm) and Saturdays to Sundays (12pm to 11pm).
Nukkad (105 Greene) is a new BYOB restaurant specializing in Indian street food. Menu items include a mix of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The cafe will open its doors for the first time this Saturday from 8:30am to 9pm. (Hint: We loved the excellent Bombay sandwich and chicken biryani).
Battello Jersey City is giving diners a small sneak peek at its new fall cocktail menu. For a limited time, you can try the Cape Cod Catamaran, made with prairie gin, clear creek cranberry liqueur, sage cane syrup, lime, and prosecco.
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Friday Events
What: JC Fridays
When: Friday, September 6
Where: various venues
JC Fridays is a city-wide arts festival held at various restaurants, galleries, and venues throughout Jersey City. Events lined up for this weekend include a wine tasting and art exhibit at Riverview Wine, horror/short story readings at Village West Gallery, Project Greenville: a photography exhibit, and more. You can check out other events here.
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What: Wynton Marsalis Free Concert
When: Friday, September 6 at 6pm
Where: J.Owen Grundy Pier at Exchange Place
The one and only Wynton Marsalis will perform with the New Jersey City University Alumni Jazz Big Band at Exchange Place tonight. The free performance will also feature singer-guitarist Allan Harris and singer Antoinette Montague.
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What: Surf City Paella Festival
When: through Friday, September 22
Where: 1 Marin Boulevard
Surf City is paying tribute to Spain’s national dish — the paella — with a limited-run menu that features 10 different styles of paellas. Dishes include a Lobster Paella, Chicken Paella, Vegetarian Paella, and a Fisherman Paella (topped with flounder/calamari/shrimp).
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Saturday Events
What: Bucket & Bay Gelato-Making Class for Kids
When: Saturday, September 7 from 11am to 12pm
Where: 150 Bay Street
Drop off the kids at Bucket & Bay for a children only gelato-making workshop. The 1-hour class will have kids (ages 6 to 14) making their own batch of gelato. Tickets are $24 per child.
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What: Baby Goat Yoga & Fundraiser at Harborside
When: Saturday, September 7 at 10am & 11:30am
Where: Harborside Atrium
Start your Saturday morning feeding, petting, and doing yoga with rescued baby goats. This fundraising event benefits rescued baby goats — which are up for adoption — and includes a choice of activities. You can opt for Rescued Baby Goat Yoga, Goat Snuggles & Calf Cuddles, or Bottle Feeding & Goat Back Massages. One-hour sessions begin at 10am and 11:30am. Admission is $29/pp. (If the events page doesn’t load, you may need to turn off your ad blocker).
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What: Jersey City Seafood Festival
When: Saturday, September 7 from 12pm to 7pm
Where: 200 Greene Street (Urby Parking Lot)
The Jersey City Seafood Fest is back for its second consecutive year. Head to the Urby Parking Lot to indulge in a mix of seafood dishes including lobster rolls, shrimp empanadas, Japanese style octopus balls, and more. Admission is $5/pp (kids enter free). Vendors include Lutze Seafood, Angry Archie’s, Sian Street Food, Chavas, and more.
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What: 7th Annual Jersey City Brew Club Homebrew Tour
When: Saturday, September 7 from 2pm to 7pm
Where: McGinley Square
The JC Brew Club is hosting its 7th annual homebrew tour. You’ll visit the homes of several local home brewers and get to try out their homemade beers. The tour begins at 2pm by McGingley Square and ends in Hamilton Park. A suggested $25 donation is appreciated. (Snacks, cups, etc. will be provided).
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What: JC Night Market at JSQ
When: Saturday, September 7 from 4pm to 10pm
Where: Journal Square Plaza
Jersey City Night Market is a free, outdoor market held twice a month through October 19. The kid- and pet-friendly event offers local eats, crafts by local vendors, and a bar area for adults. Vendors this Saturday include My Yummy BBQ, Empanada Papa, Niña Piña (hand-made fashion/apparel), and more.
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