From 5K races to an afternoon of pampering in the Heights, this weekend is loaded with indoor and outdoor events. Plus, if you’re in New York — make sure to check out the 9th Avenue Food Fest and Taste of Tribeca. We present our top picks for what to see, eat, and do in and around Jersey City this weekend.
What: Surf City Season Opening
When: Friday, May 19 at 4pm
Where: 1 Marin Boulevard
Surf City opens its doors today at 4pm for its 2017 season. If craft beer, paella, and sweet cocktails are your thing, head to this al fresco spot, which features cabanas, a fire pit, surf and turf menu, and over 75 taps of craft beer.
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What: My Apology to the Animals
When: Friday, May 19 7pm – 11pm
Where: Tea NJ at 262 Newark Avenue
My Apology to the Animals is a photo exhibit designed to show us that “animals are not property or dinner but sentient beings that deserve what we all do; love, happiness, protection and respect.” The exhibit will be on display at vegan-friendly Tea NJ. The gallery opens at 7pm.
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What: 2017 Komen North Jersey Race for the Cure 5K
When: Saturday, May 20 at 8:30am
Where: Liberty State Park / Freedom Way
The 2017 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure will take place in Jersey City’s backyard — Liberty State Park. You can sign up to run on race day (registration starts at 7am) and the race itself begins at 8:30am. There will also be a 5K Walk at 10am.
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What: Whealth 5K Harborside Run/Walk
When: Saturday, May 20 at 10am
Where: Whealth Cafe at Harborside
Start the weekend with a gorgeous 5K run (or walk) along the Jersey City waterfront, led by avid runners David Trotta of Whealth and trainer/model Jesse Barton. The casual run is open to all fitness levels and is followed by a quick cool down/meditation session and a healthy meal at the Whealth Harborside Cafe.
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What: 2nd Annual JC Fitness Fair 2017
When: Saturday, May 20 from 10am – 2pm
Where: City Hall at 280 Grove Street
The JC Fitness Fair is your opportunity to try out free group fitness demos, meet and greet with local health-focused shops, and even squeeze in a workout or two. The free event takes place right outside City Hall at 280 Grove Street.
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What: Listen… Can You Hear Me Now
When: Saturday, May 20 7:30pm – 10pm
Where: Merseles Studios at 339 Newark Avenue
Listen… Can You Hear Me Now is a is a compassionate and eye-opening tale about a young girl growing up with deaf parents. The solo show is written and performed by Gloria Rosen with Suzanne Bachner as director. A second performance will be held on Sunday, May 21 at 4pm. Tickets are $20/pp.
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What: Growing in Jersey City Pampering Day
When: Sunday, May 21 1pm – 4pm
Where: 229 Ogden Avenue
GJC Pampering Day is an afternoon dedicated to all things chill and relaxing. The afternoon will include chocolate tastings, hand massages, nutrition classes, and makeup/cosmetics sessions, among other things. This is GJC’s second Pampering Day and the event runs from 1pm to 4pm. Tickets are $45/pp, which includes access to all services/products as well as entry to a raffle.
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What: See Spot Rescued Adoption Event
When: Sunday, May 21 12pm – 3pm
Where: Athleta 316 Washing Street (Hoboken)
Spend your afternoon with See Spot Rescued’s playful pups and pickup a new workout outfit while you’re at it. Sunday is See Spot Rescued’s adoption event, which takes place at Hoboken’s Athleta store.
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In New York
What: 9th Avenue International Food Festival
When: Saturday, May 20 & Sunday, May 21 from 10am – 6pm
Where: 9th Avenue from 42nd Street to 57th Street
The 9th Avenue Food Festival is New York City’s oldest and largest continuing food festival highlighting the restaurants of Hell’s Kitchen. Foodies will find all types of street food including Thai, Italian, Japanese, Argentinean, Korean, Mexican, Greek, and everything in between. [I was born in Hell’s Kitchen and have attended this fest since before I could walk. I wouldn’t miss it for anything].
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What: Taste of Tribeca
When: Saturday, May 20 11:30am – 3pm
Where: Greenwich Street & Duane
Taste of Tribeca is a culinary festival highlighting the restaurants of Tribeca. Tickets start at $45, which gets you six “tastes” from whatever restaurant you desire. You also get a drink and two samples from the Beer Tour. Participating restaurants include Bubby’s, The Odeon, Locanda Verde, Añejo, Billy’s Bakery, City Vineyard, Jungsik, and more. Funds raised will benefit PS 150 and PS 234 in Tribeca.
In Elizabeth
What: Awesome Marchers Salsa Dance for a Cause
When: Saturday, May 20 from 7pm – 11pm
Where: Quimbara Dance Studio at 605 Westfield Avenue (Elizabeth, NJ)
Headquartered in Jersey City, AngelaCARES is a nonprofit organization whose mission it is to serve as advocate and support system for senior citizens, their caregivers, and a mentor to the youth. This salsa class is a fundraiser supporting immigrants in New Jersey.
(Photo: Susan G. Komen North Jersey, 9th Avenue Food Festival)