What happened to the fall weather?!
It’s hot outside!
After a cool start to the fall season, it’s felt more like summer over the past week across Central Jersey. Temperatures this past weekend reached the low 80s, more than 15 degrees above seasonal average highs. In this week’s newsletter, you’ll find a mix of indoor activities perfect for unpredictable weather, plus a few outdoor festivals if you’re feeling adventurous.
But first…
Asian Grocer Plan Revives Old Tensions
The old Sam Ash building in Edison is slated to become an Asian grocery store. Some residents are not happy. (Google Maps)
Edison’s zoning board advanced plans for the Asian Fresh Market on Route 27 after residents raised concerns that included unfounded stereotypes about Asian shoppers and drivers, remarks officials and experts quickly rejected. The exchange highlighted ongoing tensions in a township that has grown from mostly white to majority Asian over the past three decades. Studies show such stereotypes have no basis in fact, finding that immigrants are often safer, more cautious drivers than long-term residents.
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Festival of the Moon
Rahway’s Festival of the Moon lights up this weekend with free art, family activities, and live performances across downtown. From gallery openings to family-friendly shows and the awe-inspiring Museum of the Moon installation, there’s something for every age and schedule. Scan our quick picks below for the key dates, times, and locations so you can plan fast.
Astronomia (Free Gallery Exhibition)
Friday–Saturday, Oct 10–11 • 1–4 PM • The Gallery Space
Free group show inspired by the night sky; open Fridays & Saturdays through Dec 12.
Dance · Moon (Chinese Culture & Arts Association)
Friday, Oct 10 • 7 PM • UCPAC
A gala of classical and ethnic dance traditions—an original tribute to the moon’s quiet majesty.
Heroes for Ghosts (Pink Floyd Tribute)
Saturday, Oct 11 • 8 PM • UCPAC
Immersive live tribute with Floyd-era visuals and soundscapes.
Ada Twist, Scientist & Friends
Sunday, Oct 12 • 2 PM • UCPAC
STEM-forward family musical; arrive at 1 PM for a free Earth Science craft and Moon Festival coloring book.
Museum of the Moon (Free Timed Entry)
Tuesday–Wednesday, Oct 14–15 • 4–5:30 PM • UCPAC Main Stage
Marvel at the massive lunar installation; free entry with a reservation.
Here’s what else is happening this weekend
Free Art, Music, and Film
(Courtesy: Jeff Spelman)
Artist Spotlight: Lagrange Point
Friday, Oct 10 • 6–8 PM • The Coffee Box in Rahway
Animator and multi-disciplinary artist Wes D. Buchanan channels child-like wonder into bold, interstellar abstractions—vivid color, motion, and space-science motifs inspired by a rocket-scientist father and a career creating visuals at NASA’s Conceptual Image Lab. The intimate show centers on that “Lagrange point” between art and the cosmos. Several pieces are available for purchase.
Metuchen Mignolo Jersey Club Event
October 9 • 5:30 PM • Mignolo Art Center in Metuchen
A week of performances, exhibits, and interactive art experiences from local and international artists. Suggested donation at the door.
Woodbridge Barronfest
Saturday, Oct 11 • 12–4 PM • Parker Press Park in Woodbridge
Juried fine arts and crafts show with live music and food vendors. Free admission. All proceeds go to the artists.
New Jersey Guitar Quartet Concert
Friday, Oct 10 • 7 PM • St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in South Amboy
Four guitarists blend classical, jazz, and Latin sounds. Free performance.
Free Community Documentary: A Race to the Reckoning
Saturday, Oct 11 • 12–2 PM • Rahway Public Library
55-minute documentary with free popcorn & drinks, followed by a community talkback on storytelling, justice in the classroom, the NJ governor’s election, and race & identity. Speakers: Councilman Jeff Brooks (keynote), Kashinda Marche, T.J. Whitaker, Karla Alvarez. All ages, in person.
Further down the road
Long Branch Fall Festival and Pooch Parade
Saturday, Oct 18 • 12–4 PM • Pier Village
Enjoy live music, pumpkin carving, kids’ activities, seasonal treats, and trick-or-treating at shops and vendor tables. Don’t miss the Pooch Parade costume contest, pet-friendly fun, and prizes benefiting Pick Your Paw Rescue.
Freehold Halloween Farmers Market
Sunday, Oct 18 • 12–4 PM • Calgo Gardens
Browse 50+ vendors with spooky baked goods, crafts, candles, gourmet food, and local beer & wine. Enjoy live music, kids’ entertainment, tarot readings, and more — costumes encouraged for a day of autumn magic and Halloween fun!
Maplewood Art Walk & Music Fest
Sun, Oct 19 • 11 AM–5 PM • Maplewood Village
Juried street festival with 50+ professional artists (painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry), live music, merchant pop-ups, and kids’ activities—plus plenty of local shops and eateries to explore.
One Last Thing
Families Affected By The Shutdown
With no end in sight to the federal government shutdown, millions of federal workers and military families are bracing for missed paychecks and the possibility of no backpay. The Central Jerseyan wants to hear from local families feeling the effects of the political standoff in Washington. If you or someone you know is directly impacted by this issue, then please use the section below this one to reach out directly.
That’s it for this week.
As always, you can see even more events on The Central Jerseyan website. See the full events calendar ➝
Have an event you’d like included in this newsletter or a tip for a local news story? You can simply reply to this newsletter or contact me here ➝
Have a great weekend!