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Photo By Rosalie O’Connor

Opportunities: Calls for Donors

New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) is calling on community members to donate blood ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, a period when donations traditionally drop and hospital demand remains high. All who come to donate at any NJBS donor center or blood drive before Sunday, November 30, will receive a festive long-sleeved tshirt as a thank-you for helping patients in need.

The holiday season is historically challenging for the blood supply, as school breaks, travel, and seasonal illness often keep regular donors from giving. Last year, NJBS saw nearly a 36 percent drop in blood donations during the week of Thanksgiving alone.

types are needed to ensure hospitals are well prepared for the coming winter months.

“November is typically when we look to build our inventory before the holiday season ramps up,” said Jeannie Mascolino, vice president, regional operations at New Jersey Blood Services. “We’re encouraging everyone, especially first-time donors, to make blood donation part of their Thanksgiving tradition. It’s a simple, powerful way to give back, and we’re even sending donors home with a festive NJBS t-shirt as a small thank-you.”

Between The Lines

Although the local blood supply is starting to stabilize, it hasn’t fully recovered after an unexpectedly slow fall, which is typically one of the strongest periods for donations. With Thanksgiving approaching and another anticipated holidayweek decline, NJBS is urging donors to give both before and after the holiday to help rebuild inventory.

The region currently has about a four-day supply of blood, below the ideal seven-day level. Type O, the universal blood type relied on in emergencies, has only a threeday supply. Donors of all blood

U.S. 1 WELCOMES letters to the editor, corrections, and criticisms of our stories and columns. E-mail your thoughts directly to our editor: hastings@princetoninfo. com.

Those unable to donate blood, as well as current blood donors who want to do even more, can support NJBS’s End of Year Campaign, which raises critical funds to strengthen and ensure a safe and reliable blood supply. Every contribution supports lifesaving research, donor center upgrades, mobile blood drives, and education programs that inspire the next generation of blood donors.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To view current eligibility guidelines, or to make an appointment to donate, visit nybc.org or call 800-933-2566.

Princeton Airport is serving as a community Food Donation Center for the Montgomery Food Pantry collecting non-perishable food items this holiday season.

The Montgomery Food Pantry assists local residents facing temporary financial hardship by providing reliable access to nutritious food and essential household items.

Requested items include:

• Canned soups and vegetables

• Peanut butter and jelly

• Pasta, rice, and boxed grains

• Cereal and oatmeal

• Shelf-stable milk

• Paper towels and basic cleaning supplies

Princeton Airport is also serving as a Gift Donation Center for the Mercer County Board of Social Services collecting new, unwrapped aviation-themed toys - including model airplanes, aviation books, puzzles, and STEM kits.

Donations may be dropped off in the airport lobby daily between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., seven days a week, through Thursday, December 18.

The Princeton Airport is located in Montgomery Township, 3.5 miles north of Princeton on Route 206 at 41 Airpark Road. For further information, call 609-921-3100 or visit PrincetonAirport.com

The 16th annual Knit for Others program is underway at Princeton Public Library. Through the end of the year, handmade winter items are being collected for distribution to area organizations. Items will be displayed on a clothesline at the Welcome Desk on the first floor.

Most in need are traditional scarves, mittens and hats for all ages. Sweaters and afghans are also appreciated. Knitters and crocheters may use any type of wool or acrylic yarn. Kits with enough yard to make a hat or pair of mittens are available at the Welcome Desk. Patterns are also available.

Donated items, preferably in a sealed plastic bag, can be placed in the basket near the Welcome Desk. Visit princetonlibrary.org for more information.

Call for Films

The Trenton Documentary

U.S. 1 Is in Print & Online

U.S. 1 has distribution to news boxes located in downtown Princeton and Trenton, at train stations, and in other high-traffic outdoor areas. Additionally, it is now possible to browse full PDFs of recent issues on U.S. 1’s website, www.princetoninfo.com. Click on “Read This Week’s Digital U.S. 1 E-Edition Here.” A full digital edition of U.S. 1 is also distributed by e-mail every Wednesday. Subscribe at www.communitynews.org/ newsletter.

Film Festival solicits submissions of both feature-length and short documentary films from the MidAtlantic Region of, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware. The festival offers filmmakers the opportunity to interact with audiences and connect with other filmmakers from the area at various stages in their careers.

The organizers encourage filmmakers to attend the festival and participate in post-screening Q&As that offer them a chance to share their love of film with each other and our audience members, and the prize-giving reception.

To be considered, films must have been completed after January 1, 2025.

Festival deadlines are as follows: Early Bird: January 5, 2026; Regular: January 26; Late: February 16.

March 30 is the notification date that your film is accepted for showing. The event will take place in early May.

Films must be submitted online prior to submission deadlines at

SURVIVAL GUIDE

Tuesday December 1

Continuing Conversations Focuses on Black Policy Priorities in New Jersey

Rev. Dr. Charles Franklin Boyer discusses “The Statewide Black Agenda,” in a free online Continuing Conversations event hosted by Not In Our Town Princeton on Monday, December 1, at 7 p.m. Register for the free Zoom link through the Not in Our Town Princeton website events calendar at niotprinceton.org/calendar.

Rev. Boyer will also be among several Black leaders, including Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman and Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka to participate in a Statewide Meeting for the Black Agenda on Saturday, December 13, at 12:30 p.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church in Plainfield. They will discuss numerous policy issues they advocate for in Gov. Elect Mikie Sherrill’s first 100 days, including appointing Black leaders to her transition team and to key leadership positions; a biannual meeting with Black leadership, and numerous issues from funding for affordable housing to Black maternal health legislation.

Rev. Boyer is the pastor of Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Trenton, and cofounder with his wife, Rosalee, of Salvation and Social Justice, a non-partisan Black faith-rooted public policy organization. Rev. Boyer is also a senior consultant to the Social Action Commission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Dr. Boyer is a leading faith voice in New

filmfreeway.com/TrentonFilmFestival. By submitting a film you agree that if your film is selected, the Trenton Film Society (TFS) may screen your film at the Trenton Documentary Film Festival (May 2026) without payment of screening fees and may include your film in festival publicity and publications.

Should your film need to be withdrawn for any reason, please do so no less than 30 days before festival date.

Call for Art

Artists of greater Trenton and surrounding areas are invited to submit artwork for consideration in the upcoming Trenton Makes Jazz juried exhibition. A partnership of Trenton City Museum and the City of Trenton, this February-March 2026 show will cap a yearlong celebration of the music, musicians, venues, and audiences that have contributed to Trenton’s jazz scene — past and present.

Submit up to two pieces via email at exhibits@ellarslie.org by end of day Mondy, January 5, 2026. There is no entry fee. Categories are paintings, works on paper, sculpture, photography, and digital art.

Exhibition dates are Friday, February 13, through Sunday, March 22, 2026. An opening reception takes place Friday, February 13, with additional talks and related events TBA.

The jurors for the show are Janis Purcell and Michael Richardson.

Notifications will be sent to entrants on or before: January 20 and posted online. Intake for exhibiting artwork will be February 1 and 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Exhibiting artists should bring a printed bio (max 2 pages) and/or artist statement (max, 1 page) for inclusion in the show’s artist info binder. Artists ages 18 and up and residing, working, or studying in greater Trenton and surrounding areas are encouraged to enter. All entries must be submitted digitally. Email up to two pieces not previously shown in Trenton City Museum by end of day January 5 to:

Rev. Dr. Charles Franklin Boyer speaks at Not In Our Town Princeton’s monthly meeting on Monday, December 1.

Jersey for racial justice issues, as well as in the campaign to abolish the drug war and end the criminalization of Black people. He has been among advocates for statewide policy changes such as a racial impact analysis, closure of youth prisons, voting rights restoration for the formerly incarcerated, appointing independent prosecutors, restricting solitary confinement, community reinvestment of millions of dollars each year through cannabis taxes. He was among those successfully advocating to secure $8.4 million for restorative justice hubs and $12 million for community-led first response as an alternative to police. He was also a leader of the campaign to free more than 9,000 people from New Jersey’s prisons during the pandemic, which was the largest singular decarceration event in the state’s history to date.

NIOT Princeton is a multi-racial, multifaith group of individuals who stand together for racial justice and inclusive communities. Our focus is to promote the equitable treatment of all, and to uncover and confront white supremacy — the system that facilitates the preference, privilege and power of white people at the expense of non-white people and pits racial and ethnic groups against each other by upholding a hierarchy based on proximity to whiteness. Continuing Conversations are held the first Monday of most months at 7 p.m.

exhibits@ellarslie.org.

Images submitted will ideally have a resolution between 1MB and max 5MB. Each entry must include in the email cover message: title, artist’s name, dimensions, price, year completed, category, materials used.

The maximum dimension of any 2-D or 3-D piece, including framing and/or base or pedestal, is 72”. 3-D work must be movable by two people and preferably weigh no more than 100 pounds.

Artwork to hang must be professionally presented and ready to hang from our rod system with wire and d-rings. Sawtooth hangers will disqualify your piece. Unframed canvas must have properly finished edges.

Trenton Museum Society reserves the right to use images of accepted and exhibited artwork for promotion. We strongly recommend that artwork, where practicable, be for sale during the show. When pricing artwork, be aware that you will receive 60 percent of the purchase price; be sure to price your artwork accordingly. Payment to the artist is made within 30 days of the end of the exhibition.

A Surgeon’s Hands, An Artist’s Eye,

‘Saturday Jazz’ by John Gummere.

ART FILM LITERATURE DANCE DRAMA MUSIC PRE VIEW

DAY-BY-DAY, NOVEMBER 26 TO DECEMBER 3

Event Listings: E-mail events@princetoninfo.com

While many venues have returned to hosting in-person events, others are still taking place online. Event descriptions specify if an event is being held virtually or in a hybrid format. To include your virtual or in-person event in this section email events@princetoninfo.com.

Wednesday November 26

Live Music

Best of Clapton, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, 609-393-7300. www.coopersnj.com. Dinner concert. DJ Paul Desisto comes on at 9 p.m. Reservations recommended. 7 p.m.

Art

Festival of Trees, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www.morven.org. Annual juried collection of ornamental trees and mantels displayed throughout the museum’s galleries. On view through Wednesdays through Sundays through January 11. $12. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On Stage

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater. org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 p.m.

Dancing

Contra Dance, Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Center, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www.princetoncountrydancers.org. Qwill Duval with Princeton Pickup Band. $15. 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Thursday November 27

Thanksgiving. Bank and postal holiday.

Outdoor Action

Nuts, Seeds & Whirligigs: A Thanksgiving Day Nature Walk, Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands, Mapleton Preserve, 145 Mapleton Road, Kingston, 609683-0483. www.fpnl.org. Join

Rat Kings & Sugar Plum Fairies

American Repertory Ballet launches its 2025 production of ‘The Nutcracker’ by with performances at McCarter Theatre in Princeton from Friday, November 28, through Sunday, November 30.

Pictured above are Princeton Ballet School student dancers, including Nia Nicozisis as Clara. Photo by Megan Teat Photography.

Karen Linder and the Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands for this easy family-friendly loop starting at the Mapleton Preserve. While admiring fall colors, explore the many ways that trees use to spread into new territories. Walk covers 1 to 1.5 miles on grass trails in about an hour. Rain or shine. Free. 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Sports for Causes

Trinity Turkey Trot, Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, Princeton. www.trinityturkeytrot.org. 5K race. Proceeds benefit Arm in Arm, Housing Initiatives of Princeton, Capital Harmony Works, and HomeFront. Advance registration only. $40. 8:30 a.m.

Friday November 28

Live Music

The Merzey Beat, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, 609-393-7300. www.coopersnj.com. Beatles tribute. Reservations recommended. 7 p.m.

Art

al artists at the Sandy Ridge Church. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 pm.

Dance

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter. org. This holiday favorite tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. For ages 5 and up. $49 to $79. 2 and 7 p.m.

On Stage

Elf: The Musical Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater. org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Seasonal Allergies, Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, 609-570-3333. www.kelseytheatre.org. Story about a group of friends in their late 30’s getting together during the holiday season. $24. 8 p.m.

A Christmas Carol, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route

179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than happiness. But, on Christmas Eve, he is forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts lead him through his Past, Present, and Future. 8 p.m.

Film

The Grinch Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary. org. When the Whos of Whoville decide to make Christmas bigger and brighter, the disgruntled Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch) realizes there is only one way to gain peace and quiet. He hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus in order to steal Christmas and silence the Whos holiday cheer once and for all. $5. 10 a.m.

Dancing

Friday Night Folk Dance Princeton Folk Dance, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. Lesson followed by open dancing. No partner necessary. $10. 8 p.m.

Farm Markets

Farm Market Blue Moon Acres 11 Willow Creek Drive, Pennington, 609-737-8333. bluemoonacres.net. Selection of Blue Moongrown Certified Organic produce, micro greens, eggs, rice, Herbarium body care products made with herbs grown on the farm, as well as an array of products from other local vendors. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For Families

The Little Train Show, Old City Hall, 13 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown, 609-203-0541. Display of model trains by area collectors and special display by Pierre Lacombe covering nearly 200 years of Bordentown railroad history. Bordentown is home to the oldest railroad on earth to use flat-bottom T-rails, built between 1830–1832 by the Camden & Amboy Railroad. Free. 2 to 8 p.m.

Shopping News

Artist Winter Village, Arts Council of Princeton, Hinds Plaza, Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org. Festive pop-up shops, run by talented regional creatives, offer fun and unique gifts in cozy textiles, jewelry, hand-poured candles, charming children’s wear, pottery, wood, and more. Noon to 6 p.m.

Socials

Christmas Tree Lighting, Palmer Square, Princeton. www.palmersquare.com. Live ice carving, Dueling Pianos, and festive fun leading up to the grand tree lighting celebration. 5 to 6 p.m.

Saturday November 29

Art

Dance

The Nutcracker, Roxey Ballet, Villa Victoria Theater, 376 West Upper Ferry Road, Ewing. www. roxeyballet.org. Clara and her friends take you on an enchanting voyage to meet magical mice, giant rats, marching soldiers, swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy. $65. 2 p.m.

On Stage

cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 p.m.

A Christmas Carol, Music Mountain Theater, 1483 State Route 179, Lambertville. www.musicmountaintheatre.org. Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than happiness. But, on Christmas Eve, he is forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts lead him through his Past, Present, and Future. 3 and 8 p.m.

Family Theater

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage, State Theater New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.stnj.org. Show brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang together live on stage as they uncover the true meaning of Christmas and perform songs from the musical score in a tribute to the legendary composer Vince Guaraldi. $34 to $94. 2 and 7 p.m.

Film

The Muppet Christmas Carol Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton. www. princetonlibrary.org. Michael Caine earnestly stars as the grouchy Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three holiday spirits on Christmas Eve. Featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzy Bear, Gonzo, and all of your other favorite Muppets. $5. 10 a.m.

Dancing

Dancing on the Fifth, Central Jersey Dance Society, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-945-1883. www.centraljerseydance.org.

Samba lesson (beginner/intermediate) taught by instructor EJ followed by open dancing to a playlist of California Mix, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Hustle, Night Club 2-Step, Country 2-Step, and Latin dance music with Marc Liebeskind as DJ. No partner needed. Register. $15. 7 to 11 p.m.

Comedy

Wine & Comedy Night, Old York Cellars, 80 Old York Road, Ringoes. www.oldyorkcellars.com. Comedy hosted by Helene Angley. Reservations required. $27.50. Food available for purchase. 7 to 10 p.m.

Farm Markets

History

History/Nature Hike at Institute

Woods, Historical Society of Princeton, Princeton Battlefield Parking Lot, 500 Mercer Road, Princeton. www.princetonhistory. org. Hike through the Institute Woods to explore bits of history, as well as the sites and sounds that form this unique and serene setting. Hear stories about the Woods’ origin and the ways IAS mathematicians, physicists, and other members have engaged with it. Stops along the way will highlight the history of early Stony Brook, the Battle of Princeton, the Old Trolley trail, the establishment of the Institute for Advanced Study, and Founders Rock. Special stop at the Swinging Bridge, then hike over to the observation decks at the adjacent Rogers Wildlife Refuge. Register. $20.

1:30 to 4 p.m.

For Families

Outdoor Action

Corn Picking & Thanksgiving Hayrides, Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville, 609-737-3299. www. howellfarm.org. Bring a non-perishable food item for the donation wagon to earn a ride on a horsedrawn hay wagon. Horsesgive hayrides from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; free tickets are distributed in the barnyard on a first-come, firstserved basis. Canned and boxed food donations will be collected at the visitor center—as well as new, unopened toys for Toys for Tots— to support the community. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Princeton Canal Walkers, Turning Basin Park, Alexander Road, Princeton. 3 mile walk on the towpath, weather permitting. Free. Register to canalwalkers@googlegroups.com for notices of weather-related cancellations. 10 a.m.

Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands leads a Thanksgiving morning nature walk in Mapleton Preserve to observe signs of trees’ expanding their territory. Sweetgum is pictured at right.

Shopping News

Artisan Holiday Market, Grounds For Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton. www. groundsforsculpture.org. Curated indoor marketplace showcasing more than 50 talented artisans offering handcrafted jewelry, pottery, woodworking, original art, skincare, gourmet treats, and more. Food and drink offerings by Constellation Culinary Group in the Auditorium. Free with park admission. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday November 30

Classical Music

Victorian Christmas Concert, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-

924-8144. www.morven.org.

Anne and Ridley Enslow perform 19th-century and earlier music in period clothing, blending wellknown and lesser known Christmas music. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $30 includes admission to Morven’s Festival of Trees before the event and light refreshments. 3 to 4 p.m.

Continued on page 12

Holiday Happenings: A Festive Dose of Joy

The region’s artists and presenters celebrate the holidays with an abundance of concerts, shows, and community events that bring an extra dose of joy to the festive season.

Merry Music

Princeton University

The Candlelight Service of Lessons & Carols is a service of readings and music of the season featuring the Princeton Chapel Choir and Princeton University a cappella groups. Free. Princeton University Chapel. Wednesday, December 3, 7:30 to 8:45 p.m.

A Yuletide Feast for Organ and Brass features University Organist Eric Plutz and Timberdale Brass in a concert highlighting music for brass quintet, organ solo, and combined forces. The program includes several opportunities for the audience to join in singing Christmas carols. Princeton University Chapel. Free. Sunday, December 7, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Auld Lang Syne features a quartet of Celtic musicians weaving the music of the Solstice, Christmas, and Hogmanay (the Scottish New Year) into an ethereal and charming program. Free. Chancellor Green Rotunda. Friday, December 12, 7:30 to 9 p.m. religiouslife.princeton.edu.

Princeton Symphony Orchestra

The PSO presents members of the orchestra in a special Holiday

by Sara Hastings

Brass concert, the second installment of its Chamber Series at Trinity. The performance includes traditional holiday selections arranged for brass quintet with popular tunes by Albert Hague, Vince Guaraldi, Sammy Kahn, Johnny Marks, and Leroy Anderson. Features musicians are Jerry Bryant and Tom Cook, trumpets; Jonathan Clark, horn; Lars Wendt, trombone; Jonathan Fowler, tuba; and Eric Borghi, percussion. $45. Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, Princeton. Thursday, December 4, 7 p.m.

“Holiday Pops,” an annual tradition, features Grammy Award winning baritone John Brancy, mezzo soprano Kara Dugan, the Princeton Symphony Orchestra conducted by John Devlin, and the Princeton High School Choir. The year’s program offers works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Felix Mendelssohn, George Frideric Handel, and Edward Elgar, as well as popular favorites such as Felix Bernard’s “Winter Wonderland,” Kim Gannon’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. $30 to $110. Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. Saturday, December 13, 3 and 6 p.m. princetonsymphony.org.

McCarter Theater

“The Brandenburg Concertos” — six baroque masterpieces by Johann Sebasitan Bach — are performed by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. $59 to $104. Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. Monday, December 15, 7:30 p.m. mccarter.org

Princeton Pro Musica

“A Feast of Carols” features favorites from Handel’s Messiah sand favorite carols from across the ages in choral-orchestral arrangement with the 100-voice choir, two vocal soloists, and a full orchestra. Sold out at press time. Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. Sunday, December 14, 4 p.m. princetonpromusica.org

Westminster Choir College

An Evening of Readings and Carols, the annual event created by WCC faulty members James Jordan and Kathleen Ebling Shaw, is based on the King’s College service in England. The event features Bible texts, hymns, prayers, and other musical and spoken expression from around world. Groups presenting include Westminster’s

The Princeton High School Choir joins the Princeton Symphony Orchestra for its ‘Holiday Pops’ concerts on Saturday, December 13, in Richardson Auditorium.

Chapel Choir, Symphonic Choir, Concert Bell Choir, Jubilee Singers, and Westminster Choir. $25 to $70. Princeton University Chapel. Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13, 8 p.m. rider.edu/about/ events/evening-readings-carols.

The Westminster Community Orchestra presents Holiday Favorites and Sing-Along, conducted by Ruth Ochs. Free; donations accepted to benefit area food pantries and service organizations. Hillman Performance Hall, 101 Walnut Lane, Princeton. Wednesday, December 17, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. www.rider.edu/about/events/ westminster-community-orches -

tra-holiday-favorites-and-singalong-0.

New Jersey Symphony

This year’s traditional holiday presentation of Handel’s “Messiah” will be conducted by guest conductor Anthony Parnther. Joining the symphony are guest vocalists Caitlin Gotimer, soprano; Maria Dominique Lopez, mezzo-soprano; Orson Van Gay II, tenor; and Shyheim Selvan Hinnant, bass-baritone. Singing the choral sections are the Montclair State University Singers, under the direction of Heather J. Buchanan. Holiday carols precede the Friday

evening performance at 6:30 p.m.

$36 to $122. Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. Friday and Saturday, December 19 and 20, 7:30 p.m. njsymphony.org

State Theatre of New Jersey

The world’s biggest-selling soprano and Grammy Award-nominated artist Sarah Brightman returns with her new Christmas spectacle, A Winter Symphony, Accompanied by orchestra, choir, and special guests. $93 to $270. Sunday, November 30, 7:30 p.m.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of multimedia effects. $70 to $152. Saturday, December 6, 8 p.m.

“A Winter World of Love” celebrates the season with the unmistakable voice of Engelbert Humperdinck in a special holiday concert that blends his timeless hits with beloved holiday classics. $58 to $235. Tuesday, December 9, 7 p.m.

The “king of smooth jazz” visits New Brunswick for Kenny G — The Miracles Holiday and Hits Tour. $58 to $194. Thursday, December 11, 7:30 p.m. 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www. stnj.org.

Voices Chorale

“The Gift of Being Together” is the Hopewell-based chorus’ 2025 holiday event. This year’s concert features the regional premiere of “A Garland for Christmas” by contemporary British composer John Whittaker, a joyful work that embraces the warmth, feasting, and gentle frivolity of the season spent with family and friends. Also on the program are settings of traditional carols, as well as new texts of seasonal imagery written by both American and British composers. Favorites such as “In Dulci Jubilo,” “Sussex Carol,” and “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day” are also included. $30. Trinity Church, 33 Mercer Street, Princeton. Livestream available. Saturday, December 13, 4 p.m. voiceschoralenj.org

New Jersey Capital Philharmonic

The Trenton orchestra invites conductor Ruth Ochs to lead its New Year’s Eve concert. The program includes works by Enescu, Leroy Anderson, Enrique Granados, Gabriela Ortiz, Johann Strauss Jr., Bizet, and Saint-Saens. Arrive early for a pre-concert organ recital by Ian Fraser at 7:10 p.m. $10 to $60. Trenton War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton. Wednesday, December 31, 8 p.m. capitalphilharmonic.org

Princeton Society of Musical Amateurs

The community group now in its 91st year hosts its traditional Choral Reading of Handel’s Messiah, conducted by James Splond. All are welcome to join in the singalong. Vocal scores will be provided. $10. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton. Sunday, December 21, 4 p.m. musicalamateurs.org

Music Mountain

The Holiday Concert is a song and dance event featuring MMT performers and a 17-piece band playing music in the style of Mariah Carey, Rosemary Clooney, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and others. $32 to $35. 1483 Route 179, Lambertville. Friday through Sunday, December 19 through 21. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m. musicmountaintheatre.org

Bristol Riverside Theater

“An American Christmas Songbook” is a tradition at the Bristol theater. Vocalists Demetria Joyce Bailey, Julian Brightman, Beth DeMichele, Keith Spencer, and Jackie Washam take the stage with a small band to perform favorite carols and heartwarming Christmas songs $56. 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. Thursday through Tuesday, December 18 through 23. brtstage. org

Princeton Theological Seminary

“Carols of Many Nations” is the Chapel Choir and Seminary Singers’ annual welcoming of the Christmas season with a service featuring scripture readings, anthems, and carols in various languages representing the diversity of the seminary’s community. Free; ticket required. As of press time, all three services were full. Princeton Theological Seminary Chapel, Mercer Street, Princeton. Wednesday, December 10, 3:30, 6, and 8 p.m. ptsem.edu

Morven Museum & Garden

Anne and Ridley Enslow present a Victorian Christmas Concert with a lively performance of 19th-century and earlier music. Performing in period clothing, they offer a rich blend of well-known and lesser known Christmas music. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $30 includes admission to Morven’s Festival of Trees before the event and light refreshments. Sunday, November 30, 3 p.m.

Caroling with the Choirs is Westrick Music Academy’s festive musical stroll. The evening begins with after-hours admission to Festival of Trees, with a choral performance amidst the decorations, and continues across the street at the Present Day Club for a musical gathering and optional VIP experience “Around the Baby Grand piano” that includes festive music, open bar, and appetizers. $40 general admission; $100 VIP experience (ages 15+). 55 Stockton Street, Princeton. Friday, December 12, 6 to 9 p.m. www.morven. org

Lawrence Community Concert Band

The all-volunteer, all-ages community band of professional and amateur musicians offers three free, holiday-themed performances.

Princeton Tuba Christmas lets shoppers work through their gift lists with a backdrop of their favor-

voices Chorale

Lift Your Spirits

CAnne and Ridley Enslow present a Victorian Christmas Concert at Morven on Sunday, November 30.

ite Christmas carols. MarketFair, 3535 Route 1, West Windsor. Saturday, December 6, 2 p.m.

The band also has two Holiday Concerts at area senior centers. The performances include familiar holiday favorites, complete with an old fashioned sing-along. Hamilton Senior Center, 409 Cypress Lane, Hamilton, Thursday, December 11, 7 p.m. and Lawrence Senior Center, 30 Darrah Lane East, Lawrenceville, Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m. lawrencecommunityband.org

Orchestra

of St. Peter by the Sea

The orchestra led by Father Alphonse from St. Peter’s Church in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, performs “Sounds of Christmas,” a benefit concert for the Mount Carmel Guild of Trenton. Proceeds support the nonprofit’s mission to provide critical services such as food assistance and healthcare to those in need. $45. Immaculate Conception Church, 540 Chestnut Avenue, Trenton. Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m. mtcarmelguild. org/events/sounds-of-christmasbenefit-concert

New Jersey Gay Men’s Chorus

“It Isn’t the Holidays Until NJGMC Sings” is the choir’s holiday concert featuring traditional choral classics and music featuring heartfelt harmonies, queer cheer, and joyful surprises. Event also includes a holiday cookie sale. $25. St. David’s Episcopal Church, 90 South Main Street, Cranbury. Sunday, December 7, 4 p.m. njgmc. org.

Capital Singers of Trenton

The Trenton-based choral group presents its seasonal concert, “Winter Songs XIX: Cold Air ... Warm Hearts.” The program features the music of Ralph Vaughan Williams, Robert Shaw, Joseph Martin, and others, performed in partnership with the Trenton Children’s Chorus under the direction of Desiree Melegrito. $20 to $25. Sacred Heart Church, 343 South Broad Street, Trenton. Sunday, December 7, 4 p.m. www.capitalsingers.org

Riverside Symphonia

As part of its 36th season, the symphony performs the concert

ome celebrate with us at 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, as VOICES CHORALE NJ presents “The Gift of Being Together” at Trinity Church in Princeton.

This year’s annual winter concert features the regional premiere of “A Garland for Christmas” by contemporary British composer John Whittaker, a joyful work that embraces the warmth, feasting, and gentle frivolity of the season spent with family and

“Sounds of the Season.” This special performance features the Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Mariusz Smolij with guest soloist Veronica Richer from the Academy of Vocal Arts, Philadelphia. A performance by the South Hunterdon High School Chorus, under the leadership of Jocelyn Alam, brings the celebration of traditional favorites. $10 to $60. First Presbyterian Church, 31 North Union Street, Lambertville. Saturday, December 6, 4 p.m. riversidesymphonia.org.

Bravura Philharmonic Orchestra

The orchestra, under music director and conductor Chiu-Tze Lin the Edison Chinese Chorus, conduced by Chunhe Zhang, and the LOTUS Chorale, conducted by Alicia Brozovich, present a Holiday Concert featuring holiday favorites and timeless classics that capture the spirit of peace, hope, and togetherness, followed by a sing-along. $25 to $30. Princeton Alliance Church, 20 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro. Sunday, December 7, 7 p.m. bravuraphil.org

Lawrence Library

The Mercer County Library System presents its winter concert featuring the trio Rhythm N’ Sound. These professional entertainers bring timeless charm with music from the 1940s to the ’80s — classic standards, doo-wop, rock ‘n’ roll, Motown, and disco favorites. Their festive performance includes “Blue Christmas,” “White Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Free. Advance registration is appreciated. Thursday, December 4, 6:30 p.m. Lawrence Headquarters Branch, Mercer County Library System, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. www.mcl.org.

Blawenburg Band

As jazz band’s Holiday Concert features classic holiday tunes, modern arrangements, and plenty of holiday cheer. Free; donations welcome. Kendall Hall, College of New Jersey, 2000 Pennington Road, Ewing. Sunday, December 7, 3 p.m. www.blawenburgband.org.

friends.

Also on the program are delightful settings of traditional carols, as well as new texts of seasonal imagery that are sure to delight.

At a time when life can feel so hurried, it is often the simplest moments, like spending time together, that lift our spirits and leave us feeling nourished and rejuvenated.

Join us on Saturday, December 13, and share in the musical gift of being together with Voices Chorale. Tickets and information are available at www.VoicesChoraleNJ.org. See ad, page 10.

Unitarian Universalist Church at Washington Crossing

The L.O.V.E Jazz Orchestra, a large jazz ensemble featuring the most in-demand jazz musicians in Philadelphia, performs big band arrangements of jazz standards and holiday classics, as well as brand new compositions by members of the band. Prioritizing diverse musical perspectives and voices in the vein of big band greats Thad Jones and Mel Lewis, L.O.V.E.J.O. aims to elevate the amazing musicians in the city of Philadelphia by presenting new works to receptive audiences. 268 Washington CrossingPennington Road, Titusville. Suggested donation $20 adults, $10 children. Sunday, December 14, 2 p.m. www.uucwc.org.

Dancing Elephant Art Gallery

The acclaimed Newman & Oltman Guitar Duo of Michael Newman and Laura Oltman performs A Christmas Pastorale featuring music by Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn, Pachelbel, Brahms, Corelli, and Luther, among others, totaling 30 selections celebrating the Advent and Christmas season. Newman and Oltman are the founders and artistic directors of the New York Guitar Seminar at Mannes and will celebrate their 33rd year as ensemble-in-residence at Mannes College of Music this season. They are also founders and artistic directors of the Raritan River Music Festival marking its 35th season this year. $50. The Dancing Elephant Art Gallery, 15 West Ferry Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Saturday, December 6, 7:30 p.m. www.dancingelephantfineart. com

Setting the Stage

McCarter Theater

“A Christmas Carol” returns with Cameron Knight leading the cast as Ebenezer Scrooge. Adapted and directed by Lauren Keating, with music direction by Cris Frisco and choreographer Emily Maltby, this year’s production offers a fresh

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage’ comes to the State Theatre in New Brunswick for two shows on Saturday, November 29.

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perspective on Dickens’ classic story of redemption and generosity. Knight, who played Mr. Fezziwig in last year’s production, is an associate professor and the head of the BFA Acting Program at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts. $35 to $135. 91 University Place, Princeton. December 9 through 28. mccarter.org

Bucks County Playhouse

“Elf the Musical” tells the story of Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. $39 and up. 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Through January 4. bcptheater.org

George Street Playhouse

“Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show” is a fast,

funny, and full-of-surprises reimagining of “A Christmas Carol” that takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Futur e —along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. Appropriate for all ages. $35 and up. December 2 through 21. Arthur Laurents Theater, New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org.

Kelsey Theater

Kelsey’s own annual presentation of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” brings Clement Moore’s beloved poem to live in a musical for all ages. $14 to $16. Friday, December 5, 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, December 6 and 7, 1 and 4 p.m. Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. kelsey.mccc.edu

Actors’ Net

“Inspecting Carol” is Daniel Sullivan’s comedy about a struggling theater’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol.” Tim is no longer tiny, Scrooge wants to do

the show in Spanish and their funding is on hold pending an inspection. When an impossibly bad actor is mistakenly identified as the inspector, the troupe does everything to accommodate his craziest wishes. Mistaken identities lead to sidesplitting comedy as opening night draws closer and it seems only a Christmas miracle will save this production. $24. 635 North Delmorr Avenue, Morrisville, Pennsylvania. December 5 through 21. actorsnetbucks.org

Bristol Riverside Theater

“The Nice List” is a world premiere family-friendly musical adventure with book and lyrics by Phoebe Kreutz and music by Gary Adler. When Santa announces he has to leave the North Pole for an important trip, he puts two elves in charge of the all-important Nice List. As they struggle to decide who’s naughty and who’s nice, the list gets shorter and shorter until it seems like no one will get presents at all. Family friendly musical adventure. $20 to $68. 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pennsylvania. Tuesday, December 9, through Sunday, December 28. brtstage.org

Music Mountain Theater

“A Christmas Carol” with music by Broadway and film writer Alan Menken is MMT’s traditional event. $32. 1483 Route 179, Lambertville. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 3 p.m., November 28 through December 14. musicmountaintheatre.

org

State Theatre of New Jersey

Peanuts’ timeless holiday television special comes to life on stage with the national tour of A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage. The show brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang together live on stage as they uncover the true meaning of Christmas and perform songs from the musical score in a tribute to the legendary composer Vince Guaraldi. $34 to $94. Saturday, November 29, 2 and 7 p.m.

Cameron Knight stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in McCarter Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Carol,’ on stage December 9 through 28.

and 7 p.m. 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.stnj.org.

Morven Museum & garden

Holiday Sights, Sounds, and Family Fun

Morven Museum & Garden’s annual transformation into a winter wonderland of festive holiday displays celebrates its 20th anniversary this winter! Each year, community partners create lavish, thoughtfully decorated trees and mantels for Festival of Trees, filling the museum galleries with light and cheer. At the end of your visit, vote for your favorites among the 17 displays.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze is holiday spectacular for the whole family as singers, dancers, toy soldiers, and reindeer invoke the dreams behind a child’s eye on the most magical of nights. $46 to $117. Friday, December 12, 7 p.m., and Saturday, December 13, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Middlesex County’s Plays-inthe-Park moves from its home at the Stephen J. Capestro Theatre in Edison and travels to the State Theater to do their annual production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s family musical about the trials and triumphs of Israel’s favorite son is a holiday classic. $12. Saturday and Sunday, December 27 and 28, 2

Dance Traditions

American Repertory Ballet

“The Nutcracker,” the company’s annual holiday presentation of Tchaikovsky’s musical journey through an enchanted world, arrives at two locations in the region. The run starts at McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, for five shows. $49 to $79. Friday, November 28, 2 and 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 29, 1 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, November 30, 1 p.m.

The show ends its run in New Brunswick, where the company

Continued on following page

While enjoying the ornaments and adornments, you can also take in the museum’s new exhibition “Northern Family, Southern Ties,” a look at the overlooked connections between wealthy families straddling the MasonDixon line. And don’t miss the special exhibition “Morven Revealed: Untold Stories from New Jersey’s Most Historic Home.” It closes in March to make way for an exciting semiquincentennial exhibit featuring New Jersey’s five signers of the Declaration of Independence.

For the first time, Festival of Trees has been extended by one week to January 11, 2026. Not only does it offer more opportunities to enjoy the displays — January launches Morven’s key role as the home of Founding Father Richard Stockton in commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.

Festival of Trees isn’t your only chance to get into the holiday spirit at Morven! Throughout De-

cember, join special performances, workshops, and talks. On Wednesday, December 10, the museum hosts Gingerbread House Decorating and Family Night, a kid-friendly chance to see the displays before getting messy with frosting and lots of candy while creating a unique gingerbread house and gingerbread people (the best part — no clean up!). Dreaming of sugar plums (or wondering how a sugar plum is made)? On Sunday, December 14, you’re invited to spend a cozy morning enjoying tea and cookies with author Becky Diamond (“The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook”) while she shares holiday recipes and traditions dating back to the 19th century. Morven’s popular holiday wreath making workshops are sold out, but you can still catch a charming Victorian Christmas Concert on Sunday, November 30. Enjoy music from the 19th century performed by Anne and Ridley Enslow in period clothing (while they play instruments from that time). And what better way to spread cheer than “singing loud for all to hear” (wisdom from Buddy the Elf!). On Friday, December 12, come along for Westrick Music Academy’s festive annual musical stroll Caroling with the Choirs, which begins at Morven with a concert, and continues across the street to the Present Day Club.

This year’s Festival of Trees includes 17 displays, including these trees decorated by Dorothea’s House, Casa di Cultura Italiana and the Contemporary Garden Club of Princeton.

Looking for a special gift? Morven’s gift shop is your destination for unique ornaments and holiday decor, essentials for home and garden, and thoughtful hostess gifts. Museum Store Sunday is Sunday, November 30 — but you don’t need an excuse (or a ticket) to stop by and shop! Whether coming together with family and friends, or taking a cozy moment for yourself, there are opportunities for everyone to celebrate the season at Morven Museum & Garden. Festival of Trees is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 55 Stockton Street, Princeton. Learn more and plan your visit at morven.org. See ad, page 12.

Upcoming Events

Wednesday 12/3 at 7:30PM

Princeton University Chapel Candlelight Service of Lessons & Carols

A service of readings and music for Advent and Christmas, featuring the Chapel Choir, Department of Music ensembles, and Princeton University a cappella groups.

Thursday 12/4 at 12:30 PM

Princeton University Chapel

After Noon Concert

Performing today is Drew Kreismer, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Ramsey, NJ.

Thursday 12/4 at 7:30 PM

Princeton University Chapel

Dante at the Chapel

The Chapel Choir joins students from the Department of French and Italian and the Humanities Sequence for a night of readings and music in celebration of the vitality of Dante’s Divine Comedy.

Sunday 12/7 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel Sunday Worship Service

Preaching today is Rev. Dr. Brittany Longsdorf, Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel, Princeton University.

Sunday 12/7 at 2:30 PM

Princeton University Chapel

A Yuletide Feast for Organ & Brass

University Organist Eric Plutz is joined by Timberdale Brass in a concert featuring music for brass quintet, organ solo, brass and organ, and carols for all to sing.

Friday 12/12 at 7:30PM

Chancellor Green Rotunda

Auld Lang Syne

A quartet of Celtic musicians weave the music of the Solstice, Christmas, and Hogmanay (the Scottish New Year) into an ethereal and charming program.

Sunday 12/14 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Sunday Worship Service

Preaching today is Bishop Phil LaBelle, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, Seattle, Washington.

Sunday 12/21 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Sunday Worship Service

Preaching today is Rev. Dr. Theresa S. Thames, Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel, Princeton University.

Wednesday 12/24 at 7PM

Princeton University Chapel

Christmas Eve Worship Service

With Rev. Theresa S. Thames, Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. Music prelude begins at 6:30pm with the Chapel community choir, chamber orchestra & University Organist Eric Plutz.

Thursday 12/25 at 11AM

Princeton University Chapel

Christmas Day Worship Service

With Rev. Dr. Brittany Longsdorf, Associate Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. This is a service of Holy Communion. Music by soprano Jennifer Borghi ‘02 & University Organist Eric Plutz.

Office of Religious Life

dances to music provided by a live orchestra and choir at the State Theatre of New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. $40 to $87. Thursday and Friday, December 18 and 19, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 20, 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, December 21, 1 and 5 p.m. arballet.org

Roxey Ballet

The Lambertville-based professional dance company continues its annual production of the beloved classic “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by the company’s founder Mark Roxey and featuring 150 dancers and hundreds of costumes. $45 to $65. Villa Victoria Theater, 376 West Upper Ferry Road, Ewing. Saturdays and Sundays, November 29 through December 7, 2 p.m. Relaxed matinee Friday, December 5, 10 a.m. roxeyballet.org

Princeton Youth Ballet

The company’s annual “The Nutcracker” presentation leans into a heartwarming, coming-ofage story, teasing out sparkling and humorous narrative details to enhance the experience of the traditional ballet for children. $30. Princeton High School Performing Arts Center, 16 Walnut Lane, Princeton. Saturday, December 6, 4 p.m., and Sunday, December 7, noon and 4 p.m. princetonyouthballet.org

Kelsey Theater

The Dance Connection once again presents its abridged and narrated “The Nutcracker,” designed for young audiences and presented by young performers. $18 to $22. Mercer County Community Col-

lege, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Friday, December 19, 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, December 20 and 21, 1 and 4 p.m. kelsey.mccc.edu

Festive Films

Passage Theatre

The Trenton community theater and the Trenton Film Society have announced a brand-new Holly Folly Film Festival, a four-day celebration for adults and children. Audiences enjoy a curated lineup of classic and contemporary holiday films for all ages, alongside a variety of fun activities. Refreshments available. Screenings include “The Preacher’s Wife,” rated PG, Thursday, December 4, 7:30 p.m. “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” rated PG-13, Friday, December 5, 5 and 7:30 p.m.; “It’s a Wonderful Life,” rated PG, Saturday, December 6, 5:30 p.m.; and “The Polar Express,” rated G, Sunday, December 7, 1:30 and 4 p.m. Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 East Front Street, Trenton. $10 per screening. passagetheatre.org

Princeton Garden Theatre

The theater offers a selection of holiday classics for all ages between Black Friday and Christmas Eve.

For the family, there is a series of matinee presentations, all priced at $5: “The Grinch,” Friday, November 28, and Tuesday, December 23, 10 a.m.; “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” Saturday, November 29, 10 a.m.; “The Santa Clause,” Saturday, December 6, 10 a.m.; “Elf,” Saturday, December 13, and Wednesday, December 24, 10 a.m.; “The Polar Express,” Saturday, December 20, 10 a.m.;

and “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” Tuesday, December 22, 10:30 a.m.

Also on the schedule are a handful of beloved holiday films. Tickets are $13.50. “White Christmas,” Sunday, December 7, 1 p.m.; “Home Alone,” Wednesday, December 10, 7 p.m.; and “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Wednesday, December 17, 7 p.m.

160 Nassau Street, Princeton. princetongardentheatre.org.

Kelsey Theater

“Tim Burton’s THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS” interactive movie event invites audiences to enjoy the heartfelt tale of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town and all things that go bump in the night. Come in costume and playalong with this cult classic, interac-

Roxey Ballet’s annual production of ‘The Nutcracker’ runs November 29 through December 7 at the Villa Victoria Theater in Ewing.

tive goody bag included. $20 to $22. Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Saturday, December 13, 2 p.m.

“White Christmas Movie Sing-Along” features the Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera Ellen, and Rosemary Clooney film classic — and a hefty dose of audience participation. Come early for holiday treats and an ugly sweater contest. $20 to $22. Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Sunday, December 14, 2 p.m. kelsey. mccc.edu

Seasonal Scenes

Palmer Square

Palmer Square kicks off the holiday season with a full afternoon of activities leading up to the Annual Tree Lighting on Black Friday. The festivities include live ice carving, Dueling Pianos, cheerful performances by Epic Soul and the Princeton High School Choir, and even a visit from Santa himself. Friday, November 28, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The annual Holiday Jam & Toy Drive featuring performances by Princeton University a cappella

groups is free for all to enjoy. Attendees are asked to bring a toy for ages 10 and under to benefit the Princeton YWCA St. Nicholas project. Friday, December 5, 5 to 7 p.m.

The Annual Menorah Lighting is on Tuesday, December 16, at 4 p.m.

And Santa and festive music can be found in the square every Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. until Christmas. Seasonal festivities culminate in a Christmas Eve Sing-A-Long on the green led by the Palmer Square Christmas Eve Brass Band and punctuated by a visit from Santa. Wednesday, December 24, 5 to 6 p.m. palmersquare.com/events-calendar

Princeton Tour Company

Princeton Tour Company leads BYOB Holiday Trolley Tours of Princeton. The one-hour tours begin within sight of the Palmer Square Christmas tree. As we chronicle the events that shaped one of America’s most educated towns, ride through the architecturally significant neighborhoods of Paul Robeson, Albert Einstein, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Betsey Stockton, Andrew Carnegie, Robert Wood Johnson, Robert Oppenheimer, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Toni Morrison, Philip Roth, Michael Graves, and more. Throughout the journey, jolly guides highlight points of interest and keep you riveted with tales of noteworthy (and notorious) Princetonians, past and present. $28 by advance reservation; ID required for alcohol consumption. Saturday and Sunday, December 13 and 14. princetontourcompany.com/tours/ holiday-trolley-tours.

Mill Hill Holiday House and Window Tour

The Old Mill Hill Society hosts the 2025 Mill Hill Holiday House Tour. Mill Hill residents share both indoor décor and outdoor hospitality, giving visitors the chance to view beautiful decorations, relax, mingle, and enjoy refreshments. The tour goes on, rain or shine.

The House Tour, started more than 55 years ago, is Mill Hill’s signature event and a Trenton holiday tradition. More than a dozen homes in the neighborhood will display special decorations, with owners sharing cheerful conversation indoors, and on stoops and sidewalks. Children under 12 may attend at no cost.

With a variety of architectural styles, sizes and ages, Mill Hill’s 19th century streetscape is one of the most interesting between New York and Philadelphia. The tour is organized by the Old Mill Hill Society. Proceeds help finance grants to assist property owners with maintaining the national historic landmark standards. $20, available

Pulse Fitness

Pulse, Lagree, and the Power of Finding Your Routine in the New Year

The new year has a way of making us reflect. We look at the version of ourselves from last year and imagine who we want to become next. For many, that vision includes moving more, feeling stronger, and finally committing to a workout routine that feels sustainable instead of stressful. This is where Pulse and the Lagree method come in — not as another shortlived resolution, but as a lifestyle shift that meets you where you are and challenges you to grow.

The 2025 Mill Hill Holiday House Tour takes place Saturday, December 6.

online or at Artworks, 19 Everett Alley, Trenton. Saturday, December 6, noon to 5 p.m. trentonmillhill.org/events.

Kuser Farm Mansion

Winter Wonderland at the Victorian-era farm mansion in Hamilton returns with photos with Santa and other holiday photo opportunities; meet and greet with Hamilton’s Grinchie, Cindy Lou, Elsa, and Olaf; fire pits around the park; rides on the Holiday Express to see the light display; tours of the mansion decorated for the holiday season; and the Jersey Valley Model Railroad Club train display. Food trucks will be on site. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. Friday. Free. 390 Newkirk Avenue, Hamilton. Friday, December 5, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, December 6, 2 to 7:30 p.m. hamiltonnj.com

Pennsbury Manor

“Holly Nights” is the annual “yuletide of yore”-style celebration at the home of William Penn. The evening includes carolers, bonfires, colonial crafts, and a visit from Father Christmas himself. $14. Thursday and Friday, December 4 and 5, 6 to 9 p.m. 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, Pennsylvania. pennsburymanor. org

Howell Living History Farm

Christmas on the Farm features Christmas crafts, live music, animal visits, a visit to a decorated farmhouse, and a visit with Santa.

Stop by the visitor center to hear the Jugtown Mountain String Band play and find a spot around the craft table to recreate a paper Victorian angel ornament ($5 materials fee). In the barnyard, families can take selfies in the 1800s sleigh pulled by the horses on snowy days and visit the blacksmith working in the farm’s forge. The farmhouse will be open for tours, decked out in all its Christmas finery.

The visitor center offers warm drinks, homemade cookies, lunch, and other light refreshments. The gift shop has unique gifts like Howell Farm honey, handmade straps of sleigh bells, forged items made by the farm’s blacksmith, and other homemade items by the farm’s sewing guild. Toys for Tots is also accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys.

Free. Valley Road, Hopewell, just off Route 29, two miles south of Lambertville. Saturday, December 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. howellfarm. org.

Pulse was created with intention. It’s not just a workout studio; it’s a space where strength is built from the inside out. The energy is empowering, the community is supportive, and every class is designed to make you feel capable, confident, and connected to your body. Whether you’re stepping into fitness for the first time or returning after a break, Pulse reminds you that progress doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to be consistent.

At the core of Pulse is Lagree, a method that redefines what effective movement looks like. Lagree focuses on slow, controlled, high-intensity, lowimpact movements performed on the minipro. It’s not about how fast you can go or how heavy you can lift. It’s about precision, time under tension, and staying present in every moment. The result? Lean muscle, improved endurance, stronger core stability, and a body that feels powerful — not broken down.

Morven Museum

The historic building’s annual Festival of Trees display is up and welcoming visitors with decorated rooms and mantels. This year’s winning themes include All Aboard to Movie Magic; Family Game Night; A Tribute to Pollinators; Midnight Winter Conservatory; The Yule Lads of Iceland; Neapolitan Baroque; Fruit of the Holiday Spirit; and more.

“Festival of Trees is a true reflection of the creativity and generosity of our community,” said Rhonda DiMascio, executive director of Morven. “As we celebrate the 20th anniversary, we are deeply grateful to our partners whose imaginative displays bring joy to our visitors year after year. Their artistry transforms Morven into a winter wonderland, making this season one of the most special times to experience the museum.”

The 17 community partners for Festival of Trees are The Allentown Village Initiative; American Repertory Ballet; Dorothea’s House, Casa di Cultura Italiana; Contemporary Garden Club of Princeton; The Garden Club of Princeton; The Junior League of Greater Princeton; Mercer County Library System; Mount Laurel Garden Club; Nottingham Garden Club; People & Stories - Gente y Cuentos; Princeton Festival Guild; Princeton Garden Theatre; Princeton Ski and Sail Club; Princeton University Press; Stony Brook Garden Club of Princeton; Westrick Music Academy/Princeton Girlchoir and Boychoir; and The West Trenton Garden Club.

$12. 55 Stockton Street, Prince-

One of the biggest challenges people face in the new year is finding a routine they can actually stick to. The motivation is high in January, but life gets busy, schedules fill up, and suddenly the gym becomes just another forgotten line item on a todo list. Lagree at Pulse flips that narrative. Classes are intentional and efficient, giving you maximum results in minimal time. You walk out feeling accomplished, energized, and proud of what your body can do — which makes coming back easier, and eventually, habitual. Finding your routine isn’t about forcing yourself into someone else’s version of “fit.” It’s about discovering what makes you feel good. Maybe that means committing to two classes a week and slowly building from there. Maybe it’s creating a consistent morning ritual. Perhaps it’s carving out that one hour that’s entirely yours — no emails, no errands, no expectations. At Pulse, that hour becomes sacred. It becomes the moment you reconnect with yourself. What sets Pulse apart is the sense of belonging. You’re not

ton. Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through January 11. morven.org

Drumthwacket

New Jersey’s official governor’s mansion is opening the 19th-century Greek revival-style house to visitors with holiday displays. Guests view six first-floor public rooms festively decorated by the Garden Clubs of New Jersey while enjoying holiday piano music in the Music Room.

Tours are self-guided, but docents are available in every room to answer questions. Interior photography is permitted only in the library, before the magnificent stone fireplace. Guests may tour the grounds, weather permitting, and visit the small gift shop in the Van Nuys event center on the property. 354 Stockton Street, Princeton. Free; reservations required. Thursday, December 4; Friday, December 5; Wednesday, December 10; Saturday, December 20; and Sunday, December 21, at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. drumthwacket. org.

Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum

Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum presents its sixth annual Christmas On The Farm Returning this year will be the skilled artisans and craftspeople selling their wares who have been the backbone of this event. Other activities include photo ops, old time crafts, theme related Christmas ornament for our younger visitors, as well as a special visit with Santa. Plan to enjoy live music by

just another reservation on the schedule; you’re part of a community that cheers you on, celebrates your wins, and supports you through the tough days. The instructors know your name, your goals, and your strengths. They push you while also reminding you to honor your limits. It’s a balance of challenge and compassion — exactly what the new year should feel like.

As the calendar resets, so do you. This is your chance to build a routine rooted in empowerment, not punishment. A routine that feels strong, not restrictive. Lagree at Pulse isn’t about chasing a number on the scale; it’s about creating a relationship with your body that’s built on trust, discipline, and self-love. So step into the new year with intention. Find your rhythm. Embrace the slow burn. And let Pulse guide you toward a version of yourself that feels stronger, steadier, and more aligned than ever before. This isn’t just a workout. This is your reset. Your routine. Your power. Pulse, 2450 Kuser Road, Suite G, Hamilton. www.pulse studiofit.com. See ad, page 5.

Long Hill String Band on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. On Sunday music will be by Sawmill Run Old Time String Band from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead includes The 1711 House, Hunterdon County’s oldest deeded home, which will be decorated in rustic décor for its featured host, none other than Santa. This year’s theme is Nutcracker, so guests will be treated to nutcracker creations by volunteers Sue and Phil Thatcher, and they will be available for purchase at the end of the event. $5 admission. Saturday and Sunday, December 13 and 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1605 Daniel Bray Highway (Route 29). holcombe-jimison.org

Artworks Trenton

The 10×10 Red Dot Fundraising Exhibition is a chance for the novice to test the waters of original art, experienced artists to help Artworks fund continued programming, and an opportunity for the collector to build their art collection.

More than 100 Trenton area artists create art on a 10”x10” canvas. The works are dynamic, diverse, and all created specifically for Artworks. Experienced and novice artists create works in oil, acrylic, mixed media, photography, pastel, watercolor and more. All works sell for $100, with a 50/50 split on proceeds with the artist. Artworks Trenton, 19 Everett Alley, Trenton. Opening reception Saturday, December 13, 6 to 9 p.m. On view through Saturday, January 10. www.artworkstrenton.org

A U.S. 1 AdvertiSing FeAtUre

FESTIVAL FESTIVAL of of TREES TREES

PLUS, FESTIVE PROGRAMS!

11/30: Victorian Christmas Concert

12/3 & 12/4: Wreath Making Workshops

12/10: Gingerbread House

12/12: Caroling with

12/14: Author Betsy Diamond (The

Princeton Symphony Orchestra

Sounds of the Season

The Princeton Symphony Orchestra (PSO) presents members of the orchestra in a special Holiday Brass concert at Trinity Church on Thursday, December 4, at 7 p.m. The performance includes traditional holiday selections arranged for brass quintet with popular tunes by Vince Guaraldi, Leroy Anderson, and more. The church’s setting provides the perfect backdrop for this seasonal concert.

The annual Holiday POPS! concert with carol sing-along returns on Saturday, December 13, with two performances at Richardson Auditorium. GRAMMY winner John Brancy and Ka-

ra Dugan lend their talents to seasonal melodies along with the spirited voices of the Princeton High School Choir. John Devlin returns to conduct the 3 and 6 p.m. performances. Capturing all the magic of the season, the program offers works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and Felix Mendelssohn as well as popular favorites such as Felix Bernard’s “Winter Wonderland” and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. princetonsymphony.org. See ad, page 6.

Holiday Preview

Continued from preceding page

Historic Happenings

Washington Crossing State Park, New Jersey

Washington Crossing Historic Park, Pennsylvania

Get set for the annual reenactments of George Washington’s Christmas Day crossing of the Delaware River to take Trenton — at the very location where the major historical event occurred.

The first is the dress rehearsal crossing, a fundraiser that includes a full day of activities and demonstrations that highlight 18thcentury civilian and military life, offering fun and learning for the whole family.

Tom Hand, founder of Americana Corner, serves as guest narrator and featured author. Hand created Americana Corner in 2020 to share informative stories of the momentous events, significant documents and influential leaders that helped create and shape the country. The 1982 West Point alumnus signs copies of his books, “An American Triumph” and “America Victorious” between 10 a.m. and noon, with a special 30-minute author presentation at 11 a.m. $5 to $9. Sunday, December 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; crossing at 1 p.m.

The second is the annual Christmas Day crossing. Visitors can also march with the troops, tour buildings, and join fellow festival lovers waiting for the cannon shot to signal the launching of the boats. Free. Thursday, December 25, noon to 3 p.m.; crossing at 1 p.m.

Washington Crossing Historic Park, Routes 32 and 532, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania. washingtoncrossingpark.org

“Washington’s Landing in New Jersey” brings together NJ State Park historians, the Washington Crossing Park Association, and the First Rhode Island Regiment at Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville to welcome Washington’s troops and learn what happened after 2,400 troops, 18 cannons, and 50 horses landed in New Jersey. The New Jersey-based event happens in sync with Washington Crossing Historic Park of Pennsylvania’s “First Crossing” rehearsal event. Reenactors who cross with Washington will be met by Ronald Rinaldi, portraying General Nathaneal Greene, who will invite them to an encampment in the Lower Park, anchored by members of the First Rhode Island Regiment. The First RI will portray the roles of Black soldiers, sailors, artillerists, marines and musicians. They will be supported by: John Lamb’s Artillery; Motts Artillery; 17th Regiment of Infantry portraying the Hunterdon Militia; and New Jersey Fifes and Drums.

Visitors will also be welcomed at the Nelson House, where volunteers from the Garden Club of Trenton will serve hot cider and donuts in front of a fire. A food truck will be on hand. Free; suggested donation $10 per car. 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, Titusville. Sunday, December 14, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. wcpa-nj.com

Patriots Week

The week-long commemoration of the Battle of Trenton, the event that put the American colonists on the path to victory, returns to downtown Trenton on Friday, December 26, and continues through Wednesday, December 31, with historic tours, talks, and reenactments. Most events are free. A full schedule is online. patriotsweek.com.

Reenactors arrive on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River as part of Washington Crossing State Park’s ‘Washington’s Landing in New Jersey’ event on Sunday, December 14.

Colerain Plantation, Georgia, 1845-47. Unknown artist. Oil on canvas. The Miller Collection. Colerain Plantation, Georgia, 1845-47. Unknown on canvas. Miller

Ronica A. Bregenzer, Architect LLC

Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty

Glenmede PNC Private Bank

Art

Covered Bridge Artisans’ Annual Studio Tour, Sandy Ridge Church, 47 Sandy Ridge Road, Stockton, 267-337-1818. www. coveredbridgeartisans.com. Selfguided tour of nine professional artists’ studios in Lambertville, Stockton, New Hope, and Sergeantsville areas with 13 additional artists at the Sandy Ridge Church. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Art Making Open House, Princeton Makes, Princeton Shopping Center, 301 North Harrison Street, Princeton. princetonshoppingcenter.com. Princeton Makes artists lead a variety of artistic activities, including greeting cardmaking, ornament decoration, mini yarn hat making, and more, designed to be enjoyed by both children and adults. Artists will also be working in their studios so you can interact with them and learn more about their work. Refreshments served. Free. 2 to 5 p.m.

Dance

The Nutcracker, American Repertory Ballet, McCarter Theater, 91 University Place, Princeton, 609-258-2787. www.mccarter. org. This holiday favorite tells the

magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle toy soldiers and larger-than-life mice, and travel through a whirlwind of dancing snowflakes to the Land of Sweets. For ages 5 and up. $49 to $79. 1 p.m.

On Stage

Seasonal Allergies, Kelsey Theatre, Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, 609-570-3333. www.kelseytheatre.org. Story

about a group of friends in their late 30’s getting together during the holiday season. $24. 2 p.m.

Sarah Brightman: A Winter Symphony, State Theater New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.stnj.org. Accompanied by orchestra, choir, and special guests, this enchanting holiday show features Grammynominated soprano Brightman performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. $96 to $297. 7:30 p.m.

Wellness

Free Class, Yoga4Sobriety, Plainsboro Municipal Building, 641 Plainsboro Road, Plainsboro.

Yoga4Sobriety.com/schedule. Free 12 step-based yoga class. Beginners welcome; no experience required. Bring a mat and an open mind. No registration required for in-person attendance; visit website for access via Zoom. 9to 10:15 a.m.

History

Princeton History Walking Tour Historical Society of Princeton, Princeton Battle Monument, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton. www. princetonhistory.org. Walk around downtown Princeton and the University campus as you learn about historic sites in the area, including Nassau Hall, University Chapel and Palmer Square. $20. Register. 2 to 4 p.m.

For Families

Lectures

Artist Talk: Diana Al-Hadid, Princeton University Art Museum. artmuseum.princeton.edu. The artist discusses her commission, “The Ziggurat Splits the Sky,” for the new museum with curator Alexandra Foradas. 5:30 p.m.

Shopping News

Sports

Jersey Jam Double Header, CURE Insurance Arena, 81 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton. www. jerseyjam.net. Princeton University vs. St. Joseph’s University men’s basketball. $20 and up. 6 p.m.

Monday

December 1

Classical Music

Ji Hye Jung and Mariel Roberts Musa Princeton Sound Kitchen, Taplin Auditorium, Fine Hall, Princeton University. music.princeton.edu. Percussionist Ji

Lectures

Bucks County Playhouse Review: ‘Elf: The Musical’

Holiday! Schmoliday!

John Tartaglia’s production of “Elf: The Musical” for New Hope’s Bucks County Playhouse is so exhilaratingly perfect, it can run anywhere anytime and entertain grandly with wit, sparkle, and a great big dollop of theatrical delight.

Tartaglia just knows how to put on a show. A bit can range from savvy to corny, and it fits the theatrical occasion with pinpoint precision and knack for providing smart, unbridled fun.

Tartaglia and company not only tell the story of Buddy the Elf, popular since first seen in the 2003 Jon Favreau movie written by David Berenbaum, they elevate it. They give it extra oomph in so many ways, you want to see every performance you can of this shrewdly conceived, marvel-filled production that in somehow straightforward, sophisticated, hilarious, and moving all at once.

Every ounce of potential in a script by two of the best of all book writers, Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, and a score from a composing team, Matthew Sklar (music) and Chad Beguelin (lyrics) whose songs defy the cookie-cutter nature of most 21st century musical fare, particularly that derived from movies, is mined with invention and care that show Tartaglia and choreographer Shannon Lewis not only know their business but can coach countless clueless others in how to make familiar material fresh and special.

The avalanche of creativity Tartaglia and Lewis provide is matched by the performances of a flawless cast led by the irrepressibly ebullient Chris Stevens (Buddy) who exudes naughtily naive charm and nicely developed talent and carried through to the most anonymous of dancers.

she went into hiding and made it out of the war alive. Eventually, she would immigrate to the United States, where she would go on to live a life of accomplishment and giving. Initially reluctant to speak about her journey, May now addressed audiences all over the world, and has received a multitude of honors and recognitions, including induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame, bestowed of the title of Knight by the King of Netherlands, and appointment to the position of President of the NJ State Board of Education. 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday December 2

Classical Music

Jane Austen and the Music of Her World Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary. org. The Practitioners of Musick perform a program of music directly associated with Jane Austen and her family in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth on December 16, 1775. Register. 6 to 7 p.m. Princeton Livestock Exchange Concert Department of Music CoLab, Lewis Arts Complex, Princeton University. music.princeton.edu. Princeton Livestock Exchange is a concert series loosely oriented around improvised performance to create musical dialogues between Princeton students and special visiting guest artists. Free. 7 p.m.

by Neal z oren

Not to mention the puppets.

John Tartaglia earned his first Broadway acclaim as the star of the puppet-laden “Avenue Q” (produced by the Playhouse’s Robyn Goodman) and now works with the Jim Henson Company. He cast the elves of “Elf” with Henson-like puppets, voiced by Matthew Blasio, Sabrina Kalman, and Ian Liberto, that not only elicit non-stop, wall-to-wall smiles every second they’re onstage but cleverly make clear the difference between elves that are elves and the ineluctably human Buddy, who’s been posing as one for 30 years.

Not only are the “elves” made of cloth while Buddy is well-toned flesh-and-blood, but they, behind their various staging areas, are less than a foot tall while Chris Stevens’ Buddy measures in at about 6’4’’.

The contrast becomes incidental compared to the kick the puppets give this “Elf,” the way Lewis choreographs them, and the giddy warmth they provide.

Really, this a production in which every gambit, gimmick, and gamble works, all meshing into a show that keeps you interested and laughing while organically nailing every comic line, finding the sarcastic bite in comebacks, offering adults some humor kids might miss, letting Stevens’ boundless energy soar, and leaving room for honest sentiment made more poignant because the comedy that leads to it is so deftly broad.

The Playhouse’s “Elf” does something else that sets it apart from other productions of the same show and from practically all of the recent musicals that were first movies

It approaches “Elf” as if it were a new piece, allowing its internal elements to drive the show rather than falling into the common trap of trying to make a theater piece look and

On Stage

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater. org. Buddy, a young orphan, mis takenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy em barks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and dis cover his true identity. Recom mended for ages 8 and up. p.m.

sound like its cinematic model.

This is significant.

So many theater directors have their productions follow and recreate what audiences have liked from the screen. The same week I saw “Elf,” I saw the touring production of “Back to the Future: The Musical” at Philadelphia’s Academy of Music.

Individual performances and really cool use of the DeLorean Doc Brown uses for his time travel keep that show afloat, but it is truly a thoughtless piece of trash that panders to the audience who are looking for the film. Performances are too broad, the comedy is sillier than it is funny, and the story has no punch.

I’ve seen productions of “The Lion King” that do the same thing. Beyond Julie Taymor’s magnificent animal scenes, dialog and tone leave reality behind and become a cartoon.

John Tartaglia, Shannon Lewis, and Chris Stevens, all avoid that. Entirely.

They put on an “Elf” that has heart and a core of reality in spite of being a fantasy. They can go wild with hijinks while keeping humanity and even the pathos in Buddy’s story part of “Elf’s” proceedings. It is its own entity, designed for the theater and definitely not a pandering imitation or knockoff of Favreau’s film. Or, for that matter, any other production of “Elf.”

Chris Stevens, in an interview for a different publication, told me one thing he liked about Tartaglia’s production was the way he kept most of the characters grounded, even to the point of being typical New Yorkers who barely noticed a guy dressed like an elf walking among them, while letting him act out in the natural, unsophisticated way Buddy, who knows only the North Pole and the shelter of Santa Claus’ protection, would.

Seeing the production, I knew exactly what Stevens meant and

how Tartaglia accomplished it.

He had everyone but Stevens play their roles straight.

John Bolton, who plays a busy executive who doesn’t make time for the 11-year-old son he has let alone a 30-year-old elf who announced their kinship out of the blue, is hangdog and grumpy but in a way that suits his character. He doesn’t overdo or turn his gruff hardness into an exaggerated cartoon. Bolton remains the harried businessman whose job happens to be in jeopardy and whose aim is to support the family he ignores while worrying about work.

Even when characters launch into bits that are more a part of musical theater than everyday reality, it has a touch of truth to it, something that shows the absence of what might be right and wrong that Buddy has.

Jenny Lee Stern’s brilliant turn as Bolton’s administrative assistant is a case in point. Stern does everything an assistant would, but she does it with panache and a flair for dancing.

Stern’s admin is the brash, loud New Yorker and reliable professional who can handle any situation. Stern also entertains up a storm, with spot-on line delivery and hips that don’t stop moving as she makes Lewis’ choreography look easier and integral to her character.

It’s a joy to watch her and savor Stern’s wealth of talent and theatrical savvy. (I also had the thought someone should write a Judy Garland piece for Stern. As wigged and made up in “Elf,” she has the look of La Garland as well as the abundant dance ability.)

Chris Stevens is a revelation. He can have you roaring at Buddy’s naïveté one second, then make up sad that Buddy, in New York, is a different kind of babe in the woods, one who doesn’t know his way, has few people who can help him, and needs a hand.

Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show, George Street Playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. This fast, funny, and full-of-surprises reimagining of A Christmas Carol takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 7:30 p.m.

Dancing

Tuesday Night Folk Dance Princeton Folk Dance, Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton. www.princetonfolkdance.org. No partner necessary. $5. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Stevens has no trouble finding bits that make Buddy lively and lovable. He can also break hearts when Buddy understand that New York does not mirror the camaraderie of the North Pole.

Brian Ray Norris finds the humor and humanity in Santa Claus. His turns in “Elf” and an earlier Playhouse production, “She Loves Me,” shows Norris to be a versatile character actor who brings out the best in any role.

Ann Sanders exemplifies common sense and the ability to accept a new reality as Bolton’s wife and Buddy’s stepmother. Savy Jackson is another who finds the exact right notes are the dismissive yet curious Jovie, who sees the potential in Buddy. Juson J. Williams conveys authority and a ability to let oneself go as Buddy’s manager in Macy’s “Santaland.” Michael Hurst has a great voice and a veteran actor’s ease as Buddy’s 11-year-old stepbrother. William Ryall adds another excellent performance to his resume as the head of children’s book company that needs a hit. Danielle Kelly is a doting, gently demanding Mrs. Claus.

Craig Napoliello and Anna Louizos combine on a set that changes on a dime from a living room to a factory floor and from an office to Central Park. Robin McGee has fun with turn-of-the-century look and movement. Bart Fassbender’s sound design enhances the production. Katie Whittimore’s lighting design keys you into the main action.

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania. Through Sunday, January 4. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday; and 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. (Check for extra matinees near Christmas.) $32 to $72, with prices rising to $140 on holiday eves. www.bcptheater.org or 215-862-2121

INSIGHTS & ARGUMENTS ESSAYS & SOLILOQUIES

INTERCHANGE

Schenck-Covenhoven Cemetery Restoration

Help the Historical Society of West Windsor save a historic cemetery

The Schenck-Covenhoven Cemetery sits about 2,000 feet north of the Route 1-Washington Road traffic circle. Listed as “eligible” for the National Register of Historic Places, it’s one of New Jersey’s oldest surviving colonial burial grounds. It holds West Windsor founders, early colonial settlers, and likely Revolutionary soldiers. However, it has deteriorated after being abandoned generations ago. The Historical Society of West Windsor plans to rehabilitate it in the years ahead but needs support from the community. This is its history and our vision.

Current Conditions. The cemetery features around 130 gravestones, representing between 80100 burials from the 1730s and ’40s to 1941. Most graves face east-to-west, whereas the surrounding fieldstone wall parallels Route 1 and Washington Road. Its oldest legible gravestone at the time of this writing displays a date of 1746 (for “M. I.” — individual unknown), and with one exception, burials ceased by the 1890s. Families are generally buried together, and there are several family clusters scattered throughout.

Although surrounded by Princeton University’s “West Windsor Meadows Neighborhood” campus, opened in 2024, the cemetery is a legally separate “orphaned” plot not owned by any entity. For generations, it served the nearby 18th century neighborhood of Penns

December 2

Continued from preceding page

Literati

Neck (itself currently centered on Washington Road, east of Route 1).

The stones vary in size and material. Many are professionally carved, but some were amateurmade. Some are still legible, but many others are eroded or even broken, toppled, tilted, or sunk below ground. The perimeter wall, too, shows signs of aging. Yet, the University periodically manages the weeds, and most importantly, most graves are identified with specific individuals, thanks to various surveys since the 1880s.

Colonial Roots. In 1693, William Penn — Pennsylvania’s founder — purchased more than 6,500 acres here, northwest of present-day Penn Lyle Road. He and his sons kept it as an investment property for decades but never lived here. In 1737 they sold it to two Dutchmen from Monmouth County: Garret Schenck and John Van Couwenhoven. In that year, the term “Penns Neck” began to appear in writing in reference to this vast territory.

John and Garret divided the land into multiple large estates amongst their children, who settled here. Over several decades, these colonists established the “Penns Neck” neighborhood and replaced native forests and meadows with vast farms stretching across the horizon.

They built this family burial ground sometime between 1737 and 1746. The gravestones reveal many surnames: Covenhoven, Cruser, Dye, Hight, Martin, Oppie, Rowland, Schenck, Slayback, Smith, Stout, Van Dyke, and Voorhees.

From the early 1800s onward, cemetery ownership passed

Paige Allen and Stacy Wolf in conversation with Jill Dolan Labyrinth Books 122 Nasasu Street, Princeton. www.labyrinthbooks.com. Celebrate the release of Stacy Wolf and Paige Allen’s new book, “Feminist Approaches in Musical Theatre.” The authors’ conversation is facilitated by Jill Dolan. 6 p.m.

Wednesday December 3

Classical Music

Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols, Princeton University Chapel. religiouslife.princeton.edu. A service of readings and music for Advent and Christmas, featuring the Chapel Choir, Department of Music ensembles, and Princeton University a cappella groups. Free admission. 7:30 to 8:45 p.m.

Peter Sellars, Director: “Mourning through Music”, Princeton University Concerts, Richardson Auditorium, Princeton University. concerts.princeton.edu. A MacArthur Fellow and one of the most visionary voices in contemporary performance, Peter Sellars joins Ara Guzelimian — artistic and executive director of the Ojai Music Festival and former dean and provost of The Juilliard School — for an intimate conversation interwoven with live music by violinist Keir Gogwilt. Together, they explore the art that has emerged from Sel-

through the Schencks, ending in 1849 with Clarissa Schenck. However, in 1877, a group of neighbors incorporated the “Penns Neck Cemetery Association” to ensure its upkeep. One of its founding members, Eliza Schenck, had the perimeter fieldstone wall built in 1876. Two years later, Clarissa formally deeded the burial ground to the Association.

Abandonment & Maintenance. Although the association’s articles of incorporation provided for annual elections, all of its original trustees died by the 1930s, and there were so few successors that it dissolved around then. They never deeded the cemetery to anyone else, so the burial ground was thereafter permanently an “orphan” with no legal owner or caretaker. Over several decades, it became overgrown with saplings and weeds, and its stones eroded and broke, as it was physically isolated from, and increasingly forgotten by, the neighborhood that had created it all those generations prior.

In the 1940s, Princeton University bought the farmland around — but not including — the cemetery. Although a few restoration efforts occurred in the 1960s and ’70s, the burial ground itself was largely uncared for until 1993, when the Princeton Baptist Church of Penns Neck assumed stewardship. Four years later, the cemetery was listed as eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The church cared for it to a greater extent than had been done in decades, including recently restoring a portion of the wall. However, they were limited by funding, so there is much more left to do.

Very recently, Princeton Univer-

lars’ darkest life moments and his belief in music’s transformative power to guide others through grief and mourning. $27. 7:30 p.m.

Jazz & Blues

Small Groups A and Z Jazz at Princeton Taplin Auditorium, Fine Hall, Princeton University. music.princeton.edu. Miles Okazaki directs Small Group A; Ted Chubb directs Small Group Z. Free. 7:30 p.m.

Live Music

Live Band Jam, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, 609-393-7300. www.coopersnj.com. PA, full backline with drums, amps, and house band to sit in with. Sign-up for musicians starts after 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

Art

Festival of Trees, Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609924-8144. www.morven.org. Annual juried collection of ornamental trees and mantels. On view through Wednesdays through Sundays through January 11. $12. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On Stage

Elf: The Musical, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, Pennsylvania, 215-862-2121. www.bcptheater.org. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 1:30 p.m.

Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Jersey Christmas Show, George Street Playhouse, Arthur Laurents Theater, 11 Livingston Ave-

sity opened a new campus in the surrounding land, replacing fields of crops with athletic facilities, a parking garage, student housing, and more. Now, the orphaned cemetery persists, seemingly out of place in its new context. However, it is in fact right at home — as one of New Jersey’s oldest surviving colonial burial grounds, a historic jewel of West Windsor, and deserving of recognition, preservation, and respect from all.

Our Vision. Late last year, the Historical Society of West Windsor — a small, all-volunteer nonprofit — began discussing the cemetery’s preservation. After extensive coordination with attorneys, restoration experts, the university, and the Princeton Baptist Church, we assumed stewardship in 2025. We have multiple long-term goals:

1. Gravestone Repair: Especially the many broken, tilting, or flaking, stones that require professional care.

2. Wall Repair: Fixing mortar/ stones and intruding vegetation.

3. Tree Care: Removing an overhanging dead tree and assessing the health of the other two in partnership with the University.

4. Landscaping: Weeding, level-

nue, New Brunswick. www.georgestreetplayhouse.org. This fast, funny, and full-ofsurprises reimagining of A Christmas Carol takes Dickens’ classic tale and gives it a fresh, local twist. Expect all the traditional ghosts — Past, Present, and Future — along with plenty of Garden State spirit, unexpected laughs, and a dash of holiday magic. $35 and up. 7:30 p.m.

Comedy

Improv Comedy Night: From the Page to the Laugh Floor, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.princetonlibrary.org. The Princeton Graduate Improv Group presents a fun, high-energy performance based on audience prompts about their favorite books. 7 to 8 p.m.

History

Unveiling of a New Jersey Black Heritage Trail Marker, William Trent House, 15 Market Street, Trenton. www.williamtrenthouse.org. The Trent House Association is honored to be a site on the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail and invites all to attend the unveiling of the site marker. The program is free; confirm attendance by emailing scarneytrenthouse@outlook.com. 3 p.m.

Socials

Holiday Wreath Making Workshop Morven Museum & Garden, 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, 609-924-8144. www. morven.org. Enjoy light refreshments as you create a unique holiday wreath for your home with your choice of ‘seasonal bling’ and natural accents from Morven’s historic gardens. No experience necessary. Morven’s horticulturalists on hand to guide participants. For ages 12+. Register. $60. 1 to 3 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m.

The Schenck-Covenhoven Cemetery is one of New Jersey’s oldest surviving colonial burial grounds.

ing, and possible lighting.

5. Programming: Historic markers, archaeology, research, tours, etc.

However, this project will be very expensive and laborious and, again, we’re a small, 100 percent unpaid volunteer nonprofit, limited by how much funds and volunteers we have.

So, how can you help? By donating or volunteering. It’s going to take a community effort to restore one of our most historic sites for generations to come. To learn more about this project, and how you can help, visit: www.westwindsorhistory.com/pncem.html.

The West Windsor Historical Society is an all-volunteer community nonprofit dedicated to documenting and promoting West Windsor’s rich history. If you like what we do, please consider volunteering or donating. To learn more, visit: westwindsorhistory.com.

The Covered Bridge Artisans’ Annual Studio Tour takes place Friday through Sunday, November 28 through 30, in the Lambertville, Stockton, New Hope, and Sergeantsville areas. Pictured is Jeanine Pennell’s ceramic sculpture ‘Fish Car.’

Jersey Art Meetup, Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton. www.artscouncilofprinceton.org.Weekly social event connecting creatives within the greater Central Jersey area through a shared passion for sequential art and new media. Attendees may use this open workshop space to draw, write, and develop their own artwork, with an opportunity to receive peer review and feedback from other members if desired. Must be 16+ to attend. Free. 7 to 9 p.m.

PRE VIEW

Let’s Try: The Boat House & Revolution Woodfire Grille

Iadmit that I’ve been reluctant to visit both The Boat House and Revolution Woodfire Grille in Lambertville since they changed hands.

First Stop … The Boat House

For years, The Boat House has been one of my favorite places to catch up with friends over a drink in a cozy setting; a quirky, compact, vintage two-story structure at the end of an alley, virtually filled to bursting with nautical memorabilia, the perfect place to have a quiet drink and engage in conversation.

Across the courtyard, Revolution Woodfire Grille began life as Hamilton’s Grill Room, the vision of a local legend, the late Jim Hamilton. Taken over for a time by local legend-in-the-making Chef Brian Held, the structure sat dormant for a time until both properties were acquired in August of last year by Refined Hospitality, in partnership with Brickstone Realty and Trax Partners.

Despite my trepidation, I had high hopes that both locations would remain true to the part they’ve played in forming the fabric of community life in Lambertville. Especially since it’s been reported that in 1990, Jim Hamilton was the first client of Refined Hospitality’s founder and CEO Ron Gorodesky, and that his company’s website acknowledges The Boat House as “the heart and soul of Lambertville.”

The tipping point on whether to stop by came when a friend informed me that Revolution was offering a Midweek Dinner Special too good to pass up, a three-course Prix Fixe menu, served Tuesday through Thursday, for just $29 per person. A cocktail at The Boat House followed by dinner at Revolution? Oh, yes!

We arrived at The Boat House an hour before our dinner reservation on a recent Tuesday evening to find the ground floor filled with a mellow crowd and the murmur of conversation. Escorted to the cozy comfort of the second floor, we passed by the first noticeable change; a keyboard shoehorned in a space adjacent to the stairway. Live music at The Boat House?!?

Once we settled in, our friendly server Dylan took our drinks order; nicely prepared rye and Bourbon Manhattans ($16 each), a glass of Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand ($13) and a glass of Francois Labet Pinot Noir from Burgundy ($13). To my knowledge, food has never been served at The Boat House, and that tradition seems to be continuing. And, oh yes, there was music. Not from the keyboard below (yet) but recorded music from a rather static-y speaker, a speaker that Dylan informed us would soon be turned off to make way for the keyboard player/vocalist we’d passed by.

by George Point

Live music at The Boat House.

A good thing? A bad thing? A different thing? I leave it to you to make up your own mind, dear reader. I for one always come here to appreciate the sound of often spirited conversation, the clink of glasses, and to be in a rare place where, as Yeats said, “There are no strangers, only friends you haven’t yet met.”

Although making new friends may be a challenge with classic rock playing in the background. Anyway, our evening has just begun ... on to Revolution Woodfire Grille across the courtyard!

The Boat House, 8 ½ Coryell Street, Lambertville. Open Tuesday through Thursday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Friday, 4 to 11 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day. Open Boxing Day, December 26, noon to 11 p.m.; and New Years Eve, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. 609-397-2244. refinedhospitality.com/the-boat-house

Revolution Woodfire Grille

Anyone familiar with previous incarnations of what is now Revolution Woodfire Grille should feel right at home in this gently reimagined space. The restaurant’s website promises that “...The interior elements will be reimagined through an abstract lens, with artfully curated design elements, celebrating Lambertville’s colorful culture. Complementing the playful aesthetics will be a whimsical garden tucked under a canopy of trees for al fresco dining…”

They’ll get no argument from me. The glassed-in front dining room is as warm and inviting as ever, as was our greeting when we checked in and were offered our choice of dining rooms. Drawn by the aroma of the wood-fired grill, we chose to sit opposite a very busy chef preparing many of the items on the evening’s menu.

There we were again welcomed by David, our genial and knowledgeable server, who presented us with both the regular and prix fixe menus.

From the prix fixe menu, two of us chose the Brussels Sprout Salad (pine nuts, dried cranberries, Parmesan cheese, lemon Dijon dressing) and one selected the Chopped Romaine Caesar Salad with sourdough croutons. Ordering from the regular menu, my other dining companion chose the Field Greens Salad with cucumber, carrot, goat cheese crostini, sherry vinaigrette ($12). All were deemed freshly prepared and very satisfying.

For our entrees, we sampled three choices from the prix fixe menu; Grilled Bronzino Fillet (olives, leeks, roasted tomatoes, grilled Yukon potatoes), Grilled Shrimp Scallop Skewer (zucchini, red and green pepper, served on a

Above, the author, center, and two of his dining companions at the nautically decorated Boathouse. Right, a sign directs eaters and drinkers to both Refined Hospitality establishments.

bed of white rice), and Chicken Schnitzel (mushroom cream sauce, mashed potatoes, green beans).

The grilled seafood choices were perfectly grilled, a light crust on the outside and cooked through just enough to retain moistness and allow the flavors and freshness of the ingredients to shine through. The Chicken Schnitzel was the surprise hit of the evening, a moist and more than adequately sized portion that served as one lucky diner’s lunch the following day.

The fourth dining companion in our party chose Grilled Scottish Salmon with Black Garlic Butter ($32), crusty on the outside and medium rare within, exactly as-requested.

Two dessert options were offered on the prix fixe; creamy Pannacotta and a rich Chocolate Caramel Tart. Either would make an excellent, sweet coda to your meal, as would the Cheesecake with Amarena Cherries ($12) from the regular menu.

Note: The prix fixe menu is subject to change; two soup appetizer options were on offer on the evening of our visit, as well as steamed mussels and pasta entree options. Check Revolution’s website for a sample prix fixe and regular menus.

One significant change from earlier incarnations of this space is

that a full range of alcoholic beverages is available. Wine offerings from the compact, well-curated list range in price from $37 for Lucien Albrecht Reisling from the Alsace to Veuve Clicquot Rose priced at $131, with a good selection of bottles in the $37 to $47 range. Most are offered by the glass as well, and there’s a nice selection of cocktails and mocktails.

We chose to share an impressive Mount Salem Vineyards Cabernet Franc, an excellent value from an unknown (to us) vineyard at under $50, and even more impressive when a bit of post-prandial research revealed that Mount Salem Vineyards is located in New Jersey, causing me to immediately revise my blanket opinion of wines from the Garden State.

All agreed that a return visit to

Revolution is in order, when I’ll be tossing a coin to decide on my selection from the Tavern Side section of the menu. Wood Grilled Cheeseburger? Or Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf? Decisions, decisions... Revolution Woodfire Grille, 8 Coryell Street, Lambertville. Open Tuesday through Friday, 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (lunch & brunch), 3:30 to 5 p.m. (limited lunch menu), and 5 to 9:30 p.m. (dinner). Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day. Open Boxing Day, December 26, noon to 10 p.m., and New Years Eve, 5 to 11 p.m. Reservations on RESY or by phone: 856-315-1300. Note: Revolution is available for private dining/special events. refinedhospitality. com/revolution-woodfire-dining

Life in the Fast Lane

New in Town: Circadia Group

Circadia Group Inc. has opened newly renovated NorthEast Regional Headquarters at 2265 Route 33 in Hamilton Township. Township and Circadia officials held a ribbon cutting on November 7.

The company develops, manages, and implements comprehensive, campus-wide programs that support clients in achieving their decarbonization goals. Founded in 2018 by Brian Robertso, who previously led the successful conversion of Princeton University’s campus lighting to LED, the company has grown into an owner’s representative firm overseeing more than $500 million in energyconservation projects.

The company’s new facility, a transformed former bank building, has been redesigned into an energy-efficient, collaborative workspace that fosters teamwork among vendors, staff, and regional clients.

The modernized space reflects Circadia Group’s commitment to sustainable design, innovation, and operational excellence.

Robertson expressed gratitude to the many contributors on his team who brought the project to life, including Janisak Biddle Architects, J&M Consulting Engineers, and Irwin & Leighton, Inc.

“This new headquarters represents more than just a building — it’s a symbol of progress, partnership, and purpose,” he said. “We’re excited to continue growing here in Hamilton Township and look for-

ward to many years of collaboration and innovation.”

Mayor Jeff Martin welcomed the company’s expansion into Hamilton, noting the alignment between Circadia’s mission and the Township’s long-term vision.

“Circadia Group’s commitment to sustainability and forwardthinking energy solutions makes them a perfect fit for Hamilton,” said Mayor Jeff Martin. “We are proud to welcome a company that not only invests in our community, but also helps institutions across the region build a cleaner, greener future. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and success right here in our township.”

For more information, visit www.circadiagroup.com

Fund for Women and Girls Awards Grants

The Fund for Women and Girls of the Princeton Area Community Foundation provided more than $315,000 in new grants to local nonprofits working to improve the lives and women and children in the Mercer County area.

An additional $80,407 in grant payments were issued by the Fund for multi-year grants awarded in previous years.

“We want to congratulate our grantee partners, who do critical work in our communities,” said Carolyn Sanderson, fund chair.

“Because of the generosity of our community we’ve awarded more than $2 million to local nonprofits

Circadia founder Brian Robertson, center left, and Mayor Jeff Martin cut the ribbon on the company’s new headquarters in Hamilton.

since our founding 27 years ago. The Fund for Women and Girls educates donors about the challenges faced by nonprofits and offers donors a way to help make a difference. We can do so much more together than any one of us could do alone.”

Terry Kent, chair of the fund’s Grants Committee, said her committee members are an incredible group of dedicated philanthropists.

“We believe in collaboration that goes beyond our financial contribution,” she said. “We partner with nonprofits to learn from them.”

The Fund for Women and Girls is a field of interest fund of the Community Foundation, which helps people and companies make effective charitable gifts and awards grants to nonprofits. Since its founding in 1991, the Community Foundation has granted more than $241 million to nonprofits, including over $114 million in funding to local organizations.

The 2025 Fund for Women and Girls Grantee Partners:

Three-year, $75,000 grant, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Bunbury Fund at the Community Foundation:

Younity, Lawrence: the grant will provide operating support to meet urgent needs, including food,

Edited by Sara Hastings

clothing, shelter and counseling for women and children who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. Younity is the only agency in Mercer County providing comprehensive, bilingual services for victims of domestic and sexual violence. The organization also runs the state’s domestic violence hotline.

Two-year, $50,000 grant: CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of South-Central New Jersey, Ewing: the grant will help pay for core expenses, including recruitment and training of staff and volunteers who work with about 300 abused and neglected children in the foster care system. The local CASA office, which had

worked in Mercer and Burlington counties, was recently asked to add three additional counties in South Jersey to their work. Volunteers undergo specialized, intense training so they can appear before family court judges, and they build relationships with the children, their biological and foster parents, doctors and teachers.

One-year $25,000 grants: HomeFront, Lawrenceville: to support the creation of an evidencebased program to help parents who are staying at its Family Campus, which is the only shelter for children in the region. It provides a critical safety net for families, many headed by single mothers, ages 18‐24. The program will include a

U.S. 1 Classifieds

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Housing Initiatives of Princeton, Princeton: the organization provides mothers and their children with low-cost transitional housing and a case manager to help connect them to support services. Through the program, moms learn to budget, reduce debt and complete degrees and certifications. The program leads families to permanent, affordable housing within two years. A recent study showed that over the last 13 years, 92% of their graduates remain stably housed, all are employed and all report being financially better off and that their children benefited from the enrichment and academic support provided.

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Cash paid for World War II Military Items. Helmets, swords, medals, etc. Call: 609-658-2996, E-mail: lenny1944x@gmail.com

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vision and dental screenings and parent counseling workshops.

Additional grants

Literacy NJ, Hamilton: a $11,000 grant for a program at an elementary school in Trenton that provides free, high quality ESL instruction for parents, while providing a safe learning environment for their children. With a waiting list of more than 45 clients, the grant will help them serve more families.

Space/Copy Deadline:

For more information

Hearts and Homes Ministries, Cranbury: a $5,000 grant for the nonprofit that provides gently used furniture and home goods to families in need. The nonprofit partners with other local organizations, including HIP, to provide “Moms’ Empowerment Kits,” which include items like microwaves, dishes, toys, and grocery store gift cards, to families temporarily living in motels while awaiting permanent housing.

Princeton Nursery School, Princeton: for renovations that will allow its Village Project to expand. The project will create a community learning center for the professional development of the staff, adult education programs for families, and a flexible space for health and wellness resources, including

In addition, the Fund awarded a $25,000 grant to the Community Foundation this year. Grant payments were also made to nonprofits that were awarded multi-year grants in 2023 and 2024: Arm In Arm, Center at 353 (formerly Trinity Counseling), PEI Kids and RISE.

For more information: www. pacf.org