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On Ramp is a guide to opportunities readers can act on now, from workshops, auditions and artist calls to volunteer roles, business programs and community resources. Listings are subject to change, so readers should confirm details with the sponsoring organization before making plans.
Business & Career
Government Contracting Webinar.
The New Jersey Small Business Development Center will offer “Government Contracting Opportunities in New Jersey” on Wednesday, July 22.
The webinar is designed for small businesses interested in pursuing government work. The session will highlight current contracting opportunities available in New Jersey and give business owners a starting point for understanding where their products or services might fit.
Government contracts can be a growth path for companies that sell goods or services needed by public agencies, including construction, maintenance, information technology, printing, food service, consulting, transportation, professional services and office support. The program may help business owners understand how to begin looking for public-sector opportunities and what steps may be needed before bidding.
The program may be useful for entrepreneurs, contractors, consultants, professional-service firms and established small businesses looking to diversify their customer base beyond private clients. For more information go to njsbdc.com.
Business After Business. The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold July Business After Business on Thursday, July 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center, 900 Scudders Mill Road, Plainsboro. The event is designed for chamber mem-
bers and guests looking to meet other business professionals, strengthen existing relationships and make new regional contacts in an informal setting. It also gives business owners, nonprofit leaders and professionals a chance to stay visible in the regional business community during the summer.
The event is a close-in listing from last week, but the timing makes it worth keeping in front of readers who may still be able to register or attend. For more information go to princetonmercerchamber.org.
AI Basics for Businesses. The New Jersey Small Business Development Center will offer “Make AI Work for You” on Thursday, July 23, from 4 to 5 p.m.
The online workshop is designed for small business owners and their teams. No prior artificial intelligence knowledge or technical background is required. Participants are asked to bring business challenges and a laptop, suggesting the session is meant to be practical rather than theoretical.
The program may be useful for business owners trying to understand how AI tools can support productivity, marketing, customer service, operations or everyday problem-solving without requiring a major technology investment. The workshop is offered at no cost. For more information go to njsbdc.com.
Online Visibility Workshop. SCORE will offer “Get Ranked & Recommended with SEO & GEO” on Thursday, July 23.
The online workshop focuses on improving online visibility through Google Search, Google Maps and emerging AI-driven platforms. It is aimed at business owners who want customers to find them more easily online and understand how search is changing as artificial intelligence tools become part of the discovery process.
The program may be useful for small businesses, consultants, retailers, restaurants,
service providers and nonprofits trying to make better use of their websites, listings and online presence. For more information go to score.org.
AI Grant Writing for Nonprofits. SCORE will offer “The Art of Grant Writing with AI for your Nonprofit” on Tuesday, July 28.
The webinar will focus on using artificial intelligence tools to support grant writing while still aligning proposals with grantmakers’ priorities and maintaining a personal touch. The program is aimed at nonprofit leaders, staff members and volunteers involved in fundraising, development or program support.
The session may be useful for small nonprofits that need to pursue grants but do not have large development departments. It also fits organizations trying to understand where AI can help with drafts, research and structure without replacing judgment, mission knowledge o r human voice. For more information go to score.org.
Virtual Speed Networking. The Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold July Business Before Business Virtual Speed Networking on Tuesday, July 28, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
The online program gives chamber members and future members a chance to make business connections without traveling to an in-person event. Participants can use the session to reintroduce themselves, meet other professionals and share information about their work.
The event is free for chamber members, with a fee for future members. It may be useful for people looking for low-barrier networking, especially those who want to make contacts before the workday takes over. For more information go to princetonmercerchamber.org.
One-Person Business Webinar.
SCORE will offer “One Person Empire: How to Build a Six-Figure Business in 2026” on Thursday, July 30.
The webinar is aimed at entrepreneurs interested in launching or growing a lean business without building a large staff. The program focuses on how solo business owners can identify demand, structure services or products, and build a business model suited to current market conditions.
The session may be useful for consultants, freelancers, side-gig operators and professionals considering self-employment. For more information go to score. org.
Jersey Art Meetup. The Arts Council of Princeton will host Jersey Art Meetup on Wednesday, July 22, from 7 to 9 p.m.
The weekly social event connects creatives in Central Jersey who are interested in sequential art, illustration, comics, writing and new media. Participants can use the open workshop space to draw, write, develop ideas and receive feedback from other artists.
The meetup may appeal to artists looking for a low-pressure way to keep working, meet other creatives and get peer response outside a formal class. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Quilt Guild Card-Making Workshop. The Arts Council of Princeton will host a gallery talk and card-making workshop with the Princeton Sankofa Stitchers Modern Quilt Guild on Saturday, July 25, from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Taplin Gallery.
Participants will use fabric scraps to create designs on cardstock using glue and scissors. The workshop is connected to the exhibition “Ten Years of Threads: The Princeton Sankofa Stitchers Modern Quilt Guild’s Journey Through Fabric and History,” on view July 11 through Aug. 8.
The workshop is open to participants of all ages, from elementary school through adulthood. Elementary-aged children must attend with a guardian. No registration is required. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Café Improv Performer Slots. Café Improv returns to the Arts Council of Princeton’s Solley Theater on Saturday, July 25, from 7 to 10 p.m.
The long-running program features music, poetry, comedy and other performances by local and regional artists. Performers can register for a time slot, while audience members can attend to hear a mix of original work and community talent.
The program is designed for beginning and professional performers alike, giving musicians, comedians, writers and other artists a place to share material in front of a live audience. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Artist Meetup Collaboration. West Windsor Arts and the Hightstown Cultural Arts Commission will hold an Artist Meetup Collab on Tuesday, July 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at West Windsor Arts, 952 Alexander Road, Princeton Junction.
The in-person meetup is designed as a judgment-free space where artists can talk with one another, build relationships and create a positive, supportive environment. Artists are invited to share ideas, encouragement and conversation with others working in the region.
The program may appeal to artists who want feedback, community or a reason to reconnect with a local creative circle without committing to a formal class. For more information go to westwindsorarts. org. Craft Corner Open Studio. The Arts Council of Princeton will host Craft Corner on Wednesday, July 29, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
The program provides open studio space for participants to work on creative projects. It is designed for people who want time, space and company while making progress on a craft or art project they already have underway.
The session may appeal to artists, crafters and creative hobbyists looking for a low-pressure midweek workspace and a
Windsor Arts in Princeton Junction will host the Hightstown Cultural Arts Commission in an Artist Meetup Collab on Tuesday, July 28, offering local artists a supportive space to share ideas, build connections and exchange feedback.
chance to spend time around other makers. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Winter Village Artist Chalets. The Arts Council of Princeton’s artist-opportunities page lists a call for artists for Winter Village Artist Chalets, with an application deadline of Saturday, Aug. 15.
The seasonal market gives artists and makers a chance to apply for vendor space connected to one of Princeton’s major holiday-season traditions. Artists working in ceramics, textiles, jewelry, printmaking, drawing, painting, apparel, home décor and related handmade goods may find the opportunity relevant.
Artists should review the application requirements, schedule and eligibility details before submitting. For more information go to artscouncilofprinceton.org.
Local Author Day Applications. Princeton Public Library is accepting applications from authors interested in participating in the author fair for its 15th Local Author Day, to be held Saturday, Oct. 17.
Applications are open to authors living in Princeton, the Central New Jersey area and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, with preference given to those who live within 20 miles of the library. Authors must have at least one book to sell that was published within the last three years, or a forthcoming book that will be available by the event.
The author fair gives selected writers a chance to display, sell and sign their books, meet readers and connect with other local authors. The opportunity may be especially useful for independent authors, small-press authors and writers trying to build a local readership around a recent book.
The application deadline is Saturday, July 25. Authors should review the library’s eligibility requirements and application details before submitting. For more information go to princetonlibrary. org. Halloween Film Festival Deadline. Independent filmmakers have until Saturday, July 25, to meet the regular submission deadline for the Lambertville Halloween Film Festival.
Presented through ACME Screening Room, the festival seeks short horror, suspense, thriller and Halloween-themed
through 18 in Lambertville. Later submission deadlines continue into August, but the regular deadline gives filmmakers a lower-cost window before late fees apply. For more information go to filmfreeway. com.
Documentary Film Submissions. The New Jersey Documentary Film Festival is accepting submissions, with a regular deadline of Monday, Aug. 3.
The festival gives documentary filmmakers a submission opportunity connected to New Jersey and the regional film community. It may be useful for independent filmmakers, student filmmakers and producers working on documentary shorts or features.
Filmmakers should review categories, deadlines, fees and eligibility before submitting. For more information go to filmfreeway.com.
Horror Film Submissions. New Jersey Horror Con and Film Festival is accepting film submissions, with a regular deadline of Saturday, Aug. 8.
The festival may be a fit for filmmakers working in horror, thriller, suspense, science fiction or other genre-film categories. Regional filmmakers with completed shorts or features can use the deadline as a chance to get work into a New Jersey-based genre festival.
Filmmakers should review runtime, category and fee information before submitting. For more information go to filmfreeway.com.
New Hope Film Submissions. Filmmakers can submit work for consideration for the 2027 New Hope Film Festival, with a regular deadline of Friday, Aug. 28.
films running 44 minutes or less. The festival accepts a range of genre work, including psychological horror, supernatural stories, horror comedy, science fiction, experimental films and special-effects-driven shorts.
The festival is scheduled for Oct. 16
The festival accepts submissions in multiple categories, including narrative features, documentary features, narrative shorts, documentary shorts, student films, music videos and webisodes. Submitted films are considered for the 2027 festival, scheduled for April 16 through
25.
The opportunity may be useful for regional filmmakers, student filmmakers and independent producers looking for a nearby festival with a long-running presence in Bucks County. Submission fees vary by category and deadline. For more information go to filmfreeway.com.
Tiny T. Rex Author Party. Princeton Public Library will host “Tiny T. Rex Party with Jonathan Stutzman” on Friday, July 24, from 10 to 11:45 a.m. in the Community Room.
The program features author Jonathan Stutzman and is built around his “Tiny T. Rex” books. Children and families can take part in a themed author event connected to reading, storytelling and summer library programming.
The program is part of the library’s summer lineup for young readers and families. Families should check registration details before attending. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Fashion Design Camp.
West Windsor Arts will offer a fashion design camp for ages 10 to 12 from Monday, July 27, through Friday, July 31.
The weeklong camp gives students a chance to explore fashion design and creative selfexpression. The week is scheduled to end with a final fashion show for family and friends.
The camp may appeal to young artists interested in clothing, design, drawing, making and performance. Families should check availability, registration requirements and fees before enrolling. For more information go to westwindsorarts. org.
Cooks and Books Program. Princeton Public Library will
offer “Cooks + Books: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” on Wednesday, July 29, from 3 to 4 p.m.
The program combines reading with a hands-on food or foodthemed activity connected to the children’s book. It is designed for young readers and families who want a participatory summer library program tied to a familiar story.
The program gives children a way to connect books, imagination and kitchen creativity while taking part in a structured library activity. Families should check age guidance and registration details before attending. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Musical Theater Workshops. Kelsey Theatre’s Tomato Patch program offers one-day intensive musical theater workshops on Fridays, July 31, Aug. 7 and Aug. 14.
Students may sign up for one workshop or multiple sessions. Each day runs from 8:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and ends with a showcase. The workshops are designed for young performers interested in musical theater, stage skills and performance experience.
The program may appeal to students looking for a short summer theater experience without committing to a longer camp. For more information go to kelsey.mccc.edu.
Teen Digital Arts Camp. West Windsor Arts will offer FLOW: Teen Digital Arts Camp for ages 13 to 17 from Monday, Aug. 3, through Friday, Aug. 7.
The camp gives teens a chance to explore digital art using a variety of tools, with concepts ranging from beginner to more advanced work. It is designed for students interested in developing their own creative voice through digital media.
The program may appeal to teens interested in visual art, design, illustration, digital tools
or portfolio-building. Families should check availability, registration requirements and fees before enrolling. For more information go to westwindsorarts. org.
Summer Camp Registration. Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County continues its 2026 summer enrichment camps through Friday, Aug. 28.
The camps serve children and teens through club locations in Mercer County and include social, enrichment and recreational activities. Programs may include academic support, STEM, sports, arts and other youth-development activities.
The opportunity may be useful for families still looking for structured summer programming before the school year begins. For more information go to bgcmercer.org.
Back-to-School Drive. HomeFront is seeking support for its back-to-school drive during July and August.
The drive helps provide school supplies for local children facing homelessness and poverty. Community members can organize a drive, donate general school supplies or contribute to the back-to-school fund.
The effort may appeal to businesses, civic groups, congregations, families and individuals looking for a practical way to help children start the school year prepared. Workplaces, neighborhood groups and service organizations can also use the drive as a short-term service project with a clear local impact.
Donations can help children return to school with the supplies they need rather than starting the year already behind. HomeFront’s broader work supports families facing housing instability, hunger and poverty, making the school-supply
drive part of a larger effort to help children and families move toward stability. For more information go to homefrontnj.org.
Park Stewardship Volunteers. The Mercer County Park Commission’s Stewardship Department offers volunteer opportunities for companies, small businesses and organizations interested in working on parkland projects.
Volunteer activities may include native plantings, invasive species removal, litter cleanups, restoration site work and trail maintenance. The program is designed for groups that want to schedule a volunteer outing while helping maintain and improve Mercer County parks.
The opportunity may appeal to employers, civic groups, scouts, congregations and other organizations looking for outdoor service projects. For more information go to mercercounty.org.
Boys & Girls Clubs Volunteers. Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups interested in supporting youth programs.
Volunteers may serve in different roles depending on club needs, volunteer interests and availability. The organization also posts one-time opportunities for people and groups looking for a defined project rather than a long-term commitment.
The opportunity may appeal to adults interested in mentoring, tutoring, youth programming, sports, STEM, creative activities or event support. For more information go to bgcmercer.org.
TASK Donation Drives. Trenton Area Soup Kitchen welcomes workplaces, organizations and community groups interested in hosting donation drives, coordinating fundraisers or supporting its hunger-relief work.
The outdoor program gives participants a chance to practice yoga in a garden setting. The class may appeal to people looking for a summer wellness activity that combines movement, relaxation and time outdoors.
Participants should check Morven’s registration details, weather policies and what to bring before attending. For more information go to morven.org. College Admissions Workshop. Mercer County Library System will offer a college admissions workshop for parents on Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the West Windsor Branch.
The program is designed for parents and guardians who want to better understand the college admissions process and how to support students preparing for applications, essays, deadlines and decisions.
The workshop may be especially useful for families with high school students beginning to plan for college or trying to make sense of the steps ahead. For more information go to mcl.org.
Personal Branding Program. Mercer County Library System will offer “Build Your Personal Brand” on Monday, Aug. 10, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the West Windsor Branch.
The program is aimed at adults interested in career development, networking and professional presentation. Participants can learn how personal branding connects to job searches, business relationships and professional identity.
The session may be useful for job seekers, entrepreneurs, freelancers and professionals who want to present themselves more clearly online and in person. For more information go to mcl.org.
Adult School Instructor Proposals. Princeton Adult School is accepting course proposals from potential instructors for its fall semester.
Donation drives can help collect food and other needed items, while workplace and group efforts can support TASK through fundraising, volunteer coordination and public awareness. The organization also offers information for groups that want to learn more about hunger in the community.
The opportunity may appeal to businesses, schools, congregations, civic clubs and neighborhood groups looking for a concrete service project. For more information go to trentonsoupkitchen.org.
Dancing Under the Stars. Princeton Public Library will host Dancing Under the Stars on Friday, July 24, at 7 p.m. at Hinds Plaza.
The outdoor dance program is open to beginners, with high school-age participants and adults welcome. The event gives participants a chance to learn and move in an informal setting rather than simply watching a performance.
The school offers classes in business, technology, personal finance, dance, movement, English language learning, food, drink, wellness, outdoor skills, humanities, arts and world languages. Instructors may propose in-person or virtual classes, with the fall semester expected to begin in mid-October.
The opportunity may appeal to professionals, artists, hobbyists, educators and community members who have a skill or subject they want to teach to adult learners. For more information go to princetonadultschool.org.
Small Business Mentoring. SCORE offers free mentoring, workshops and business resources for entrepreneurs, startups and small business owners.
The summer series is co-sponsored by the library and Central Jersey Dance Society. In case of rain or extreme heat, the program may move indoors. For more information go to princetonlibrary.org.
Evening Yoga at Morven. Morven Museum & Garden will host Evening Yoga in the Gardens with Gratitude Yoga on Wednesday, July 29, from 6 to 7 p.m.
The organization connects business owners with volunteer mentors who can offer guidance on planning, financing, marketing, operations and growth. SCORE also offers online workshops and templates for people starting or strengthening a business.
The resource may be useful for entrepreneurs, freelancers, consultants, retailers, nonprofits and owners who need advice but are not ready to hire a consultant. For more information go to score.org.
Small Business Consulting. The New Jersey Small Business Development Center offers no-cost, one-on-one consulting
Event Listings: E-mail events@princetoninfo.com
The following listings are a selection of events taking place in our area. Details below were believed to be accurate at time of publication. We always recommend that you confirm all necessary details when planning to attend an event. To include your event in this section email events@princetoninfo.com.
Rock Revisited, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, brtstage.org. Bristol Riverside Theatre’s Mid Penn Bank Summer Music Fest presents a tribute to album-oriented rock of the 1970s and 1980s, featuring music associated with Toto, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Boston, Kansas, Heart, Cheap Trick and others. Performances continue through July 26. 2 p.m.. Also at 7:30 p.m.
Cordelia Blue, Yardley Community Centre. Located at the intersection of Main Street and Afton Avenue, Buttonwood Park provides the perfect setting for our community to come together and enjoy the magic of live music. 64 South Main Street, Yardley. 6 p.m. Open Band Jam, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj. com. Weekly open live band jam on the waterfront with house band, drums, amps and full backline available. Musician sign-up starts at 7 p.m.; music starts at 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sam and Barcelona: Benefit Concert at the Community Well, Joining us all the way from Spain- an incredible night of international fusion with Sam and Barcelona. 2688 Main Street, Lawrence. 7 p.m.
Dancing
Wednesday Contra Dance, Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Building, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton, princetoncountrydancers.org. Paul Morris calls a weekly contra dance with Princeton Pickup Band. Introductory workshop begins at 7 p.m.; dance begins at 7:30 p.m. Beginners are welcome, no partner is needed and live music is featured. $15; sliding scale available. 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Film
Wednesday Film Festival: Demolition Man, Mercer County Library: West Windsor Branch. Demolition Man (1993)
Rated R, 115 minutes. Starring Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, Sandra Bullock, and Nigel Hawthorne. 2 p.m.
The Three Stooges Film Festival,
Sam and Barcelona bring acoustic sounds, Spanish influences and international flair to a benefit concert at the Community Well in Lawrence Township on Wednesday, July 22.
Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton, princetongardentheatre.org. Three Stooges historian and author Jim Pauley hosts the Garden’s first Three Stooges Film Festival, focused on Hollywood filming locations used in selected Columbia Pictures shorts featuring Moe, Larry and Curly. The program includes “Three Little Pigskins,” “Hoi Polloi,” “Three Little Beers,” “False Alarms” and “An Ache in Every Stake,” with trivia, fun facts and a Curly impersonation contest. 7 p.m.
South Pacific, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, buckscountyplayhouse.org. Bucks County Playhouse presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical based on James A. Michener’s “Tales of the South Pacific.” The wartime romance follows U.S. Navy nurse Nellie Forbush, French planter Emile de Becque and young Lt. Cable as they confront love, duty and prejudice. Runs through July 26. 7:30 p.m.
Home, I’m Darling by Laura Wade, The Spring Garden Mill Theater. Honey,
I’m Home! Laughs Abound in Langhorne Players’ Newest Comedy Newtown: Langhorne Players proudly presents its upcoming show, Home, I’m. 1440 Newtown-Richboro Road. Tyler State Park, Newtown. Check website for time
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Music Mountain Theatre presents the satirical Tony-winning musical about a drought-stricken town where private control of public amenities leads to rebellion. Runs through Aug. 2. Check website for time
Art
Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey, Morven Museum & Garden. The first exhibition to examine the lives, ideals, and contradictions of Abraham Clark, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson, Richard Stockton, and John Witherspoon, Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey displays over 100 extraordinary historic objects, including items not usually on public display and original works by Charles Willson Peale, John Trumbull, Joseph Dunkerley, Hiram Powers, and many other renowned Revolutionary-era art-
ists. 10 a.m.
Lotus and Water Lilies, Grounds For Sculpture. 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton. 11 a.m.
The Pearl S. Buck House Presents: Pieced Together: American Quilts Across Generations, Pearl S. Buck House, Pearl S. Buck House. 11 a.m.
NJ State Museum Free Summer Drop-in Programs, New Jersey State Museum. Visit the Museum and enjoy some free hands-on fun! Beginning July 7 and running through August 28, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 1 - 3 p.m., enjoy themed craft activities in the Imagination Studio. Different projects offered each day! Open to all ages, although some projects may appeal to younger visitors. 205 W State Street, Trenton. 1 p.m.
DIY Delight, Mercer County Library: Hollowbrook Branch Library. At each program, we will create a new and exciting project using a variety of art supplies, colors, and techniques that will allow you to explore your creative side. For ages 11 and up. Registration required 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing. 4 p.m.
Ice Cream Party with Pete the Cat,
Mercer County Library: Hickory Corner Branch. Children ages 2-10 are invited to come meet Pete the Cat, listen to the story Pete the Cat Screams for Ice Cream and enjoy an ice cream treat. It’s sure to a groovy time! 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor. 4 p.m.
Figure Drawing, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Refine your figure drawing skills in a relaxed environment with this workshop. Participants will further develop their understanding of anatomy, proportion, and fabric by drawing the clothed human figure in timed photos and videos. 6:30 p.m.
Expressions in Fiber 2026, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, newhopearts.org. Juried exhibition celebrating textile and fiber art, honoring both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary experimentation. The exhibition runs through Aug. 2. Gallery hours are Friday through Sunday. Noon to 5 p.m.; check website for gallery talk time. Check website for time
New Jersey State Council on the Arts Annual Meeting and Reception, Grounds For Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, nj.gov/state. The New Jersey State Council on the Arts convenes its 2026 annual meeting and anniversary celebration, including the election of council officers, committee reports and a kickoff of the council’s 60th anniversary. Agenda and large-print option available at the meeting. Reception with light refreshments follows. Free and open to the public; on-site parking is free. 10 a.m.
Storytime, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Join Miss Soniya for stories, songs and a craft! For ages 2-5, with a caregiver to supervise. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. No registration required. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. 10 a.m.
Wiggle, Giggle, READ, Mercer County Library: Hightstown Memorial Branch. Children ages 0-3 will enjoy movement, music, and a shared story in this 30 minute program. Each child will get a craft kit to take home. No registration necessary. Siblings welcome, too. 114 Franklin Street, Hightstown. 10 a.m. Library Playgroup, Mercer County Library: Hightstown Memorial Branch. Children ages 0-3 can stay after Wiggle, Giggle, READ or drop in during this time to play with age appropriate toys, puzzles, and books and socialize with other children and their caregivers. No registration necessary. 114 Franklin Street, Hightstown. 10:30 a.m.
Crafty Adults: Easy Painted Rock Paperweights, Mercer County Library: Hightstown Memorial Branch. We’ll be using beautiful temporary tattoos, paint and Mod Podge to easily decorate river rocks. These make wonderful paper
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weights. Teens ages 16 & up are welcome. All supplies included. Sponsored by the Hightstown Library Association. Registration required. 114 Franklin Street, Hightstown. 2 p.m.
Origami Lotuses, Grounds For Sculpture. 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton. 2 p.m.
Diamond Stickers, Mercer County Library: Ewing Branch. Join us to make diamond stickers. craft. Seats are limited. Sponsored by the Friends of the Ewing Library! 61 Scotch Road, Ewing. 3 p.m.
Paws to Read, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. Children ages 5 and up, with an adult caregiver, are invited to practice reading to Maisey, a certified therapy dog. Story Room. 3 p.m.
Free Play with mTiny Robots, Mercer County Library: Hopewell Branch. Join us to play with mTiny Robots! These adorable panda robots are a simple, easy and safe way for children to learn coding. They race, dance, sing and more in this interactive STEAM-based program. Ages 5-10 with a caregiver. Registration required. 245 Pennington - Titusville Road, Pennington. 4 p.m.
Kids Paint Like the Masters - This week - Andy Warhol, Mercer County Library: Hopewell Branch. Do you love art?
Each week we will learn about a different master artist and then create a project inspired by their work. Ages 5-11. Registration required. 245 Pennington - Titusville Road, Pennington. 6 p.m.
Space Rocks & Dino Shocks by Megha Rajoria, Mercer County Library: Ewing Branch. For children ages 5-12, with adults, who love dinosaurs, space, and big discoveries. Join us for a fun, outof-this-world adventure where we’ll dig into one of the biggest mysteries ever. Discover what asteroids really are, where they come from, and how a giant space rock changed life on Earth forever, millions of years ago! 61 Scotch Road, Ewing.
6:30 p.m.
“No thank you, evil!” Role Playing Game, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Join us to play this tabletop game of creative adventure and storytelling. Create a character and embark on an adventure. 6:30 p.m.
Guided Wine Tasting Wed - Sun at Old York CellarsY a, Old York Cellars, www.oldyorkcellars.com/visit-us/winery-experiences/guided-wine-tasting.
Sip through six awarda‘winning wines Y a in a fun indoor Guided Wine Tasting with a souvenir glass to take home for just $20. Noon
Chai Pani Time, Nimbu Indian Street
Food. Join us in on a traditional midday break where the tea is hot and the snacks are chaat worthy. Special Priceany house beverage and a small bite for $11.99 3524 Brunswick Pike, Princeton. 3 p.m.
Be Prepared, Mercer County Library: West Windsor Branch. How prepared is your child for an emergency? Join us for this 6-session mini-series on emergency preparedness. 4:30 p.m.
Game night/magic the gathering, Hops/Scotch. Magic the gathering on Wednesday nights generally kicks off around 6 p.m. Beginner friendly. Formats include but not limited to; Commander, Pauper, Standard & limited. Bring your friends and good vibes! Board Games available as well. 22 South Main Street, Doylestown. 6 p.m.
Riley’s Tasting Barn Trivia!, Flounder Brewing Company. There are a lot of trivia nights out there - but there’s only one Riley’s Tasting Barn Trivia. Join everyone’s favorite Assistant Brewer, Riley, every Wednesday as he takes over the Barn to test your knowledge with a fully
interactive trivia experience packed with leaderboards, twists, turns, and plenty of chances to shake up the score. 7 p.m.
Gentle “Wild” Yoga, Join Priscilla Hayes, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve volunteer naturalist and certified yoga teacher, for gentle yoga that builds body awareness, strength, flexibility and a better understanding of how humans connect to and reflect natural systems. 8 a.m.
Dungeons & Dragons: Teen Campaign, Session 3 - Adventuring Party A, Mercer County Library: West Windsor Branch. Calling all adventurers for a month-long D&D campaign! Whether you’re a diehard Dungeons & Dragons fan, or you’ve never tried a tabletop role-playing game before, there is a place for you here. 1 p.m.
The Doan Gang: Outlaws of the Revolution, Mercer Museum. Investigates the tales of the Doan Gang’s criminal exploits throughout the region and explores the conflicts that arose among neighbors, friends, and families in Bucks County who were forced to choose sides during a time of great political and social unrest. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown. 10 a.m.
MCCC Farmers Market, Mercer County Community College. 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. 2 p.m.
FOPOS Land Stewardship Volunteer Session, Mountain Lakes House. Join FOPOS for a land stewardship volunteer session at the Billy Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve in Princeton. 57 Mountain Avenue, Princeton. 3 p.m.
Poetry Open Mic, Community members of all levels are invited to read their poetry and listen to the work of others. If you’re looking for a welcoming group of emerging and established poets and beatniks, this is for you!Show up and sign up. No pre-registration to participate. Donations for the space encouraged at the door. All ages but please be aware that mature and sometimes sensitive topics are explored and mentioned at this event., Flemington. 7:30 p.m.
scene, performs high-energy psychedelic rock, Grateful Dead music and more on the waterfront. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Rock Revisited, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, brtstage.org. Bristol Riverside Theatre continues its tribute to the classic FM rock era, featuring music associated with Toto, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Boston, Kansas, Heart, Cheap Trick and others. 7:30 p.m.
Salsa-Bachata-Merengue Night State Theatre Studio, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, stnj.org. State Theatre New Jersey presents a Studio Series dance night featuring salsa, bachata and merengue. 8 p.m.
Titanic, Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton, princetongardentheatre.org. James Cameron’s 1997 epic stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet as young lovers caught in the doomed maiden voyage of the R.M.S. Titanic. Part of the Garden’s Hollywood Summer Nights series. 7 p.m.
Current Events Chat, Mercer County Library: Hickory Corner Branch. Hickory Corner librarian Mary Astarita will moderate a thoughtful discussion of current events. All adults are welcome. No preparation is necessary; the librarian will suggest several headlines for discussion. Please register. 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor. 2:30 p.m.
Cooking Class: Pad Thai & Thai Favorites with Chef Maricel, Maricel’s Kitchen. The class that fills fastest at Maricel’s. Pad Thai, coconut curry, spring rolls, mango sticky rice. Cook it all. Take the skills home. 111 Main Street, East Brunswick. 6:30 p.m.
Heron Hike, Washington Crossing Historic Park, pa.gov. Join the park naturalist for a 1.5-mile walk along the Delaware Canal to search for herons and learn about these graceful wetland birds. Discover their habits, preferred habitats, and the important role they play in the local ecosystem. Binoculars will be available to borrow, or bring your own. Meet at the General Greene Pavilion. Registration is required by emailing tcromer@pa.gov. 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing. 9 a.m.
Wednesday Wonder Walk, Tulpehaking Nature Center. Easy walk on the trails of Roebling Park. 157 Westcott Avenue, Hamilton. 10 a.m.
Bid Opening - Carslake Rain Garden, Point Breeze. 101 Park Street, Bordentown. 10:30 a.m.
Tim Hoh Concert, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Come sing and dance along with live music from Tim Hoh! For all ages, with a caregiver. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is required. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. 10 a.m.
Live Music & Wine Special, Working Dog Winery. Music: Joe Vadala 4:30 - 7:30
$2 off wines by the glass 610 Windsor Perrineville Road, Hightstown. 4:30 p.m.
Be5D, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj.com.
Be5D, Mark Diomede’s project featuring members of the Jersey Shore jam-band
True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Princeton Summer Theater presents Sam Shepard’s Pulitzer Prize-finalist play about clashing brothers, Hollywood dreams and the unstable terrain of the California desert. Runs July 23 to Aug. 1. 7:30 p.m.
South Pacific, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, buckscountyplayhouse.org. Bucks County Playhouse continues Rodgers and Hammerstein’s wartime musical romance. Check website for time
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre. Check website for time
Wildlife Watchers, Washington Crossing Historic Park, pa.gov. The park is ALIVE! Join the park naturalist on Thursday mornings at 9:30 am at the General Greene Pavilion to see what’s buzzing in our backyard. 9:30 a.m.
Cribbage & Coffee, Mercer County Library: Hopewell Branch. Join us for Cribbage & Coffee! Boards, pegs, cards will be provided. Bring your own coffee (or beverage of choice)! Registration is not required. 245 Pennington - Titusville Road, Pennington. 10 a.m.
Hooked on Yarn, Hollowbrook Branch, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing, 609-883-5914. events.mcl.org. Beginners and experienced crafters gather to work with yarn and share their love of handmade projects. For ages 16 and up. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Little STEAMers Activity Time, Mercer County Library: West Windsor Branch. Little STEAM-ers is a program that focuses on the five areas of STEAM; science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, all geared toward toddlers. Each week, toddlers will build, experiment, investigate, and have fun while exploring a new topic. 11 a.m.
Guided Wine Tasting Wed - Sun at Old York Cellars, Old York Cellars, www. oldyorkcellars.com/visit-us/wineryexperiences/guided-wine-tasting. Sip through six awarda‘winning wines Y a in a fun indoor Guided Wine Tasting with a souvenir glass to take home for just $20. Noon
Chai Pani Time, Nimbu Indian Street Food. Join us in on a traditional mid-day break where the tea is hot and the snacks are chat worthy. Special Price - any house beverage and a small bite for $11.99 3524 Brunswick Pike, Princeton. 3 p.m.
Ladies’ Night, Lambertville Station
Restaurant and Inn. Enjoy deliciously discounted cocktails with your friends every Thursday at the Lambertville Station! From 4 p.m.-close, indulge in delicious drinks, savory bites, and memories with your besties! 11 Bridge Street,, Lambertville. 4 p.m.
Bold and Brilliant: How to Speak Like a Leader, Mercer County Library: West Windsor Branch. Join us this summer for Bold and Brilliant, a dynamic public speaking program designed to help students build confidence and master essential communication skills. 4:30 p.m.
Wine & Flower Arrangements, Terhune Orchards. Join owner Reuwai Mount Hanewald for an evening of wine & flower arrangements. Pick your own flowers from our flower patch, then enjoy wine tasting as Reuwai leads the group in creating a beautiful arrangement. Flowers, vase, and one wine tasting flight are included in the cost of the program. Additional light bites and wine are available. Pre-registration is required. 330 Cold Soil Road,, Princeton. 5:30 p.m.
Bingo, Congregation Beth Chaim, 329 Village Road East, West Windsor, bethchaim.org. Cash-prize bingo for ages 18 and up. Doors open at 6 p.m.; games begin at 7 p.m.; last entry 7:30 p.m. $5 entry includes one book of six games; additional games are available for $2. Food available. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Mental Health Awareness & Support Workshop, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, 609-883-8292. events. mcl.org. Dr. Tashanna Ellis, director of Pathway 2 Wellness Center and doctor of human services, leads a workshop on mental health diagnoses, behaviors and symptoms, disabilities and daily life, coping tools, communication, self-advocacy, rights, and resources. Registration requested. 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Summer Art Series for Teens & Tweens, Class 3: Glass Mosaic Coasters, Pennington Public Library, summerartseries3.eventbrite.com. Summer Art Series for Teens & Tweens Thursdays, 6/25/26, 7/9/26 and 7/23/26, 2 p.m. @ PPL Registration required for each class. 2 p.m.
Teen Craft: Bling Books, Mercer County Library: Lawrence Headquarters Branch. For ages 10 and up. Decorate a book cover with rhinestones!! Bring your own book or use one provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration is required prior to the event. If you are more than 10 minutes late, we may give your spot to someone who is waiting. Please cancel if you are unable to attend. 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence. 2:30 p.m.
Hogwarts Summer Course, Hollowbrook Branch, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing, 609-883-5914. events.mcl.org. Summer wizarding program with Hogwarts house placement, charms, transfiguration, defense against dark magic, and potions. For ages 11 and up. Registration required. 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Art
Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey, Morven Museum & Garden. The first exhibition to examine the lives, ideals, and contradictions of Abraham Clark, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson, Richard Stockton, and John Witherspoon, Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey displays over 100 extraordinary historic objects, including items not usually on public display and original works by Charles Willson Peale, John Trumbull, Joseph Dunkerley, Hiram Powers, and many other renowned Revolutionary-era artists. 10 a.m.
Paint N Sip Jr, Mercer County Library: Hightstown Memorial Branch. For ages
The 2026 Princeton Student Film Festival will be held Wednesday, July 29, at Princeton Public Library.
Screenings will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the library’s Community Room. Many of the filmmakers will attend to discuss their work and answer questions. The event is intended for teen and adult viewers.
The 23rd annual festival features 10 short works by high school and college students from the Princeton area, elsewhere in the United States and abroad. The selections include animation, dramas and documentaries.
“It requires a lot of courage for a creative person to put their work out there for scrutiny, and we are so grateful to these young filmmakers for taking a chance on us,” said Megan McCafferty, a youth services library associate and co-chair of the event.
“This is my third year as co-chair, and I think it was the most challenging yet for choosing a final lineup for the in-person screening. The bar for technical and artistic excellence is high.”
The Princeton Student Film Festival Screening Committee also selected 11 honorable mentions for this year’s festival.
“We highly recommend viewers also watch the honorable mentions,” McCafferty said.
2-5. Unleash your inner artist and explore different painting techniques and materials while enjoying a juice box! Dress for a mess! Online registration requiredplease register each child separately. 114 Franklin Street, Hightstown. 10 a.m.
Summer Story Drop-in Program, New Jersey State Museum. 205 W State Street, Trenton. 11 a.m.
The Pearl S. Buck House Presents: Pieced Together: American Quilts Across Generations, Pearl S. Buck House, Pearl S. Buck House. 11 a.m.
The Art of Lisa Hendrickson Exhibit, Warden’s House Gallery. Lisa Hendrickson is a figurative artist based in the Philadelphia area. Heavily influenced by human expression, her work captures the mood and emotion of the moment. Noon
Adult Crafting Hour: Beach Coasters, Mercer County Library: Robbinsville Branch. Come and make your own beach-inspired coasters using canning lids, shells, and crafting starfish. Presented by Reference Librarian Jamie Clay. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Road, Robbinsville. 1:30 p.m.
Creation Station - Egg Carton Fairy, Mercer County Library: Hopewell Branch. Join us to make the project of the week. These projects are a little more involved than CrafterNoon projects. This week we will make Egg Carton Fairies. Ages 5-11 with a caregiver. Registration required. 245 Pennington - Titusville Road, Pennington. 2 p.m.
Outdoor Storytime, Mercer County Library: Hopewell Branch. Join us for stories, action rhymes, songs and age appropriate crafts. Children will receive a take home craft after Storytime. Storytimes run about 30 minutes and focus on the same theme all week. Ages 2-5. Siblings welcome. Registration required. In the case of inclement weather, this event will move inside. 245 Pennington - Titusville Road, Pennington. 10:30 a.m.
Summer Story Time at the NJ State Museum, New Jersey State Museum. Spark imaginations with a stop at the Museum! Drop by every Thursday begin-
‘alieN Film’ by Charles Rosenberg is among the 10 official selections that will be screened during the 2026 Princeton Student Film Festival on July 29 at Princeton Public Library.
The 2026 festival’s official selections that will be screened in person are:
“Taking the Lead” by Clara Schneider and Ella Kowal; “Muscle Memory” by Reylan Alexis; “Soup” by Ava Azarmi; “Eighty Years at Young’s” by Bryan Zhao; “Anacortes, WA” by Tyler Risco; “St. Augustine’s School for Redeemable Boys”
ning July 9 for story time & craft. This free program is offered at 11:00 am in the Museum’s Discovery Den through August 27. 205 W State Street, Trenton. 11 a.m.
The Doan Gang: Outlaws of the Revolution, Mercer Museum. Investigates the tales of the Doan Gang’s criminal exploits throughout the region and explores the conflicts that arose among neighbors, friends, and families in Bucks County who were forced to choose sides during a time of great political and social unrest. 84 South Pine Street, Doylestown. 10 a.m.
Growers in the Garden, Mercer County Library: Robbinsville Branch. Children ages 8 and up, accompanied by an adult, are invited to come learn about the plant life cycle. Children will decorate a pot, plant a marigold seed, and understand how to care for their plants at home. 42 Robbinsville Allentown Road, Robbinsville. 3 p.m.
NJ SEED Trustee & Membership Luncheon w/NJ DOT Commissioner Priya Jain, Trenton Country Club. NJ SEED Trustee & Membership Luncheon w/NJ DOT Commissioner Priya Jain 216 Sullivan Way, West Trenton. 11 a.m.
July Business After Business, Thank you to our Host Sponsor Thank you to our Sound Sponsor Thank you to our Sustaining Sponsors, Flemington. 5 p.m.
Friday july 24
Seven Band Dance Party, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj.com. Seven, a Philadelphia Top 40 cover band, performs current hits and dance-party classics from the 1960s through the 1990s, with DJ John Rossi. 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
by Judah Esquivel; “alieN Film” by Charles Rosenberg; “SinFin” by Jason Alvarado; “my plastic lung” by Nicholas Diodato; and “Les Fleurs de Malva” by Anna Lys, Rémy Berlemont, Alice Hamel, Chen-Yun Hu, Ludivine Lebourg, Estelle Martin and Agathe Ribout. The official selections and films designated as honorable
Rock Revisited, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, brtstage.org. Bristol Riverside Theatre continues its summer tribute to album-oriented rock of the 1970s and 1980s. 8 p.m.
Kaleidoscope Kabaret: Lotta Laughs Edition, The Theater Project, DMK Theater, Union Arts Center, 1980 Morris Avenue, Union, thetheaterproject.org. The Theater Project presents its annual festival of live music and short comedic plays at its new summer home in the DMK Black Box Theatre at Union Arts Center. 7:30 p.m.
True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Princeton Summer Theater continues Sam Shepard’s “True West.”. 7:30 p.m.
Trenton Makes Improv 19: Frosted Moist Clown Slinkys, Passage Theatre Company, Mill Hill Playhouse, 205 East Front Street, Trenton, passagetheatre. org. Trenton Makes Improv presents the 19th edition of its improv comedy series. The troupe lists “Frosted Moist Clown Slinkys” as its July 24 show. 7:45 p.m.
South Pacific, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, buckscountyplayhouse.org. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific” continues at Bucks County Playhouse. Check website for time
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre. Check website for time
Expressions in Fiber 2026, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, newhopearts.org. Juried textile and fiber art exhibition celebrating the diversity, innovation and expressive potential of fiber art, honoring traditional craftsmanship and contemporary experimentation. Continues through Aug. 2. Noon to 5 p.m.
Field Study Adult Coloring, Trenton Free Public Library, Community Room A
mentions will be available for online streaming through the Eventive platform from July 30 through Aug. 6. For access and additional information, visit princetonlibrary.org/events/ student-film-festival. Princeton Public Library is in the Sands Library Building at 65 Witherspoon St., Princeton.
(First Floor), 120 Academy Street, Trenton, trentonlib.org. Drop in to relax and unwind with an adult coloring session! A selection of prints in a variety of drawing styles will be available. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Friday Night Folk Dance, Princeton Folk Dance, Suzanne Patterson Center, 45 Stockton Street, Princeton, princetonfolkdance.org. Lesson followed by open dancing. No partner necessary. $10. 8 p.m.
Tiny T. Rex Party with Jonathan Stutzman, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. Author Jonathan Stutzman shares and signs favorite “Tiny T. Rex” books followed by fun crafts and activities led by our teen volunteers with staff supervision. Community Room. 10 a.m.
Knitting, Crochet, Et cetera!, West Windsor Branch, 333 North Post Road, Princeton Junction, 609-882-3148. events.mcl.org. Bring yarn, hooks, or needles to start or continue a project. All adults welcome, all skill levels. No registration required. 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Mercer County Invites Residents to Attend Happy Hour on the River South Riverwalk Park, John Fitch Way, Trenton, Happy Hour on the River gatherings at South Riverwalk Park in Trenton. These events will be held before each Trenton Thunder game on Fridays from 4:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Outdoor Children’s Concert with Tim Hoh, West Windsor Branch, 333 North Post Road, Princeton Junction, 609-7990462. events.mcl.org. Tim Hoh performs classic children’s songs with his own spin. For ages 0 to 5 with caregiver. Outdoors, weather permitting. Sponsored by the Friends of the West Windsor Library. No registration required. 10:30 a.m.
Saturday july 25
West Windsor Community Farmers Market, Vaughn Drive parking lot, Princeton Junction train station, West Windsor, westwindsorfarmersmarket. org. Weekly rain-or-shine market featuring local farms, artisan food producers and New Jersey agriculture. Market selections include seasonal produce, seafood, mushrooms, eggs, baked goods, cheeses, breads, fresh pasta, wine, coffee, tea, meats, flowers, honey, prepared foods and other locally produced items. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Music Rock Revisited, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, brtstage.org. Bristol Riverside Theatre’s Mid Penn Bank Summer Music Fest continues its tribute to album-oriented rock of the 1970s and 1980s, featuring music associated with Toto, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Boston, Kansas, Heart,
bum Release Party, Princeton Public Library, Community Room/Hinds Plaza, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, princetonlibrary.org. Celebrate the release of “Bury Deep My Heart,” the second fulllength record from electro-country band Owen Lake and the Tragic Loves and the group’s first album of all original songs. The band’s sound draws from 1960s country, 1980s dream pop and modern electronic music. 3 p.m.
Third Annual FolkLIVE Gospel Music Festival, Monument Square Park, 2 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, middlesexcountynj.gov. Middlesex County’s FolkLIVE series presents a free outdoor gospel festival headlined by Erica Campbell, known for her solo work and as part of Mary Mary, and Jonathan McReynolds. 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Sol Splash, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj.com.
Live music and art festival bringing together creative music, live art and community vibes, with a portion of proceeds supporting Jamaican hurricane relief. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Double Contra Dance, Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Building, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton, princetoncountrydancers.org. Bob Isaacs
sics workshop and an evening dance for all. Admission is $20 for the afterNoon or evening session, $35 for both; sliding scale available. 3:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Sam Shepard’s American classic continues at Princeton Summer Theater. 2 p.m.. Also at 7:30 p.m.
South Pacific, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, buckscountyplayhouse.org. Bucks County Playhouse presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical based on James A. Michener’s “Tales of the South Pacific.” The wartime romance follows U.S. 7:30 p.m.
The Little Mermaid, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Music Mountain Theatre’s young-audience production follows Ariel, a young mermaid longing for life on land. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Final day. Check website for time
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre.
Beautifully Broken: Kintsugi
Golden Joinery Workshop, Yardley
United Methodist Church, 300 Yardley-Langhorne Road, Yardley, aoyarts. org. AOY Art Center presents a threehour adult workshop with teaching artist Leigh Ferello exploring kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken pottery with a golden bond. Participants repair a decorative ceramic bowl using modern materials; finished pieces are decorative only. $10 materials fee paid to instructor. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Expressions in Fiber 2026, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, newhopearts.org. Juried textile and fiber art exhibition honoring traditional craftsmanship and contemporary experimentation. The exhibition runs through Aug. 2. Noon to 5 p.m.
Hope’s Community Collage Unveiling in Celebration of the Veblens, Veblen House, Herrontown Woods, 452 Herrontown Road, Princeton, herrontownwoods.org. An evening picnic on the Veblen House grounds to celebrate summer, the Veblens and the unveiling of Hope’s Herrontown Community Collage!. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Chemistry Saturdays, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street,
the afterNoon, fol
vised by Princeton University graduate students. Registration required. Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab. 2 p.m.
Reader’s Theater: Dinosaur Pirates!, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, 609-883-8295. events.mcl.org. Reader’s theater program based on Penny Dale’s picture book “Dinosaur Pirates.” Readaloud, mask and prop decorating, and acting out the swashbuckling story. For children of all ages with an adult. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library. Registration required. 2 p.m.
Intro to Canva, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, 609-882-4050. events. mcl.org. Introduction to Canva, a free cloud-based graphic design program for creating posters, flyers, business cards, images for social media, and more. Registration required. 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 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.
Music in the Sky - When Towers Sing, Walls Can’t Contain the Music, 88 College Road West, Princeton, 88 College Road West, Princeton, 609-258-7989. Carol Anne Taylor, Texas. Celebrating over 30 years of community recitals, the Princeton University Carillon. All concerts start at 1 p.m. every Sunday July 5 through Labor Day Sunday and are held rain or shine. Admission is free. 1 p.m. Listen Local Series: The Rebound, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. The Princeton-based band presents an eclectic mix of rock and pop favorites spanning the 1960s through the 2000s. Hinds Plaza. 3 p.m. Rock Revisited, Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, brtstage.org. Final performance of Bristol Riverside Theatre’s tribute to the album-oriented rock era, featuring music associated with Toto, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Boston, Kansas, Heart, Cheap Trick and others. 3 p.m. YOBC Bon Voyage Concert, Bucks County Community College, Newtown, yobc.org. Youth Orchestra of Bucks County’s tour ensemble performs a sendoff concert before departing for its French Alps and Riviera tour. The tour includes Chamonix, Martigny, Arles, Avignon and Nice. 4 p.m.
Kaleidoscope Kabaret: Lotta Laughs Edition, The Theater Project, DMK Theater, Union Arts Center, 1980 Morris Avenue, Union, thetheaterproject.org. Final performance of The Theater Project’s festival of live music and short comedic plays. The program features members of the company’s Playwrights Workshop and a winner of its Young Playwrights Competition. 2 p.m. True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Princeton Summer Theater presents a matinee of Sam Shepard’s “True West.”. 2 p.m. South Pacific, Bucks County Playhouse, 70 South Main Street, New Hope, buckscountyplayhouse.org. Final day for Bucks County Playhouse’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” the sweeping wartime romance set during World War II. The production is part of the playhouse’s season marking
learn the
of chemistry through fun,
By Thomas Kelly
Chess is a thinking person’s game. Skill requires experience to recognize patterns and strategies. Countering an opponent’s moves can come with deliberate study and many, many games played.
Dragan Milovanovic is a master-level chess player. He is in the top tier of competitive chess tournament players. He has been named Hamilton, New Jersey, Chess Club champion 15 times in the last 25 years. He is a quiet, contemplative man, thinking of the game and what move should be made next.
When and where did you begin playing chess?
I started playing chess at the age of 14 in Tuzla, which is a small city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, north of Sarajevo. I learned the rules even earlier, but I didn’t really start playing until I became a teenager.
When did you realize that you had the ability to progress and become proficient at the game?
When I started participating in local tournaments. With my first victories there, I became more confident in my abilities. I also realized that talent alone was not enough to increase my level of competitiveness, and that is why I started to study chess theory more seriously.
Please tell us about your journey to the U.S. How did it begin, and how were your first few years here?
I immigrated to the United States in 1998. The first few years were financially difficult, but once I was able to find steady employment, things stabilized. Not long after that, I started researching the local chess scene, and I discovered the Hamilton Chess Club in late 1999. In 2000, I became club champion and held the title for several years.
I found many friends in the club who have the same passion for this venerable game, and many of them are still attending our weekly meetings.
How many times a week do you play chess? How much time does it take for a beginner to learn the game well enough to be competitive?
There’s a distinction between playing chess against an opponent and analyzing the game through replay. I analyze my games and those of others nearly every day, but I play chess against opponents once a week, mostly in the club.
The time it takes for a beginner to reach a competitive level depends on various factors, but most importantly, their passion and how willing they are to dedicate themselves to learning the game. Individual study is important, but practicing through games against stronger opponents is usually key to real progress.
Please tell us a little about the Hamilton, New Jersey, Chess Club.
I’m told that it has been around since 1982, but I don’t really know much about the history of the club before I joined.
Currently, there are around 50 members, but every weekly meeting hosts
website for time
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre. Check website for time
Art
Expressions in Fiber 2026, New Hope Arts, 2 Stockton Avenue, New Hope, newhopearts.org. Juried fiber and textile art exhibition featuring traditional and contemporary work. Noon to 5 p.m.
Freedoms Reframed: Art on the Edges of the Constitution, William Trent House Museum, 15 Market Street, Trenton, williamtrenthouse.org. Exhibition of art and poetry organized by the Trent House Association and Art Against Racism. The project examines rights and freedoms not always explicitly named in the Constitution, including the freedom
around 20. Some people attend less frequently than others, and we have no strict attendance rules.
Each year, the Hamilton Chess Club enters a team in the U.S. Amateur Team East Tournament, held during Presidents Day weekend in Parsippany, New Jersey.
Several members of the club also play as a team in the Garden State Chess League, where we won first place in six of the last eight years.
Have you seen chess becoming more popular since the pandemic and with recent television series such as “The Queen’s Gambit”?
I never watched this series, but it wouldn’t surprise me if shows like these raised interest in the game.
However, I have yet to see the kind of popularity boost that was present during the Cold War, when Bobby Fischer stunned the world after taking the title of world champion from the Soviet grandmasters.
What fight or struggle do you have regarding your playing and the progression of your game?
Chess is, in large part, a psychological struggle, not only with your opponent but also with yourself. This is especially true if you know that your opponent is a strong player. It takes constant mental effort to remain focused on the board and to continue making good moves, even after you make bad ones.
There is also the danger of underestimating your opponent: If you’re too relaxed or too confident because you have a higher rating or you’re convinced that you’re technically superior, you can make irreversible mistakes and ultimately lose to a weaker player.
Humility is a key virtue in chess.
Are there national and international ranking systems for chess? How does that work for local players like yourself?
to love without restriction, equitable education, safety, economic dignity, health care and self-definition. Final day. 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday july 27 Art
Mercer County Artists Exhibition, The Gallery at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, mccc.edu. Annual juried exhibition showcasing artists who live, work or study in Mercer County. The 2026 show drew nearly 200 submissions, with 30 pieces by 27 artists selected in a range of media. Free. Runs through July 31. Noon to 6 p.m.
There are national and international ranking systems for chess players. In the U.S., the USCF, or United States Chess Federation, is the main governing body for player ratings.
Internationally, the governing body is FIDE, or Fédération Internationale des Échecs.
My rating is about 2,200, which is in the “National Master” range. That said, I don’t really care much about my rating. I play for the love of the game.
To be a better chess player, do you study historical games and strategies, or is it more about having more playing time against well-matched opponents?
Chess is both study and competition. Studying the games of great masters, both in the past and present, is incredibly useful. My favorites are Alexander Alekhine, from the late 19th to early 20th century, and Mikhail Botvinnik, a Soviet grandmaster and world champion from 1948 to 1963.
It is equally important to practice against well-matched opponents. The strongest player I played was Yugoslavian and Bosnian grandmaster Predrag Nikolic. It was a difficult game. He made a single mistake, which I exploited to gain an advantage, leading him to offer me a draw. I think he assumed that I would accept due to his intimidating status as a grandmaster, but I felt my position was strong, so I refused. Unfortunately, as the game progressed, he managed to equalize, and I found myself offering him a draw. At this stage, there was no chance of victory for either side, so he accepted. I played that game in 1998, and I still remember it to this day.
Arm In Arm Mobile Food Pantry, Mercer County Library, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, www.arminarm.org. Food and personal care products made available to those in need. No registration required. The Lawrence Health Department, the Mercer County Board of Social Services and the Mercer County Nutrition Program will have informational tables. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Tech Help for Seniors, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. Assistance with technology issues is provided by volunteers from AmeriCorps. Drop in at any time during the 3.5-hour session. Technology Center. 9 a.m.
A lot of people play chess online. Have you tried this, and do you think this is a normal, more convenient progression of the game?
I tried playing online for a bit, and for a while, I found it interesting. However, for me, chess is a battle between two people playing face to face, and that’s mostly why I don’t play online.
Women historically have not played chess as much as men. Is this still the case, and why do you think this is the case?
It still seems to be the case. I personally think that both men and women have equal potential in chess. I suspect that differences in representation, such as they are, stem largely from sociocultural reasons, but ultimately, I don’t know. Some of the strongest women players that I know of include grandmaster Nona Gaprindashvili from Soviet Georgia, who was women’s world champion from 1962 to 1978. I also admire Judit Polgar from Hungary, now 50 years old and considered the best female player of all time.
Regarding chess, what are you looking forward to? What do you have on the horizon?
Chess was, is and will probably remain my passion. I don’t have any specific plans or goals other than to keep playing as long as I can and as long as it brings me joy. How can people get involved in the Hamilton Chess Club? Are novices and beginners welcome to the club?
We have a website, sites.google.com/ site/hamiltonchessclub/hamilton-chessclub, where all the relevant information can be found.
Of course, we welcome everyone, no matter what their skill level.
Messy Art Club, Hollowbrook Branch, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing, 609-883-5914. events.mcl.org. Handson art program for children using paint, clay, glue, and other materials. New project each session. Dress for a mess. For ages 5 and up. Registration required. 1:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Diorama Design Studio: “Places We Shop: Princeton, “, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. Kids in grades 3-5 imagine an original shop inspired by artist Barbara DiLorenzo’s “Places We Shop - Princeton” series, then build it over three sessions as a detailed diorama. Registration required. Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab. 2 p.m.
Tuesday july 28
How to Train Your Dragon, State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, stnj.org. State Theatre New Jersey screens “How to Train Your Dragon” as part of its free summer movie series. The free series gives young people a chance to enjoy
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Kids Paint Like the Masters, Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington-Titusville Road, Pennington, 609-737-2610. events.mcl.org. Learn about a different master artist each week and create a project inspired by their work. For children ages 5 and up; adult supervision required. Registration required. 2 p.m.
By Richard Skelly
While the guys in the Successful Failures are steeped in real country, traditional classic folk songs, blues, bluegrass and Americana music, it is not quite right to characterize them as a roots music band.
To be sure, they play familiar and obscure chestnuts from Johnny Cash and Hank Williams, but they also celebrate the music of the Replacements, the Clash and even the Beatles when it is called for.
It all depends on the audience, explains guitarist and singer-songwriter Mick Chorba, whose “mostly” Americana-roots music band has gained a regional following during the past two decades.
Chorba, who was raised by supportive parents and sisters, said all he ever wanted to do was play music and be able to make a living at it.
Like many of the family farmers who are his neighbors in northern Burlington County, Chorba embraced “the lifestyle” years ago but needed to make a living in the meantime. Now a retired public school teacher, he has been able to prosper with his state teacher’s pension and the money he makes performing locally and on short tours with the Successful Failures.
The Successful Failures are scheduled to perform a free concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Joseph Lawrence Park, 316 Ward Ave., Bordentown. For an updated performance schedule, visit thesuccessfulfailures.com.
The band has been performing local and regional engagements, traveling as far as Tennessee, for more than two decades. Its members are recording their 12th studio album, once again consisting mostly of original material.
The current band includes drummer Rob Martin, bassist Ron Bechamps and guitarist Pete Smith. Chorba sings and also plays guitar and harmonica.
Smith joined the group in 2014 after an earlier guitarist left to open a business. Chorba described Smith as an experienced touring musician who has performed internationally with Chubby Checker and Robert Hazard and the Heroes.
Asked to recall especially memorable appearances, Chorba immediately mentioned the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion in Tennessee. The festival has fea-
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films with families, summer camps or other groups at the historic 1921 theater, using HD digital cinema projection and surround sound. 10:30 a.m.. Also at 6:30 p.m.
The Shawshank Redemption, “The Shawshank Redemption”, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. (1994, R, 2 hours, 22 minutes): Drawn from a novella by Stephen King, this film follows a banker sentenced to life in prison who forms an enduring friendship with a fellow inmate. 3 p.m.
Art
Mercer County Artists Exhibition, The Gallery at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, mccc.edu. Annual juried exhibition featuring work by Mercer County artists. Free. Through July 31. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dancing
Tuesday Night Folk Dance, Princeton Folk Dance, Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton, princetonfolkdance.org. No partner necessary. $5. 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Kids Stuff
The Successful Failures — Mick Chorba, Ron Bechamps, Rob Martin and Pete Smith — perform during a live appearance. The band, known for blending rock, country, blues, folk and Americana, next performs a free concert at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 15.
tured national acts including Steve Earle, Josh Ritter, Jeff Tweedy, Deer Tick, J.D. McPherson, Lucinda Williams, Loretta Lynn and Hayes Carll.
As much as the Successful Failures enjoy performing for large festival audiences, its members also relish scaled-back, acoustically oriented appearances at smaller venues such as the Chesterfield Inn, the Record Collector in Bordentown and Tir na nOg in Trenton.
The group remains a fixture in the Mercer and Burlington County music scenes, performing at clubs, breweries, restaurants, record stores and community events.
The band’s eclecticism is a large part of what makes the Successful Failures distinctive.
“We will do something that sounds kind of punk rock, and then we’ll do something very traditional from Hank Williams,” Chorba said. “We love to be eclectic, and
I love American music, so that includes blues and country as part of that. But our overall sound is the sound of a rock ’n’ roll band.”
The traditional country songs the group performs tend to come from an earlier era.
“When we play country, it’s usually Johnny Cash or Hank Williams or something very old and very traditional,” he said.
The Successful Failures average about
Catherine Project Weekly Book Discussion Series, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary. org. This weekly book discussion series examines fundamental texts in philosophy, political theory and literature, focusing on the theme of revolution. This summer, the group will focus on the 12 books of John Milton’s “Paradise Lost” (1674 edition). Tower Room and online Registration required. 4 p.m.
The Discovery Series: Mental Health with Latressa Glasco, Trenton Free Public Library, Young Adult Lounge (First Floor), 120 Academy Street, Trenton, trentonlib.org. Discover new knowledge and fun this summer! Join us each week as guest artists, educators, and professionals share their journeys, careers, and creative paths. 3:30 p.m.
Open Lab/Northstar, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, 609-882-4050. events.mcl.org. Use the computer classroom to work on projects or practice
Outdoor Storytime, Princeton Shopping Center, 301 N. Harrison Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. This interactive event features books, songs, rhymes and movement for kids 18 months and older, accompanied by an adult. Please bring a blanket. Registration not required. Check calendar for updates. 10:30 a.m.
skills with the Northstar Digital Literacy platform while technology trainers assist. Option to sit for an assessment to earn a Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate. Registration required. 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Open Band Jam, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj. com. Weekly open live band jam with house band, drums, amps and full backline available. Musician sign-up starts at 7 p.m.; music starts at 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.
Princeton Student Film Festival, Princeton Public Library, Community Room, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, princetonlibrary.org. The 23rd annual Princeton Student Film Festival features 10 short works by high school and college students from the Princeton area, the United States and abroad. 5:30 p.m.
Woman of the Year, Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton, princetongardentheatre.org. The Garden’s Hollywood Summer Nights series presents the 1942 comedy starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. 7 p.m.
Wednesday Contra Dance, Princeton Country Dancers, Suzanne Patterson Building, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton, princetoncountrydancers. org. Weekly contra dance with live music and an introductory workshop at 7 p.m. Beginners are welcome, no partner is needed and admission is free on the last Wednesday of each month for dancers age 35 and younger. 7:30 p.m to 10 p.m.
True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Sam Shepard’s “True West” continues at Princeton Summer Theater. 7:30 p.m.
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre. Check website for time
Mercer County Artists Exhibition
The Gallery at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, mccc.edu. Annual juried exhibition of work by Mercer County artists. Free. Runs through July 31. Noon to 6 p.m.
Explorer Bites: Summer Snacks, Trenton Free Public Library, Community Room B (First Floor), 120 Academy Street, Trenton, trentonlib.org. Learn to create fun, easy, and festive snacks! 3 p.m.
Career Prep & Job Seeking Skills, Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, 609882-4050. events.mcl.org. Learn best practices for job searching and creating resumes and cover letters. Registration required. 6 p.m
The Merzey Beat, Cooper’s Riverview, 50 Riverview Plaza, Trenton, coopersnj.com. Beatles tribute band performs on the waterfront. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights, State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Bruns-
Cooks + Books: “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, “, Princeton Public Library, 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, 609-924-9529. princetonlibrary.org. A reading from “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” followed by a fun cooking class featuring recipes related to the book. For kids in kindergarten through second grade. Registration required. 3 p.m.
50 performances a year, which Chorba said is enough to keep the musicians busy.
“It’s good to have the safety net of my teacher’s pension because, like farming, it’s a very hard business,” he said.
Chorba and his bandmates have watched many performance venues open and close throughout New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania. Those venues have included breweries and clubs of varying sizes along the Philadelphia-Trenton-Princeton-New Brunswick corridor.
As the musicians have gotten older, they have welcomed more opportunities to play afternoon and early-evening engagements.
The live-music landscape “is always changing, so we’re always trying to stay one step ahead and continue to evolve as needed to remain a viable live act,” Chorba said. “So we use our website and social media as needed. It’s another way to reach people.”
Although Chorba recognizes the need to maintain an online presence and answer emails, particularly when the band is touring in unfamiliar areas, he does not view streaming as an adequate substitute for performing before an audience.
“I don’t take any joy in singing a song into my phone or over the internet for people so they can sit in their house and watch,” he said. “I had to do that during the pandemic. I didn’t care for it. I kind of backed away from that.”
Successful Failures performances typically consist of about 80% original material and 20% cover songs, Chorba said. The ratio varies according to the venue and the band’s familiarity with the audience.
Following advice that folk-rock musician Richie Havens offered years ago, the group also sells its albums at live performances.
“A lot of the tunes we’re playing right now is stuff we recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis last year,” Chorba said. “We recorded a cover of ‘The Long Black Veil’ that has always been a favorite of mine.
“We’ve also been putting our stuff out on vinyl for the last eight years or so, and that’s been very
wick, stnj.org. Herb Alpert performs Tijuana Brass favorites including “The Lonely Bull,” “Spanish Flea,” “A Taste of Honey,” “Tijuana Taxi,” “This Guy’s in Love With You,” “What Now My Love,” “Casino Royale,” “Ladyfingers” and “Rise.” The concert runs about 90 minutes. 7:30 p.m.
Dog Day AfterNoon, Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau Street, Princeton, princetongardentheatre.org. The Garden’s Reel Rebels series screens Sidney Lumet’s 1975 crime drama starring Al Pacino. 7 p.m.
A Change of Position, New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, Long Branch, njrep.org. New Jersey Repertory Company presents the world premiere of Jeffrey Sweet’s play. Set in a Pennsylvania trailer park, the comedy follows a teenage girl whose difficult home life becomes more complicated when one of her mother’s regular clients makes an unexpected proposition. Runs through Aug. 23. 7 p.m. True West, Princeton Summer Theater, Hamilton Murray Theater, Princeton University, Princeton, princetonsummertheater.org. Princeton Summer Theater continues Sam Shepard’s “True West.”. 7:30 p.m.
interesting because people are still interested in buying vinyl LPs.”
Asked whether the group uses the vinyl pressing plant in Bordentown, Chorba said its production needs are not large enough to make that financially practical.
“We sell LPs in the hundreds, not the thousands, so we can’t afford them, although I did take a tour of the place with Randy Ellis,” he said.
The band traveled to Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, in May 2025 to record new material. The trip also included performances in Bristol, Memphis and Knoxville, Tennessee, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina, as part of the group’s 20th-anniversary celebration.
“We recently recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis and released an EP last year from that session, and we’ve been blessed to be at it now for the better part of 22 years,” Chorba said.
The short tours have helped keep the experience fresh for the musicians.
“It’s really important to travel a couple of times a year. It keeps it fun,” Chorba said in a 2025 interview. “We do long weekend tours, play new venues, and it has helped to keep the band together.”
“It’s great to play places that haven’t seen us and heard the band before,” Bechamps said in the earlier interview. “If we get a handful of new fans along the way, it’s worth it.”
Touring has become easier as the members’ children have gotten older.
“For me, it was harder when my son was younger,” Chorba said in 2025. “It’s getting easier now because I’m not juggling as many things. Juggling your family and your job is tough.”
Bechamps agreed.
“There’s less coaching involved, so we can dedicate a little bit more time to the music,” he said. “And we’re doing it in such a way that it is never a drag.”
The Successful Failures grew out of Chorba’s earlier band, the Dipsomaniacs, which formed when he was coming out of high school.
Chorba grew up in Mercerville
Urinetown, Music Mountain Theatre, 1483 Route 179, Lambertville, musicmountaintheatre.org. Musical satire continues at Music Mountain Theatre. Check website for time
Mercer County Artists Exhibition, The Gallery at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor, mccc.edu. Annual juried exhibition of work by Mercer County artists. Free. Runs through July 31. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Panal DIscussion: Writers on Writing. Featuring Amy Jo Burns and Anica Mrose Rissi Labyrinth and Library Collaboration, Labyrinth Books, 122 Nassau Street, Princeton, labyrinthbooks.com. Writers on Writing is an ongoing series of conversations about process and craft hosted by acclaimed authors Amy Jo Burns (Wait for Me) and Anica Mrose Rissi (Girl Reflected in Knife), with accomplished guest authors whose work can be found in various sections of the bookstore. 6 p.m.
Adult Guided Meditation, Hightstown Memorial Branch, 114 Franklin Street, Hightstown, 609-448-1474. events.mcl.org. Staff member Leena, a
and developed his love of music as a student at Nottingham High School. A self-described “band kid,” he learned saxophone and piano before taking up guitar, which became his primary instrument.
He joined his first band as a teenager and went on to perform at regional venues including City Gardens in Trenton, the Rathskeller at Trenton State College and the Stone Pony in Asbury Park.
“Music was my identity as a kid,” Chorba said in the 2025 interview. “Everybody tries to find their drive. For me, it was playing music.”
Chorba’s earliest awareness of country music, blues and early rock ’n’ roll came when he found his father’s collection of 45 rpm records in a closet. He began listening closely to Elvis Presley, Bill Haley and His Comets and Hank Williams.
“I liked all of it,” he said.
After graduating from Trenton State College, now The College of New Jersey, Chorba and a high school friend became involved with the Dipsomaniacs, another Mercer County-based band.
After about 10 years with the group, Chorba began looking for musicians to help him record original songs that did not fit its sound.
“I’m a songwriter, and I had a bunch of stuff that didn’t seem to fit into the main band,” Chorba said in the earlier interview. “The Successful Failures started as a side project for material I wanted to try out with different people.”
Chorba contacted Bechamps, whom he had met through the regional music scene, and Martin, who had previously played with the Dipsomaniacs. The group released its self-titled debut album and gradually developed from a side project into Chorba’s primary musical outlet.
One factor behind the band’s longevity is that its members have shared similar goals while balancing music with careers and families.
“The band is the passion, and the job is the enabler,” Bechamps said in the 2025 interview. “You don’t want the music to turn into a job where it gets to be more of
longtime practitioner of Rajyoga meditation, facilitates a guided meditation session. Relax, refocus, and regain peace during a busy day. Registration requested. Noon
Author Visit with Timothy Young, Robbinsville Branch, 42 Robbinsville-Allentown Road, Robbinsville, 609-2592150. events.mcl.org. Author and illustrator Timothy Young reads his books and teaches an interactive drawing lesson. For children ages 5 and up, accompanied by an adult. Registration required. 7 p.m.
Hogwarts Summer Course, Hollowbrook Branch, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing, 609-883-5914. events.mcl.org. Summer wizarding program with Hogwarts house placement, charms, transfiguration, defense against dark magic, and potions. For ages 11 and up. Registration required. 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Hooked on Yarn, Hollowbrook Branch, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Ewing, 609-883-5914. events.mcl.org. Beginners and experienced crafters gather to work with yarn and share their love of handmade projects. For ages 16 and up. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
a hassle than a passion. It’s complete enjoyment rather than anything else.”
Bechamps grew up in Jackson and later settled in Robbinsville. A self-taught musician, he plays guitar, bass and mandolin. He works as a mechanical engineer in the telecommunications industry.
Chorba also spent much of the band’s history working outside music. He earned a master’s degree in English from Trenton State College in 1998 and taught English for 25 years at Northern Burlington Regional High School in Columbus.
“Primarily I’m a singer-songwriter, but then I went and got my master’s in English and worked for 25 years as an English teacher, and now I’m back to doing music again full time,” he said.
Chorba said having a career outside the band meant he did not have to depend on music to pay his mortgage.
“In some ways, it frees you up to follow your muse,” he said in the 2025 interview.
He considers himself fortunate to be able to devote more time to his primary passion at this stage of his life. It is something he had dreamed of doing since he was a young teenager.
“My hopes for a musical career haven’t changed,” Chorba said. “It was just something I always wanted to be doing, to be in the creative mode, playing shows, recording albums and working with other good musicians.”
Chorba’s background in literature has also shaped the band.
The Successful Failures took its name from a phrase Chorba found in “The Minions of Midas,” a Jack London short story.
“I’ve always written down things from books that I read and phrases that I like,” Chorba said from his home in Chesterfield.
In the earlier interview, he explained that he had kept a notebook of possible band names.
“The Successful Failures was one of them, and I had written a fictional story about a band with that name, so we chose it for the band,” he said.
Literature has influenced more than the group’s name. Chorba, the band’s principal lyricist, said
works he encountered as an English major and later taught as an English teacher frequently find their way into his songs.
“A lot of my inspiration does come from literature,” he said in 2025. “A lot of historical fiction, American history, Shakespeare, and I like poetry, too. It will pop up in my songwriting without me necessarily intending it to.”
Songwriting remains a regular practice for Chorba. He jots ideas in notebooks, shares unfinished songs through his Substack newsletter and listens to other musicians for inspiration.
“Writing isn’t something that you can sit around and wait for,” Chorba said. “You just have to put in work, and there is a lot of satisfaction.”
He recalled a passage in Keith Richards’ memoir, “Life,” in which Richards described how writing songs with Mick Jagger changed the way they observed the world.
“Once Richards started writing songs, it changed the way he viewed the world,” Chorba said. “He paid attention to the way people said words, and I started doing the same thing, looking to the world for inspiration.”
Chorba has a recording studio in his home, giving the band easy access to a place to develop and record its music. The group has also worked at studios in Haddon Heights and Red Bank.
For a band with failure built into its name, the Successful Failures have put together a durable career. The group celebrated its 20th anniversary in March 2025 and has released 11 studio albums, recorded well over 100 original songs and performed in approximately 15 states.
The band’s eclecticism may make it difficult to categorize, but it has also allowed the musicians to continue following their interests rather than being tied to one narrowly defined sound.
“I feel like our trajectory is still on the incline,” Bechamps said in the 2025 interview. “We just keep getting better and better.”
I also shifted the anniversary statistics and Bechamps’ closing quote to the end, where they work better as a summation of the band’s history.
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• Four building warehouse complex totaling 150,000 sf (+/-) situated in a prime location right off Rt. 31
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