FORECAST: A FUNNY MONTH
April is National Stress Awareness Month (see page 30 for expert advice on managing it), and sometimes the best antidote to stress is laughter. Happily, Bergen is filled with comedy shows with both superstars and up-and-comers: • Bananas Comedy Club, Rutherford. There’s always something to laugh at in this club, which presents weekly shows in an intimate theater. Keep an eye out for Chris Porter of Comedy Central Presents (April 24–25). More info: bananas comedyclub.com • Bergen Performing Arts Center, Englewood. Big names visit this Bergen showcase; among those coming up are c comedy ventriloquist Terry Fator (April 19), omedian and actor Tracy Morgan (May 2) and SNL alum Jim Breuer (May 6). More info: bergenpac.org • The Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County’s Open Mic Night, Teaneck. Though this once-a-month open mic (typically the third Friday of the month) also attracts musicians, poets and storytellers, you’ll
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• The Basement at Tommy’s, Bergenfield. On the bottom floor of Tommy Fox’s Public House you’ll find a comedy open mic every Tuesday at 8:30 p.m., where local comics test out their sets. You’ll also find more structured “showcase” events that draw comedians from all over the tri-state area. More info: tommyfoxs.com
Scrolling and swiping are part of our daily lives, but there’s nothing like thumbing through a physical book or magazine. On Independent Bookstore Day, April 25, pick up a classic or bestseller at any of Bergen’s best shops, including those honored in recent Readers’ Choice contests. And remember to vote for your favorite in the 2026 contest—visit bergenmag.com to cast your ballot!
“Spring is the perfect time to refresh a space without the commitment of a renovation, and small changes can bring a high design impact. Don’t underestimate the power of editing! Sometimes, removing and restyling accessories can make a room feel instantly new. Start with a focus on high-impact swaps. For example, a new area rug can redefine the room and introduce a fresh style, and an oversized art piece not only creates a fresh focal point but also provides an opportunity to bring in color. Add a throw and decorative pillows in spring-inspired colors to create a cohesive color story. Consider tailored window treatments to add polish and warmth to the space.” —Tina Guevara, Juliette Sebastian Interiors, Rutherford
• Bookends, 211 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201.445.0726; book-ends.org • Books & Greetings, 271 Livingston St., Northvale, 201.784.2665; booksandgreetings. com
“A great way to elevate your space is adding wallpaper or trim work. This can change the entire look of your room dramatically. I also recommend bringing in new colors and patterns with throw pillows and accessories. Keep in mind that, with throw pillows, you can often just order new covers. Don’t be afraid to mix metals, patterns and textures to create a more interesting look.” —Kristen Sawyer, Sawyer Interiors, Hillsdale
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• Hackensack Performing Arts Center, Hackensack. Improv troupes both local and from NYC drop by this stage regularly (watch for the next Bragging Rights sketch comedy competition night), as do more traditional comedy shows. On April 11, see The Tea, which puts a laugh-out-loud, talkshow spin on Bible stories. More info: hacpac.org
BOOKSTORE HEAVEN
If you’ve caught the springtime home-improvement bug, but only a mild case—that is, you’re not up for a thorough renovation—two Bergen designers have some advice:
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find local comedians here. The best part: If you’re inspired, you can take the mic yourself! More info: ethical focus.org
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• Brier Rose Books, 450 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201.836.5500 • The Curious Reader, 229 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201.444.1918; thecuriousreader books.com • Dear Reader Books, 382 Main St., Wyckoff, 201.565.2033; shopdearreader.com
• Kinokuniya Bookstore, 595 River Rd., Edgewater, 201.496.6910; usa.kinokuniya.com • Soldato Books + Records, 15 Sylvan St., Rutherford, 551.243.1859; soldatobooks.com
APRIL 2026
3/17/26 8:33 AM