The Lunar New Year, James and the Giant Peach plus the return of Maple Sugaring headline this week’s events. Let’s not forget all the things that are ongoing too. Go back to my article on winter sports here for outdoor fun as well.
Covid has undoubtedly had it’s effect. Unfortunately public programs that had been held at the Garden State Plaza and Shoppes at Riverside aren’t happening this year. However the American Dream Mall has something going on daily this week. Also seating in restaurants and theaters remains limited. Call ahead (restaurants) and get your tickets early (theaters).
The Year of the Tiger Lunar New Year
While the Lunar New Year is actually tomorrow, February 1st, celebrations traditionally go on for 2 weeks. This is the Year of the Tiger. Tigers represent strength, courage and bravery and are considered the King of all animals. A Year of the Tiger is a year of hope. Wish your friends a happy and prosperous New Year.
Local libraries throughout Bergen County have special Lunar New Year virtual programs. Check this out by going to the BCCLS calendar. There are some great Chinese restaurants in and near Bergen County. Here are my favorites: Chengdu 23 in Wayne, River House in Edgewater, Lotus Cafe in Hackensack, Truly Sichuan in Ridgewood and Empire Hunan in Teaneck.
James and the Giant Peach plus Ode to Joy
Porchlight Productions is a live theater educational center for young people. They are putting on 2 plays based on Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach on Jan 1st and 2nd. Because this isn’t a big venue and seating must be limited (Covid restrictions), you have to contact them to see about ticket availability. This is a 2 play series – a mini and a jr version. You find out about tickets for the mini or the junior online. Porchlight is located at 555 Broad Street in Glen Rock.
Although Ode to Joy is ending it’s run this weekend at the Black Box Theater in Englewood (49 E Palisade Ave) tickets should be available. This is a vibrant comedy that’s also quite poignant at times. Just click on the calendar date you want to about getting your tickets.
The Tenafly Nature Center
The Tenafly Nature Center is constantly in my blog. This is simply because there is so much going on and all of it is wonderful. Since it’s beginning 60 years ago, the TNC has been one of the jewels of Bergen County. While most people would expect a nature center to be inactive during the winter, not so here. As a result, there’s a lot going on throughout winter. Here’s what we have this weekend:
Crafty Critter
Crafty Critter happens Saturday, Feb 5th, from 2-3 pm. You’ll meet one of the TNC’s Animal Ambassadors. You get to say hello up front and personal. In addition, once the critter leaves, you get to be crafty. How about drawing or painting what you just experienced? This is for children 4 and up accompanied by an adult. Register online for this.
Maple Sugaring
Because this is so popular, make your reservations now. Every year the Tenafly Nature Center has this truly wonderful program. It begins this year on Sunday. Since it’s so much in demand, there are several sessions all day long. This is a very comprehensive program where you’ll learn a lot more than you’d think. Registration is online.
So there you have it. This week’s main events.
