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Happy Father's Day


Father's Day Events and Gift Ideas, The Big Playhouse Debut, Our Farmers' Market Guide and More!

Happy Father's Day to all the Macaroni Dads!  This Week's Picks is packed with fun ways to spend time with Dad and Grandpa during Father's Day weekend: Norwood PTO's Carnival, Delaware River Railroad Excursions, World of Wings, Wings & Wheels Expo, Westwood Dad's Dash, hikes and more!!  

Be sure to click "Read More" to see the full e-newsletter this week. We always have so much good stuff to share that the email gets clipped!   Here are just a few highlights:

Quick And Healthy Meals For Moms ...

Father's Day Gift Ideas


Macaroni Celebrates

Father's Day gifts are always a struggle. Dads have it easy on Mother's Day -- flowers, jewelry, a beautiful trinket, a few hours of quiet time -- we're easy to please. But Father's Day gifts are hard. Do we go sentimental? Do we go manly? Do we encourage a new hobby? (That hardly ever works out for me... the beer making kit is STILL sitting in the basement two years later and don't even get me started on the Dremel tool.)  

Just like Moms, Dads just want ...


The Big Playhouse Comes To Westwood in July


Free Pre-Opening Tour July 13

The Big Playhouse is scheduled to open its doors to the public by the end of July, according to its owner Larine Baratta.  The Big Playhouse is a new play facility located on 312 Kinderkamack Road in Westwood (near the Five Corners).  Designed to spark imagination and creativity among children ages 2 to 8 years old, the play center features old-fashioned dramatic play with real lifestyle communities including a cafe, a doctor's office, a salon, a race car speedway, a supermarket, a barnyard and more.  Kids can bring their ...

Last Call For Stokes Farm's Thyme Saver Program!


Sponsored Article

How much do you spend a week buying fresh produce at the grocery store?  How long does it take for you to prepare healthy meals for your family?  

If you're looking to save some “thyme” and still put healthy food on the table, become a member of Stokes Farm’s Thyme Saver Box program!  Each week starting in July, you will receive a specially selected box of fresh, seasonal, local fruits, vegetables and herbs.  All you need to do is pick it up every Tuesday anytime between noon and ...

Macaroni Kid's 2013 Summer Camp and Activity Guide


New Programs Added!

Welcome to Macaroni Kid's 2013 Summer Camp and Activity Guide!  CLICK HERE to find local summer camp and activities for kids of all ages. 

Special thanks to our sponsors:



JW Tumbles of Hillsdale - a safe, indoor playground featuring a different themed camp each week for ages 2.5 to 9 years old.  Sign up for a summer class and get UNLIMITED monthly classes throughout the summer!  Click here for the summer schedule.




Campus Kids-NJ - the ideal way to start your kid's sleep-away camp experience on the amazing Blair ...

Jersey Fresh: Your Local Farmers' Market Guide


Macaroni Kid's Annual Farmers' Market Guide is back!  Farmers' Markets are a great way to find a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade breads and desserts, locally made cheeses and pickles, fresh flowers and more.  Plus it's a great learning experience for kids - they can brush up on their colors, practice counting, explore their senses and learn about healthy-eating all while getting some fresh air!

Here's Your Local Guide To Farmers' Markets in Bergen County:

Closter (Closter Commons Parking Lot, 570 Piermont Road): Sundays, April ...


Fight Neuroblastoma: Join Angelina's Army


Angelina's Army Bracelets, Dine For Angelina at Charlie Brown's, and More Ways To Help

Meet Angelina Phillips-Edelman.   Angelina was born a fighter, having been born 5 weeks early on August 12, 2009.  With an older brother to look up to, Angelina has been hitting all her milestones earlier than most kids her age.  She is the epitome of our future tech-crazy generation: she loves playing "Angry Birds" on the iPad, surfing YouTube and watching toy reviews mady by other children.  She also believes she is a Disney Princess, but she is still trying to figure out if she looks more like Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel ...

Because I'm Your Dad - A New Book by Ahmet Zappa


“Because I’m Your Dad” sounds a bit like “because I said so”. But in this case it’s a great new children’s book by Ahmet Zappa (name sound familiar? More on that in a moment).

In this book, “Because I’m Your Dad” is followed up with “You can have spaghetti for dinner.” And other neat things. The dad shares his love, and his wish for a special relationship with his child in a series of rolicing activities. The book is festooned with monsters, robots, mud-forts and more ...

Daddy's Footsteps Gift


Macaroni Celebrates

My husband is an amazing Father and I wrack my brain to try to come up with something that will show him how much we appreciate all he does for his family! I am so excited this year to have come up with a gift that I believe does just that!! I enlisted the help of a wonderfully talented photographer. 

My mission was to capture my kids wearing their Dad’s shoes! These aren’t just any shoes though… my husband was in the Army and served in Iraq and ...

Upcoming Preschool Open Houses


The following schools are hosting an open house during the month of June.  Please tell them you heard about it from Macaroni Kid!

Sponsored: Westwood Childcare Academy is hosting Saturday open houses by appointment.  All prospective families are welcome to visit the early learning center's new facility at 24 Booker Street in Westwood.  For more information, call 201-383-0836 or visit www.westwoodchildcareacademy.com.

Prince of Peace Preschool Ice Cream Social Friday, June 14, 10AM-12PM.  106 Orangeburg Road, Old Tappan.  201-965-3354.

Know a preschool or an early learning center with ...

This Week's Picks:


June 13th through June 18th

Thursday, June 13 through Sunday, June 16 - DARE NJ Presents The New Overpeck County Park Carnival

Support DARE NJ with some carnival fun! There will be games, rides, food and more!
Where: The New Overpeck County Park, Challenger Road/Fort Lee Road
When: Weekdays 5PM-10PM, Saturday noon-11PM, Sunday noon-10PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free admission and parking.  $10 all you can ride on Thursday.
For more info: Visit www.darenj.com.

Thursday, June 13 through Saturday, June 15 - Norwood Carnival Sponsored by Norwood PTO

Norwood Public School PTO is proudly presenting the Norwood Carnival for the second consecutive year with help from generous sponsors in the community. Rides, Games, Food and fun for the whole family! Wristband night is Thursday, June 13.  Ride all night for just $25. Saturday, June 15 features a DJ spinning all night and a Tae Kwon Do demonstration at 6pm. Special booths every night including Face Painting, Glitter Tattoos, Ball Toss, a Dunk Tank featuring local coaches, teachers and officials, and more!
Where: 200 Summit Street, Norwood, NJ
When: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free admission.  Rides, games and food cost extra.  Thursday, June 13 is wristband night - ride all night for $25.
For more info: Visit the Norwood PTO's Facebook page HERE or email.

Friday, June 14 - Prince of Peace Open House/Ice Cream Social

Come to Prince of Peace's Ice Cream Social on June 14.  Meet the teachers, explore the classrooms, and walk around their 7-acre grounds.
Where: Prince of Peace Preschool, 106 Orangeburg Road, Old Tappan, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
For more info: Call 201-965-3354.

Saturday, June 15 - Emerson Town Celebration

Kick off the summer with the annual Emerson Town Celebration.  Field games of kickball, wiffle ball and home run derby will be played from 5PM to 9PM, a classic rock concert featuring Mystery Train starts at 7PM and fireworks display will be at 9PM. Bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets and refreshments!
Where: Field Games at Benkovic Field, and classic rock concert at Hillman Field (opposite Firehouse).
When: 5PM: Games, 7PM: Classic Rock Concert, 9PM: Fireworks
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.

Saturday, June 15 through Monday, July 8 - Sponsored: Straight A's Club at The Melting Pot of Westwood

Hey kids! Did you get good grades this marking period?  If you did, Melting Pot wants to reward all elementary and middle school students with a free meal!  Simply bring in your all "A's" report card, and we'll serve you a four-course dinner, including our famous chocolate fondue!  Each free child's meal must be accompanied by the purchase of an adult four-course dinner.
Where: Melting Pot of Westwood, 250 Center Avenue, Westwood, NJ
When: n/a
Who: Elementary and middle school students and parents/guardians are welcome.
How: Reservations recommended.  Be sure to bring your straight A's report card!
Cost: Straight A student eats free with purchase of a four-course adult meal.
For more info: Click here for more information and to make a reservation.

Saturday, June 15 through Sunday, June 16 - Dads Ride FREE at the Delaware River Railroad Excursions

Spend the day with Dad on a scenic train ride along the Delaware River.  Dads enter free during Father's Day weekend June 15 and 16 for all regular train rides.
Where: 99 Elizabeth Street, Phillipsburg, NJ
When: Varies by day
Who: All are welcome.  Children over 2 years old require a ticket, under 2 will not have their own seat.
How: Order tickets online here.
Cost: Dads enter FREE with purchase of another regularly priced ticket.  $16 per adult, $8 per child.  Children under 2 FREE but must sit on an adult lap.
For more info: Click here for more information.

Saturday, June 15 through Sunday, June 16 - Wings & Wheels Expo 2013

Bring your family and friends to the Wings & Wheels Expo 2013, a family event featuring WW II Airplanes, helicopters and other unique aircraft, Military Vehicles, vintage and contemporary Show Cars and Live Entertainment. Guests of Honor: “The Tuskegee Airmen.” Special features for kids include the Batmobile and Green Hornet cars as well as contests, interesting exhibitions, unique vendors and food concessions.  All proceeds benefit the Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of NJ.
Where: Teterboro Airport, 400 Fred Wehran Drive, Teterboro, NJ
When: 6/15: 9AM-5PM, 6/16: 9AM-4PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!  No parking at the airport.  Follow signs for FREE off-site parking and free bus service to/from the area.
Cost: $15 per adult, $8 per senior and children under 8.  Children under 3, veterans wearing a veterans cap of any kind,and Active Duty Military Personnel with ID are free.
For more info: Visit www.njahof.org or call 201-288-6344.

Saturday, June 15 - Sponsored: Westwood Childcare Academy Open House

Under new management, Westwood Childcare Academy is hosting weekly open houses on Saturdays. Come find out why parents are raving about Westwood Child Care Academy's philosophy of child-focused care.
Where: Westwood Child Care Academy, 24 Booker Street, Westwood, NJ
When: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All families welcome.  The center accommodates children from ages 6 weeks through Pre-Kindergarten.
How: Call the school to schedule a tour.
Cost: Free.
For more info: Call 201-383-0836, visit www.westwoodchildcareacademy.com or email.

Sunday, June 16 - Westwood Dad's Dash

Celebrate Father's Day at Westwood Dad's Dash on Sunday, June 16.  There will be a 5K run at 9AM and a Family Mile Walk at 10AM.  Awards given to top 3 male/female overall, first Westwood male/female, age division gift certificates and 3 team awards.  Proceeds benefit the Sgt. Christopher Hrbek Scholarship Fund.
Where: Westvale Park, Westwood, NJ
When: 8:45 AM (5K run starts 9AM)
Who: All are welcome.
How: Register online here.
Cost: 5K: $22 online, $19 w/ USATF# by June 11.  $25 on race day.  Family Mile Run: $5 per person, $25 maximum per family.
For more info: Call 551-427-2505 or email.

Sunday, June 16 - 12th Annual Father's Day Overpeck Preserve Regatta

Come and spend Father's Day morning enjoying a paddle on Lake Overpeck in the New Bergen County Overpeck Park during the 12th annual Father's Day Overpeck Preserve Regatta.  Gil Hawkins, Executive Director of the Overpeck Reserve Inc., will provide a floating tour and history of the Overpeck Preserve restoration project.  Bring your own canoe or kayak or register to rent one from Hackensack Riverkeeper.  Rentals are first come, first served.
Where: Lake Overpeck, north end of New Bergen County Overpeck Park, 199 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ
When: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Call 917-662-9285 or email to make a reservation.
Cost: Rentals are $15 per person, children 7 and under are free.  Canoes hold 2 passengers and 2 paddlers.  Donations of $15 per person helps cover cost of the event.
For more info: Call 917-662-9285 or email for more information.

Sunday, June 16 - Dads Enter FREE at World Of Wings

Celebrate Dad and all that he does for you by bringing him to the World of Wings Museum and Atrium on Father's Day.  All Dads enter free!
Where: World of Wings, 1775 Windsor Road, Teaneck, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Dads enter FREE.
For more info: Visit www.wowbutterfly.com.

Sunday, June 16 - Intrepid Museum Celebrates Father's Day

Intrepid celebrates Father's Day by extending the same price as kids to all fathers.  Bring Dad and Grandpa too for a fun-filled day at the Intrepid Museum.  Note the Space Shuttle Pavilion featuring the Enterprise exhibit will not be open until July 10.
Where: Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, Pier 86 of Westside Highway, New York, NY
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Download coupon here and present it at the ticket office.
Cost: Dads enter at youth ticket price of $19.  $24 per adult age 18 and up, $19 per youth age 7-17, $12 per child age 3-6.
For more info: Visit www.intrepidmuseum.org.

Sunday, June 16 - Annual Father's Day Nutley Street Fair

Celebrate Father's Day with festival food, vendors, live entertainment, games, kiddie rides, a climbing wall, sand art, temporary tattoos, face painting and more during Nutley's annual Father's Day Street Fair.  Sponsored by the Nutley High Hockey League Booster Club.
Where: Along Franklin Avenue, Nutley, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free admission.  Tickets to rides and food extra.
For more info: Call 201-998-1144.

Sunday, June 16 - Father's Day Walk at Tenafly Nature Center

Spend quality time with Dad in an outdoor place of beauty and celebrate Father's Day with a guided walk in the woods. In case of inclement weather, the program will be cancelled.
Where: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Avenue, Tenafly, NJ
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.  No strollers.
How: Register online.
Cost: Members, fathers and children under 2 free.  $5 per non-members.
For more info: Call 201-568-6093 or visit Tenafly Nature Center.

Sunday, June 16 - Father's Day Hike at Flat Rock Brook Nature Center

What better way to celebrate Father's Day than to take Dad outside for a relaxing and educational walk at Flat Rock Brook?  Take to the trails looking for everything summer has to bring and explore all the Flat Rock has to offer.  Dads attend for free!  Registration required.
Where: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Avenue, Englewood, NJ
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: For families and children 4 and older.
How: Registration by mail or online required.
Cost: $5 for members; $10 for non-members
For more info: Visit http://www.flatrockbrook.org/programs/public.html for more information, to register online or to download a registration form.

Tuesday, June 18 through Thursday, June 20 - Dine For Angelina at Charlie Brown's Restaurant

Support Angelina, a local 3 year old battling cancer, by dining at any Charlie Brown's restaurant between 11:30AM on Tuesday, June 18 and midnight Thursday, June 20.  Mention ANGELINA'S ARMY to have 20% of your check donated towards Angelina's mounting medical bills.
Where: A participating Charlie Brown's restaurant.  Click here for locations.
When: 11:30 AM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!  Be sure to mention ANGELINA'S ARMY to have 20% of your check donated towards Angelina's Army.
Cost: Varies by order.
For more info: Click here for more information about Angelina's Army.

Teen Scene:


Tuesday, June 18 - Make Up Tips and Tricks for Teenage Girls at EstheticaMD

Come to EstheticaMD for a free educational seminar "Make Up Tips and Tricks for Teenage Girls" with professional Make Up Artist Karlene Damallie Tuesday June 18th. Dr. Rabkin will discuss "Preparing Your Skin for Summer" and the latest techniques to protect your skin from the sun and how to reverse sun damage.
Where: 12 East Palisades Ave, Englewood, New Jersey
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Teens and a parent/guardian.
How: Attendees must register for the seminars in advance by calling 201-816-8106 or by email.
Cost: Free.
For more info: Visit www.estheticamd.com, call 201-816-8106 or email. 

Plan Ahead:


June 20th through October 27th

Thursday, June 20 through Sunday, June 23 - DARE NJ Presents The Teaneck Carnival

Support DARE NJ programs and have fun at the Teaneck Carnival.  There will be rides, games, food and more!
Where: The National Guard Armory, 1799 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ
When: 6/20: 6PM-10PM, 6/21: 6PM-11PM, 6/22-6/23: 1PM-11PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free admission.  $10 all you can ride Thursdays.
For more info: Visit www.darenj.com.

Friday, June 21 through Sunday, June 23 - Old Tappan Townwide Garage Sale

Come find new treasures during Old Tappan's Townwide Garage Sale.  Something for everyone!  
Where: Maps will be available for pick up at the Borough Hall (Old Tappan Road) on June 19-June 21, and at Butterworth's Bagels at Bi-State Plaza on Old Tappan Road and Stokes Farm on DeWolf Road throughout the weekend.  
When: n/a
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free with bargains to be found!
For more info: Visit oldtappan.net.

Friday, June 21 through Sunday, July 7 - NJ State Fair at the Meadowlands

Come to the NJ State Fair at the Meadowlands for full action-packed fun for the entire family through July 7th.  Free entertainment including Circus Maximus, The Big Cats Show, The Steve Bayner Hypnotist Show, Racing Pigs and Petting Zoo.  Plus, amusement park rides, food, games for all ages, exhibits, shopping, and bargain ticket nights!  Fireworks on July 3rd and 4th starting at 10:30PM.
Where: Giants Stadium Fairgrounds, Meadowlands, East Rutherford
When: visit website for hours of operation
Who: All ages.
How: Order tickets in advance online or at the event.
Cost: Visit website for admission prices, parking fees and bargain nights.
For more info: Visit njfair.com.

Friday, June 21 - Kids Night Out at JW Tumbles

Kids need a night out once in awhile too. That’s where Kid’s Night Out comes in to play—literally! A special evening for children three to nine years of age to let it all hang loose. Just drop your kids off in their pajamas at JW Tumbles and we guarantee they’ll have the best time of their week. You provide the kids, blankets or sleeping bags, and we’ll provide the pizza, drinks, and of course—the fun!  After building forts, playing games and running obstacle courses with friends, your child will enjoy story time, arts & crafts, and wind down with a G-rated movie. Best of all, you enjoy some well-deserved time off too.
Where: JW Tumbles, 321 Broadway, Hillsdale, NJ
When: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Ages 3 to 9 years old.
How: Call 201-453-3010 to reserve your spot.
Cost: $25 a child for members, $35 for non-members.  $15 for each additional child.
For more info: Call 201-453-3010 or email.

Saturday, June 22 through Sunday, June 23 - Build Your Own Monsters University Chest at Lowe's

It’s going to be a monster summer at Lowe’s! Your child will love building a chest inspired by Disney•Pixar's Monsters University. Registration opens June 5. Lowe's Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to build confidence.  Each participant receives a free apron, goggles, a project-themed patch and a certification of merit upon completion of their project.
Where: Any Lowe's store.  For the location nearest you, click here.
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Ages 5 and up.
How: Sign up online here.
Cost: Free.
For more info: Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com/.

Saturday, June 22 - Michael's Kids Club Event: Silly Shells

Let your kids explore their creativity while you shop! This week, kids can make silly shells to celebrate summer.  Only $2 per child reserves 30 minutes for your creative kid. Sessions starting every half hour from 10am - 11:30am. See a store associate to join the fun!
Where: Michael's, 240 Route 17 North, Paramus, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 3 and up.
How: See a sales associate to register for a session every half hour from 10AM to 11:30AM.
Cost: $2 per child.
For more info: Visit http://www.michaels.com or call 201-599-0151.

Saturday, June 22 - Woodcliff Lake Day

Enjoy a family fun day during Woodcliff Lake Day.  There will be rides, games, BBQ, music and more!
Where: Old Mill Pool, Old Mill Road, Woodcliff Lake, NJ
When: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.

Sunday, June 23 - Kelly Miller Circus at Bergen County YJCC

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls: Step right up! The Kelly Miller Circus rolls into town on the grounds of the Bergen County YJCC on June 23. One of a few traveling shows still in existence, this traditional tented circus features elephants, tigers, camels, ponies and a cast of international circus stars including daring aerialists, agile acrobats and cavorting clowns, all under the big top. Stop by at 9AM on circus day and watch the elephants raise the big top (for free)! Proceeds benefit the Bergen County YJCC.
Where: Bergen County YJCC, 605 Pascack Road, Washington Township, NJ
When: 2PM and 5PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Purchase tickets in advance here or on circus day.
Cost: Advance-sale tickets: $10 per adult (12 and up) and $6 per child (2-11).  Children under 2 are free.
For more info: Call 201-666-6610 ext. 5820 or email.

Sunday, June 23 - Zerbini Family Circus

The Zerbini Family Circus is coming to Oradell on June 23!  Presented by Oradell Special Events Committee.
Where: Senior/Veterans Center Parking Lot (behind Oradell Post Office), 1 Veterans Place, Oradell
When: 2PM and 4PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Purchase discounted tickets in advance at Clerk's Office, Jay's Pharmacy or Oradell Library, or purchase tickets at the door. Cash only.
Cost: $10 per person in advance, $12 day of the circus.  Children under 3 free.

Monday, June 24 through Wednesday, June 26 - Tumble Bee Gymnastics Open Gym and Farewell Celebration

After over 20 years, Tumble Bees Gymnastics is closing its doors.  Join them for the last open gym days and a farewell celebration June 24-June 26.
Where: Tumble Bee Gymnastics, 465 Old Hook Road (behind Shoprite), Emerson
When: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Children ages 2 to 6 and a parent/caregiver.
How: Just show up!
Cost: $10 per child.
For more info: Call 201-967-7188.

Friday, July 5 through Sunday, July 7 - Sponsored: Day Out With Thomas: The Go Go Thomas Tour 2013

Meet everyone's favorite train at Day Out With Thomas July 5-7, and 12-14.  Day Out With Thomas offers children of all ages and their grownups the chance to ride the classic storybook friend Thomas the Tank Engine.  The 25-minute train ride pulled by Thomas takes you along the scenic Delaware River to North Carpentersville.  There is also live entertainment, inflatables, a model train layout, tattoo station, spin art, coloring, carnival food and more!  Don't forget the camera!! Rain or shine.  Arrive at least an hour early.
Where: Phillipsburg, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (train leaves every hour on the hour)
Who: All are welcome.  Ages 2 and up are required to have a ticket.  Children under 2 must sit on an adult's lap.
How: Advance ticket purchases highly recommended.  Click here to purchase online.  All sales final.
Cost: $19 per person for Thomas train ride only.  $32-$36 per adult and $25-$29 per child for combo tickets.
For more info: Visit http://877trainride.com/ for more information.

Sunday, July 7 - Free Film Screening of 1776 at State Theatre

State Theatre presents a free film screening of 1776, a delightful musical celebration of the founding of the US based on the award-winning Broadway production.  The first 100 attendees receive a free "The Constitution of the United States" booklet.  Following the film, the festivities continue with a live reading of the Declaration of Independence at 8PM in Monument Square featuring children ages 10-12 from the New Brunswick Play Safe Program, and fireworks at 9:25PM Boyd Park.  Presented by the State Theatre, New Brunswick Public Sculpture and the City of New Brunswick.
Where: Film Screening at State Theatre, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ.  Live reading at Monument Square, corner of George Street and Livingston Avenue.  Fireworks at Boyd Park.
When: 5PM: film screening, 8PM: a live reading of the Declaration of Independence, 9:25PM: Fireworks
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
For more info: Visit www.statetheatrenj.org or call 732-246-7469.

Saturday, July 13 - The Big Playhouse Pre-Opening Tour

The Big Playhouse is coming to Westwood in July!  Come check out the new play center during its pre-opening tour July 13 and let your child's imagination run wild.  At the end of the tour, your child will get to meet and greet with some of their favorite characters and enjoy delicious refreshments.
Where: 312 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Ages 2 to 8 and a parent/guardian.
How: Register in advance here.
Cost: Free.
For more info: Visit thebigplayhouse.info, call 855-343-PLAY (7529) or email.

Sunday, July 21 - Shopping Event Benefiting Angelina's Army

Save the date for a fun day of shopping, raffles, bake sale, massages, face painting and more.  All proceeds benefit Angelina's Army to help defray medical costs of a local girl with cancer.
Where: Leonia American Legion, 399 Broad Avenue, Leonia
When: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free admission.
For more info: Click here for updates and more information.

Thursday, July 25 through Saturday, July 27 - Cookies for Kids Cancer Bake Sale at Englewood Sidewalk Sale

Support Pediatric Cancer research by buying cookies at the Cookies For Kids Cancer Bake Sale during Englewood's Sidewalk Sale July 25-27, 2013.  Bakers and volunteers are also needed for the event.  
Where: Englewood Sidewalk Sale, Downtown Englewood, NJ
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up and buy a cookie!  Or you can donate online by visiting cookiesforkidscancer.org and look up Marcia Lemberg.  
Cost: Varies.
For more info: Email or call 201-421-1831 for more information and for volunteer opportunities during the event.  

Saturday, July 27 - Family Fair at NJPAC's Theater Square

Families and kids of all ages are invited to NJPAC's outdoor Theater Square for a summertime celebration of music, dance and theater.  Activities include performances by New Jersey professional dance companies and musicians of NJPAC's Arts Education programs, drum circle, Zumba classes, stilt walkers, face painting, musical instrument petting zoo, food vendors and more!
Where: NJPAC's Theater Square, 1 Center Street, Newark, NJ 07102
When: 2:00 PM
Who: All are welcome.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free.
For more info: Visit njpac.org.

Sunday, October 27 - PBS' Dinosaur Train Live at bergenPAC

Dinosaur Train – Live! will bring the beloved stars of the hit PBS series to your hometown for the first time. From giant King to teeny Tiny, all of our friends will be brought to life in an exciting, original, musical story created just for the stage where our audience is always a part of the action. Utilizing lush projected backgrounds and vistas, magical special effects that fill the theatre, a full sized replica of the Dinosaur Train, unique hybrid puppeteered costume characters and an engaging live host, our Dinosaur pals and their adventures will truly seem larger than life.
Through interactivity, music and laughter DINOSAUR TRAIN - LIVE! will have kids up and dancing in the aisles.
Where: bergenPAC, 30 N. Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ
When: 2PM and 5PM
Who: All ages.
How: Purchase tickets in advance here or at www.ticketmaster.org or at the Box Office.
Cost: $59, $39, $29 per person plus facility fees and tax.
For more info: Visit www.bergenpac.org or call 201-227-1030.

Macaroni Kid's Online Preschool Guide


Your Local Resource for Early Learning Centers, Preschools and Daycares

Macaroni Kid of Northern and Pascack Valley is pleased to present its year-round online Preschool Guide.  Based on my own research to find the right school for my son, as well as recommendations from readers, Facebook fans, and local moms, Macaroni Kid's Preschool Guide is intended to be your go-to resource for finding the most appropriate facility for your little one's early childhood education and care.

We would like to acknowledge our sponsors Reformed Church Nursery SchoolDemarest Co-op Nursery School and Westwood Childcare Academy for making the ...

Mom a la Mode’s Pollo Marinara con Carciofi©


A Quick and Healthy Meal In Minutes

As much as this mama is an avid cook and self-proclaimed foodie, there are times when even mom a la mode needs a little help from her friends to get a healthy meal on the table.  And it’s on those nights that I’ve found the following pantry and freezer staples to do the trick:


Mom a la Mode’s Pollo Marinara con Carciofi© 
(Chicken Marinara with Artichokes)
Don’t let the fancy Italian name fool you.  This is one of those semi-homemade meals, utilizing — yes, a jarred marinara ...

Strawberry Upside Down Cake


Macaroni Menu

I love when strawberries are in season. While picking them at the farm, mixing them in salads and dipping them in chocolate are just three of the many ways I love to eat them. But one of my favorite desserts is Strawberry Upside Down Cake. It is so simple and sooooooo yummy.

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups crushed fresh strawberries. I mash mine with a potato masher
  • 1 package of strawberry flavored Jell-O (6 0z)
  • 3 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1 yellow cake mix (18 oz) prepared as directed on package (I use ...

Capturing Those Fleeting Moments In Pictures


A Macaroni Kid Review of A Storybook Image Photography Services

For Mother's Day this year, I wanted something special.  I wanted the time to spend with my family and a way to capture those precious moments with my little children who seem to grow by leaps and bounds each time I blinked.   So for my Mother's Day present, we spent our afternoon at home with Jinan Choi, one of the talented photographers working with A Storybook Image.  A Storybook Image is owned by an old college friend of mine so I trusted the pictures would come out great ...

Day Out With Thomas™: Go Go Thomas Tour 2013


Sponsored Article

Thomas the Tank Engine™ Pulling Into The Delaware River Railroad Excursions July 5-7, 12-14

Thomas the Tank Engine is getting ready to ride off the pages of the beloved storybooks and into the hearts of little fans.  Little girls and boys will soon have the opportunity to meet Thomas the Tank Engine in person!  Our favorite No. 1 engine is set to roll into Phillipsburg, New Jersey for the Day Out with Thomas™: Go Go Thomas Tour 2013.  (Keep reading to see who won the family four-pack of tickets to ...

Moms' Day/Night Out Events


Even Super Moms need a day or night off every once in a while!  Check out these fun upcoming events just for Moms.  Click on each event for details.

Every Monday: "Guilt Free" Ladies Night Out at Melting Pot of Westwood, 5-10PM (Sponsored)

Every Friday and Saturday Night: Parents' Night Out with Westwood Childcare Academy, call for details. (Sponsored)


Got a great Mom's Day/Night Out event? Share it with other moms in the area by filling out an event submission form HERE.

One Person's Junk Is Another Person's Treasure


Your Cyber Guide To Selling and Buying Stuff

Spring is "garage sale" season!   With so much stuff happening online these days, you don't need to host your own garage sale to clean out your basement or garage full of "junk" or pore through local newspapers to find out what garage sales are happening in your neck of the woods.  Here's your handy cyber guide to connect you to the places to sell your unwanted goods and to find new treasures.

Facebook has become a growing hotspot for families to buy and sell their stuff.  What's ...

Free Museum Passes At Area Libraries




Did you know that some local libraries offer their patrons free passes to certain museums in New York City?  We were able to go see the dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History last year with a family pass from the Old Tappan Library.  (Unfortunately, they don't offer it anymore!)  Here is a list of libraries and the passes they offer.  Please note that these are only for library cardholders and who are residents of the town in which the library is located.  Call or visit the library for ...

Swim Gym's Water Safety Tips For A Fun Summer


Sponsored Article

As summer approaches, thoughts are shifting toward warm weather and days by the pool. Here are a few general water safety tips to keep in mind this summer from The Swim Gym, Inc. located in Woodcliff Lake.

1. There is no substitute for active parental supervision.  Active supervision involves being either in the water or directly on the side of the pool with your child/children. While parents are watching their children, they should not be reading a book, on the phone, or engaged in deep conversations with others.

2 ...

And The Winners Are...


Giveaway Winners of Hersheypark Tickets, Melting Pot Gift Certificates, Ali & Joe Tank Top

Here are the winners of last week's giveaways.  Please be sure to check your email to claim your prize!  If we don't hear from you by the date noted in the email, we will draw another winner.  

Ali & Joe Custom Tank Top :  Jennifer M. of Emerson




$50 Melting Pot Gift Certificate:  Jenelle M. of Montvale, Jennifer M. of Oradell, Janet P. of Park Ridge


2 Adult General Admission Tickets to Hersheypark: Shirley G. of Montvale


The iPAD mini giveaway for new subscribers is still open until June 15 ...

Macaroni Kid Is Expanding


Join Macaroni Kid's Team of Writers - All Talents Welcome!

Are you a mom or dad who knows what's happening in your town?
Do you enjoy writing?
Do you love interacting with other people?
Are you looking for fun way to be more involved in your community?
Do you love reading Macaroni Kid?

If you answered yes to any of the above, Macaroni Kid of Northern and Pascack Valley wants you!  We are looking for a few good moms and dads to join our team of contributing writers.  This is a great opportunity to learn more about your local ...

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