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Discover All the Outdoor Fun Middlesex County Has to Offer

Middlesex County continues to invest in quality of life through parks, cultural programming, and outdoor recreation

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 07/26/2025

(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ) -- Middlesex County is encouraging residents and visitors to take full advantage of the rest of the summer season by exploring the County's expansive parks system, vibrant cultural events, and free community programming. From scenic trails and championship golf courses to music under the stars and festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

“Our investment in the arts, culture, and public spaces speaks to the very core of who we are as a County,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “We want every resident to feel proud of where they live and have access to experiences that build community, enrich lives, and create lasting memories.”

“Our parks, trails, and free programming are a reflection of our commitment to the health and well-being of every resident,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, Chair of the County's Infrastructure Management Committee. “We’ve made it a priority to ensure our outdoor spaces are well-maintained, accessible, and welcoming year-round—especially in the summer months when families are looking to spend quality time together outdoors.”

EXPERIENCE CULTURAL PROGRAMMING ALL SUMMER LONG

Middlesex County offers a dynamic lineup of cultural events throughout the summer, including live music, theater, festivals, and family-friendly activities that highlight the region’s diversity and creativity.




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Signature Events Include:

The Plays-in-the-Park series at Roosevelt Park in Edison invites audiences to enjoy Broadway musicals under the stars:

* Grease: July 30–August 9



Music-in-the-Park, a free, rotating concert series, brings live entertainment to parks across the County:

* Raritan Bay Waterfront Park: June 25–September 10

* Thompson Park: July 2–August 27

* Spring Lake Park: July 6–August 24

* Joseph Medwick Park: August 7–14

* Children’s Summer Series (NEW):  Johnson Park: August 21



FolkLIVE Event Series:

* August 23 - FolkLIVE: New Jersey Folk Festival 50th Anniversary at Davidson’s Mill Pond Park

* September 13 - FolkLIVE: Mexican Folkloric Festival at Elmer B. Boyd Park



More Summer Events Across the County Include:

* July 23-August 21Senior Art Contest & Show at the Studio Art Gallery Performing Arts Center at Middlesex College

* July 31 Dine Below the Line at Alexander Jankowski Community Center

* September 13 Master Gardeners Children Gardeners Series: Succulents and Sand Garden at Davidson's Mill Pond Park

* September 14 - Roaring 20s Jazz Party at East Jersey Old Town Village 

To view the full schedule of upcoming arts, history, and cultural events, visit MiddlesexCountyCulture.com.  



EXPLORE MIDDLESEX COUNTY’S PARKS AND OUTDOOR SPACES

Middlesex County is home to more than 19 public parks, thousands of acres of preserved open space, and the 3.5-mile Middlesex Greenway—a multi-use trail connecting Metuchen, Edison, and Woodbridge. Residents can enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas.

The County is also home to three public golf courses—Tamarack Golf Course in East Brunswick, Meadows Golf Course in Plainsboro, and Raritan Landing Golf Course in Piscataway—operated by Indigo Sports, a Troon company. Following major renovations, Tamarack Golf Course now features two fully rebuilt 18-hole championship courses with upgraded tee boxes and brand-new USGA-spec bent grass greens. To book a tee time or to become an Advantage Cardholder, visit middlesexcountygolf.com.

Residents can also reserve picnic areas and event spaces through the County’s parks and recreation portal, making it easy to plan summer gatherings. To explore all available parks and make reservations, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/parksandrec.

No matter the season, Middlesex County offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures and cultural gems to local flavors, there’s always more to discover. Explore it all in the County’s Outdoor Guide at discovermiddlesex.com/outdoorguide.

Middlesex County is bettering the lives of residents and providing economic growth opportunities to business and industry. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 County parks, and world-class healthcare and research facilities, making it one of the nation’s most dynamic regions and a leader in life sciences, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. The County's award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools system and two-year Middlesex College uphold its position as #1 in the state for education and workforce development. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century.


EVENT PREVIEWS

(TEANECK, NJ) -- The Freakin Rican presents Arte de Nuestra Isla: Series Two, the second installment of its cultural art exhibition celebrating Puerto Rican artists, storytelling, and community connection. The event takes place on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at The Freakin Rican (468 Cedar Lane) in Teaneck.
Wise Animal Rescue to Host "Barknic" on August 8th

Wise Animal Rescue to Host "Barknic" on August 8th

(MONTCLAIR, NJ) -- Wise Animal Rescue presents Barknic, its biggest fundraising event of the year, on Saturday, August 8, 2026 from 12:00pm to 5:00pm at Lackawanna Station in Montclair. Perfect for both pets and their humans, Barknic is an indoor, family-friendly, and animal-friendly celebration that brings together the NJ community for an afternoon of fun while supporting a meaningful cause. Guests can enjoy local vendors, music, interactive activities for dogs and their humans, unique photo opportunities, and the chance to meet adoptable pets from local rescue organizations.
Create Spectacular Giant Puppets and More for the Illumination 250 Parade, the Largest Public Art Experience in Bergen County

Create Spectacular Giant Puppets and More for the Illumination 250 Parade, the Largest Public Art Experience in Bergen County

(HACKENSACK, NJ) -- The Northern New Jersey Community Foundation invites the public to participate in the special 'Giant Puppets Workshop Series' led by artists from the internationally acclaimed Processional Arts. The puppets created in the workshop series from August 14 through August 19, 2026 will be featured in a giant puppet parade marching down Main Street in Hackensack during Illumination 250, an all-day arts festival taking place on October 3rd to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.

"Allen AME: Our Stories, Our Space, Our Legacy" to Celebrate Faith, History, Art, and Community

(CAPE MAY, NJ) -- The public is invited to attend "Allen AME: Our Stories, Our Space, Our Legacy," a free special program honoring the enduring history and cultural significance of the former Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church in Cape May. The event will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at the Clemans Theater for the Arts at the historic Allen AME Church (717 Franklin Street) in Cape May.
Nearly One-Third of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival Lives at Cannonball This September

Nearly One-Third of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival Lives at Cannonball This September

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Nearly one-third of the 2026 Philadelphia Fringe Festival comes to life at Cannonball Festival this September, as more than 100 artists present bold new work across five stages in a nonstop celebration of fearless live performance. Celebrating its sixth year, Cannonball is the largest hub of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, championing a revolutionary artist-led model that prioritizes equity, experimentation, and community connection.
 

FEATURED EVENTS


Bees Deluxe

Friday, July 31, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ


Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore

Friday, July 31, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Grunin Center - Main Stage
1 College Drive, Toms River, NJ


Mala Aria

Friday, July 31, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Premiere Stages - Bauer Boucher Theatre Center
1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ


Legally Blonde, The Musical

Friday, July 31, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Middletown Arts Center
36 Church Street, Middletown, NJ


Stone Flower - ​Santana Tribute Band

Saturday, August 01, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Lizzie Rose Music Room
217 E. Main Street, Tuckerton, NJ



 

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