The UC Scoop - April 14, 2025

Mid-April means one thing: patio weather is back (well, almost - we’re still struggling to get into the 70s), and so are the pop-ups, street fairs, and fresh spring menus. Union County is waking up from winter with a full calendar and we’ve got the scoop on where to eat, shop, and explore this week. Whether you're hunting down your next favorite bite or looking for a fun weekend event, there’s something blooming around every corner.

But before that, here’s a quick poll for you.

From crusty sourdough to pastel-frosted cupcakes, Union County’s bakeries are serving up comfort, creativity, and a whole lot of sugar. Whether you’re craving a flaky croissant, a custom cake, or just a warm cookie to go with your coffee, we’ve rounded up some of the best local spots to satisfy your sweet tooth and maybe discover a new favorite along the way.

Bovella’s Pastry Shoppe
101 E Broad Street, Westfield, NJ

A Westfield institution since 1949, Bovella’s is renowned for its classic Italian pastries, custom cakes, and seasonal specialties. Recognized by NJ.com as one of the best bakeries in New Jersey, it offers a European-style café ambiance and ships nationwide.

Natale’s Summit Bakery
185 Broad Street, Summit, NJ

Family-owned since the 1930s, Natale’s is celebrated for its Philly Fluff cake, crumb buns, and traditional Italian breads. Frequently named one of the top bakeries in the state.

Bakehouse by Joe Murphy
1253 Springfield Avenue, New Providence, NJ

Led by Michelin-experienced pastry chef Joe Murphy, this charming bakery offers Parisian-style treats and savory favorites like the Taylor Ham & Cheese croissant. Don’t miss the signature Brooklyn Blackout Cake.

Luchita’s Bakery
2717 Morris Ave, Union, NJ

This Peruvian bakery is known for unique desserts like passion fruit cheesecake, tres leches, and custom cakes. A hidden gem for Latin-inspired sweets in Union County.

Brownie Points Bakery
3 Beechwood Road, Summit, NJ

A downtown Summit favorite, Brownie Points is known for its creative, made-from-scratch treats using high-quality ingredients like European-style butter and Valrhona cocoa. Don't miss their signature "duffin"—a delightful doughnut-muffin hybrid.

Papa Ganache
8 Eastman Street Cranford, NJ

Papa Ganache is a small-batch bakery producing delicious vegan and gluten-free sweet and savory treats. Their commitment to quality and flavor makes them a standout in the plant-based baking scene.

Two Fields Bakeshop
528 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights, NJ

A dedicated gluten-free, nut-free, and allergy-friendly bakery offering a delightful array of pastries, breads, and custom cakes. Known for their commitment to quality and flavor, they cater to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

Brunella Portuguese Coffee & Deli
615 South Ave W, Westfield, NJ

While not just a bakery per se, Brunella is the place to go if you’re searching for pasteis de nata, the Portuguese egg custard tart. Known for its quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere, it's a great spot to enjoy traditional Portuguese pastries and dishes.

Délice Macarons
19 Eastman St, Cranford, NJ

Délice Macarons brings a slice of Paris to downtown Cranford. Renowned for their artisanal French macarons, this bakery offers a variety of flavors that delight the palate. Beyond macarons, they serve an array of viennoiseries, including buttery croissants and pain au chocolat.

Jess Bakeshop
18 North Ave, Garwood, NJ 07027

Jess Bakeshop is a charming bakery nestled in the heart of Garwood, NJ. Founded by Jess, a passionate baker with roots in South Korea and training from the French Culinary Institute in New York City, the shop brings a unique blend of Asian and French baking traditions to the community. ​The bakery specializes in naturally leavened sourdough breads, offering a variety of flavors that are baked fresh each morning.

Don Ricky Colombian Bakery
315 Morris Ave, Elizabeth, NJ

Established in 1979, Don Ricky Colombian Bakery is New Jersey’s first Colombian bakery, renowned for its authentic pandeyuca and pandebono. This family-owned establishment offers a variety of traditional Colombian baked goods, including arepas and empanadas, all crafted using time-honored techniques and fresh ingredients.

Sinai Bakery Restaurant
115 Westfield Ave W Suite #B, Roselle Park, NJ

Sinai Bakery Restaurant in Roselle Park offers a delightful fusion of Mexican cuisine and traditional baked goods. Known for its flavorful tortas, tacos, and standout tres leches cake, this cozy spot has become a local favorite for both savory meals and sweet treats. Open daily from early morning, Sinai Bakery provides a welcoming atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, or a quick pastry on the go.

This issue is sponsored by

Nature Behind Glass, located at 460 Park Avenue, 2nd Floor, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, specializes in creating custom terrariums that bring the beauty of nature into your home or office. They offer workshops where participants can design and build their own terrariums, providing a hands-on experience in crafting these miniature ecosystems. For more information or to schedule a workshop, you can contact them at [email protected]

Toddler Time – Wonderful World
April 15, 2025, 9:30 AM
Trailside Nature & Science Center, Watchung Reservation
Explore the “Wonderful World” with your little one. Designed for toddlers, this session connects kids to nature through sight, sound, and story.

Senior Walks – Deserted Village Tour
April 15, 2025, 11:30 AM
Trailside Nature & Science Center, Watchung Reservation
Discover the history and mystery of the Deserted Village with a Trailside Naturalist as your guide. A relaxing and enlightening stroll for seniors.

Art for All Abilities – Brush & Bond Night
April 16, 2025, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Public Library – Zisman Room, Hillside
Enjoy a relaxing evening of art and connection in this inclusive program for Union County residents. Registration is required.

Senior Walk: Peregrine Falcons
April 22, 2025, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Trailside Nature & Science Center, Watchung Reservation
Learn about the fastest animal on Earth—the peregrine falcon. This guided walk includes live footage from New Jersey’s only falcon nest cam, perched high above Elizabeth.

Art for All Abilities – Artsy Bunch Night
April 23, 2025, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Peterstown Community Center – Large Meeting Room, Elizabeth
Bring your creativity and join other community members for an inclusive night of art-making. Free to attend, but you must register ahead.

Food Trucks and DJ at the Centennial Avenue Pool
April 26, 2025 (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Centennial Avenue Pool, 401 Centennial Ave, Cranford
Kick off the pool season with an evening of delicious eats from local food trucks and live DJ entertainment. This family-friendly event also offers pool membership registration and giveaways. Rain date is April 27.​

Blossom & Brew Tea Party
April 27, 2025 (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
First Presbyterian Church of Cranford, 11 Springfield Ave, Cranford
Celebrate the Floraphile Garden Club's 75th anniversary with an afternoon of tea, tasty treats, and enchanting hats. Tickets are $45, and proceeds support community service projects. Limited seating available

Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza
April 27, 2025, 2:00 PM
Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway
A sensory-friendly spectacle of bubble magic for kids and adults with sensory sensitivities. Created by Guinness World Record holder Jeff Boyer.

The Union County 2025 Senior Art Exhibit
April 21 – June 4, 2025, Various hours
UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, 1776 Raritan Rd, Scotch Plains
An inspiring exhibit showcasing artwork by local residents aged 60+. Open to the public for a spring season of creativity and community pride.

Senior Walk: Pollinators
April 29, 2025, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Trailside Nature & Science Center, Watchung Reservation
Discover the essential role of pollinators while exploring the butterfly garden and meadow. Seniors will observe spring wildflowers and the bees, flies, and butterflies that help them thrive.

Crossroads Live Music
April 2025, Saturday Evenings
78 North Ave, Garwood
Live music performances at Crossroads in Garwood.

Friends of the Westfield Memorial Library Book Sale
April 30 – May 3, 2025 (Times vary by day)
Westfield Memorial Library, 550 E Broad Street, Westfield
Browse thousands of gently used books at bargain prices! This beloved community book sale includes fiction, nonfiction, children’s titles, and media. All proceeds benefit the Westfield Memorial Library. Early access for Friends members begins April 30. Open to the public May 1–3.

Acrylic Painting Workshop: Terrific Trees
May 11, 2025, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Trailside Nature & Science Center, Watchung Reservation
Join artist Dario Scholis for a hands-on workshop in acrylic painting focused on tree-inspired art. Materials are included; pre-registration is required. $20 per person.

Legally Blonde, The Musical
May 2–18, 2025, 8:00 PM Fri/Sat, 2:00 PM Sun
CDC Theatre, 78 Winans Ave., Cranford
Join Elle Woods in this lively, feel-good musical filled with laughs, heart, and plenty of pink. A must-see for fans of the movie and Broadway.

The Music of Tony Bennett & Bill Evans
May 15, 2025, 6:15 PM
Roselle Park Veterans Memorial Library, 404 Chestnut St., Roselle Park
A jazz tribute like no other featuring pianist Joel Zelnik and vocalist Tony Corrao performing hits from the legendary duo.

Summit Chorale in Concert: Remembrances
May 17, 2025, 7:30 PM
Calvary Episcopal Church, 31 Woodland Ave., Summit
A powerful conclusion to a WWII-themed season with music of hope and remembrance, including Brahms, Mahler, and Holocaust-inspired works.

Union County Women Mean Business
May 28, 2025, Time TBD
Location TBD
This annual conference brings together women leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals for a day of networking and empowerment. Stay tuned for details.

Rhythm and Blues by the Brook 2024
June 1, 2025, All day
Cedar Brook Park, Plainfield
A free, all-day musical celebration featuring The 5th Dimension, The Company Men, and more. Don’t miss this groove-filled day in the park.

Revolutionary War Reenactment at Union Square Plaza
June 7, 2025 (Starts at 12:00 PM)
Union Square Plaza, Elizabeth Avenue, Elizabeth
Step back in time with the 2nd Annual Revolutionary War Reenactment featuring cosplay soldiers from the Heards Militia. Watch military-style drills and thrilling cannon firings on the hour starting at noon. Historical vendors and colonial-era displays bring 18th-century Elizabeth to life.

Family Fun Night
June 13, 2025 (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Downtown Summit
An evening filled with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and special promotions from local businesses. Enjoy games, music, and more in the heart of Summit.

Summit Farmers Market
Sundays, April 27 – December 21, 2025 (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
22 DeForest Avenue, Summit
One of New Jersey's premier farmers markets, offering fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and specialty foods from local vendors. A great way to support local agriculture and artisans.

Scotch Plains Farmers Market
Saturdays, May 3 – November 22, 2025 (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
430 Park Avenue (Municipal Parking Lot), Scotch Plains
Celebrating over 30 years, this market features a diverse array of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, organic items, and specialty foods. It's a community favorite for local shopping and live music.​

The Market at Union
Thursdays, June 5 - September 25, 2025 (5:00 - 8:30 PM)
​1980 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ
The Market at Union is held at the front parking lot of Town Hall/Union Public Library, located at 1980 Morris Avenue. The market features a variety of local farmers, producers, artisans, and crafters, offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, and handmade goods.

AAPI Food & Music Festival
May 3, 2025, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Stuyvesant Avenue, Union Township
Celebrate the flavors and rhythms of AAPI culture with food trucks, vendors, and live performances at this annual cultural festival.

Union County Celtic Festival
May 3, 2025, All day
Clark
A spirited celebration of Celtic music, dance, and traditions, with competitions and performances that showcase the heart of Celtic culture.

Westfield Spring Fling Street Fair
May 4, 2025 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Downtown Westfield
An annual spring tradition! Explore arts and crafts vendors, enjoy tasty bites, live entertainment, and kids' activities. Free parking available in municipal lots and surrounding streets.

Our Lady of Peace Country Fair
May 7-10, 2025
New Providence
A traditional country fair featuring various vendors, activities, and entertainment for the whole family.

Cranford Street Fest (Spring 2025)
May 18, 2025 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
North Union Ave. & Alden St., Cranford
This family-friendly street festival features over 100 local artisans, food trucks, and live music. Enjoy handcrafted goods, delicious eats, and entertainment in the heart of downtown Cranford. Admission and parking are free.

Kenilworth Street Fair & Classic Car Show
May 18, 2025
Boulevard, Kenilworth
Hosted by the Borough of Kenilworth, this annual event showcases classic cars, local vendors, and entertainment, drawing crowds from across the county.​

Clark's Rock the Block Street Fair
May 18, 2025 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Westfield Avenue, Clark
Clark will be transformed into a marketplace of vendors, crafters and retail establishments. Come enjoy the culinary delights of the food vendors. The day will be filled with entertainment and a Kids Zone with rides and inflatables.

NJ GreekFest 2025
May 30 – June 1, 2025
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Road, Westfield
Opa! Celebrate Greek culture with three days of authentic cuisine, traditional dancing, live music, and shopping. Hosted by Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, NJ GreekFest is a can't-miss annual favorite for food lovers and culture seekers alike. Free parking and family fun guaranteed!

Garwood Rocks Street Fair
June 1, 2025 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Center Street, Garwood
Garwood's signature street fair transforms Center Street into a vibrant marketplace featuring vendors, crafters, live music, and family-friendly activities. A must-attend event for local flair and fun.

Westfield Street Fair & Craft Show
June 7, 2025 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Westfield Train Station Parking Lot (South Ave. & Boulevard)
A full day of family-friendly fun with handcrafted goods from local artisans, live music and food. Perfect for a stroll and some local shopping.e I

Berkeley Heights Block Party
June 8, 2025 (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights
This lively community event features local vendors, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities. Hosted by the Berkeley Heights Business & Civic, it's a great way to enjoy a summer afternoon with neighbors and friends.nf

Downtown Cranford Spring Hop
April 19, 2025 | 12:00 - 2:00PM or 2:00 - 4:00 PM (two time slots)
Eastman Clock Plaza Park, North Union Avenue, Cranford

Children pick up eggs at downtown businesses with every participant winning a Golden Egg and receiving a $5 Downtown Cranford gift card. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance.

NJ Wine & Food Festival
May 2-4, 2024
Crystal Springs Resort
Hamburg, NJ

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Sussex Skylands, attendees can expect a dynamic blend of refined cuisine, exceptional wines, and intimate access to culinary masters, making this a must-attend event for gourmands and oenophiles alike.

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