The UC Scoop - December 1, 2025

Bringing you eats and arts around Union County, NJ.

December 01, 2025

In partnership with

🍁 The Scoop on December’s First Spark

We’ve hit that perfect early-December stretch where Union County starts to glow a little—tree lightings, winter markets, Santa sightings, and all the small moments that make this season feel good. If you’re looking for something festive to do or somewhere great to eat, this week’s Scoop has plenty to explore.

Here’s the poll question for this week.

We’re exploring a UC Scoop Discount Card that would offer 10–20% off at participating local restaurants, cafés and shops. It’s a simple way to support small businesses while saving a little each time you go out. We’re just trying to gauge interest at this point.

Would you support a local discount card that helps promote restaurants and small businesses across Union County?

Did you know?

On June 23, 1780, Springfield was the site of one of the last major northern battles of the Revolutionary War. American forces halted a British push toward Washington’s encampment in Morristown, helping secure New Jersey for the remainder of the conflict. The town’s Cannon Ball House, struck by musket and cannon fire during the fighting, still stands today as a museum preserving the story of that pivotal day.

Got a local tip?

Discovered a hidden gem, new restaurant, or cool event? We’d love to feature it in The UC Scoop!

📩 Send your scoop to hey@theucscoop.com or message us on Instagram @ucscoop.

Our UC Scoop Real Estate partner

If you’re thinking about selling in early 2026, it may be smart to start the conversation now. Talk to Suzanne.

New This Week

387 Oyster House & Bar
387 Park Ave, Scotch Plains

Now in soft opening, 387 Oyster House brings a fresh seafood-centric concept to the former Bernadette’s location in Scotch Plains. Early visitors can expect a polished coastal vibe and a menu built around oysters and seasonal seafood, with the team gradually rolling out full service as they ramp up. If you’re curious about new openings and love trying places before they officially launch, this is one to keep on your radar as it begins welcoming guests.

Coming Soon!

Westfield:

Cranford:

Cozy Cafe & Grill

This Week’s Pick

The Publick House

899 Mountain Ave, Mountainside

The Publick House is a long-standing neighborhood tavern and restaurant in Mountainside, offering a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes it a reliable choice for casual dinners and gatherings. Known locally as a comfortable spot to unwind, it serves a broad American menu with familiar classics and crowd-pleasing favorites. Its cozy dining room and friendly service give it an easygoing charm that appeals to both regulars and first-time visitors. Whether you’re meeting friends, grabbing a low-key weeknight meal, or looking for a place with a warm community feel, The Publick House remains a steady Mountainside staple.

The daily health habit you’ll actually stick with…

This time of year, it’s SO hard to stay in control of your health.

Holiday travel (and meals!), big family gatherings, dark and cold days, it’s easy to skip that workout, sleep in later than you should, or have just one more cookie.

That’s why you need a daily health habit that’s easy to stick with.

Meet AG1: With just one quick scoop every morning, you’ll get over 75 ingredients that help support your immune health, gut health, energy, and close nutrient gaps in your diet.

Right now is the best time to get started - with every new subscription, they are giving away $126 in free gifts for the holidays.

Give AG1 a try today and take control of your health this holiday season.

Give AG1 a try today

Civic Spotlight

Volunteer for Westfield Boards & Commissions — Applications Due Dec 5
Westfield is accepting applications for 2026 board and commission vacancies. Submit your form by December 5 to be considered for appointment before January’s Reorganization Meeting.

Events Happening This Week

Monday, Dec. 1

DIY Bookmarks - 4:00 PM
Union Public Library – Main Branch, 1980 Morris Ave, Union
A relaxed, hands-on craft session where kids can design their own bookmarks using seasonal colors and materials. It’s an easy after-school drop-in activity for young creators looking to unwind.
Film & Community Discussion: Mahalia Jackson - 5:45 PM
Union Public Library – Vauxhall Branch, 123 Hilton Ave, Vauxhall
Enjoy a screening and guided discussion centered on the life and legacy of gospel icon Mahalia Jackson. A thoughtful early-evening program for adults interested in music, history and cultural storytelling.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Wheel of Fortune LIVE! - 7:30 PM
Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank
The classic TV game show comes to the stage with host Jay Flats and a full replica of the iconic wheel. Audience members can register for a chance to spin, solve puzzles and win prizes including cash or trips. Doors open at 5:30 PM for contestant registration, and VIP packages offer photo ops, wheel spins and exclusive merchandise.

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Springfield Christmas Tree Lighting - 5:30 – 8:00 PM
Springfield Town Hall, 100 Mountain Ave, Springfield
Springfield’s annual tree lighting returns with live performances from local talent, a stilt-walking Toy Soldier, the Grinch, and an appearance by Santa. Families can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, a petting zoo, and this year’s new inflatable Snowman Igloo. The event includes hot pretzels, giveaways, and treats from community partners.
Plainfield Holiday Lights Celebration - 6:00 PM
Plainfield City Hall, 515 Watchung Ave, Plainfield
Plainfield welcomes the season with caroling, live musical performances and plenty of hot chocolate on the front steps of City Hall. Families can enjoy the festive atmosphere as Santa makes his arrival at 6:45 PM. A warm, community-centered way to kick off December. Rain date: December 4.
Cranford Open Space & Recreation Plan Hearing - 7:30 PM
Cranford Council Chamber, 8 Springfield Ave, Cranford
The Planning Board will review the 2025 Open Space and Recreation Plan and accept public comments. Residents can read the plan online.

Thursday, Dec. 4

LeAnn Rimes: Greatest Hits Christmas Tour - 7:30 PM
Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 S St, Morristown
Join two-time Grammy winner LeAnn Rimes for her Greatest Hits Christmas Tour, performing chart-toppers like “How Do I Live,” “Blue,” and “Can’t Fight the Moonlight,” along with festive holiday songs. A great night out for fans of country-pop and holiday music.

Friday, Dec. 5

Winter Wonderland & Holiday Village - 5:00 - 9:30 PM
Town Hall, 1976 Morris Ave.,Union
Join the festive cheer at Union Township’s Winter Wonderland Holiday Village, an all-ages community event featuring holiday decorations, light displays, family activities, and local vendors. It’s an easy-going, neighborhood-friendly outing that brings the township together for seasonal fun.
Christmas Tree Lighting & Winter Market - 4:00 – 8:00 PM; tree lighting Friday at 7:00 PM
Michael Mauri “Gazebo” Park, East Grant Ave & Chestnut St, Roselle Park
Roselle Park’s Winter Market fills Michael Mauri Park with craft and food vendors, live performances and family friendly activities across two festive evenings. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at 5:00 p.m. for photos, and Friday’s schedule includes the official tree lighting countdown at 7:00 p.m. In case of bad weather, the tree lighting moves to Saturday and that day’s market is canceled.
Model Train Show & Open House - 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
A. Paul Mallory Railroad Center, 295 Jefferson Ave, Union Township
Kick off the holiday season with this family-friendly show featuring over 200 model train cars across an expansive layout, demonstrations, and a snack shop. It runs the first of three weekends ending December 14.

Saturday, Dec. 6

Carriages & Carolers - 1:00–4:00 PM
Downtown Summit (various locations)
Downtown Summit turns into a Victorian-style holiday scene with free horse-drawn carriage rides, festive carolers, and pop-up musical performances along Springfield Avenue and the Promenade. Visitors can stroll the decorated storefronts, enjoy seasonal treats from local shops, and soak in one of Summit’s most charming holiday traditions. Perfect for families, date-day wandering, and anyone craving classic small-town holiday magic.
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town - 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Community Center, 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford
Bring the kids downtown for a festive start to the season: Santa will be on hand for photos, there’ll be holiday music from local school bands, face painting, seasonal treats, and a cheerful atmosphere.
Winter Wonderland & Holiday Village - 2:00 - 9:00 PM
Town Hall, 1976 Morris Ave.,Union
Join the festive cheer at Union Township’s Winter Wonderland Holiday Village, an all-ages community event featuring holiday decorations, light displays, family activities, and local vendors. It’s an easy-going, neighborhood-friendly outing that brings the township together for seasonal fun.
Saint John’s Christmas Market - 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
587 Springfield Avenue, Summit
Shop handmade gifts, décor, baked goods, and art from local makers while enjoying food, hot drinks, and festive activities. Highlights include a petting zoo (10 AM–12 PM), carol sing (12:30 PM), and a visit from St. Nicholas (1 PM). The market supports Summit’s GRACE food pantry and hosts a toy drive for Newark children.
Berkeley Heights Winter Walk - 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Springfield Avenue between Snyder & Plainfield Avenues
Downtown Berkeley Heights transforms into a lively winter festival with over 80 activities, including an artificial ice rink, carriage rides, snow globes, a trackless train, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Local businesses host games, entertainment, and giveaways in a huge community celebration.
Berkeley Heights Tree Lighting & Fireworks - 6:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Park, Park Ave & Plainfield Ave
End the day with the town’s annual tree lighting followed by a fireworks show over Veterans Memorial Park. A festive community moment supported by the Berkeley Heights Recreation Department and Garden State Fireworks — a perfect wrap to a full day of holiday cheer.
Scotch Plains Farmers Market – 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
430 Park Ave (Municipal Lot), Scotch Plains
Long-running market with a deep vendor lineup.

Sunday, Dec. 7

Club Pilates & Rumble Boxing Holiday Pop Up - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
225 East Broad St., Westfield
Shop local vendors and cross some items off your Holiday shopping list.

Ice Skating to Celebrate the Season - Sessions at 11:00 AM, 1:45 PM and 4:30 PM
Warinanco Sports Center, 1 Park Drive, Roselle
Union County’s annual holiday tradition returns with three two-hour skating sessions featuring Santa, hot chocolate, cookies and festive music. Admission is $8 per person and includes skate rental, treats and entry for one session. Tickets must be purchased in advance online, and all attendees entering the building need a ticket except children under two.
Cherish the Ladies: Celtic Christmas - 3:00 PM
Union County Performing Arts Center, 1601 Irving St, Rahway
Celebrate the season with Cherish the Ladies as they bring Irish charm, soaring vocals and championship step dancing to classic holiday carols. A lively, family-friendly matinee and one of UCPAC’s most beloved annual holiday traditions.
Summit Farmers Market - 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Park & Shop Lot #1 (DeForest & Woodland), Summit
Enjoy Summit’s farmers market — rain or shine.

🤝 Volunteer Spotlight: Summit Animal Rescue Association (SARA)

Summit Animal Rescue Association (SARA) is a volunteer-run, foster-based cat rescue serving Union County and nearby towns, focused on rescuing and rehabilitating stray and abandoned cats. Instead of operating a shelter, SARA relies on foster homes and showcases adoptable cats at weekly events at the Watchung PetSmart and monthly events at Pet Supplies Plus in Garwood. Volunteers can help with fostering, cat care, adoption-day support, and community outreach.

Visit our bulletin board sponsors:

Suzanne McMahon - Real estate agent serving Union County

Nature Behind Glass - Looking for unique holiday gifts? Custom miniature terrariums and DIY workshops

Wear The Whimsy - Sustainable fashion, made easy

→ Contact us if you’re interested in adding your business to our bulletin board.

→ Email: hey@theucscoop.com

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We’d love your feedback. If you discover a new restaurant/cafe or event we should know about, email us at hey@theucscoop.com

P.S. Want to sponsor The UC Scoop, feature an event, offer a reader’s deal? Let’s chat! Email us at hey@theucscoop.com

The UC Scoop - December 1, 2025

🍁 The Scoop on December’s First Spark

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