SAVOR SUMMER: SHOP, DINE & EXPLORE PAGE 26 theconnectionsnj.com ooking for an unforgettable summer of family fun? The Somerset County Park Commission has you covered with incredible parks, exciting events, and outdoor fun for all. Discover endless ways to enjoy nature, stay active, and connect with your community while enjoying a diverse range of programs and events through Labor Day. Below is a brief highlight of park facilities and programs. For a full listing, visit somersetcountyparks.org/ or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Outdoor Physical Fun Hikers and bikers can find great paths throughout the county, from Natirar Park to Washington Valley Park to the Sourland Mountain Preserve, for participants of all abilities. If you prefer more level routes, most County parks have paved paths for safe strolls and rides. For those seeking a guided experience, the Park Commission has three monthly Nature Walks through the Great Swamp led by Environmental Education Center Naturalists. Tweens and teens looking to learn more about horses and riding can sign up at the Stable at Lord Stirling Park. There are programs to learn grooming and horse care, horseback riding, and more. Anglers of all ages can take advantage of the dozens of trout stocked fishing spots along the various branches of the Raritan River, as well as in Colonial Park’s ponds. And, of course, the County’s five award-winning golf courses are open daily all summer long. Come on out for 18 holes, take some lessons at the Neshanic Valley Learning Center, or sharpen up your game at our pitch and putt courses. If you’re up for racquet sports, visit North Branch Greenway Park’s pickleball courts or take up tennis at the Green Knoll or Colonial Park Courts. Family Fun Bring the whole family for a day-long outing at Colonial Park’s mini golf course, take a paddleboat out on the Pond, settle down for a picnic, and then watch the kids cool off at the splash park! And don’t forget the dog park for your canine companions. Warrenbrook Pool is another great place for the family during the hot summer days. Toddlers and babies can splash in the wading pool while older kids and adults enjoy the pool and water slide. The pool makes a great location for a family picnic, as do the set-aside picnic areas around the playground in Duke Island Park. The Best Community Events of the Summer The Park Commission has a full schedule of fun summer events. The season kicks off in June with the famous Rose Day Festival at Colonial Park’s Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden. This is followed at North Branch Park by the best Independence Day fireworks show around, including live music and food trucks. The weekly Summer Concert Series also features food trucks and live local bands rocking tunes from throughout the ages at Duke Island Park. Rent an Event or Party Space If you’re looking for a summer party location or a great venue for a family reunion, the picnic pavilions at Colonial Park, Duke Island Park, East County Park, and North Branch Park are ready for your reservation. Each pavilion has barbecues, tables, covered spaces, convenient parking, and can be reserved in advance for your exclusive use. Make some arrangements today to set your summer park plans in place. We’ll see you there! L Park Commission has you covered with in Stable at Lord Stirling Park. There are pro SOMERSET SPOTLIGHT Summer in Full Bloom: Exploring Somerset County Parks Looking for an unforgettable summer of family fun? The Somerset County Park Commission has you covered with incredible parks, exciting events, and outdoor fun for all. WOMEN’S CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE Summer Items Arriving Daily The sustainable way to buy designer clothes and accessories at a fraction of retail 908-647-7336 www.thevestedinterest.com Open Tue, Wed, Fri 11am-6pm • Thurs 11am-7pm • Sat 11am-5pm 186 Mount Bethel Road, Warren, NJ Consignments accepted by appointment. • VINCE CAMUTO • MICHAEL KORS • RALPH LAUREN • ANTHROPOLOGIE • LULULEMON • COACH • THEORY • CHICOS • TALBOTS • KATE SPADE • LUCKY • MARC JACOBS • TORY BURCH • D.V.F. • VINCE • • MARC JACOBS • TORY BURCH • D.V.F. • VINCE • THEORY • CHICOS • TALBOTS • KATE SPADE • LUCKY FREE PEOPLE • BCBG • GUCCI • ANN TAYLOR • DKNY • LILY PULTIZER • EILEEN FISHER • JOIE Weddings, Birthdays, Christenings, Barbeques, Picnics, Holiday Parties, Company Parties Professional Waitresses/Waiters & Bartenders Tents Available Contact: Susie or Emilio Muniz at (908) 400-9423 Party Planning & Catering for All Occasions: We bring the party to you!
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