Category: EVENTS

LOVE IS IN THE AIR IN NEW JERSEY WINE COUNTRY

Photo Credit PNDA Creative.jpg

The Garden State Wine Growers Association – a coalition of 60+ wineries and vineyards across New Jersey – invites you to indulge the state’s flourishing wine country through unique events and experiences happening every week this winter! 

There’s no doubt that New Jersey’s award-winning wineries and vineyards offer something truly special for everyone to enjoy. In the new year, we invite you to sip, savor, and explore weekends among the vines. Discover new wineries you’ve never visited before, or unwind with a glass of your favorites. You never know, your next favorite bottle might be just a tasting away. 

Coming Soon: As Valentine’s Day approaches, mark your calendar for the Wine & Chocolate Trial Weekend February 13-15! Participating New Jersey wineries will offer wine tastings, artisanal chocolates, live music, and more. Be on the lookout for additional details to come, and contact your local wineries to learn more about reservations. 

February 6, 2026: 

  • Head to Auburn Road Vineyard for Speakeasy Friday on February 6, featuring a special Valentino Spritz and a Valentino film festival from 5:30-8:30pm. Pay as you go. Reservations available. 
  • Get your laughs on at White Horse Winery’s Comedy Show on February 6 from 6-8pm. There’s a 2-drink minimum for those attending. 
  • If you’ve ever wanted to know how to make sushi, Rebel Sheep Wine Co. is giving you the opportunity. It’s hosting a Sushi Making Workshop on February 6 from 6:30-8:30pm. Cost: $55.

February 7, 2026: 

  • Laurita Winery hosts Dueling Pianos on February 7 from 6-9pm. Parties of 5 or more need a reservation. Others are communal seating. Cost: $55.
  • Terhune Orchards gets its Wine and Chocolate Weekend on this weekend on February 7 and 8. The pairing includes a wine flight, chocolates, and a souvenir glass. 
  • It’s a Dance Party at Summit City Farms and Winery on February 7 from 7-10pm with music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Cover: $10. 

February 11, 2026: 

  • Make reservations for an OYC Classic Experience, grab your besties, and celebrate Galentine’s Day at Old York Cellars on February 11. Enjoy half-priced glasses of wine and wine cocktails, plus half off our three-course wine pairing menu. 
  • Saddlehill hosts Sip, Wick and Win, Candle Making, Bingo Night on February 11 from 6-7:30pm. Sip, pour (candle wax), play, and win. Cost: $55.
  • Book your reservations for Sweetheart Tastings happening at Beneduce Vineyards from February 11-15, featuring 7 wines thoughtfully paired with locally crafted cheese, salumi, and artisanal truffles. Cost $55/person.

View the full calendar of winery events to find out what’s happening at New Jersey wineries near you, and plan your next escape today!

Here are some quick links and resources to help plan your week in the vines:

Cheers to New Jersey wine!

New Jersey American Water Opens 2026 Fire and EMS Grant Programs for Volunteer Departments

New Jersey American Water today announced the opening of its 2026 Volunteer Fire and EMS Grant Program, providing funding for volunteer fire departments and emergency response organizations across its service area. Now in its 16 th year, the program underscores New Jersey American Water’s ongoing commitment to supporting the firefighters and EMS professionals who protect their communities every day. Eligible organizations include volunteer fire departments, ambulance squads and fire aid units located within the company’s service areas. “As firefighters and EMS professionals, these men and women are on the front lines daily, and it’s essential that they have the equipment and training necessary to keep our communities safe,” said Edward J. Scanlon, Utility Mechanic for New Jersey American Water, member of the company’s Fire Grant Committee and Deputy Chief of the Strathmere Fire and Rescue. In his role with the company, Scanlon works closely with field operations and infrastructure maintenance, giving him a firsthand understanding of the critical partnership between water utilities and emergency responders. “Their unwavering dedication inspires us to continue strengthening local emergency response capabilities through this grant program.”
Applications are open beginning today and will be accepted through April 10, 2026, allowing departments additional time to align requests with budgeting and equipment needs. A committee composed of New Jersey American Water employees—many of whom also serve as volunteer emergency responders—will review submissions to help ensure funding supports real‑world needs in the field. Since the program’s launch in 2011, New Jersey American Water has awarded 332 grants totaling more than $451,000 to 207 volunteer fire departments and emergency response units.
Grants of up to $2,500 may be used for personal protective gear, communications equipment, first aid supplies, firefighting tools, vehicle maintenance and other operational needs. Reimbursement for specific training courses, including the costs of training manuals and instructional materials, is also eligible.
Organizations can apply online at www.newjerseyamwater.com/community under News & Community > Community Involvement. Departments selected for funding will receive notification in early May, and New Jersey American Water will announce the full list of awardees later in the month.

 

Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Center City

Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to explore all that Center City has to offer. A world-class dining scene, arts & culture, the oldest diamond district in the country… What’s not to love? Check out our top picks for a date night done right for couples, friends, and families! 

Window Shop in Jewelers’ Row | Diamond engagement rings, solid gold necklaces, watches, gemstones, and pearls — luxury pieces are a stone’s throw away in the country’s oldest diamond district. | Walnut to Market streets and 7th to 9th streets

Relax with a Galentine’s Spa Day | Spend Galentine’s Day with your closest friends being pampered with facials and pedicures at Rescue Spa in Rittenhouse Square. This flagship location spans 9,700 square feet, which includes 15 treatment rooms, a nail lounge, hair salon, brow room, and a makeup boutique. | 1811 Walnut St.

Expand Your Palette at The Elephant Restaurant & Bar | Take your loved ones and your taste buds on a flavorful adventure while enjoying a martini or mocktail along with tasty bites at this larger-than-life Valentine’s Day themed pop-up. | Through February 16 | 1500 Locust St.

4-Course Valentine’s Day Dinner at Aqimero | Treat your special someone to an unforgettable dining experience at Aqimero on Valentine’s Day. Chef’s exquisite four-course dinner will sweep you off your feet with fresh oysters and decadent molten lava cake, it’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss! | 10 Avenue of the Arts