What’s Happening Somerset

Coordinated by the Department of Parks & Recreation, Charter Day is an annual event which celebrates the history and 1760 Charter of Bernards Township and showcases community groups, businesses and talent. The event is held on the 3rd Saturday of May from 12pm – 6pm in the Downtown Basking Ridge area. Our event map and schedule of entertainment is posted in early May. The event features: – street fair with area businesses, school groups, non-profit organizations, local artisans and food vendors. – entertainment including musical and dance performances, demonstrations, strolling magicians and more. – a student art exhibit (artwork is collected through the Township’s public schools). – historical displays at the Brick Academy. – and amusement rides and games for children of all ages.

Sunday, May 17, 2026, 12 p.m. Mannion’s Pub & Restaurant 150 W. Main Street, Somerville, NJ 08876 This lively, immersive program brings the sounds and social life of the colonial tavern to life through music, storytelling, and audience participation. Performed by a duo featuring Linda Russell, an accomplished balladeer, the program blends period music with historical interpretation to explore the tavern’s central role in early American culture. Program is free, but donations are appreciated. Reservations are required as space is limited: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/songs-spirits-and-storytelling-music-in-the-colonial-tavern-tickets-1983307467023?aff=oddtdtcreator Food and drink are available to purchase from Mannion’s Pub & Restaurant. ? “History on Tap” features authentic colonial-era reenactors and musicians telling the stories of 18th-century taverns including Somerville’s historic Tunison’s Tavern as hubs of communities where people gathered to share news, engage in trade, and enjoy entertainment. Join the Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage Association monthly, March through June, on Sundays at Downtown Somerville restaurants for these family-friendly programs celebrating America 250. “Liberty Lives Here” is presented by the Downtown Somerville Alliance, celebrating America 250 in Somerville, New Jersey, with the sponsorship of the Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage Association, supporters of Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites and Proud Partners

A lively evening designed for fun, fashion, friendship, and self care. Downtown shops and boutiques offer exclusive deals, tastings, mini-makeovers, in-store events, and giveaways. The night is enhanced by outdoor entertainment, music, and themed activities that keep visitors exploring and engaging with local  businesses. Roll out the red carpet—this year’s Girls Night Out is going full Hollywood! Get ready for an evening of star-worthy fun, dazzling downtown vibes, and plenty of reasons to feel like an A-lister in the heart of Downtown Somerville. From glitz and glamour to surprises inspired by classic and modern Hollywood, this beloved event will celebrate style, community, health and wellness, and an unforgettable night out with friends. ? Check back soon for full event details, participating businesses, and special features. Lights, camera… Girls Night Out! Buy your tickets HERE!

The revolution is coming. 4 rounds of 5 questions each. The easygoing structure allows for an entertaining time while still allowing for conversation, dinner, and drinks. For more information, visit triviarevolution.com. This event is FREE.

This high energy show will get you moving with a blend of Pop Punk, Punk, Skate, Alt Rock, and post hardcore. We have a crazy good lineup for you! Father Before Me cranks out a distinct blend of pop, skate, and prog punk with a post hardcore edge. Their catchy metal riffs, fast paced punk rhythms, and progressive instrumentation with a lyrical approach pays respect to those who came before, shows gratitude for those currently here, and paves the way for those to come. Flat Iron is an emo, post harcore, pop-punk based band quickly growing their fanbase in our region. Raw Milk returns to the Rock Shack and you better sip their pop/punk goodness before it spoils! DJR has been ripping up Asbury Park one stage at a time and graces the Rock Shack stage for the first time.

Get ready for a great night of music when Squad5 returns to Willie McBrides in Branchburg!

Trees do a lot for us; why not learn how to thank them by name? Such constant features of our landscape, trees can be easy to take for granted compared to an unexpected wildflower or a chance wildlife sighting. But this time of verdancy is an invitation to pay closer attention to the steadfast giants that share and shape our land. Join us to get to know their defining traits and impressive diversity a little better, and learn how to identify the trees nearest to your home or heart!

Join us at Burnt Mill Potters for a special Student and Teacher Pottery Sale, featuring a live raku firing and a wide selection of handmade ceramics. This sale highlights work created by both our talented students and experienced teachers. You’ll find functional pottery and decorative pieces, all made by hand in our studio—perfect for gifts or for adding something unique to your home. Experience the excitement of a traditional raku firing, where red-hot pottery is pulled from the kiln and transformed through smoke and flame. Raku pieces are known for their dramatic crackle glazes and one-of-a-kind surfaces, and watching the process is as memorable as the finished work. Whether you’re a longtime pottery lover or just curious to see how ceramics are made, this event is a great opportunity to connect with the local arts community and take home something truly unique. www.BurntMillPotters.com

Learn how to create a stunning floral cake using buttercream! In this 2-hour class, you’ll decorate a beautiful cake featuring soft pink and ivory buttercream roses, swirls, and delicate details. We’ll guide you step-by-step through: • How to pipe buttercream roses and swirls • Creating dimension with different piping tips • Color blending for a soft, elegant look • Finishing touches and border techniques Each participant will decorate their own cake to take home. All supplies are included—just bring your creativity!

Step back into the spring of 1777 as General George Washington arrives at Flounder Brewing on horseback for a special afternoon of Revolutionary-era history at Carriage Farm. As part of our ongoing celebration of America’s 250th and our Revolutionary-themed programming, guests will have the chance to meet General Washington in person, take photos, ask questions, and enjoy a unique living history experience in the setting of our 250-year-old barn and historic farm property. Washington will be on site both before and after the afternoon lecture, giving visitors plenty of opportunity to interact with him throughout the day. The visit pairs with a special Queens College lecture taking place that afternoon, making this a perfect chance to enjoy both a deeper dive into local Revolutionary history and a memorable family-friendly historical encounter. Whether you’re a history buff, bringing the kids for a fun photo opportunity, or just stopping by for a beer and a truly one-of-a-kind experience, this is a day you won’t want to miss. Come raise a pour where history comes alive.