MercerMe

Cooks & Books: Tea Rex!
2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Pennington United Methodist Church, 60 S Main Street, Pennington, NJ, United States
Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 2 PM
Location: Pennington United Methodist Church 60 S Main Street, Pennington, NJ
Spark the imagination of your favorite young chef in this hands-on literary and culinary experience!
First, we will read Tea Rex by Molly Idle. Then we’ll cook up a recipe inspired by the book- orange cardamom cupcakes and orange chai cream soda!
Recommended for ages 5-10.
Registration required.
About our Presenters: Sticky Fingers Cooking has been guiding young chefs since 2011. They offer cooking classes and camps both in-person and online. Visit StickyFingersCooking.com to learn more!

Summer Jazz Concert Celebrates America's 250th Anniversary
2026-07-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Mercer County Library – Lawrence Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ, United States
On Thursday, July 16, from 7 to 8 p.m, Celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary with a patriotic evening of jazz at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System.
Enjoy the warm, swinging sound of Ambiance Duo, featuring Bob Smith on clarinet and Debbie Smith on bass, joined by trumpeter Dennis Ionata. Performing together for more than 45 years, the musicians will present beloved American classics including “God Bless America,” “America the Beautiful” and “The Star-Spangled Banner,” along with jazz favorites such as “When You’re Smiling,” “All of Me” and “Blue Skies.”
The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System is located at 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville. Advanced registration is appreciated for all events. Please register online on LibCal at mcl.org.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lawrence Library.

Frozen Party with an Olaf Meet and Greet
2026-07-17 10:30 - 11:30 | Mercer County Library – Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington Titusville Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Join us for some frozen fun at the library! Meet and greet Olaf! Enjoy Frozen themed crafts and activities. Feel free to dress up in your favorite costume. For children ages 11 and under with their caregivers. Adult supervision is required. Registration is required. Friday, July 17, 10:30 am

Thursday Adventures at the Hopewell Public Library
2026-07-17 13:30 - 16:00 | Hopewell Public Library, 13 E Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ, United States
Join us in the Hopewell Public Library’s Children’s Room on Thursdays for an activity led by our Teen Assistants. School-age children can enjoy a new adventure each week through hands-on activities inspired by our summer theme.

Pennington Farmers Market
2026-07-18 09:00 - 13:00 | NJ
Pennington Farmers Market features organic produce, prepared foods, flowers, bread & baked goods, granola, honey, mushrooms, wine, and hand-made items. Enjoy music from Three to Get Ready——a roots music trio, playing a lively mix of Western Swing, Blues, Country and Bluegrass folk music. We’re on rain or shine!

Creative Freedom: A Salon Experience
2026-07-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Grounds for Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ, 08619, United States
Grounds For Sculpture partners with Third Way Cultural Alliance to present Creative Freedom: A Salon Experience featuring Marshall Allen, Salvador Jiménez-Flores, and Jamaaladeen Tacuma.
The evening will feature new music from the legendary Marshall Allen from Sun Ra Arkestra and avant-garde bassist Jamaaladeen Tacuma. Allen and Tacuma will debut new music from Allen’s unreleased album 101: An Audio Odyssey, within Salvador Jiménez-Flores’s exhibition Raíces & Resistencias. The evening will ebb and flow between live performances and intimate conversation with the musicians and artist, Salvador Jiménez-Flores, discussing the importance of creative freedom, moderated by Nicole Sweeney of WRTI radio. Cash bar with light bites available at the Van Gogh Cafe. Cafe closes at 9:30PM.
Exclusive first copies of 101: An Audio Odyssey are available for purchase with your ticket and will be on sale at the event. Please note, copies of the album are limited, pre-orders are encouraged. No cameras or recordings are allowed. Guests are welcome to explore the gardens before the program.

Mingle in the Marsh: Mocktails
2026-07-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Tulpehaking Nature Center, 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton, NJ
Looking for ways to get creative and socialize? Join this Friends program and enjoy a fun workshop on learning how to make mocktails made from herbs that grow locally.
No registration required.

Dig In! Mocktails & Munchies: Classic Paloma & Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad)
2026-07-20 14:00 - 15:00 | Mercer County Library – Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington Titusville Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Dig into refreshing sips and tasty bites! Each month, we’ll pair a mocktail with an accompanying snack. This month’s delectable pairing: Classic Paloma & Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad). Join us to unearth your new favorite mocktail pairing! All attendees will have the chance to sample our pairing and leave with copies of the recipes. Registration is required; space is limited.
Monday, July 20, 2:00 pm
Hopewell Branch
245 Pennington-Titusville Road
Pennington, NJ 08534

Kids Paint Like the Masters
2026-07-20 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Mercer County Library – Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington Titusville Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Do you love art? Each week, we will learn about a different master artist and then create a project inspired by their work. For children ages 5 and up. Adult supervision is required. Registration is required.
Mondays, July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2:00 pm

Arm In Arm Mobile Food Pantry
2026-07-20 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-27 14:00 - 16:00 | Mercer County Library – Lawrence Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ, United States
Are you experiencing food insecurity? Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry will be at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch on Monday, July 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm. No registration is required. Arm In Arm staff will register participants upon arrival. For more information about the food pantry, visit arminarm.org.
Arm In Arm has been active in Mercer County for four decades providing essential resources like food and financial support. Healthy food such as fresh produce, eggs and milk, frozen proteins, quality baked goods, and shelf stable canned and boxed items as well as personal care products such as shampoo, soap, and diapers are made available to families in need. Arm In Arm welcomes 4,000-5,000 families annually through 40,000+ visits to our food and mobile pantries and works with 200-400 at-risk families to prevent or end homelessness.
“Collaborations with organizations like Arm in Arm allow us to provide essential assistance to residents who need it most,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “Our Libraries allow us to meet Mercer County residents where they are and provide them with the services necessary to thrive in our communities”
In conjunction with Arm In Arm, other social service agencies will be on site. On July 6, the Mercer County Board of Social Services will have an informational table. On July 13, the New Jersey Hospital Association, SNAP Navigator, Presbyterian Church Voting and the Lawrence Township Health Department will have informational tables. On July 20, the Mercer County Board of Social Services will have an informational table. On July 27, the Lawrence Township Health Department will have an informational table. All visiting services will take place at the same time and place as the mobile food pantry (2:00 – 4:00 pm at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System).
Arm In Arm relies on volunteers to get food into the hands of those who need it most. Want to get involved? Contact Shariq Marshall at 609-508-7851, shariqm@arminarm.org.
The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library System is located at 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ. For more information about the library’s programs call 609-883-8292, e-mail lawprogs@mcl.org or visit www.mcl.org.

Just Write: Uncovering a Story for Adults
2026-07-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Hopewell Presbyterian Church, 80 W Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ, 08525, United States
During this interactive two-week class presented by writer Shari Nichols, students will find inspiration and creativity by understanding the foundations for writing stories. Starting with core techniques and moving to more advanced structure and development, students will walk away with the ability to write a compelling story.
Registration Required.

Unearth a Story - Edible Dirt Cups
2026-07-21 16:00 - 17:00 | Hopewell Presbyterian Church, 80 W Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ, 08525, United States
Get ready to stir up some fun and create a whimsical edible archeological dig! The earth beneath our feet is filled with rocks, plants, and animals that live and burrow in the soil. Let’s unearth the layers of soil to make edible dirt cups.
For ages 4-8. Registration Required. A parent or guardian must remain on site.

Concerts in the Park at Woolsey Park
2026-07-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Woolsey Park, 203 Washington Crossing- Pennington Road, Hopewell, NJ, United States
The Hopewell Township Parks and Recreation Department will host its annual Concerts in the Park series this summer at Woolsey Park. These free outdoor concerts invite residents to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy live music with family and friends.
Parking opens at 6 p.m. and concerts begin at 6:30 p.m.
2026 concert dates:

Wednesday, July 22 – The Full Grown Men (classic rock and British Invasion favorites)

Wednesday, Aug. 19 – Pennington Station Band (acoustic rock and harmony-driven classics)

Wednesday, Aug. 26 – Princeton School of Rock House Band (student musicians from the Princeton School of Rock)

The concerts are free and open to the public.

Five Wishes: Aging with Dignity
2026-07-22 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom Online
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 7 PM via Zoom
Registration required
Join us to learn more about advance care planning and how to give the gift of conversation to the important people in your life.

✓ Learn how to have advance care planning conversations with your children,

your parents, or other loved ones.
✓ Learn about picking the right person to speak for you when you cannot communicate for yourself due to a health crisis.
✓ Receive a free Five Wishes document that will help guide you through all the steps and considerations, and become a legally valid advance directive when completed and signed.
✓ Learn why updating your documents is important as life situations change.
Presented in collaboration with Hopewell Valley Senior Services

Teen & Tween Summer Art Workshop: Glass Mosaic Coasters
2026-07-23 14:00 - 15:00 | Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street, Pennington, NJ, 08534, United States
Thursday, July 23 from 2 – 3 PM @ Pennington Public Library
Registration required
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of mosaic-making by designing and piecing together your own custom coaster. We will explore how to arrange colorful glass and tiles into beautiful geometric patterns on a solid wood base, secure your layout and finish it into a smooth, polished piece. You’ll handle every step from the initial design to the final grouting, leaving with a beautiful, handmade addition to your desk or coffee table.
Sponsored by the Friends of the Pennington Public Library and a Pennington Day grant.

A Brief Review of OTC Cough and Cold Supplements
2026-07-23 19:00 - 20:00 | NJ
Join Antora Banerjee, BS, PharmD, MBA, BCGP, BCPS, BCACP, Registered Pharmacist II with Penn Medicine Princeton Health on Thursday, June 23, 7:00 pm, as she discusses what to consider when selecting over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold supplements. There will be an “Ask the Pharmacist” session after the presentation for any questions the audience may have on this topic. The program will focus on medication safety and promote awareness of reading labels, avoiding duplicate ingredients, and understanding possible side effects. Presented as part of the Penn Medicine Princeton Health Community Wellness Program. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Dungeons & Dragons
2026-07-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Mercer County Library – Hopewell Branch, 245 Pennington Titusville Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Adventure awaits! Whether you are a beginner or an expert, everyone is welcome to join us as we explore the fantastical world of Dungeons and Dragons. No experience or materials are required—just your imagination! Registration is requested.

Magical World of Hummingbirds
2026-07-25 14:00 - 15:30 | Tulpehaking Nature Center, 157 Westcott Ave, Hamilton, NJ
Have you ever wondered about the life of tiny creatures like the hummingbird? Join us to take a look into their world!
Considered to be the smallest birds in the world, learn how fascinating they are and what you can do to entice these little gems to your flower garden.
This is a Mercer County Park Commission Program. Registration required using the link on the site.

Afternoon Movie & LEGO Play Time
2026-07-29 14:00 - 15:00 | Pennington Public Library, 30 North Main Street, Pennington, NJ, 08534, United States
Wednesday, 7.29.26 @ 2 PM at Pennington Public Library
Registration requiredCome in and cool down with us as we watch this short animated movie, followed by play time with our huge LEGO collection!

Movie synopsis: When the founder of Jurassic Park accidentally destroys one of the park’s main attractions, he recruits his trusted scientists to come up with a solution. They create an amazing dino-hybrid called the Indominus Rex- the smartest, biggest and scariest hot dog-loving creature ever created! When the Indominus eats all the hot dogs and escapes from its pen in a hungry rage, they turn to talented dinosaur trainer Owen Grady to save the day in this epic, action packed short movie.

Unrated. Run time: 24 minutes
Sponsored by the Friends of Pennington Public Library and the Pennington Day grant.

Middle School Drop-in Sports
2026-07-29 16:30 - 18:00 | Hopewell Elementary School, 35 Princeton Avenue, Hopewell, 08525
For students going into 5th grade through rising 8th graders. Meets at Hopewell Elementary School Basketball Court.
Join our high school staff members for an hour and a half of endless fun. With our wide variety of equipment, we can play whatever you want. Come with friends and be ready to make new ones.
Bring water. Snacks served. Registration required.
A permission slip will be sent upon registration.

Researching New Jersey Revolutionary and Civil War Records
2026-07-29 18:30 | NJ
Military records are a rich source of genealogical information, often preserving details not found anywhere else, including signatures. New Jersey offers especially strong resources for researching Revolutionary and Civil War ancestors. As the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, these records help connect individual family histories to the broader story of the country’s founding and growth. Join Regina Fitzpatrick, Genealogy Librarian at the New Jersey State Library, on Wednesday, July 29, 6:30 pm, for an overview of key state and federal collections available through the New Jersey State Archives, New Jersey State Library, and National Archives. She will also introduce the State Library’s new digital exhibition, NJ250: Living Documents, Evolving Rights, exploring how New Jersey’s evolving constitutions shaped the ongoing fight for liberty. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

Thursday Drop-In Adventures: Dino Shark Week! Megalodon Discovery Day
2026-07-30 13:30 - 16:00 | Hopewell Public Library, 13 E Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ, United States
Join us in the Hopewell Public Library’s Children’s Room on Thursday for an activity led by our Teen Assistants. School-age children can enjoy a new adventure each week through hands-on activities inspired by our summer theme.
We are merging Shark Week with our summer theme! Discover the world of the Megalodon and create a shark tooth necklace to take home. No registration is required for this drop-in session in the Children’s Room.

Pro Bono Physical Therapy Clinic
2026-08-01 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Fluid Physio, 160 Lawrenceville-Pennington Rd. Suite 16, Lawrenceville, NJ, 08560, United States
When: First Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Fluid Physio, 160 Lawrenceville-Pennington Road, Suite 16, Lawrenceville
Fluid Physio offers a recurring pro bono physical therapy clinic for individuals in need or facing financial challenges. Participants may ask questions about pain, have a movement concern evaluated or seek a second opinion about an ongoing issue. No prescription or insurance is required.
The clinic is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Oyster Fest
2026-08-01 13:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-02 13:00 - 17:00 | Unionville Vineyards, 9 Rocktown Road, Ringoes, NJ, 08551, United States
Aw shucks! Our incredibly popular seafood event with Tiger’s Tale Bar & Grill of Princeton has returned for a third year, now expanding for the whole weekend! Join us on August 1st and 2nd for a delicious seafood feast. Food buffet will be available each day, 1-4PM. Music and wine will keep going until 5PM. Special reserve tasting of library chardonnays: $20 for purchase day-of.
Tickets and the menu can be found at: https://unionvillevineyards.com/collections/event-tickets/products/oyster-fest-2026
Enjoy music from The Hot Club of Philadelphia on Saturday, and Bill Bang Trio on Sunday. One glass of wine included with each ticket purchase. Additional oysters available a la carte.
You will be able to swap food items with other guests using tickets or a punch card so menu items are not plated prior to your arrival.
Want to have your own space reserved for the event? Rent a 10×10 tent with an 8′ table and seating for 10 people here.
Tickets cannot be refunded within two weeks of the event. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the door.

Care Planning Essentials: Preparing for Care at Home and Beyond
2026-08-04 18:00 - 19:00 | NJ
Whether caring for an aging parent, a child with disabilities, a spouse, or another loved one, having a well-organized care plan can make a significant difference during both everyday situations and unexpected emergencies. Join Colorful Dreams for an informative program focused on developing practical care plans for individuals receiving care at home, in assisted living communities, nursing facilities, or other supportive settings. Participants will learn how to organize essential information, prepare key documents, coordinate care among family members and providers, and plan for transitions across care settings. Topics include care plan development, medication management, emergency preparedness, medical documentation, communication strategies, and tools that can help families make informed decisions. This program is designed for family members, caregivers, future caregivers, self-advocates, and anyone interested in creating a more organized and proactive approach to care planning. Offered as part of the Colorful Dreams Care Program Series. Please visit events.mcl.org to register to receive the link to the program.

National Night Out with Hopewell Township
2026-08-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Stony Brook Elementary School, 20 Stephenson Road, Pennington, NJ, United States
Join Hopewell Township police officers and other community groups for this annual event. Enjoy the musica, activities for children, and food while also learning about groups in your community.
