From farmers markets and strawberry picking to camping under the stars and celebrating local history, Hopewell Valley’s annual Come Outside and Play weekend returns June 6-7 with activities designed to encourage residents of all ages to get outdoors and explore the community.
Now in its 14th year, Hopewell Valley Come Outside and Play was created to promote time spent outdoors while showcasing the parks, farms, trails, libraries, nonprofits and community organizations that make the region unique.
Activities continue throughout the weekend with opportunities for families, children, history buffs, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the weekend’s largest events will be Hopewell Borough’s USA 250th and 135th anniversary celebration Saturday at the Hopewell Train Station. The town-wide event will feature living history activities, a pig roast and barbecue, beer garden, community partners and live music by Castle Lane beginning at 6 p.m.
Those looking for a full outdoor experience can pitch a tent at the annual Come Outside and Play Camp Out at Mercer Meadows-Rosedale Park. The overnight event runs from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning and offers families a chance to enjoy camping close to home.
At Terhune Orchards, the annual Strawberry Festival will celebrate the start of strawberry season with family activities, food and opportunities to enjoy one of New Jersey’s favorite summer crops.
History comes alive at Howell Living History Farm, where visitors can take part in an old-fashioned baseball game played by 19th-century rules and learn about traditional farm life during a historic wash day demonstration.
The Watershed Institute will host “Creeksong: A Haiku Gathering,” a daylong event combining poetry, nature, workshops, music and outdoor exploration throughout the Watershed Reserve.
Community members can also visit the Hopewell Farmers Market and Pennington Farmers Market, participate in a pick-your-own herb workshop at Fairgrown Farm, help create sidewalk art during Chalk the Block at the Hopewell Public Library, or attend Hopewell Township’s Third Annual Mayor’s Awards for First Responders at Woolsey Park.
Several self-guided activities continue throughout the weekend. Families can participate in the Sourland Conservancy’s Sourland Explorer program, which encourages children to visit public trails throughout the Sourland Mountain region while earning a commemorative patch. The Watershed Reserve will be open daily from dawn to dusk with more than 10 miles of trails, wetlands, meadows, forests and a fully accessible boardwalk. The Mercer County Wildlife Center will also offer self-guided tours of its outdoor education environment.
Organizers encourage residents to choose one activity or spend the entire weekend exploring the wide variety of outdoor experiences available throughout Hopewell Valley.
For schedules, registration information and event details, visit Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance’s page.
