News

Saturday, May 20th is the date of the Bloomfield Center Alliance’s (BCA) first big outdoor event of 2017! The Bloomfield Center Block Party is an open invitation for the community to come together and enjoy a day of delicious “eats and treats,” music, and family fun. The 8-hour event (12 Noon – 8 PM) will take place on the one block of Washington Street (between Glenwood Avenue and Farrand Street). There is no cost to attend and thanks to the Bloomfield Parking Authority, parking in the adjacent Farrand Street lot is free. The event, now in its second year, is described by BCA Director Ollyn Lettman as “Bloomfield’s food truck festival . . . without the trucks.” Fifteen local restaurants will be participating this year, including several first timers like Satis Bistro and The Wooden Spoon Southern Kitchen and Saloon, which will soon open in Bloomfield Center. The event was the brainchild of Bloomfield Center restaurant owners Jeremy Goldberg (Essex Junction Craft Kitchen and Bar) and Anthony Lauro (Anthony’s Cheesecake), both of whom are again participating. Other restaurants that will be on the block that day are: Ahrre’s Coffee and Roastery, Biblian’s Café, Tacos La Gringa, Tilted Kilt, Villa Italiana, Bloomfield Best Bagels, Parkside/Casa Turano, Rita’s Ice, Taqueria Los Guerros, The Pit BBQ, and Wasi Food. Along with a wide assortment of food and drink, the day will include lots of music. This year there will be live music performed by cover band Jeff and the Mutts, as well as local deejay Hiroshi Jaguar spinning great dance tunes! For families, several restaurants/sponsors will have face painters and other activities on site, like a large photo booth that will capture memories from the day. Also making an appearance will be Jessica Ervey, who was just crowned Miss Essex County this past January and will be competing in the Miss New Jersey pageant next month. The fun will continue afterward with Washington Street restaurants hosting "after parties" the rest of the night. The BCA graciously acknowledges the financial support of several Bloomfield Center businesses and organizations. They include Gold Sponsor The Shops at Bloomfield Station (formerly known as Glenwood Village) who is using the Block Party as an opportunity to introduce their new name and brand to the community. Other sponsors include Jack’s Super Foodtown, Lynnes Auto Group, Avalon at Bloomfield Station, and Ron Richard Painting and Contracting. In addition, the cooperation and in-kind support of the Township of Bloomfield, Bloomfield Parking Authority, Bloomfield Recreation Commission, and AviDesign is greatly appreciated.