Essex County Park System

06/06/2026

There’s still time to sign up for some hikes today for National Trails Day!

🌲🥾 Celebrate National Trails Day in Essex County Parks! 🥾🌲

Get outside and explore the beauty of Essex County's parks and reservations during National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, from 9 am to 1 pm. Enjoy a variety of guided hikes and outdoor activities for all ages and abilities at locations including South Mountain Reservation, Eagle Rock Reservation, Mills Reservation, and Hilltop Reservation. Pre-registration is required for all hikes, and space is limited.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun family adventure, this is the perfect opportunity to discover new trails, connect with nature, and experience the many outdoor treasures Essex County has to offer.

🌿 Free event
🥾 Guided hikes for all experience levels
📍 Multiple Essex County Parks locations
📝 Advance registration required

Register today and learn more: https://essexcountyparks.org/facilities/environmental-center/calendar/national-trails-day-2026

06/04/2026

On Friday, June 5th, the Essex County Office of Public Health Management, Office of Emergency Management, and local fire departments will be conducting a training exercise in the Tulip Springs Picnic Area in Essex County South Mountain Reservation.

The Tulip Springs Picnic Area and parking lot will be closed to the public. Cherry Lane will remain open.

06/04/2026

🌲🥾 Celebrate National Trails Day in Essex County Parks! 🥾🌲

Get outside and explore the beauty of Essex County's parks and reservations during National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, from 9 am to 1 pm. Enjoy a variety of guided hikes and outdoor activities for all ages and abilities at locations including South Mountain Reservation, Eagle Rock Reservation, Mills Reservation, and Hilltop Reservation. Pre-registration is required for all hikes, and space is limited.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a fun family adventure, this is the perfect opportunity to discover new trails, connect with nature, and experience the many outdoor treasures Essex County has to offer.

🌿 Free event
🥾 Guided hikes for all experience levels
📍 Multiple Essex County Parks locations
📝 Advance registration required

Register today and learn more: https://essexcountyparks.org/facilities/environmental-center/calendar/national-trails-day-2026

06/03/2026

🎤🌟 Your soundtrack to summer starts here! The 2026 Essex County Parks Summer Music Series is bringing FREE live concerts, festivals, and fireworks to parks across Essex County all season long. From jazz and salsa to classic rock tributes and soul favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy under the summer sky.

📍Concerts take place across Essex County Parks from June through August!
🎆 Fireworks shows, local park performances, and special festivals included!
📅 Check out the full schedule and start planning your summer nights with us!

06/03/2026

Please be advised that the Essex County Prosecutor's Office and local law enforcement agencies are conducting a training exercise in Essex County South Mountain Reservation on Wednesday, June 3rd.

Cherry Lane will be closed to vehicular traffic and the Regatta Playground, Reservoir Walkway and Clipper Pavilion will be closed to the public.

05/26/2026

The irises are officially at peak bloom at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens — and the gardens have never looked more beautiful! 🌸💜 Now is the perfect time to plan a visit and experience the stunning colors, peaceful pathways and live music throughout the weekend.

Be sure to stop by the Bloom Room, open daily from 12pm–4pm through Sunday, May 31st — the final day of the season! 🎶

This week’s live music lineup:
🎹 Tuesday: Piano Performance | 1pm–3pm
🎸 Saturday: Guitar Performance | 2pm–3pm
🎷 Sunday: Jazz Quartet | 1pm–3pm

Come enjoy one of Essex County’s most breathtaking spring traditions before the season comes to a close!

05/22/2026

05/22/2026

🌿☀️ Summer fun starts here! 🌳🦋

Give your child an unforgettable outdoor adventure this summer at the Essex County Environmental Center! From exploring woodland and river habitats to discovering wildlife, nature crafts, and hands-on learning, these camps are the perfect way to connect kids with the natural world.

👧🧒 Programs available for multiple age groups
🌱 Activities include hiking, wildlife exploration & environmental education
📍 Held at the Essex County Environmental Center in Roseland, NJ

Spots fill quickly—register today and let the summer adventures begin! 🌞

Visit https://bit.ly/41LxRlO for more information!

05/20/2026

🎨✨ Step inside the creative world at the Artists at Work: Open House & Fine Art Sale! Join us Saturday & Sunday, June 6–7 from 11am–5pm at Essex County Riker Hill Art Park for a unique behind-the-scenes experience.

Explore working studios, meet talented resident artists, and shop one-of-a-kind pieces—from painting and sculpture to jewelry, glassblowing, and more. Admission is free, so bring your friends and make a day of art, inspiration, and discovery!

05/18/2026

Looking for something fun to do this week in the Essex County Parks System? 🌳✨ From skating sessions at Essex County Codey Arena to live music at the Essex County Presby Memorial Iris Gardens and an exclusive Behind the Scenes Tour at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy May 18–24!

Plan your week with us and explore all the events happening throughout the Essex County Parks System. For more information, visit www.essexcountyparks.org