JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP – The Lake Hopatcong Block Party returns to Hopatcong State Park on Saturday, May 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., bringing a full day of food, entertainment, demonstrations, shopping, and family activities to the lakefront. Presented by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, the annual event has become one of the region’s largest and most anticipated community celebrations. Top sponsors for this year’s event are Live the Lake NJ and the Hudson Farm Foundation.

Now in its 13th year, the Block Party will feature more than 200 businesses, nonprofit organizations, community groups, crafters, and food vendors throughout the park, along with activities and entertainment designed for all ages.

“The Block Party is a great reflection of the energy and character of the Lake Hopatcong community,” said Lake Hopatcong Foundation Executive Director Kyle Richter. “It’s a chance for people to come together by the lake, support local organizations and businesses, and enjoy a day that has truly become a tradition for many families.”

New this year is a dedicated touch-a-truck area, offering visitors the chance to explore a wide variety of vehicles and equipment up close. Guests can step inside emergency response vehicles, construction equipment, tow trucks, and other specialty vehicles while learning more about the organizations and services that help keep local communities running.

“The new touch-a-truck area adds another interactive experience for families and kids,” said Event Coordinator Kari Constantine. “People will have the opportunity to meet the professionals behind these vehicles, ask questions, and get a hands-on look at equipment they might otherwise only see from a distance.”

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy live demonstrations and performances, complimentary boat rides, the popular 50/50 raffle, a children’s activity area and scavenger hunt, oversized games, and the Passport Adventure, where attendees can collect stamps from sponsor booths for chances to win prizes.

Food vendors from throughout the region will offer a wide variety of options, ranging from barbecue and seafood to pizza, desserts, and festival favorites.

“With so many different activities, demonstrations, and vendors, there’s truly something for everyone,” said Lake Hopatcong Foundation Development Director Caitlin Doran. “The Block Party is a great opportunity to experience the lake community all in one place, and we’re incredibly grateful to the sponsors, volunteers, and partners who help make it possible.”

Admission to the Block Party is free. On-site parking at Hopatcong State Park will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for a $10.00 cash donation. Free parking with shuttle service will also be available at nearby locations.

Accessible parking spaces will be available at Hopatcong State Park. Handicap-accessible shuttles from off-site lots will also be available, in case the park reaches capacity or accessible spaces are full. For guests bringing dogs, a designated “Barking Lot” will be available, within walking distance of the park, as dogs are not permitted on the shuttles.

For more information about the Lake Hopatcong Block Party, including a parking and shuttle map click here.

The Lake Hopatcong Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to protecting the lake environment and enhancing the lake experience by bringing together public and private resources to encourage a culture of sustainability and stewardship on and around New Jersey’s largest lake, for this and future generations. To learn more click here.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHI — Families from across the area are invited to enjoy four days of food, rides, games, and fireworks as the annual Fireman’s Carnival returns from Wednesday, May 27 through Saturday, May 30.

The carnival will be held at Jefferson Township Intermediate School, located at 1000 Weldon Road in Oak Ridge, and will feature entertainment and activities for all ages while supporting local firefighters and emergency services.

Attendees can expect a traditional carnival atmosphere with amusement rides, midway games, food vendors, and nightly excitement throughout the four-day event. Fireworks displays are also planned as part of the celebration.

The event is designed to bring the community together while recognizing the dedication and service of local firefighters who volunteer their time to protect residents throughout the year.

The carnival is expected to attract residents from Jefferson Township and surrounding communities looking for a family-friendly way to kick off the summer season.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has announced the distribution of Fiscal Year 2026 Clean Communities Grants, with Jefferson Township receiving $66,344.96 to support local litter cleanup and community beautification efforts.

The funding is part of more than $25.2 million being distributed statewide to municipalities and counties through the Clean Communities Program. Morris County as a whole will receive $118,239.02, while municipalities throughout the county were awarded individual grants based on factors including population, housing, and roadway mileage.

Jefferson Township received one of the larger municipal grants in Morris County, ranking among the top-funded communities in the county for Fiscal Year 2026.

Clean Communities funding is commonly used to support litter removal programs, volunteer cleanup events, recycling education initiatives, public works cleanup efforts, and anti-litter campaigns aimed at improving neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces.

The annual grants help municipalities offset the costs associated with maintaining cleaner roadways and public areas while encouraging environmental awareness and community pride.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Emma K. Maynard of Lake Hopatcong was among the 60 University of Scranton students inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the national Jesuit honor society.

Alpha Sigma Nu is the only honor society open to students and faculty in all disciplines of the University. Juniors, seniors and graduate students, including students in doctoral level degree programs, who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service are eligible for membership.

Appointments are made by the president of the University on the recommendation of the moderator and chapter members of the society, and no more than four percent of the junior and senior class may be admitted each year.

The Scranton chapter of Alpha Sigma Nu was established in 1943 and is the oldest honor society at the University.

Maynard is a senior pursing a political science degree at the Jesuit university.

The University of Scranton is a Jesuit university located in Northeastern Pennsylvania.