It’s another busy day across the Garden State, and Explore New Jersey has your roundup of what’s going on right now — from festivals and film screenings to political innovation, food openings, weather alerts, and more. Whether you’re planning your weekend or looking for something to dive into today, here’s what’s making headlines and stirring conversation around New Jersey.

🧠 Civic Tech News: Aware Launches Platform to Transform Local Government Transparency

Over 3,800 local communities across the U.S., including several in New Jersey, will benefit from Aware’s newly launched Civic AI platform, designed to increase public access to local government operations and boost civic engagement. The AI-driven tool aims to revolutionize how municipalities communicate and operate.
Read more at: https://explorenewjersey.org

🎵 Haddon Township Celebrates 10 Years of Music, Food & Fun

The Haddon Township Music Festival returns to South Jersey with live performances, food trucks, craft vendors, and a strong sense of community spirit. A decade in, this event continues to be a favorite for families and music lovers alike.
Full story: Explore Entertainment

🏒 Devils Look to Rebound Tonight vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

After a rocky start to the 2025–26 NHL season, the New Jersey Devils face the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight. The team is dealing with early injuries and key lineup changes. Can they bounce back at home?
Game preview and coverage: Devils Season Update

🎥 Gloria Gables: A Hollywood Gem in Jersey City

The cinematic history of Jersey City lives on through Gloria Gables, a beautifully restored condo with ties to early American filmmaking. A must-read for film and architecture buffs.
Discover the story: Explore Film & TV

⚓ Morris County Marks Navy’s 250th Anniversary with Events

North Jersey salutes service with a variety of community events honoring the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary, taking place throughout Morris County this weekend.
Coverage: Explore North Jersey

🎭 Frankenstein Comes to Life in Jersey City

Art House Productions presents a creative reimagining of Mary Shelley’s classic tale through a musical film experience, now showing in Jersey City.
Details: Explore Theatre

🎧 Jersey Jazz Icon Featured on Jersey Arts Podcast

Guitarist John Pizzarelli sits down with Jersey Arts to talk about music, legacy, and what keeps jazz “Jersey Fresh.”
Listen now: Explore Entertainment

☕ Cafe Aroma Spotlights Cuban Coffee for Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate culture and flavor at Cafe Aroma, where the spotlight is on Cuban coffee traditions, special events, and community storytelling.
Read more: Explore Food & Beverage

🐱 Top Honors in Feline Medicine Awarded

The Feline Veterinary Medical Association and Merck Animal Health have named the rising stars of feline medicine this week.
More on this recognition: Explore Health & Wellness

❤️ Karyn Lockshine Named CEO of Heart Failure Nursing Association

Karyn Lockshine, CAE, has been appointed CEO of the American Association of Heart Failure Nurses, leading the future of cardiac nursing.
Full article: Explore Health & Wellness

🎬 Montclair Film Festival Opens for Its 14th Year

The Montclair Film Festival is back with a full lineup of screenings, panels, and celebrity guests, running across historic venues through next week.
Festival guide: Explore Film & TV

🌧️ Nor’easter to Soak New Jersey Over Columbus Day Weekend

Prepare for flooding, strong winds, and heavy rain. A powerful Nor’easter is expected to impact the state starting this weekend.
Stay updated: Weather Alert

🍕 New Restaurants Added to Explore NJ Directory

Craving something new? Check out these recent additions to our restaurant listings across North and South Jersey:

Explore more in our full Food & Beverage Directory

Check back daily for more updates, and explore even more happenings, destinations, and stories from across the Garden State at ExploreNewJersey.org.