You’ll Love What’s Happening in Maplewood This Week

 Maplewood Basketball Program Gives Adults with Autism a Place to Belong

💙 More Than a Game—It’s a Community

A special basketball program in Maplewood is doing something truly powerful. It’s giving adults with autism a place where they feel welcome, included, and part of a team.

The program, featured by ABC7NY, takes place at St. Joseph’s and brings players together to enjoy basketball, build friendships, and have fun in a supportive space.

For many participants, this is more than just playing a sport—it’s about connection.

Why This Matters

Everyone deserves a place where they feel they belong.

This program helps adults with autism:

• Build confidence
• Make new friends
• Stay active and healthy
• Feel part of something special

Families say it has made a big difference in their loved ones’ lives. Smiles, teamwork, and encouragement fill the gym every time they play.

 Watch the Story

 Check out the full video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s64LtQeZ1NY

 Let’s Support Programs Like This

Maplewood is stronger when we lift each other up. Programs like this show what real community looks like—kind, welcoming, and full of heart.

Take Action: If this story inspires you, share it with a friend, support local inclusive programs, and help spread the word. Together, we can make sure everyone in our community has a place to belong.

Maplewood Tree Sapling Giveaway Brings Community Together

This Week’s Weather in Maplewood 🌤️

This Week’s Weather in Maplewood 🌤️

• Best Day: Thursday – warm and sunny, perfect for getting outside
• 🌧️ Rain Alert: Saturday & early next week—keep an umbrella handy
• 🌿 Spring Feel: Temperatures warming up into the 60s and low 70s

Revolution 250 and Living History Reenactments in Maplewood Shout Outs

Maplewood is set to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution with a series of engaging events that promise to bring history to life for residents and visitors alike.

On Saturday, April 25, the Durand-Hedden House and Garden will host an immersive living history encampment presented by the 3rd New Jersey Regiment reenactment group. Attendees can expect interactive demonstrations and insightful talks by local experts, offering a unique glimpse into the Revolutionary era. Free tickets are available, with donations greatly appreciated.

Adding to the historical festivities, the Maplewood Concert Band will perform "A Spring Concert from H to O-verture!" on Thursday, April 23, at 7:30 p.m. at The Woodland. This free, family-friendly event showcases the community's rich musical talent.

Looking ahead, the Maplewood Street Fair & Craft Show is scheduled for May 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in downtown Maplewood. The fair will feature arts and crafts, live music, children's games, and a variety of food vendors, offering fun for all ages.

These events underscore Maplewood's commitment to celebrating its rich history and vibrant community spirit. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate and experience the town's dynamic cultural offerings firsthand.

STEAM Fair Opportunities in Maplewood Shout Outs

Get creative with your shout outs by incorporating puns or rhymes to make them even more entertaining and memorable!

Maplewood is set to host a series of engaging events that celebrate science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), offering residents and visitors alike the chance to immerse themselves in innovative and creative experiences.

On Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Achieve Foundation will present its 11th annual Maker Madness STEAM fair at Columbia High School, located at 17 Parker Avenue. This year's theme, "Making Community," underscores how STEAM disciplines can foster and support communal bonds. Attendees can look forward to interactive stations featuring robotics, woodworking, electrical circuits, and even a giant bubble machine. Columbia High School student clubs will showcase their talents, with the Robotics Club demonstrating competition-ready robots and the Women in STEM group highlighting opportunities to develop problem-solving and creative-thinking skills. The event is free and open to all, though children must be accompanied by a guardian. For accessibility accommodations, please contact the Achieve Foundation directly.

Following this, on  Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Maplewood Street Fair & Craft Show will take place along Springfield Avenue and Rutgers Street. This vibrant event will feature arts and crafts vendors, live music, children's rides, and a variety of food options. With an average attendance of 20,000, it's a prime opportunity for local artisans and makers to display their creations and for attendees to engage with the community's creative spirit. Admission is free, and vendor applications are currently being accepted.

Looking ahead, the annual Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival is scheduled for July 11-12 at Memorial Park. While primarily a music festival, Maplewoodstock also features an art gallery and various craft vendors, providing another platform for makers to share their work with the community.

These events not only highlight the rich tapestry of talent within  Maplewood but also offer residents and visitors the chance to engage with and support local makers and STEAM initiatives. Whether you're a seasoned maker or simply curious, these fairs provide a welcoming space to explore, learn, and connect.

Female artists featured at Maplewood Shout Outs

The Maplewood Hilton Branch Library is currently hosting an inspiring exhibition titled "Windows for Women," featuring the works of 40 talented female artists.

This showcase, running through April 30th, transforms the library into a vibrant gallery space, celebrating the creativity and vision of women artists in the community.

Visitors can explore a diverse array of artworks, ranging from paintings and sculptures to mixed media pieces, all crafted by local women artists.

The exhibition aims to highlight the significant contributions of female artists to the cultural landscape, providing them with a platform to share their perspectives and talents.

In conjunction with the exhibition, an artist reception is scheduled for Thursday, April 23rd, at the Maplewood Memorial Library.

This event offers an opportunity for art enthusiasts and community members to meet the artists, discuss their works, and gain deeper insights into their creative processes.

The "Windows for Women" project is a collaborative effort that extends beyond the library, involving various women-owned businesses across Maplewood.

These establishments have partnered with women artists to display their artworks, turning the town into a community-wide art gallery.

This initiative not only supports local women artists but also promotes the businesses that champion their work.

For those interested in experiencing this celebration of women artists, the exhibition at the Maplewood Hilton Branch Library is open to the public during regular library hours.

Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the vibrant art scene and support the talented women artists of Maplewood.

Why did the Maplewood Shout Outs page break up with its significant other?

Because it couldn't handle the constant "shoutouts" to other pages!

The Able Baker

Located right in the heart of Maplewood, The Able Baker is a beloved neighborhood bakery and coffee shop known for its fresh, made-from-scratch treats and warm community vibe.

From delicious cookies and pies to breakfast pastries and rich coffee, everything is crafted with care using high-quality ingredients. The Able Baker started as a small baking business and has grown into a local favorite where neighbors gather, connect, and enjoy something sweet.

Whether you’re grabbing your morning coffee, picking up a treat for the family, or ordering something special for an event, this spot truly feels like home.

Stop by this week, support local, and treat yourself—you deserve it! And when you visit, tell them Maplewood Shout Outs sent you 💚

Mobile grocery truck brings convenience to Maplewood Shout Outs

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Gogo Grocer, a mobile grocery service, has become a beloved fixture at AvalonBay Communities in Maplewood, offering residents a convenient alternative to traditional shopping.

Every Tuesday evening, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Gogo Grocer truck arrives, stocked with fresh produce, pantry staples, and specialty items, allowing residents to shop without leaving their community.

The service is free to use—no delivery fees, memberships, or apps required. Residents can walk up to the truck and shop or browse and order ahead using the Gogo Grocer iOS app.

Inventory is sourced from local New Jersey partners, including Mini Market Zoyatla in Roselle Park, Lakay Deli and Grocery in Irvington, and Ahkils Autism Foundation, which supplies greens grown by individuals with autism.

Since its launch, foot traffic has doubled, reflecting the community's enthusiasm for this innovative service.

Residents are encouraged to visit the Gogo Grocer truck on Tuesdays to experience the convenience firsthand.

For more information, visit their website.

Analilia Mejia and the Impact on Maplewood Shout Outs

Analilia Mejia's recent election as the new congresswoman for New Jersey's 11th District has sparked significant interest in Maplewood, a key community within the district.

Mejia, a  progressive activist and former political director for Senator Bernie Sanders, secured her seat by defeating Republican Joe Hathaway in a special election held on April 16, 2026.

Her victory is seen as a testament to the district's evolving political landscape and the growing influence of progressive policies.

During her campaign, Mejia emphasized issues such as universal healthcare, a $25 minimum wage, and the abolition of ICE, resonating with many voters in Maplewood.

Notably, former Maplewood Committeewoman and Deputy Mayor Deborah Engel endorsed Mejia, highlighting her commitment to standing up for what is right.

Mejia's election is expected to have a profound impact on Maplewood's political discourse, particularly concerning local elections.

Her progressive stance may inspire more residents to engage in the political process, potentially leading to increased voter turnout and a shift in the priorities addressed by local candidates.

As Maplewood continues to navigate its political future, the influence of Congresswoman Mejia's policies and advocacy will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the community's direction.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate actively in upcoming elections to ensure their voices are heard.