Cranford NJ Updates • Things to do in Union County • July 30, 2025

Where to Find Free Live Music This August in Union County & Nearby NJ Towns

by Brooke Filosa

If you’re looking for free live music this August, Union County and nearby towns have you covered. From downtown plazas to sidewalk stages, there are free outdoor concerts happening almost every night of the week.

These events offer more than great tunes—they highlight the walkable downtowns, tight-knit communities, and local charm that make this part of New Jersey such a great place to live.

Whether you’re a longtime local or exploring the area as a potential new home, here’s your go-to guide for making the most of the final month of summer:

Tuesdays & Thursdays: Sweet Sounds + Thursday Night Live – Downtown Westfield, NJ

Westfield’s beloved Sweet Sounds Downtown continues every Tuesday evening through August 27, with multiple live acts performing across downtown from 6–9 PM. Thursday Night Live also runs through the end of August, with live music and dancing on Quimby Street from 6–9 PM.

➡️ Click here for Westfield’s full music lineup

Thursdays: Summer Sounds – Downtown Cranford

Every Thursday night, Downtown Cranford brings live performances to Eastman Clock Plaza starting at 6 PM. Expect a mix of acoustic sets, rock, and pop—perfect for pairing with outdoor dining or a post-dinner stroll.
➡️ See Cranford’s event calendar here

Fridays: Live Music at Vinny’s Pizza – Cranford, NJ

Yes, pizza and live music really do make the perfect combo. Head to Vinny’s Pizza for casual Friday night vibes with local bands playing right outside.
➡️ Follow Vinny’s on Instagram for updates on the music lineup

Fridays: Gazebo Summer Concert Series – Maplewood, NJ

Just over the county line in Essex County, Maplewood’s Gazebo Summer Concert Series is a great Saturday night option with live music and food trucks. Bring lawn chairs or blackets.
➡️ View Maplewood Summer Streets info here

Why It Matters: More Than Just Music

These free events are more than entertainment—they showcase the personality of each town and the tight-knit community vibe that draws so many people to Union County.

Whether you’re drawn to Cranford’s small-town charm, Westfield’s bustling downtown, or want to check out nearby Maplewood’s creative energy, these summer music nights give you a true feel for what it’s like to live here.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s connect. I’d love to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle—whether you’re looking for peaceful tree-lined streets or a place that puts you steps from live music and downtown fun.

📩 Sign up for my Weekly Local Newsletter to stay in the loop on events like these and more!

Things to do in Union County • July 3, 2025

Jersey Shore Day Trips from Union County

by Brooke Filosa

Union County is the ideal location for easy Jersey Shore day trips in less than an hour. If you are looking for a quick beach getaway without the hassle of a long drive, here are three of my favorite Jersey Shore towns for a day trip. Each has its own distinct vibe; from relaxing and quaint to lively and music-filled.

Watch the Video to see these towns in action.

Avon-by-the-sea, NJ

Ocean Grove & Avon

If you’re in the mood for a classic beach day, it doesn’t get better than Ocean Grove and Avon-by-the-Sea. These neighboring towns are known for their peaceful beaches, historic charm, and slower pace—ideal for families or anyone craving a more laid-back atmosphere.

Ocean Grove is famous for its Victorian architecture, quiet boardwalk, and small downtown filled with boutiques, bakeries, and ice cream shops. It’s a great spot to take a stroll and soak in the charm.
Avon-by-the-Sea offers a similarly serene vibe, with a well-maintained beachfront, bathrooms, a snack bar, and free street parking.
🔗 Learn more about Ocean Grove
🔗 Visit Avon-by-the-Sea’s beach info page

The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach in Highlands, NJ

Highlands

This spot is less about pristine sand and more about the laid-back beach bar scene. One of my favorite summer hangs is The Sandbox at Seastreak—a beachfront venue with live music, food trucks, and cocktails, plus a beach where the kids can swim while the grownups unwind.

The atmosphere is casual and fun, with an unbeatable view of the Manhattan skyline. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to catch a sunset, sip something cold, and enjoy a live band with your toes in the sand.

🔗 Check out The Sandbox at Seastreak

SeaHearNow Music Festival in Asbury Park, NJ

Asbury Park

If you want a livelier beach day with plenty of dining, music, and shopping, Asbury Park delivers on all fronts. This iconic Jersey Shore destination blends boardwalk fun with a buzzing arts and music scene.

You can shop local boutiques inside the historic Convention Hall, grab a great meal on the boardwalk or Cookman Avenue, and cap off the night with a show at the legendary Stone Pony. It’s a great mix of beach and entertainment that’s perfect for couples, groups, or music lovers.

🔗 Explore Asbury Park Beach & Boardwalk

Each of these beach towns is just a short drive from Union County, making them ideal for spontaneous weekend trips or a quick midweek escape. Whether you’re drawn to small-town charm, good music and food, or a little bit of both—there’s a beach for that.

🎥 Watch the full video here to see which spot might be your summer go-to.

One of the best parts about living in Union County is how easy it is to get to places like these. Each of these beach towns is less than an hour away—making spontaneous summer day trips totally doable. If you’re thinking about making a move to the area, or just want to learn more about what it’s like to live here, I’d love to connect. Reach out anytime!

Learn more about the Real Estate Market in Union County here.

Cranford NJ Updates • Things to do in Union County • July 1, 2025

Live Music in Union County This Summer: Weekly Events You Won’t Want to Miss

by Brooke Filosa

If you’re spending the summer in Union County, NJ, you’re in luck. Many of our local towns have free outdoor live music every week. These events are more than just a fun night out—they showcase the vibrant, walkable communities that make this area such a great place to live.

Whether you’re a local or thinking of relocating to Union County, here’s your go-to guide for enjoying live music all summer long:

Tuesdays & Thursdays: Sweet Sounds & Thursday Night Live – Downtown Westfield, NJ

Live music is back in Westfield—now with two nights of performances each week! Sweet Sounds Downtown returns every Tuesday starting July 1, featuring multiple acts across downtown. Thursday Night Live is a new addition this summer, kicking off July 3, with performances on Quimby Street from 6–9 PM.

With a mix of jazz, pop, rock, and more, these nights are the perfect way to explore Downtown Westfield, support local businesses, and enjoy a summer evening out.

Thursdays: Summer Sounds – Downtown Cranford

Part of Downtown Cranford’s ongoing events series, Summer Sounds brings live performances to Post Office Plaza starting at 6 PM. It’s the perfect excuse to stroll downtown, grab a bite, and soak up the scene.

Thursdays & Fridays: Summit Street Sounds – Summit, NJ

Head to downtown Summit for Summit Street Sounds live music from 5–8 PM on corners and plazas. With great local restaurants and boutiques nearby, it’s an easy summer outing that highlights the best of small-town living.

Fridays: Live Music at Vinny’s Pizza – Cranford, NJ

Grab a slice and enjoy the sounds of summer right on the sidewalk at Vinny’s Pizza. A local favorite for casual Friday nights with live bands and outdoor seating.

Why It Matters: More Than Just Music

Events like these make Union County towns like Cranford, Westfield, and Summit more than just great places to live—they’re places to connect, explore, and enjoy community life.

If you’re considering a move to the area, let’s chat! I’d love to show you around and help you find a home that fits your lifestyle—whether you’re craving quiet suburban streets or a home just steps from live music and downtown fun.

📩 Sign up for my Weekly Local Newsletter to stay in the loop on events like these and more!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • April 7, 2025

Cranford Area Real Estate – Local Living with Brooke

by Brooke Filosa

My column, Local Living with Brooke on Tapinto Cranford, features the latest updates on the Cranford area Real Estate Market.

This column offers insights into the Cranford area real estate market. I recap recent home sales in the Cranford area. I also offer expert advice for buyers and sellers. For Home Buyers, recent topics include how to win a bidding war in today’s competitive market. For Home Sellers, I provide advice on the best time to sell your home and more.

Subscribe to The Weekly Local, my email newsletter for weekly updates and local events, directly into your inbox.

Curious what your home is worth in the current Real Estate Market? Sign up for a free home valuation!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • January 2, 2025

2024 Cranford Real Estate Market: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

by Brooke Filosa

The Cranford Real Estate market in 2024 has been exciting, competitive, and full of opportunity for both buyers and sellers. As someone who lives and breathes real estate in this community, I’m here to break down the big trends and explain what they mean for you.

Home Prices Keep Climbing

Home prices in Cranford are still on the rise, with the average jumping to $762,762 — that’s 10% higher than last year. The main reason? There just aren’t enough homes available, which is keeping competition fierce and driving up prices. If you’re a seller, that’s great news. If you’re a buyer, it’s a reminder to stay sharp and ready to move fast.

Fewer Homes Sold, But the Market’s Still Strong

This year, 181 homes were sold in Cranford — that’s down 11% from the 203 sold in 2023. Even with fewer sales, the market is still showing a lot of strength.

A standout stat? 25 homes sold for over $1 million, making up 14% of total sales. Compare that to last year’s 9%, and it’s clear that high-end homes are becoming more popular here.

Homes Selling for Over Asking

One thing that hasn’t changed is the bidding wars. On average, homes sold for 106% of their list price — meaning buyers are willing to go above and beyond to secure the right home.

Check out these crazy stats:

77% of homes (139 properties) sold for over the asking price.
5% (7 homes) sold for 20% or more over list price.
30% (55 homes) sold for 10% or more over list price.
31 homes went for $100,000 or more above asking price.

These numbers show just how competitive things have been — and why it’s so important to have a good strategy whether you’re buying or selling.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

If you’re thinking about selling, this is your moment. Buyers are still out there and ready to pay top dollar, so it’s a great time to list your home.

If you’re on the buying side, don’t worry — you’re not out of luck. It just means you need to be ready to act quickly and work with someone who knows how to navigate this market. Make sure to check out my latest Market reports and sign up for The Weekly Local for regular updates!

How I Can Help

Whether you’re buying or selling in the Cranford area, I’m here to help make the process easier (and maybe even a little fun). From setting the right price to crafting winning offers, I make sure my clients have the tools they need to succeed. Let’s chat about your goals and how I can help you make the most of 2024.

If you’re curious about what your home might be worth or want to know what’s on the market, reach out! Things are moving fast, and I’m here to help you stay ahead of the game.

Cranford NJ Updates • November 10, 2024

Your Guide to Local Thanksgiving Catering Options in Cranford and Westfield

by Brooke Filosa

As Thanksgiving approaches, planning your feast can become a hectic task. Luckily, several local catering options in the Cranford and Westfield area are ready to make your holiday meal stress-free and delicious. Here’s a curated list of some top picks for Thanksgiving catering, complete with ordering details and highlights of their offerings. Don’t forget to place your orders early to ensure you’re all set for the big day!

Dreyer Farms

Dreyer Farms offers an impressive selection of pies, desserts, turkey, and complete meal kits—perfect for those looking for a one-stop solution to their Thanksgiving meal. Turkey orders close on November 19th, while pie and meal kit orders must be placed by November 22nd at 5:00 pm. Pickup is available on Tuesday, Wednesday, or the morning of Thanksgiving, and you can select your pickup date at checkout.

Perrotti’s Cranford

Known for their quality meats, Perrotti’s is accepting orders for turkeys and a variety of side dishes, including stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and even stuffed shells. Place your order by visiting the store or calling 908-272-4980. It’s recommended to order as early as possible to secure your holiday selections.

Garlic Rose Cranford

The Garlic Rose Bistro is offering a Family Turkey Dinner for $280 that serves 10-12 people. The meal includes a fully cooked turkey, cornbread stuffing, rich gravy, string beans, cranberry sauce, scalloped potatoes, fresh rolls with dip, and dessert. Place your order by November 24th and pick it up on November 27th between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Call 908-276-5749 to place your order.

Pastosa Cranford

With a reputation for over 50 years of culinary excellence, Pastosa Cranford offers a comprehensive Thanksgiving menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Check their full menu online for details and ordering options.

Venue 104

Venue 104 provides a range of delicious Thanksgiving options tailored for those looking for a modern and flavorful holiday meal. Orders must be placed by Monday, November 25th by 2:00 pm, with pickup available on November 27th between 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm.

Papa Ganache

Papa Ganache is known for its specialty desserts, perfect for ending your Thanksgiving meal on a sweet note. Pre-order by Saturday, November 23rd for pickup on Wednesday, November 27th (10:00 am to 4:00 pm) or Thursday, November 28th (9:00 am to 1:00 pm).

16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro

16 Prospect is known for their exquisite catering, providing an array of options for Thanksgiving. Visit their website for more information.

Feast Catering

Feast Catering in Westfield offers an extensive Thanksgiving menu with gourmet options to suit any palate. Their menu includes traditional turkey dinners, hearty side dishes, and a selection of desserts, perfect for those seeking a high-quality holiday meal. Be sure to check their website for the full menu and ordering deadlines. Orders must be placed by November 18th for pick up on Wednesday, November 27th.

Plan your Thanksgiving feast with ease by choosing one of these local catering options in the Cranford and Westfield area. From full meals to specialty desserts, these trusted establishments will make your holiday gathering memorable and delicious.

Subscribe to The Weekly Local for regular updates on news and events in the Cranford and Westfield Area.

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • October 8, 2024

Cranford Real Estate Market Update: September 2024 – Record-High Home Prices!

by Brooke Filosa

Cranford Home Prices Hit Record Highs in September 2024! With an average home sales price of $909K, the market is up a remarkable 50% compared to last year. Let’s dive into the latest data and explore what’s driving these trends.

Cranford Home Prices on the Rise

Home prices in Cranford have been climbing steadily over the past few years. In fact, since 2019, average home prices have jumped by 41%. While many people wonder when the market might slow down, the reality is that we haven’t seen any signs of it yet. With inventory remaining tight and demand strong, home prices continue to soar.

What’s Driving the Increase?

Several high-priced home sales pushed the average up this month. Notably, 5 homes sold for over $1M, including the “castle” home on N. Union Avenue, which went for $1.5M—one of the highest sales in town. There were also a few newly renovated homes that sold for around $1.2M. Additionally, 4 homes sold for over $900K. On average, homes in Cranford sold for 6% over the list price, translating to about $54K above asking at this price point.

Low Inventory & Days on Market

Cranford’s inventory remains lean, with only 17 new homes listed in September, down 15% compared to last year. This limited supply continues to drive competition among buyers. The average days on market (DOM) also dropped to 20 days, which is a 13% decrease from last year. Homes are moving quickly, and buyers need to be ready to act fast if they want to secure a property in this competitive market.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

For buyers, the market remains highly competitive, with homes often selling above asking price and moving quickly. If you’re looking to buy in Cranford, be prepared to move swiftly and submit strong offers to stand out in this fast-paced environment.

For homeowners curious about what their property is worth, these record-high prices indicate that it’s an excellent time to explore your home’s value. With demand continuing to outpace supply, sellers can potentially benefit from favorable market conditions.

Thinking About Buying or Selling? Let’s Connect!

Whether you’re a buyer navigating this competitive market or a seller curious about how much your home is worth, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out to discuss your real estate goals!

Cranford NJ Updates • September 28, 2024

Exciting Fall Events in Cranford: Weekend of October 4, 2024

by Brooke Filosa

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy Cranford, NJ, and the weekend of October 4, 2024 is jam-packed with fun, family-friendly events. Here’s a roundup of what’s happening:

Feast of St. Michael

Dates: October 3 – October 6, 2024
Location: Saint Michael School Parking Lot, Cranford, NJ

This four-day celebration of faith, family, and fun is always a blast. Running through the weekend, the Feast of St. Michael offers carnival rides, games, delicious food and drinks, and a beer garden with TVs for the sports fans. There’s also a daily 50/50 raffle and a Super 50/50!

Cranford Jaycees Oktoberfest

Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Union College, Cranford, NJ

The fan favorite Cranford Jaycees Oktoberfest is back! With live music, games, food trucks, and more than a dozen beers on tap, this is the party of the fall. Headlining band Mushmouth will bring the energy, alongside NYC’s Street Beat Brass, which will deliver an authentic Oktoberfest experience.

Proceeds from the event support the Cranford First Aid Squad and other local charities. Be sure to get your tickets online as they always sell fast!

Fall Cranford Street Fest

Date: Sunday, October 6, 2024 (Rain Date: November 3, 2024)
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: North Union Ave & Alden Street, Cranford, NJ 07016

The new and improved Cranford Street Fest is back with some fun Fall updates. This lively event features over 100 artisans and local businesses showcasing unique goods along North Union Ave and Alden Street. Admission is free, and it’s perfect for families and visitors of all ages.

The kids’ zone is a huge draw, offering activities like mini golf, RC racing, fairy hair, and slime-making. New this season is a pumpkin patch, where kids can pick their very own pumpkins! Adults can enjoy live music, a variety of food trucks, and a beer garden, making this a fantastic way to spend your Sunday afternoon in Cranford.

Rubber Ducky Race

Date: Sunday, October 6, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Sperry Park (Riverside & North Union Ave), Cranford, NJ

After the Street fest, head over to Spertty park for the 13th Annual Hanson Park Conservancy Rubber Ducky Race! At 4:00 PM on Sunday, hundreds of rubber ducks will be launched into the Rahway River for a thrilling race to the finish. Ducks are available for adoption for just $5 each or $20 for a flock of five. Winners will take home gift cards to local businesses. It’s a fun way to support Hanson Park Conservancy and win some great prizes!

With all these fantastic events happening next weekend, Cranford is the place to be for fall fun. Whether you’re shopping at the street fest, cheering on your rubber duck, or enjoying a cold beer at Oktoberfest, there’s something for everyone! Mark your calendars and make the most of this festive weekend.

For weekly updates on local events, subscribe to The Weekly Local.

Union County Real Estate Market • August 1, 2024

What does the New Real Estate Law mean for you in New Jersey?

by Brooke Filosa

In early July, Gov. Murphy signed a new Real Estate Bill into law. The Real Estate Consumer Protection Enhancement Act which went into effect Aug. 1, 2024, strengthens both consumer and real estate licensee protections. This comes in advance of some of the changes that the National Association of Realtors is implementing effective August 17 coming out of the March 13 settlement, and largely just accelerates those upcoming practice changes. So, what does this mean for home buyers and sellers? I’ll break it down for you.

Brokerage Services Agreements

First, before you start working with a licensed real estate professional, you’ll be asked to sign an agreement. While this might seem overwhelming at first, it’s simply an agreement meant to protect you as the client. It lays out what level of service the agent you’re working with will provide, and outlines how and by whom your agent will be compensated.

Seller’s Property Disclosure

Second, when selling a home, the seller’s property condition disclosure form is now required. Sellers must present a completed and signed form to buyers before the buyers becoming obligated to the sale. The form makes the property history more easily accessible for Buyers.. The seller’s disclosure form has been around since 2001 and has been utilized by many sellers even when it was not mandatory. The law gives prospective buyers all the transparency and information necessary to make an informed choice on whether to purchase.

Increased Transparency

Overall, the new Real Estate law aims to increase transparency and clarity in all parts of a real estate transaction. There are some additional provisions to the law, but the above are the ones that will have the most impact on the experience for Buyers and Sellers. Buying or selling a home is a complex process and that is why it is important to have a professional New Jersey Realtor® as your guide. You need someone who is your neighborhood expert and can help you understand the nuances of any deal, ensuring you make informed decisions and navigate any problems smoothly.

For more information on the new Real Estate Law or to start your home buying or selling journey, set up an appointment with me.

Learn more about working with me here!

Cranford NJ Updates • Union County Real Estate Market • July 8, 2024

Cranford Summer Real Estate Market – June Home Sales

by Brooke Filosa

As summer unfolds in Cranford, the local real estate market is heating up, showcasing significant trends in home sales. Here’s a look at the key numbers and what they mean for buyers and sellers.

Market Trends and Prices

In June, the average home sale price in Cranford was $815,333. This represents a 5.81% increase from last year and a 12.87% rise compared to the last three months. This steady climb in prices indicates strong demand for homes in Cranford.

Sales Activity and Competition

Out of the 25 homes sold in June, five fetched over $1 million each. Homes in Cranford are selling quickly, with an average of just 14 days on the market. More than half of these homes were sold in less than 10 days, reflecting the competitive nature of the market. The average sales price was 107.4% of the list price, with one home selling for 20% over its asking price. Additionally, 11 homes sold for more than 10% above their list prices, and 85% of homes sold for more than their asking prices, highlighting the bidding wars among buyers.

Inventory Challenges

Despite the robust sales and high demand, inventory remains tight. June saw only 19 new listings, a 32% decrease from last June. This lean inventory adds further pressure on buyers and contributes to the competitive pricing and quick sales turnaround.

Conclusion

June’s home sales data highlights a very active and competitive real estate market in Cranford. With rising prices, quick sales, and many homes selling above their list prices, it’s a great time for sellers. Buyers, however, need to act fast and be ready to navigate a competitive market. As we move further into summer, we expect these trends to continue, making it an exciting time for real estate in Cranford.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Cranford real estate market!

Curious what your home is worth? Get a free Market analysis here!