School’s are closing and the sun is shining which can only mean one thing- summer is officially here! Celebrate the season by checking out some of the music, art and cultural events taking place this week.

Tuesday, June 18th

Emerging Artists & Open Jam – Alex Laurenzi Quartet 8 pm

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Where: Garden State Ale House

Part of the New Brunswick Jazz Project's mission is to showcase the next generation of jazz musicians...the future "greats!" This is a chance to see them NOW! On Tuesday, the Alex Laurenzi Quartet will be performing. Lead, composer and saxophonist Alex Laurenzi is a current student in the Princeton University jazz program. Leading his own groups since he was 14, Alex is focused currently on composing and performing original music.

Wednesday, June 19th

John Fugelsang – One Night Only! 7:30 pm

Where: Stress Factory Comedy Club





He's been murdered on CSI, interviewed 2 Beatles on separate continents in the same week, and famously once got Mitt Romney's advisor to call Governor Romney an 'etch a sketch' on CNN. Actor, comedian & broadcaster John Fugelsang hosts 'Tell Me Everything" weekdays on SiriusXM Insight #121. Come see John Fugelsang do stand up at the Stress Factory Comedy Club!

For more information and to buy tickets, click here!

Wednesday, June 19th

New Brunswick Jazz Project Presents Bruce Williams Trio 8 pm

Where: Tavern on George

Another artist to be featured in the New Brunswick Jazz Project, Bruce Williams is a versatile saxophone stylist, performing in a variety of diverse playing. His ability to perform masterfully in a range of jazz styles has placed him on two Grammy-nominated recordings and sent him to numerous cities throughout the US and abroad.

Thursday, June 20th

An Evening with George Takei: Where No Story Has Gone Before 8 pm

Where: State Theatre New Jersey

In honor of Pride Month, State Theatre is proud to present actor and social justice activist, George Takei!

With an uncanny eloquence and signature wit, Takei shares the story of his family's forced internment as Japanese Americans during WWII—a seemingly forgotten part of American history. (Takei was recently seen on Broadway with Tony®-winner Lea Salonga in Allegiance, the musical that was inspired by his true-life experience.) He also takes audiences through his rise to celebrity as a Sci-fi icon in Star Trek, his remarkable journey as a social media mega-power, and his passionate fight for LGBTQ rights and marriage equality in America—empowering others to beat the odds and make a difference.

$89 Premium ticket includes a Meet and Greet with George Takei after the event! Availability is very limited. Details on the Meet and Greet will be sent approximately 3 days prior to the event. Discounts do not apply to the Premium ticket.

Friday, June 21st

Cook’s Market 11-5pm

Where: Cook’s Market

Rutgers Gardens Cook’s Market provides a well-managed and organized farm market for both the local farmer/producer and patron. Our aim is to encourage the development of local agricultural and specialty products, as well as promote local economic development and community building through educational and family-friendly activities.

Friday, June 21st

Summer Solstice Jazz and Wine 5:30-8: 30 pm

Where: The Evergreen Garden

Rutgers Gardens is proud to partner with New Brunswick Jazz to present Summer Solstice Jazz and Wine featuring Swingadelic. In 1998 as the neo-swing movement was cresting. Upright bassist Dave Post gathered his jazz & blues playing friends together to play engagements at New York City’s Supper Club, Swing 46 and Windows On The World, the former restaurant atop of the World Trade Center. As the swing scene waned the band was able to turn to swing dance groups, concerts, festivals, schools and private engagements to keep active.

Bring a blanket or chair and join us in the Roy DeBoer Evergreen Garden at 5:30 pm. The music begins at 6:30 pm and ends at 8:30 pm. Wine from Unionville Vineyards will be available to purchase by the glass. Due Mari will be joining us with some of their most popular menu items from the restaurant. No outside alcoholic beverages or food are allowed.

The Gardens will close at 12 pm to get ready for this special event. No dogs will be allowed in the Evergreen Garden.

Saturday, June 22nd

John Leguizamo's Latin History for Morons, 8 pm

Where: State Theatre New Jersey

A sold-out run at The Public Theater. A record-breaking engagement at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Endless critical and audience acclaim direct from Broadway. Chalk it all up to the mad genius of Tony® and Emmy Award®-winner John Leguizamo, standing at the head of the class in his one-man show, Latin History for Morons.

Sunday, June 23rd

Candle Maker: Pick your Scent and Color - Jelly Jar Series 7 pm

Where: George Street Ale House

Spend a zen-sational evening working with soy-based wax, scented oils, and unique decorative elements to craft custom candles. A master crafter will guide you and your friends step-by-step through this 2-hour event to make a custom creation perfect for trading, gifting, or treating yourself.