Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Vincent Monella Community Center, 133 Fairview Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07079
Admission: Free and open to all ages
Get ready to roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner artist, and celebrate creativity in the heart of South Orange! ArtBender is back this May, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most inspiring and inclusive community events in New Jersey this spring.
Held on the vibrant front lawn of the Vincent Monella Community Center, this free, all-ages art event invites everyone—from toddlers to teens to adults—to paint, plant, build, design, and create together. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply curious, ArtBender welcomes all skill levels. No supplies or experience required—just show up and get involved!
What to Expect at ArtBender 2025
ArtBender is more than just an arts and crafts fair—it’s a full-on community celebration of imagination, expression, and shared creativity. The event transforms public spaces into collaborative works of art, driven by the talents and ideas of neighbors, friends, and local creatives.
Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:
- 🎨 Community Mural Painting – Help bring a large-scale public mural to life.
- 🌱 Planting Projects – Dig in the dirt and add some green to our shared spaces.
- 🛠️ DIY Building Stations – Use safe materials to build creative sculptures or mini structures.
- 🖌️ Creative Stations for All Ages – From finger painting for the little ones to abstract art for teens and adults, there’s something for everyone.
- 👏 Spectator Zone – Prefer to cheer from the sidelines? Support your fellow creators and enjoy live demonstrations, music, and the energetic atmosphere.
Whether you’re attending solo, with kids, or as part of a group, ArtBender is a fantastic way to connect with your community, make memories, and help beautify South Orange in a hands-on, meaningful way.
Who Should Attend?
Everyone! ArtBender is specifically designed to be accessible and engaging for:
- Babies & toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Elementary-aged kids
- Tweens & teens
- Adults & seniors
No matter your age or background, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore your creativity.
Where It’s Happening
The event takes place outside on the front lawn of the Vincent Monella Community Center at 133 Fairview Avenue in South Orange, New Jersey. The venue is centrally located and easily accessible, with plenty of space to spread out and let the creativity flow.
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ArtBender is proudly presented by NPP Seton Village, the South Orange Department of Recreation & Cultural Affairs, and a lineup of talented local artists, educators, and community partners. Their goal? To bring neighbors together and turn everyday spaces into vibrant, people-powered works of art.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
In a world that often feels too fast and disconnected, ArtBender is a refreshing reminder of the power of creativity and community. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about showing up, making something together, and leaving the space a little more colorful than you found it.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 17, and bring your family, your friends, or just your curiosity to one of New Jersey’s most uplifting spring events. Admission is completely free, and the memories you make? Priceless.
Looking for More Events in New Jersey?
Explore our New Jersey Events Calendar for even more spring happenings, family-friendly festivals, cultural celebrations, and unique community gatherings all across the Garden State.
