Somerset County Seniors Can Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Interactive Events, Educational Activities in July

(For Immediate Release – Somerset County, NJ): Seniors looking to celebrate the Country’s 250th Anniversary in Somerset County can discover engaging activities, learn about local history, and explore historic sites throughout the month of July.

“In addition to each senior center’s in-house activities, the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission also offers an array of history-based programs and events that are available for seniors throughout the County,” said Commissioner Elizabeth Graner, liaison to the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services. “Many of the programs are educational and can provide seniors with an opportunity to explore their own communities, interact with history docents, and enjoy a great time outdoors with friends and family.”

Seniors that have mobility challenges or prefer staying indoors can still participate in activities that focus on history, without the hassle of travel. The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission also organizes events, discussions, and monthly programs about specific topics in history that take place inside our six Senior Wellness Centers.

For seniors interested in spending time outdoors, there are several events scheduled for early July.

On Friday, July 3, 2026, seniors can kick off their celebration with a free fireworks show at North Branch Park in Bridgewater. Gates officially open at 6 p.m., with fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m. The event will feature food trucks, live music, and entertainment throughout the night. Park visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the show comfortably.

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, seniors can attend the Sharing the Spirit of America event, which will take place in the Historic Courthouse in Somerville from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This free community event will be held nationwide and commemorates the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, which occurred on July 8, 1776.

Somerset County played a vital role during the Revolutionary War, acting as a strategic hub for both military operations and the lodging of high-ranking Continental Army officers. The Five Generals Houses hold significant historical importance as they served as the headquarters for Washington’s top generals during the Revolutionary War.

Seniors looking to learn more about Somerset County’s connection to the Revolutionary War can also visit the Five Generals Houses, which are:

• The Abraham Staats House, located at 17 Von Steuben Lane in South Bound Brook. This site is open for scheduled programs, special events, and tours by appointment. Learn more: https://www.staatshouse.org/
• The Jacobus Vanderveer House, located at 3055 River Road in Bedminster. The house offers private group tours by appointment and a full calendar of living history events. Learn more: https://jvhbedminster.org/
• The Philip Van Horne House, located at 941 East Main Street in Bridgewater. The house welcomes visitors during scheduled programs. Learn more: https://heritagetrail.org/
• The Van Veghten House, located at 9 Van Veghten Drive in Bridgewater. Guided tours, access to archives, and a rotation of exhibits are available to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and 12 to 3 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. Learn more: https://somersethistorynj.org/
• The Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage, both are located at 71 Somerset Street in Somerville. The Wallace House is currently undergoing renovations. Once repairs are complete, it will be open for tours. The Old Dutch Parsonage is open for special events and guided tours. Learn more: https://dep.nj.gov/parksandforests/state-park/wallace-house-old-dutch-parsonage/

Additional activities, events, and programs are scheduled throughout the month of July at all six Somerset County Senior Wellness Centers, which are operated by the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services (OoADS). Each center is dedicated to helping seniors stay healthy, active, and connected with community. All centers will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day.

For anyone aged 60 or older, Somerset County Senior Wellness Centers also offer a nutritionally balanced lunch, Monday through Friday, for a suggested donation of $2.50. Menu choices include a hot meat-based or meatless entrée or a cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunch. Make lunch reservations prior to 10 a.m. on the previous business day by calling the senior center you wish to attend.

The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services provides information regarding aging safely in place and in the community. Those over 60 who need assistance with daily life activities are welcome to attend with a caregiver. For assistance, including caregiver support and resources, contact the main office at (908) 704-6346 or (888) 747-1122. Staff are available to meet you at a center or in your home.

Programs are free for registered members, unless indicated otherwise. Residents must call or visit a wellness center to register. Proof of identification, age, and residency are required.

Somerset County Senior Wellness Centers are supported by the Somerset County Commissioners and the NJ Department of Human Services, Office of Aging Services.

SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER AT BASKING RIDGE
202 Mt. Airy Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
(908) 204-3435

Computer Lab – Available daily. Participants are invited to use computers at their leisure.

Stronger Seniors: Stretch Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays. (No class on July 3). Enjoy a calming, pre-recorded stretching program that allows you to stay seated while gently working your entire body. This accessible 45-minute session is a great way to release tension, improve flexibility, and leave you feeling more comfortable and relaxed.

• Monday & Friday: 10 – 11 a.m.
• Tuesday: 1 – 2 p.m.

Mahjong Club – Mondays & Wednesdays. 12:30 – 4 p.m. (July 6 – September 21). Mahjong is a great game to keep your brain sharp and supercharged. This club is for anyone who loves the game, wants to meet new people, and have some fun. This is not a competitive club. Join fellow center members to play this thought-provoking game. Club size is limited, and registration for one time frame is required.

Take Control with Exercise – Mondays 1 – 2 p.m. This is an ongoing exercise program, in video form, for all skill levels that can be practiced while either standing or sitting. This program will strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility and balance while boosting stamina.

Coffee/Tea Social – Mondays, 3 – 4 p.m. Stop by for a friendly Coffee & Tea Social where conversation flows as easily as the refreshments. It’s a simple and enjoyable way to unwind, meet others, and spend time together in a relaxed setting.

Stronger Seniors: Core Strength – Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays. (No class on July 3). Build strength and stability with Stronger Seniors: Core Strength, a pre-recorded exercise program designed to gently target your core muscles. Using resistance bands, this safe and accessible workout helps improve balance, posture, and overall fitness—feel free to bring your own band.

• Tuesday: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
• Thursday & Friday: 10 – 11 a.m.

Canasta Club – Tuesdays, 12:30 – 4 p.m. Canasta is a traditional card game that involves grouping your cards to outscore your opponent or the opposing team. New members are always welcome.

Bridge Group – Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bridge is a mentally challenging card game that offers intellectual and social stimulation. Playing bridge regularly stimulates your brain to keep it alert and helps your memory stay active. New members and beginners are always welcome.

Chair Yoga with Jillian – Wednesdays & Fridays, 1 – 2 p.m. (July 15 – September 4). This class is open to all levels of skill. Poses can be practiced while either sitting or standing. This class will help increase bone density, and improve strength, flexibility, and balance while you are immersed in a relaxing class. Expect lots of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. This class is perfect for relieving stress and helping gain an overall sense of well-being. The cost is $40 for the 8-week program. Pre-registration is required. Please call Roberto for more information: (908) 204-3435.

GeriFit Exercise—Monday/Wednesday + Tuesday/Friday. Rebuild the strength lost through the aging process to gain a higher level of functioning. This class combines strength training with stretching and range-of-motion exercises, stability, and balance training for fall prevention, cardiovascular activity for heart health, and gait exercises to help improve walking. **Weights and stretch bands provided. Bring water. Exercises are done sitting in chairs. Standing is optional. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Please call Roberto for more information: (908) 204-3435.

• Monday & Wednesday 10 – 11 a.m. with Connie (July 13 - September 30)
• Tuesday & Thursday 1 – 2 p.m. with Rachel (July 14 - October 1)

Timeless Planners with Suzanne – Wednesdays, 2 – 3 p.m. All are welcome to join this open and inclusive club. The goal is to hear your ideas, interests, and suggestions for future programs, presentations, and activities to help shape the activity calendar together.

Line Dancing with David Cross – Thursdays, 11 – 12 p.m. Get moving with Line Dancing, a fun and engaging way to improve coordination, balance, and overall fitness. This upbeat activity also gives your memory a workout as you learn and follow lively dance steps in a friendly, supportive setting.

Mahjong – Fridays, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Spend your Fridays with a friendly game of Mahjong! This open drop-in group requires no registration, making it easy to stop by, play a few rounds, and enjoy time with fellow community members.

Colorful Memories Studios with Mindy – Fridays, 2 – 3 p.m. (No class on July 3). Coloring activities relieve stress, encourage creativity, and enhance focus. After a long week join us for this mindful activity that will kick off by decorating the home delivered meal bags that go out to our home bound seniors who utilize Home Delivered Meals led by center client and volunteer, Mindy. All are welcome to participate, supplies provided.

July 1, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. 4th of July Musical Performance. Celebrate the 4th of July with us and enjoy a special musical performance by Vijay Joshi! Featuring an upbeat acoustic sing-along from the golden era of swing, country rock, and rockabilly, this festive program is sure to bring energy, nostalgia, and plenty of fun.

July 2, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Blood Pressure Screenings with Visting Nurse Patty. Take a moment for your health with free blood pressure screenings provided by Visiting Nurse Patty. This quick and easy check is a great way to stay informed about your wellness in a comfortable, supportive setting. No registration required.

July 2, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. July Trivia with Roberto. Test your knowledge at July Trivia with Roberto! Enjoy a fun and friendly competition covering a variety of categories, including science, history, pop culture, and more. All are welcome to join in for an afternoon of learning, laughter, and community connection.

July 3 - Center closed in observance of Independence Day.

July 6, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Meditation Series with Christina Flanagan Bistis sponsored by Bridgeway. Take time to unwind with Christina Flanagan Bistis in this peaceful Meditation Series, sponsored by Bridgeway. Learn simple breathing and meditation practices to help clear your mind, ease tension, and restore a sense of calm.

July 7, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Senior Medicare Patrol with Joel. This program will be an educational initiative designed to inform older adults about the various aspects of Medicare, including eligibility, coverage options, enrollment, processes, cost and benefits. The program aims to help seniors understand how Medicare can meet their healthcare needs, assist with navigating the complexities of the system, and make an informed decision about health insurance coverage.

July 8, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Where in the World, CUP. Travel the globe through the World Cup with Roberto in this insightful program. Learn about the remaining knockout-stage teams, including their history, geographic background, and standout players as the tournament heats up.

July 9, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Create a Flag Craft. Get creative and join us for a festive Flag Craft inspired by the World Cup! Choose a country or design that reflects your pride and bring it to life with fellow Basking Ridge Seniors. All finished flags will be showcased as part of our community display for the duration of the tournament. Supplies will be provided.

July 10 & 24, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bingo with Roberto. More than an exciting activity but also a way to promote health & wellness. Researchers have found that engaging in Bingo has multiple health benefits such as promoting socialization, hand-eye coordination, listening and short-term memory.

July 13, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Empowering Seniors to Age in Place with Arpita Patel from Executive Home Care Program. Discover helpful tools and strategies for living safely and independently at home with Arpita Patel from Executive Home Care. This engaging program will focus on practical ways to support aging in place while maintaining comfort, dignity, and quality of life.

July 14, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Cranium Crunchers. Put your thinking cap on and join us for Cranium Crunchers! This enjoyable program features puzzles, brain teasers, and problem-solving activities that encourage mental fitness, spark creativity, and make learning fun.

July 15, 9:30 – 11 a.m. Free Vision & Glaucoma Screenings provided by ProjectBest-CBVI. Take an important step toward protecting your vision with free Vision and Glaucoma Screenings provided by ProjectBEST-CBVI. Participants will receive screenings for distance visual acuity and glaucoma, along with information and follow-up resources for those who may be underinsured or without coverage. All are welcome to participate.

July 16, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Back Basics presented by Scott Prior PT, DPT of RWJUH Somerset. Discover simple, effective strategies for maintaining a healthy spine with Scott Prior, PT, DPT, of RWJUH Somerset. This engaging presentation will cover posture, exercise, and ergonomics to help you move more comfortably and reduce the risk of back pain.

July 17, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Country Sing-Alongs with Travis. Start your day on a high note with a lively sing-along led by our very own Basking Ridge participant, Travis! Enjoy a mix of country favorites, timeless classics, and beloved oldies as you sing along, tap your toes, and share the joy of music with friends before lunch.

July 20, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Mindfulness Craft Hour with Center Staff. Take a break, unwind, and get creative at our Mindfulness Crafts event. Guided by wellness center staff, this engaging activity combines simple crafting with mindful moments to foster relaxation, connection, and a sense of accomplishment.

July 21, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Somerset County Traveling Library with Noah Anderson. All of what you expect from your library, right at the Senior Wellness Center. Browse the traveling library collection, place, hold requests, for specific titles or troubleshoot the library the eBook app, Libby. Re-new or sign-up with your library today!

July 22, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Crosswords & Cozy Chats. This program is a warm and inviting activity designed for seniors to enjoy a cup of coffee while engaging their minds with crossword puzzles. It fosters social interaction, mental stimulation, relaxation, and creates a cozy community space where participants can share their love of puzzles.

July 23, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. JAK Musical Performance. Join us for a delightful musical performance featuring piano students. As part of their Summer Community Concert Series, these aspiring musicians will showcase their hard work and talent while gaining valuable experience performing for a live audience.

July 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Music in Motion with Tom Mckie. Get ready to move, groove, and have fun with Tom McKie in this upbeat Music in Motion class! Through creative movement and lively music, you'll enjoy gentle exercise, plenty of laughter, and the chance to express yourself while connecting with others.

July 28, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Women in Princeton’s History with Eve Mandel from the Historical Society of Princeton. Women’s stories are often more difficult to find in the historical record, or their identities are hidden behind their husband’s names. This program brings to light the contributions of some of the diverse and influential women in Princeton’s history, including immigrants, enslaved women, working women, and community leaders. Through their service to others, these trailblazers played key roles in the town’s development. Made possible by funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey Historical Commission.

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