A Dozen Events To Enjoy This Weekend

In the mood for toe-tapping tunes, the magic of science or some bar trivia? You can find it all in Bergen.

Is there anything more exciting than the changing of the seasons? We may still be brushing off some of those spring showers, but Memorial Day is so close we can taste it, and summer truly begins only a little bit after.

That energy has us ready to get out of the house, and there’s no better place to do it than Bergen. Whether you’re looking more music, shows, festivals or movie magic, this weekend has it all. Check out:

May 16–17

• After the success of its inaugural season last year, the Rutherford Film Festival returns to the Williams Center in Rutherford. Three screens will show movies from both new and established filmmakers from all over the world, plus you can stop by lectures, artist talks and more. Events begin at 1 p.m. See Williams Center’s website for a full schedule of films and tickets.
• Oradell’s Bergen County Players put on their production of A Little Night Music, one of Stephen Sondheim’s best-loved musicals. Both the Friday and Saturday shows begin at 8 p.m. See BCP’s website for tickets.
• Stand-up comedian AJ Wilkerson comes to the Bananas Comedy Club in Rutherford for four shows over two nights. Full of “nervous charm” and an endearing-awkward style, this is a show sure to have you in stitches. The show starts at 7 p.m., 9 p.m. or 9:15 p.m., depending on the day. Pick up tickets on the club’s website.

May 16

• International star Shakira comes to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour. Also performing is Billboard Top 40-regular Pitbull. The show begins at 7:30 p.m., and tickets can be purchased online.
• At the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, catch a show from Leonid & Friends, a 10-piece act known across the country for their amazing tribute shows to the band Chicago. They have since expanded their repertoire to include Earth Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan and much more. The show starts at 8 p.m., and tickets can be bought online.
• Test out your sports knowledge at Humdingers in Paramus at a free sports trivia night. The winner takes home a prize! Make sure you register on Humdingers’ EventBrite page.

May 17

• Bring your little one to Lakeshore Learning in Hackensack for a free Magic of Science event. Enjoy educational crafts, hands-on activities and story times. This event is free and walk-in; no reservations required. The fun starts at 11 a.m.
• Vocal talent Paula Cole comes to the Hackensack Performing Arts Center for a one-night show filled with genre-blending songs and truly dynamic singing. Part of the “Pac the House” series, Cole is touring for her 11th studio album, Lo. The show starts at 8 p.m., and ticket are available online.

May 18

• The Paramus Elks Club hosts its annual car show at the Elks Lodge in Paramus. Enjoy music and great food while looking at some impressive rides. There will also be door prizes and refreshments. This free event begins at 9 a.m.
• The marquee event of the Hackensack Riverkeeper, EarthFest, returns for another year! Stop by the Overpeck Park Amphitheater in Ridgefield Park for a day of green vendors, kids’ activities, a fishing derby and more. The fun starts at noon.
• At Fort Lee’s Barrymore Film Center, see classic Charlie Chaplin flick The Circus. Part of Barrymore’s monthly Silent Classics Screening, this is a unique opportunity to see a piece of film history on the big screen. The show starts at 2 p.m., and tickets can be found online.
• West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood welcomes Late Night with Leonard Bernstein, a “multimedia cabaret” hosted by the Bernstein’s daughter, Jamie Bernstein, with acclaimed soprano Amy Burton and pianists John Musto and Michael Boriskin. See an “affectionately intimate portrait” of this titan of 20th-century American music. Doors are open at 3 p.m., and tickets can be found online.

What are you doing this weekend? Tell us all about it on Instagram @bergenmagnj!