Wellness

Stress Less and Keep Peace at the Holiday Table

A Trauma-Informed Take on Healthy Boundaries That Actually Stick Article by Hilary Russo Let’s face it—you can’t pour from an empty cup. And if you’ve ever tried, you know it usually ends with resentment, exhaustion or eating three extra slices of pie just to cope. As a trauma-informed holistic mental health practitioner (and someone who’s heard every family dinner horror story imaginable), I can tell you this: Setting healthy boundaries during the holidays isn’t selfish—it’s science...

Food + Beverage

Sprinkle Joy: Holiday Sugar Cookies to Share the Cheer

A sweet family recipe perfect for gifting, snacking, and spreading holiday magic! Article and Photography by Garden State City Lifestyle The holidays are all about togetherness, laughter and a little sugar-induced happiness. Few things capture that spirit better than baking cookies, filling the house with irresistible aromas and sharing sweet treats with neighbors, friends and family. These festive sugar cookies are soft, chewy and covered in colorful sprinkles — perfect for gift-giving or...

Life + Culture

A Season of Enchantment

New Jersey Ballet’s “Nutcracker” Returns to bergenPAC for a Holiday Tradition Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by New Jersey Ballet The holiday season in Bergen County wouldn’t be complete without the magic of “The Nutcracker,” and this December, New Jersey Ballet brings its cherished production back to bergenPAC for a weekend of enchantment. Performances will be held at 1 and 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7. Tickets range from $35 to $65 and are on sale now through the...

Local Services

The Little Red Truck That Could

‘Ruby Ray’ Rolls Into the Holidays, Bringing Franklin Lakes Together Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Maria Rogers - Tiny Hearts Photography The gleam of a 1955 Ford F-100 in bright red has become a familiar sight around Bergen County each holiday season. Families pile in for photos, kids climb onto the running boards, and parents and photographers capture keepsakes they’ll revisit for years. The truck has a name— Ruby Ray—and a story rooted in family, community and remembrance. ...

Life + Culture

Merry & Bright in the Ramapo Valley

Festive parades, glowing displays and local traditions to enjoy this holiday season Article by Garden State City Lifestyle | Photography by Bergen County Zoo, Mahwah twp The holiday season in Bergen County brings twinkling lights, community traditions and family-friendly fun. From tree lightings to shopping strolls, Franklin Lakes, Mahwah, Wyckoff and Oakland—plus nearby towns—offer plenty of ways to celebrate. Franklin Lakes Franklin Lakes hosts its annual holiday tree lighting at Borough...

Life + Culture

Bright Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah

Eight Nights of Light, Bergen County Style Article by Carly Mac Manus Hanukkah brings eight nights of light, music and togetherness—plenty of chances to make new traditions while honoring old ones. Whether you’re celebrating at home or exploring Bergen County, here are family-friendly ways to keep the candles (and spirits) glowing. Host a latke bake-off. Turn your kitchen into a test kitchen. Assign teams—classic potato, sweet potato, zucchini—then hold a blind taste test with simple...

Life + Culture

Gifts That Go Beyond the Box

Creative Holiday Gifts That Mean More Article by Allison K. Lim The search for the perfect holiday gift can take you to the mall, an Amazon search bar or Google—and often ends with last-minute hints from friends’ shopping successes. But no one knows your special someone better than you. This season, instead of a new tool for Dad, a kitchen gadget for Grandma or clothes for your teen—which may end up in the return pile—try these inventive ideas. Customize them to suit everyone on your list. ...

Travel

A Very Boston Holiday

Pack the car, grab your besties, and let the no fuss weekend unfold. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by InterContinental Boston Want the weekend escape without dealing with the airport? Forget TSA lines and lost luggage — this trip is trunk-packed, playlist-ready and friendship-fueled. For us, the perfect girls’ getaway was Boston — a drive-in, park-it escape with waterfront views, spa time we could actually sneak away to and dinner just an elevator ride from our room. Friday...

Entertainment

A Front Row Look at the Barefoot Country Music Fest

Wildwood, NJ Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by David Surks Garden State City Lifestyle was grateful to have a front-row view on Wildwood’s iconic beach at the 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest — and it did not disappoint. Held June 19–22, the four-day celebration drew thousands of fans from across the nation to sing, dance and soak in coastal vibes. Headliners included Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts and Jordan Davis, with more than 40 additional artists...

Life + Culture

Faith in Action

Immaculate Heart Academy students turn compassion into more than 31,000 service hours Article and Photography by AnneMarie Vaughn Service at Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) is more than a requirement; it is central to the school’s mission. Students regularly put their faith into action by serving the community and ministering to people in need through a wide variety of opportunities. IHA’s Campus Ministry program, led by Emily Ash, Class of 2019, is off to a busy start this year. Ash credits...