Seven For Seven: What To Do Around Town This Week

Every Saturday, Patch will give you a guide as to the best events going on around town during the coming week, at least one for every single day. This next week there is everything from Brazilian music to live turtle encounters. Of course, good ideas for what to do can always be found at DestinationMontclair, the Montclair Arts Council's one-stop shop for arts and entertainment information.

-- Sunday, July 11   Noon to 6 p.m .

1. I know, I know. It's heresy to encourage people to spend money outside Montclair. But, if you are so inclined, check out Bastille Day on 60th Street in New York City today. Indeed, you can celebrate all things French during a jam-packed afternoon of food, culture, and live music. The celebration awaits you between Fifth and Lexington avenues on 60th Street.

-- Monday, July 12   Any time

1. Register for French classes at the Montclair Historical Society. MHS recently announced a new partnership with The French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) based in new York City. FIAF's Language Center now offers a selection of French classes at MHS' beautiful and historic locations. Group classes are offered for adults, kids, and teens, and private lessons are also available upon request. For more information and to register, contact FIAF's Manhattan headquarters at 646-388-6612 or email languagecenter@fiaf.org.

-- Tuesday, July 13   12 p.m.

1. Enjoy a live turtle encounter in the auditorium at the Montclair Public Library. Karen and Charlie Buckley bring their popular turtle friends for an educational visit. Say hello to Rocky, Spike, Gracie, and Bart and learn about turtles' environments, foods, and habits! Ages 3 and up. For more information go here.

-- Wednesday, July 14   9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

1. Storytelling takes place at the Montclair Art Museum the second Wednesday of the month. Free with Museum admission. The theme today is Bugs! Storytelling is now available in both Spanish and English. Indeed, parents with young children will especially enjoy this program, called Park Bench, which also introduces children to the Museum. Get acquainted with other parents and young children, work on fun art projects, and experience a guided tour of the Museum. Storytelling in the galleries is provided courtesy of the Children's Services Department of the Montclair Public Library. Local native Spanish educator Nieves Cespedes will conduct storytelling in Spanish.

-- Thursday, July 15   7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

1. Join Emmy-award winning composer, educator, and spiritual drum circle leader Rich Reiter in a monthly drumming workshop against the beautiful backdrop of the Van Vleck House and Gardens. Beginners and experienced musicians are welcome. Drums available for class participation. Workshop will be held rain or shine.

-- Friday, July 16   7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

1. For great BBQ, live blues, and BYOB on the patio, Ruthie's Bar-B-Q is the place to be . Catch Ben and the Franklins tonight. No cover charge. Just head to 64 1/2 Chestnut Street.
2. Also, there's a Zumba Dance Workshop in the auditorium at the Montclair Public Library at 3 p.m. Montclair's own Elsie Jenkins teaches teens the art of Zumba dance! Zumba combines the Latin dance flavors of Cumbia, Salsa, and Merengue, with Hip Hop music. Enjoy this special program that is both fun and healthy exercise. Teens ages 12 and up. See here for more information.

-- Saturday, July 17   8:30 p.m.

1. Head over to Trumpets to hear Yashmin Charnet and Paul Abler. In Rio de Janeiro, Yashmin was raised a student of the unique harmony and melody of the revolutionary Bossa Nova Music. From a very young age Yashmin, encouraged by her family, was front and center on stage singing the lyrics of the great musicians such as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Joao Gilberto, and Vinicius de Moreas. Yashmin now is based in New York City Area, and is married to jazz guitarist/composer Paul Abler. Together they compose and perform throughout the country.