Message from Councilmember Ellen Zimmerman | January 23, 2026

It sure may not feel like it, but spring and summer are closer than they appear at the moment. As we eagerly look ahead to warmer days, please take note of several upcoming registration deadlines for Scotch Plains Recreation programs.

From our popular day camps to our thriving youth sports leagues, everyone looks forward to these programs at this frigid time of year. They provide ample opportunities for children to stay active outdoors, make friends and create lasting memories that extend throughout the entire year.

The Recreation Department is also planning a variety of programs for adult residents. One example is the Adult Acting & Improv classes, offered Tuesdays from April 7 through May 12, which provide a fun and engaging way for participants to explore their creativity while building connections through shared experiences.

Below are several upcoming Recreation programs and important deadlines that I urge you to note:

• Spring Youth Softball League: Registration is open through Friday, March 6 at 4 p.m. The league is available for students in grades K-8. 
• Broadway & Bubbles: Registration closes Friday, March 27 at 4 p.m. This preschool theater class is open to children ages 18 months to 5 years and features playful movement, sing-alongs, and imaginative activities. Classes are held Mondays and Tuesdays from April 6 to May 12.
• Adult Acting & Improv: Registration closes March 27 at 4 p.m. Classes take place Tuesdays from April 7 to May 12.
• Memory Lane Cabaret: Open to seniors ages 55 and older, registration closes March 27 at 4 p.m. This program invites participants to enjoy and sing along to Broadway standards in a social setting.
• Scotch Plains Summer Day Camp: Registration opens for Scotch Plains residents on Tuesday, February 10 at 10 a.m., and for non-residents on Thursday, February 12 at 10 a.m. The camp is open to children in grades K-6 and runs weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning June 29.
• Small Fry Camp: Registration opens Tuesday, February 17 at 10 a.m. for residents and Thursday, February 19 at 10 a.m. for non-residents. This program is open to children ages 3-5 and runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon, beginning June 29.

Residents can view the full selection of Recreation offerings on the Scotch Plains Recreation website. Registration for all programs is completed through Community Pass, an easy-to-use platform designed to streamline the sign-up process.

Thank you to our dedicated Recreation team, led by Julie Buonaguro, for consistently planning and delivering high-quality programs for residents of all ages. With so many options available, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy as the mercury finally creeps upward.