The arts are essential in building vital communities. Meaningful arts programming can connect us as a society and revitalize us as individuals. Art is fundamental to a well-rounded educational system and a prospering economy. Communities that integrate art into their culture possess a universal language to interpret the past and envision the future. Central Jersey has a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape. CJAC ensures communities have access to everything this region has to offer.
Located at the Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center, 63 Carteret Avenue.
Scan to RSVP and join us at our upcoming events! We look forward to seeing you there!
Summer Yoga & Breath work
Breathe, move, and reconnect this summer with a community-centered Yoga & Breath work series throughout Carteret.
Participants can enjoy gentle 55+ chair yoga, sunset yoga, breath work, and outdoor movement experiences designed to support mindfulness, flexibility, balance, relaxation, and overall wellness. No experience is necessary—come as you are.
Classes will take place at the Carteret Community Center, Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center Outdoor Patio, Carteret Park by the Pond, and the Carteret Performing Arts Center Rooftop. Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat or towel if they wish; mats will be available for those who need one.
Sunset class times may slightly adjust throughout the summer based on the changing sunset schedule.
For more information, call 732-541-3879 or email info@centraljerseyartscouncil.org.
Carteret GSA Pride Day Flag Raising
Join us as the Borough of Carteret proudly celebrates Pride, Diversity, and Inclusion at our annual GSA Pride Day Flag Raising Ceremony. Hosted by Mayor Daniel J. Reiman, the Carteret Borough Council, the Carteret GSA Committee, and the Central Jersey Arts Council, this event brings together residents, families, allies, and community leaders to honor the LGBTQIA+ community and reaffirm our commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive Carteret for all.
As part of this year’s celebration, the Central Jersey Arts Council (CJAC) will help transform the Town Center into a vibrant symbol of pride and community. Join us on Sunday, June 14 at 10:00 AM as volunteers and community members come together to paint the Town Center Pride Circle in preparation for the flag-raising ceremony. This colorful community art project reflects the spirit of unity, visibility, and belonging that Pride represents.
📅 Town Center Pride Circle Painting
Sunday, June 14, 2026 | 10:00 AM
📍 Town Center, 61 Cooke Avenue, Carteret, NJ 07008
🌈 GSA Pride Day Flag Raising Ceremony
📅 Saturday, June 20, 2026
🕚 11:00 AM
📍 Town Center
61 Cooke Avenue, Carteret, NJ 07008
Come celebrate with us as we raise the Pride flag, honor the strength and diversity of our community, and create a space where everyone is seen, valued, and respected.
Everyone is welcome. Everyone belongs. 💙💚💛🧡❤️💜
Leather Lab: Catch All Tray
hands-on leatherworking workshop where participants will design and craft their own custom Catch All Tray. Learn beginner-friendly techniques such as cutting, assembling, and finishing leather while creating a functional everyday piece made by hand.
This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in creativity, craftsmanship, and personalized accessories in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Leather Lab: Catch All Tray
A hands-on leatherworking workshop where participants will design and craft their own custom Catch All Tray. Learn beginner-friendly techniques such as cutting, assembling, and finishing leather while creating a functional everyday piece made by hand.
This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in creativity, craftsmanship, and personalized accessories in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Art of Cocktail & Texture Painting
Step into an elevated evening of creativity, cocktails, and artistic expression at Central Jersey Arts Council’s Art of Cocktail. Guests will create their own textured canvas artwork while enjoying a sophisticated social atmosphere designed for relaxation, connection, and inspiration.
This immersive 21+ experience blends modern texture painting techniques with music, cocktails, and community in a luxury-inspired creative setting. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply looking for a unique night out, Art of Cocktail offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and create something truly one-of-a-kind.
Jewelry Creation:
Creative charm-making workshop where participants can design custom bag charms, bracelets, and wearable accessories using a variety of beads, chains, and decorative pieces. Bring your favorite bag or tote and create personalized charms to clip, layer, and style your own way.
This open studio experience is perfect for anyone looking to explore creativity, make unique accessories, and enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Ages 13+ welcome.
Open Studio at Central Jersey Arts Council is a creative leatherworking session designed for artists, hobbyists, and makers of all experience levels. Bring an unfinished leather project, continue a previous piece, or start something completely new in a relaxed and supportive environment. Participants will have access to CJAC tools, workspace, materials, and guidance while connecting with a growing community of creatives.
For those beginning a new project, leather materials are provided for a $20 project fee. Open Studio is perfect for creating wallets, journals, keychains, card holders, trays, accessories, and more while developing your craftsmanship at your own pace. Light refreshments will also be available during the session.
Dates & Times:
• Tuesday, June 23 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Friday, June 26 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location:
Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center
63 Carteret Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008
Contact:
732-541-3879
info@centraljerseyartscouncil.org
All skill levels are welcome. Whether you are refining your technique or exploring leatherworking for the first time, Open Studio is a space to create, connect, and continue your handmade journey.
Leather Lab: Wallet Edition
Hands-on Leather Lab workshop where participants will learn the fundamentals of leatherworking while creating their very own minimalist leather wallet from start to finish. This beginner-friendly experience introduces basic crafting, stitching, and finishing techniques using high-quality leather and professional tools provided by CJAC.
Whether you are exploring leatherworking for the first time or looking to expand your creative skills, Leather Lab offers a relaxed and welcoming environment where participants can create something functional, stylish, and handmade to take home.
Date & Time:
Saturday, June 20 at 4:00 PM
Cost:
$25 per person
Location:
Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center
63 Carteret Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008
All materials are included, and no prior experience is necessary. Participants will leave with a completed handcrafted wallet and new creative skills to build upon.
DIY Mini Koi Fish Pond Workshop
Dive into a fun and imaginative hands-on workshop where kids will design and decorate their very own mini koi fish pond to take home. Using faux plants, decorative stones, craft materials, and creative details, participants will build a peaceful miniature pond scene while exploring creativity through art and design.
This interactive workshop encourages self-expression, imaginative play, and hands-on crafting in a colorful and welcoming environment. Each child will leave with a unique faux koi pond masterpiece they can proudly display at home.
Date & Time:
Monday, June 29 at 3:00 PM
Ages:
7+
Location:
Blazing Star Cultural Arts Center
63 Carteret Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008
All materials are included. Space is limited and advance registration is encouraged.
