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Good News In Essex County: Block Parties + Local Legends + Inclusive Playground

New Jersey is filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. Here are seven stories to make you smile from Essex County.

The Newark Community Street Team recently welcomed more than 200 residents to Nat Turner Park in Essex County, NJ for the first of two 2026 installments of their “Heal the Block” event, a community block party that encourages unity and friendship. (Photo: Heal the Block/Newark Community Street Team)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County can be a stressful place to live. But it's also filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. Let's focus on that second part. Take a look at some recent good news stories in Essex County below (click the headlines to read).

Hundreds Of Essex County Residents Find Friendship, Unity At Annual Block Party

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This street team in North Jersey welcomed more than 200 people to a local park for one of its "Heal the Block" events.

These Residents Make NJ Town Proud: TV, Horses And A 3,000 Mile Trek [WATCH]

A podcast series that spotlights accomplished and interesting residents has been interviewing more local legends.

This 'Crown Jewel' Theater In Essex County Is Getting A $25M Upgrade

A sweeping series of upgrades are planned for the Paper Mill Playhouse. Here's what is on the to-do list.

'Community Day' Will Return To Essex County Town

Residents can meet neighbors, explore local organizations and enjoy family activities at Community Day on Sept. 19.

Police Will Hold Community Block Party In NJ Town: Food, Rides, Family Activities

The annual community gathering will feature an array of free, family-friendly activities.

NJ Girls Flag Football Team Celebrated For Undefeated Season

The team got a hearty congratulations for their championship win at a town council meeting.

Essex County Town Breaks Ground On $1M Inclusive Playground

The redesigned playground will feature ADA accessible equipment, separate areas for younger and older children and new safety surfacing.

Ground was recently broken on an ADA-accessible inclusive playground project at Taylor Park in Millburn, which is getting a $1 million overhaul aimed at making play more accessible to children of different ages and abilities. (Photo: Township of Millburn)
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