West Orange Approves Trader Joe's, New Art Center Opens in Maplewood

Plus, events, programs, and updates from across the region

Mar. 3, 2026 at 10:07pm

The West Orange Planning Board recently approved an application to open a new Trader Joe's location in the township, while a new art center called Hello Huckleberry has opened in Maplewood. The Daily Buzz also includes information on upcoming events, programs, and other news from communities across northern New Jersey.

Why it matters

The addition of a Trader Joe's grocery store in West Orange is significant as it brings a popular and well-regarded retailer to the area, providing more shopping options for residents. The opening of the Hello Huckleberry art center in Maplewood also represents growth in the local arts and culture scene. These developments highlight the continued evolution and vibrancy of communities in northern New Jersey.

The details

The West Orange Planning Board approved an application to open a new Trader Joe's location at 457 Mount Pleasant Ave. An opening date has not yet been announced. Meanwhile, a new art center called Hello Huckleberry has opened at 151 Maplewood Ave. in Maplewood. The Daily Buzz also includes information on upcoming events and programs across the region, such as a therapy dog reading event at the South Orange library, a Rocky Horror Picture Show screening by Montclair Film, a housing rehabilitation workshop in East Orange, and a family game night in Irvington.

  • The West Orange Planning Board recently approved the Trader Joe's application.
  • Hello Huckleberry art center recently opened in Maplewood.
  • The therapy dog reading event at the South Orange library is on March 10.
  • The Rocky Horror Picture Show screening is on March 7.
  • The East Orange housing rehabilitation workshop is on March 10.

The players

West Orange Planning Board

The local government body that approved the application for a new Trader Joe's location in West Orange.

Hello Huckleberry

A new art center that recently opened in Maplewood, located at 151 Maplewood Ave.

South Orange Public Library

The library hosting the therapy dog reading event at its Baird Branch.

Montclair Film

The organization hosting the Rocky Horror Picture Show screening.

East Orange City

The local government hosting the housing rehabilitation workshop.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

These developments in West Orange, Maplewood, and across northern New Jersey demonstrate the continued growth and evolution of the region's retail, arts, and community offerings, providing more options and amenities for local residents.