EVENTS: Blue Moon Hike, Fall Riding Lessons, Free Week at Y

 This is that wonderful time of the year when all that is lovely about summer remains, while there is a hint of fall's freshness in the air.

There are many events this week that still celebrate summer and the outdoors. But you can think ahead to fall, many people's favorite season of the year, and for good reason.

See below. And if you missed our Down the Shore column elsewhere, it's on the list. Enjoy Labor Day weekend and beyond!

Last Free Friday at Somerset Hills YMCA/Come Play at the 'Y'
When/Where: While Aug. 31 is the last "Free Friday" at both the Riverwalk and main facility of the 140 Mount Airy Road, Basking Ridge, the YMCA's next free invitation to the public starts on the Labor Day weekend, from Sunday, Sept. 2, through Saturday, Sept. 8, with a week of activities and a wide range of classes free to both members and non-members alike.
Why Go: Because you can try out the YMCA's pool and many other facilities/activities/classes you've always wanted to, while you have a chance.
Cost: Free, do not need to be a member

Registration for Fall Riding Lessons
When/Where: Online registration and in person registration continues for fall riding lessons for both juniors and adults at the Somerset County in Basking Ridge.
Why Go: We live in horse country, and lots of people are in line to sign up. And fall is the BEST time to ride, right?
Cost: Depends on lesson plan, returning students can register online, and all can register at the stable office, open daily, 908-766-5955.

Fall Early Literacy Story Time and Program Sign-ups
When/Where: Next Tues., Sept. 4, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bernards Township Library, 32 S. Maple Ave. Basking Ridge.
Why Go: It's never too early to enjoy a love — and understanding — of books. Schedule for story time is online.
Cost: Free, please register.

Bernardsville Farmers Market
When/Where: Saturdays, through the season, at the train station off Mine Brook Road just south of Olcott Square in Bernardsville.
Why Go: Because you can get the bounty of the season, fresh as can be, as well as gourmet goodies. (Hey, this is the Somerset Hills!)

Blue Moon Hike in the Great Swamp Watershed
When/Where: Friday, 7 p.m. at GWWA's Conservation Management Area, Harding Township.
Why Go: You want to explore a piece of wilderness close to home.
Cost: Voluntary donations of $5-$10 encouraged

Down the Shore/Patch's Guide
When/Where: All weekend, final Labor Day fund at the Jersey Shore.
Why Go: Because the summer is still here and we love the Jersey Shore! Get it while you can.
Cost: Cost varies for activities. Rumor has it that 6 a.m. surfers, catching some of the day's best waves, get in before beach tags are required.

Dawn Patrol MC Labor Day Fund
When/Where: Sunday at 9 a.m. at the Bradley Gardens Fire House on Old York Road.
Why Go: Because who doesn't love motorcycles? The Labor Day run will be held, starting at the fire house, and continuing through the area, before ending back at the house for refreshments and more.
Cost: $20.

When/Where: Friday, 6:30 p.m. at Early Street Community Garden, Morristown
Why Go: You love bikes, you love fun, and you love the idea of combining the two.
Cost: Free

When/Where: Saturday, 8 a.m., from Marty's Reliable Cycle, Morristown
Why Go: It's summer and you want to test out those legs. Also, there's now two groups–one hardcore, the other a little less competitive.
Cost: Free

When/Where: Saturday, 9 a.m., from Morristown Running Company
Why Go: Cycling's not your thing, but running is!
Cost: Free

Garage Sale Blowout
When/Where: Friday and Saturday at 9 a.m. on Somerville Road in Bridgewater.
Why Go: Because there are lots of things to purchase in this blow out sale, including garden tools, ladders, picture frames, exterior doors, windows, furniture, vintage plates, cups and saucers, household items, gold flatware, clothing and handbags.
Cost: The price of what you buy.

When/Where: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Urban Farm at Lafayette, Morristown
Why Go:  and can't make the Morristown's Farmers Market on Sunday.
Cost: Bring your wallet

When/Where: Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Morristown
Why Go: You want to eat fresh.
Cost: Bring your wallet

Two Dog Shows at Mennen Arena
When/Where: , , Mennen Arena, Morris Township
Why Go: You dig dogs.
Cost: $5 each


When/Where: Monday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Loantaka Reservation, Morris Township
Why Go: You're a young professional and you want to enjoy the great outdoors with like-minded folks.
Cost: Varies, $10-$20, depending on when you purchase and if you're a NJYP member

When/Where: Saturday, 9 a.m., , Fairmount Ave & Railroad Plz, Chatham
Why Go: Bring your easel and paints and enjoy a day of painting with your fellow local artists at Chatham's Reasoner Park
Cost: Free