Enjoy hockey, but can’t quite justify the cost of taking the whole family to an NHL event that's likely to cost hundreds of dollars?
Well, nearby Wayne is home of the New Jersey Outlaws, the newest team in the fast-paced Federal Hockey League, and at $13 per ticket for adults and $10 for kids, a night with the Outlaws is easy on the wallet, but that’s not the only reason it should top your list of ideas for a weekend outing.
“We do a lot of things to get the fans involved, and lots of things that are family-oriented,” said Glen Rock resident Meg Emery, director of community and fan development for the Outlaws.
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From the very beginning, kids feel like part of the action in the high-five tunnel in the Capital One Ice Vault Arena, where they can help boost the team’s morale just before the start of the game.
During the first intermission, youth teams take the ice to keep the competitive energy alive. The Outlaws have also invited several dance studios out on the ice to entertain the audience between periods; the shift away from sports is likely to make some parents’ lives easier if they desire family time but their children don’t all share the same interests.
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Anybody planning a party might want to take advantage of the group dinner package, which offers a pregame buffet in the private hospitality arena that overlooks the ice. Meanwhile, families in the stands can enjoy a variety of giveaways while they survey the action.
Some of that action may end up being captured on film; team owner Kristen Rooney also owns Desert Sky Productions, and the Outlaws are making a documentary about the world of minor league hockey.
The documentary, which is currently being shopped around to various networks, will focus on the players' histories and the commitment it takes to play on the minor league level.
As the newest team in the league, the Outlaws are eager to connect with fans; the players take the time to sign autographs after every game, which is sure to make the experience extra-special for young hockey fans. The Outlaws are affiliated with the ECHL Trenton Titans, and also have a fan round-up tour, which affords people the opportunity to meet players and other people involved with the team at local restaurants and hang-outs.
The Outlaws' season started just two weeks ago; their next game — against rival Danbury Whalers — is Friday at 7:30 p.m.
Visit their website for more info.
Other events to check out this weekend include:
Spring Awakening
When: Friday & Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.
Where: Old Library Theatre, 20th St. & Kipp St., Fair Lawn
Why Go: This rock musical was crafted by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater, and won 8 Tony awards in 2007. Its tough subject matter means that you might not want to bring your children along.
Cost: $18-20
American Girl Fashion Show
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday; All Day
Where: John Theurer Cancer Center, 92 Second Street, Hackensack
Why Go: Raise money for cancer research and enjoy a fashion show where models pose with their American Girl dolls.
Cost: $45
Accordion Book Mania
When: Sunday, 1 p.m.
Where: , 68 Elm St., Summit
Why Go: Artist Erin Sweeny hosts this workshop which introduces a fun art form to creative types of all ages.
Pricing: Free
The Civil War Years: At Home and on the Battlefield Exhibit
When: Saturday, All Day
Where: Schoolhouse Museum, 650 E. Glen Ave., Ridgewood
Why Go: The exhibit aims to transport attendees back to the 1860s through real artifacts of the era.
Cost: Free
Olivia the Pig Visits Story Time
When: Saturday, 11 a.m.
Where: , 765 N. State Route 17, Paramus
Why Go: Olivia the pig, from Ian Falconer’s popular children’s picture books, will be making an appearance at Barnes & Nobel’s story time.
Cost: Free
