Culinary, Wellness, Mixology, and Community events—led by a dedicated team of chefs, wellness experts, mixologists, and industry professionals in Berkeley Heights, NJ
BERKELEY HEIGHTS, N.J., Aug. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Park, a reimagined 185-acre campus formerly known as Connell Corporate Park, is proud to announce the official launch of ParkLife Events – a dynamic, experience-driven programming initiative designed to activate the campus and foster a deeper sense of community. Spearheaded by The Park’s in-house hospitality team, Table & Banter (T&B), ParkLife Events will offer thoughtfully curated experiences that bring people together through food, wellness, culture, and social connection.
Led by newly appointed Events Curator Allyson Burkitt, with support from T&B’s talented culinary and hospitality professionals, ParkLife Events will deliver a wide range of engaging programs – from hands-on cooking classes and mixology workshops to fitness experiences and seasonal celebrations. Events will span four key categories: Culinary, Wellness, Mixology, and Community, each designed to create authentic and memorable experiences for residents, visitors, and guests.
Table & Banter’s experienced team includes Catering Sales & Event Manager Angela Corpuz; acclaimed chefs Brian Bistrong, Louis Bayla, Sheena Otto, and Ashley Davis; Fitness Director Ryan Kennedy; and Food & Beverage Director Rocco Petriello. Together, this team brings creativity, passion, and a spirit of hospitality to every ParkLife experience.
ParkLife Events will take place throughout The Park’s diverse collection of event spaces – from vibrant bars and cozy lounges to test kitchens, fitness studios, game rooms, and expansive outdoor venues. A full list of event spaces and amenities can be explored [HERE].
In addition to public programming, T&B also offers private event catering services, available both onsite at The Park and offsite at your preferred location – perfect for celebrations, team-building events, or custom experiences.
“This new initiative underscores The Park’s ongoing commitment to creating inclusive, engaging environments that promote connection and community,” said Allyson Burkitt, Events Coordinator of ParkLife Events. “With a robust lineup of events planned for the coming months, we are thrilled to welcome the public to experience what makes life at The Park so vibrant.”
Upcoming ParkLife Events
August 2025
Princess at The Park
August 5th, 6:00-7:30pm
Join us for Princess at The Park, a magical evening featuring the Sleeping Princess! A family friendly event where little royals can come meet the princess herself and enjoy story time, princess activities, royal lessons, crafts, and more. Be sure to arrive in your favorite royal costume for a truly magical experience!
ParkLife Book Club
August 6th, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Looking for a way to connect with like-minded readers and expand your literacy horizons? Join ParkLife Book Club and spend time with a community of passionate readers to discuss a diverse range of books from contemporary best sellers to timeless classics. The August book club selection is The Great Alone, by Kristen Hannah. Future meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of every month. Free to attend; light snacks and a cash bar will be available.
Self Defense
August 12th, 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
Build confidence and stay safe with real-world self-defense techniques taught by retired detective Lisa Gilmurray. Learn how to recognize danger, set clear boundaries, and protect yourself using simple, effective moves—no experience required.
Stride & Sip
August 13th, 5:30pm-7:00pm
Join us for Stride & Sip! A fun and casual 2-mile run followed by well-earned pizza and a drink included with your event ticket at Grain & Cane! Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just in it for the post-run vibes, this is the perfect way to get moving and then unwind with great food, drinks, and company.
Goat Yoga
August 13th, 5:30pm-6:30pm
Our Goat Yoga is set in a serene outdoor environment. This all-levels yoga session includes gentle stretches, mindful breathing, and delightful company of friendly, curious goats. You won’t want to miss it!
Evening Red Light Meditation
August 20th, 5:30pm – 6:00 pm
Unwind and recharge with a 30-minute guided meditation enhanced by red light therapy. This session begins with mindful breathing and gentle body awareness while basking in the calming glow of red light. As the meditation deepens, the therapeutic red wavelengths help promote cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and elevate mood—leaving you feeling centered, rejuvenated, and glowing from the inside out.
Ideal for reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being, this experience blends inner stillness with the healing power of light. All levels welcome!
Gluten-Free & Glorious: A Bread-Making Workshop
August 21st, 5:30-7:30pm
No more bread envy – just fresh, warm, gluten-free goodness. Join Sheena, our Director of Bread Production, for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to craft your own delicious gluten-free loaf from scratch. Sheena will walk you through techniques, ingredients, and tips to help you rediscover the joy of baking—and finally fall back in love with bread, the gluten-free way. No experience needed. Just bring your appetite and your curiosity.
September 2025
ParkLife Book Club
September 3rd, 5:30pm-6:30pm
Looking for a way to connect with like-minded readers and expand your literacy horizons? Join ParkLife Book Club and spend time with a community of passionate readers to discuss a diverse range of books from contemporary best sellers to timeless classics. The September book club selection is Let the Great World Spin, by Colum McCann. Future meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of every month. Free to attend; light snacks and a cash bar will be available.
Networking Night Out
September 10th, 5:30pm-7:00pm
Connect with the faces behind your favorite local businesses and meet other driven professionals from the area at this laid-back yet intentional networking event. Whether you’re a business owner, freelancer, entrepreneur, or local leader, this evening is all about building real relationships, sharing ideas, and supporting the community we work and live in.
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a cash bar and light nibbles, plus plenty of opportunities to mix, mingle, and expand your local network. Bring your business cards, your elevator pitch, and your passion for what you do – we’ll bring the good vibes and community spirit.
Let’s link up and grow local, together.
Sound Bath Meditation
September 11th, 5:30pm-6:15pm
Discover this unique and ancient practice. A sound bowl experience is healing to the body using vibrational sounds and tones that will put you in a state of bliss. The sound waves released by the various bowls induce a feeling of deep relaxation and calm.
All you have to do is lie there. All levels welcome.
Mutts & Mimosas
September 13th, 10:30am-12:30pm
In partnership with St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, ParkLife Events is hosting a Mutts and Mimosas Adoption Day at The Park! Come sip a mimosa and enjoy light bites, meet some adorable pups, enjoy the outdoors – and maybe even leave with your new best friend. Dogs will be available for adoption on the spot, so be ready for love at first lick.
Admission is free, but we ask that you bring a dog donation gift in lieu of a ticket. Drinks available for purchase. Whether you’re looking to adopt or just in it for the snuggles and bubbles, everyone’s welcome to join the fun!
Line Up & Let Loose
September 24th, 5:30pm-7:00pm
Join us at ThePark for a high-energy Line Dancing Class led by a professional instructor who will have you stepping, turning, and two-stepping like a pro in no time. Whether you’re brand new to line dancing or just want to brush up on your moves, this class is perfect for all levels.
October 2025
ParkLife Book Club
October 1st, 5:30pm-6:30pm
Looking for a way to connect with like-minded readers and expand your literacy horizons? Join ParkLife Book Club and spend time with a community of passionate readers to discuss a diverse range of books from contemporary best sellers to timeless classics. The October book club selection is The Grey Wolfe, by Louise Penny. Future meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of every month. Free to attend; light snacks and a cash bar will be available.
Oktoberfest at The Park
October 2nd, 5:30pm-7:00pm
Celebrate the season at Oktoberfest in The Park! Enjoy a flavorful beer and bratwurst flight pairing, fresh pretzels, and a festive atmosphere filled with great company. Compete in our stein-holding challenge and grab your favorite drink from the cash bar. It’s everything you love about Oktoberfest – no passport required!
Cider & Stems
October 22nd, 5:30pm-7:00pm
Get into the fall spirit with a cozy afternoon of flowers, flavors, and festive fun. Create your own seasonal bouquet arranged in a real pumpkin – perfect as a hostess gift or table centerpiece. Enjoy freshly made cider and fall-themed snacks while you design. Come solo or with a friend – no experience needed!
Day Of the Dead Paint & Sip
October 30th, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Join us for a vibrant evening celebrating Día de los Muertos with a creative twist! Guests will paint their own ceramic mugs inspired by the colorful traditions of the holiday – think sugar skulls, marigolds, and bold/colorful designs.
This Paint & Sip experience is featuring Don Julio Tequila, and each ticket includes two handcrafted cocktails to enjoy while you paint. A cash bar will be available for those who’d like to sip a little more.
To reserve your spot and to find out more information about the upcoming ParkLife Events please visit www.parklifeevents.com
About The Park
The Park, formerly known as Connell Corporate Park, is undergoing a $500 million repositioning to bring an urban energy and community to the suburbs. The Park is situated on a walkable, 185-acre campus with a 176-room Embassy Suites Hotel, 112,000 square foot Lifetime Fitness center and over 1.5 million square feet of work resort offices, flexible workspaces and collaborative lounges all anchored by a hospitality, culinary, and wellness culture. The Park is currently adding The District at The Park, which will include 328 apartments and 185,000 square feet of restaurant, entertainment, and retail concepts, bringing the whole campus together into one vibrant destination. To learn more about The Park, please visit: https://theparkatnj.com/
SOURCE The Connell Company
