What is Welcoming Week?
At the YMCA, we believe everyone belongs. Each year, during Welcoming Week, we celebrate the people, cultures, and experiences that make our Meadowlands community stronger. Through free events, educational activities, and opportunities to connect, we invite neighbors of all backgrounds to come together, build meaningful relationships, and discover the many ways we can create a more inclusive and welcoming community.
Whether you’re new to the area, a longtime resident, or visiting the Y for the first time, Welcoming Week is an opportunity to meet new people, share experiences, celebrate diversity, and strengthen the connections that make our community thrive. Join us as we embrace the YMCA’s commitment to ensuring everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
2026 Welcoming Week Events
Senior Global Game Day
September 11th10:00am - 12:00noonages 55+
Enjoy an afternoon of fun, friendship, and cultural connection! Play games from around the world, join a lively game of bingo, enjoy light refreshments, and celebrate the diverse cultures that make our community so welcoming. Open to all seniors – no membership required.
Neighborhood Marketplace
September 12th10:00am - 2:00pmall ages
Explore a vibrant marketplace featuring local cultural vendors offering delicious food, unique handmade goods, artisan crafts, jewelry, and specialty items from around the world. Stop by to shop, support small businesses, and celebrate the diverse cultures that make our community unique.
Community First Wellness Fair
September 14th4:30pm - 6:30pmall ages
Take charge of your health at our free Community First Wellness Fair! Connect with local healthcare providers and community organizations offering mobile health screenings, vaccinations, prenatal care resources, wellness information, and more. Discover valuable services and support available to help you and your family stay healthy.
Global Groove Zumba
September 16th7:00pm - 8:30pmall ages
Get moving and celebrate cultures from around the world with a high-energy Zumba class featuring music and dance inspired by global rhythms. This fun, inclusive workout is perfect for all fitness levels and is a great way to connect with your community during Welcoming Week!
YMCA After Dark Open Gym
September 18th6:00pm - 6:30pmages 13 to 17
Teens ages 13–17 are invited to light up the night at our glow-in-the-dark open gym! Enjoy exciting games, glow sticks, friendship bracelet making, music, food, and a fun night to connect with friends and meet new people. Free and open to all teens in the community during Welcoming Week!
Welcoming Week FAQs
Welcoming Week is an annual celebration that brings together neighbors of all backgrounds to build stronger, more connected communities. Join the Meadowlands YMCA for a week of free events, activities, and opportunities to connect with others while celebrating the diversity that makes our community unique.
Everyone is welcome! Our Welcoming Week events are open to the entire community. You do not need to be a Meadowlands YMCA member to participate.
No! All Welcoming Week events are completely free.
Most events do not require registration. The only event that requires advance registration is our Zumba class due to limited space. A registration link will be available soon.
No. Welcoming Week is open to members and non-members alike.
Yes! Most Welcoming Week events are designed for all ages. If an event has age restrictions or is intended for a specific audience, it will be clearly noted in the event description.
Events will be held at the Meadowlands YMCA and select community locations. Events are located the 390 Murray Hill Parkway facility unless otherwise noted.
We’re happy to help! Contact the Meadowlands YMCA for more information about Welcoming Week events, accessibility accommodations, or any other questions you may have. 201-955-5300