Radio X Concert (Montclair)

The famous (or infamous) School of Rock in Montclair has a nifty little thing called ‘Summer Boot Camp Band’ where young rockers get a week-long crash course in music theory and performance and then serve it up in a concert on Saturday at Just Jake’s. Kids aged 7 to 17 will be playing the best alternative, grunge, and modern rock hits from the 90's. Saturday, July 31, 1pm. Kids 17 and under FREE, all others $5. Call 973-337-9224 for more info.

Barbie Dolls of the World (Ellis Island)

Good old Barbie. She’s celebrating diversity with the 30th anniversary of the "Dolls of the World Collection", an exhibit featuring cultural dolls adorned in authentic native costumes, representing more than 40 nations across all seven continents. Fun activities include filling out a Barbie passport, and answering questions about your heritage found at the exhibit and throughout the museum. Exhibit runs daily 9:30 to 5pm until August 15. FREE admission, but you must purchase a ferry ticket to get there, Round-trip Adults $12; Children age 4-12 years old $5; Senior Citizens $10. Call 212-363-3206 for more info.

92nd Annual Mercer County 4-H Fair at Howell Living History Farm (Lambertville) 

If you’ve never been to a 4-H Fair, here’s a good one to start with. They’re doing it up the 4-H way, with animal shows and exhibits, homemade ice cream, hayrides, pony rides, music, cow milking demonstrations, children’s crafts and activities, and displays by the Master Gardeners of Mercer County and the Mercer County Equestrian Center. Best of all, it’s FREE although they do suggest a donation of a canned good. Saturday, July 31, 10am to 8pm, Sunday, August 1, 10am to 4pm. Call 609-989-6833 for more information.

Ready, Set, Preschool (Short Hills Mall)

This one’s for the moms and dads who are nervous about their darlings heading off to school. Meet Jenifer Wana, author of the new book "How to Choose the Best Preschool: The Ultimate Guide to Finding, Getting Into, and Preparing for Nursery School," as she shares fun, practical tips for preparing children for their first day of preschool. Get tips on selecting the right gear, developing preschool readiness skills, and packing lunch and snacks. FREE. Call 973-564-5801 for more info.

Shark Week at Adventure Aquarium (Camden)

Ever wanted to see a shark up close and personal? Yeah, me neither, but kids love that kind of madness. Nurse sharks, the silky shark, a great hammerhead, and the mysterious tiger shark will be on display in the suspended Shark Tunnel, and celebrity shark experts will answer your pressing shark questions. Show up with a shark fin on your head (use your hair, a hat, or something else creative) for $2 off the price of admission. Saturday, July 31 and Sunday, August 1 from 9:30am to 5pm. Adults, $21.95, Children (2-12) $17.95. (Children under 2 are FREE).Call 856-365-3300 for more info.

New Voices of 2010: Pure Imagination at Paper Mill Playhouse (Millburn) 

Paper Mill’s summer conservatory throws their big finale concert with 120 of New Jersey's most talented young performers, including their Rising Star Award winners and nominees. The theme is songs that take us away from the mundane and transport us into our imaginations. Sounds good to us. Friday, July 30 at 7:30pm and Saturday, July 31, 3pm and 7:30pm.Tickets prices range from $22.75 to $38.75. Call 973-376-4343 for more info.