EmpowHER at the Ross Farm Celebrates Women Through Music, Community, and Inspiration
On Saturday, July 18, the historic Ross Farm will present EmpowHER, a new day-long celebration of women, creativity, community, and connection. The event brings together local nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and musicians for an afternoon of free programming, culminating in an intimate evening concert featuring acclaimed Nashville singer-songwriter Liz Longley with special guest Rachael Sage.
The free afternoon experience, from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., invites visitors to explore the historic farm while enjoying live music, interactive art, and opportunities to connect with more than a dozen organizations focused on creativity, leadership, wellness, education, volunteerism, and community engagement. The afternoon is free and open to everyone.
Visitors will also enjoy performances by three emerging singer-songwriters with Basking Ridge roots on the Ross Farm patio throughout the afternoon. Shruti Ram (Ridge High School Class of 2023), Ally Lambie (Class of 2018), and Ariel Bold (Class of 2015) each began their musical journeys in Bernards Township before pursuing college and creative careers beyond the community. Their return to perform at EmpowHER reflects the event’s celebration of women finding their voices and inspiring others through music.
Inside the historic barn, visitors can experience What the Walls Say When You’re Gone, an immersive installation by The Chapel Coalition. Created by Rachel Weeks and Ariana Hartunian-Sowa, the interactive work explores the Stone Tape Theory through music, spoken word, and sound, inviting guests to experience the Ross Farm through a unique blend of storytelling, memory, and place.
Participating organizations currently include AAUW (American Association of University Women), Bernards Township Library, B.I.G. (Believe. Inspire. Grow), CiC for Prevention and Recovery, DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution, Girls on the Run, Heartworks, Kristina DiPalo/Elysian Communications, League of Women Voters of Hunterdon & Somerset Counties, Northern NJ Unit Herb Society, P.E.O., Rosalie’s Greenhouse, Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women, Somerset County Safe Place Initiative and Stacey Uhrig/Flip Your Mindset.
Guests are encouraged to wander the grounds, meet community leaders, discover volunteer opportunities, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Ross Farm events.
“Our hope is that people leave feeling inspired, not only by the music, but by the remarkable women and organizations strengthening our community every day,” said Nola Hansen, who has led development of the event for the Friends of the Boudinot-Southard-Ross Estate. “While EmpowHER celebrates women and girls, the conversations, resources, and connections offered throughout the day have something to offer everyone. EmpowHER is about creating space for connection, encouragement, and discovering new possibilities.”
The celebration culminates at 7:00 p.m. with a MainStage concert featuring acclaimed Nashville singer-songwriter Liz Longley, with special guest Rachael Sage opening the evening.
Known for her soaring vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting, Longley has earned national acclaim for performances blending folk, Americana, and pop into deeply personal storytelling. Sage, an award-winning singer-songwriter, pianist, and advocate for women in the arts, opens the evening with her dynamic and engaging performance.
Tickets are required for the evening concert and may be purchased in advance at RossFarm.org.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and spend the afternoon exploring everything EmpowHER has to offer before settling in for an unforgettable evening of music under the summer sky. Guests may bring lawn chairs or blankets for both the afternoon activities and evening concert. Picnics are welcome; food will not be available for purchase onsite.
EmpowHER reflects the Friends of the Boudinot-Southard-Ross Estate’s mission to preserve history while creating meaningful opportunities for arts, education, and community engagement at one of Somerset County’s most treasured historic sites.
FoBSR is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and activating the historic Ross Farm through arts, history, education, and community programming. Located in Basking Ridge, the Ross Farm has become a gathering place where music, history, and community come together in a uniquely welcoming setting.
Event Details
EmpowHER
Saturday, July 18
Free Afternoon Experience
1:30–5:30 p.m.
Community organizations • Music • Inspiration
Free admission for the Afternoon Experience. Everyone is welcome.
MainStage Concert featuring Liz Longley with Rachael Sage
Doors open 6 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets available at https://LizLongleyEmpowHER.eventbrite.com or RossFarm.org