National Color Book Day

FREE - Mandalas Coloring Book - FREE - Amwell Pet Supply Coloring Book - FREE - Mama Fanti Italian Kitchen Coloring Book 

Celebrate National Coloring Book Day at JPA Plaza!

August 2nd is National Coloring Book Day, and here at JPA Plaza in Hillsborough, NJ, we're celebrating creativity, color, and community! Whether you're a lifelong artist, a curious beginner, or just looking for a relaxing break, today is the perfect excuse to grab some crayons, markers, or colored pencils and let your imagination run wild.

🛍 Local Creativity on Display

This fall, JPA Plaza will host its first Crafts Fair (October 5) — Keep an eye on our Instagram and Facebook feeds as we introduce local Crafters and ways you can support the creative spirit right here in Hillsborough.   We are planning for an exclusive Artist Show/Fair in the spring of 2026 where local artist can showcase their work and offer opportunities for sharing their work with the community. 

🐾 Family- & Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring the kids, bring your coloring books, and visit our amazing tenants like:

Mama Fanti Italian Kitchen – Relax over a cozy lunch after coloring time.
Amwell Pet Supply – Stop by with your pets and check out their colorful toys and treats.

You may even spot a few coloring stations popping up around the Plaza!

✨ Get Involved

Want to share your coloring creations?
Tag us on social media using #ColorJPA and #JPAPLAZA — we’d love to see how Hillsborough colors outside the lines!

Why coloring matters:   It can improve your MENTAL HEALTH

Coloring isn’t just a childhood pastime — it’s a powerful and accessible activity that can support mental health and emotional well-being for people of all ages. Whether you’re filling in a complex mandala or simply adding color to your favorite illustrations, the act of coloring has been shown to offer several mental health benefits and a great way to tap into your creative side. 

In a busy world, taking just 10 minutes to color can quiet your mind and spark joy.  That’s something we celebrate at JPA Plaza, where art, creativity, and small businesses thrive together.

1. Stress Relief and Relaxation

Coloring helps shift the brain’s focus away from stress and worry by encouraging mindfulness — a state of being present in the moment. When you color, you’re naturally concentrating on shapes, lines, and colors, which can calm the mind and reduce anxiety levels. This meditative effect is similar to deep breathing or gentle yoga.

2. Improved Focus and Mindfulness

Engaging in a quiet, creative activity like coloring encourages mindfulness, which has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and improved emotional regulation. Coloring slows down racing thoughts and brings your attention to the here and now.

3. Creative Expression and Mood Boosting

Coloring offers a safe and simple way to express yourself creatively, which can be especially helpful for people who find it hard to talk about their feelings. Choosing colors, creating patterns, and watching an image come to life can lead to a sense of accomplishment and joy.

4. Break from Screens and Daily Pressures

In a world filled with digital noise and constant stimulation, coloring provides a refreshing screen-free break. It allows the brain to rest from multitasking, offering a peaceful pause in an otherwise busy day.

5. Accessible and Non-Judgmental

One of the best things about coloring is that there are no rules or expectations. You don’t need special skills — just a coloring page and some crayons or pencils. This makes it an inclusive activity that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or artistic ability.

In short, coloring is a small act that can make a big difference in your day. Whether you're looking to unwind, feel more grounded, or add a little joy to your routine, picking up a coloring book might be just the thing your mind needs.

Let today be a reminder that being creative lives in the simple things—and you don’t have to be a professional to create something beautiful.

Happy National Coloring Book Day from all of us at JPA Plaza—where color, community, and creativity come together.