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Halsey Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Community in Newark

On September 18, 2025, Newark came alive with the sound of music, laughter, and the spirit of community as the Halsey Festival took over Halsey Street. This annual event, a hallmark of Newark's cultural agenda, showcased local businesses, artists, and diverse culinary delights while fostering community connections.

A Vibrant Atmosphere

Running from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., the festival attracted thousands, eager to experience a day filled with over 70 vendor stalls and interactive activities. Hosted by Alexandra Bernard-Simmons, the festival was designed to be family-friendly, providing opportunities for everyone to engage in the local culture. The air was filled with live music from the Newark-based DJ collective bunkr., as well as performances from local artists including Monique the Star and Craig Bradley, creating an atmosphere of celebration and excitement.

Supporting Local Businesses

Organized by Newark Alliance, the Halsey Festival reflects a commitment to revitalizing the Halsey corridor into an economic and cultural hub. The initiative aims to support BIPOC entrepreneurs and small businesses while enhancing community wellbeing. As Ashley Mays, CMO of Newark Alliance stated, walking through the event felt like witnessing the city’s pulse—people were connecting, shopping, and celebrating their shared heritage.

Focus on Health and Community Services

In addition to the entertainment, the festival emphasized health and safety. RWJBarnabas Health introduced initiatives to encourage healthy eating, with the Farm to Community Center program making fresh produce accessible to attendees. Health screenings for conditions like diabetes and HIV were also available, illustrating how the festival supported not just local businesses, but community wellness initiatives as well.

Organizations from the arts scene, nonprofits, and student groups contributed by offering interactive activities, showcasing talent, and providing essential resources for residents. The festival's inclusive approach is a testament to Newark Alliance's mission to create a vibrant and interconnected community.

Community Engagement and Fun

The Halsey Festival also served as a platform for community engagement, featuring resource tables from local arts institutions and interactive art stations. Attendees enjoyed fun activities such as karaoke during the evening, allowing them to take part in the entertainment themselves. Nearby, GlassRoots hosted free glassblowing demonstrations, adding another layer of creativity to the day.

Supporting Local Talent

The festival was supported by various sponsors, including NJPBS, Prudential Financial, and United Airlines, each recognizing the importance of fostering local talent and businesses. This collaboration brought together entities committed to the growth of Newark's cultural landscape.

Monica Slater Stokes from United Airlines emphasized the importance of giving back to communities, while NJPBS highlighted the festival as a celebration of local art and stories from the heart of Newark.

Looking Ahead

The Halsey Festival paves the way for future activities, with upcoming events including the Halsey Art Block Party on October 9 and the Western Fall Festival on October 25. Such programs aim to keep the spirit of the festival alive, fostering a sense of community and celebration throughout the year.

In essence, the Halsey Festival is not just an event; it’s a movement. It encapsulates the essence of Newark's rich cultural tapestry and its commitment to community engagement, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. For those interested in experiencing future events, more information can be found at Halsey Festival's website.

In conclusion, the Halsey Festival represents not only the vibrant rhythms of Newark but also the unity and collaborative spirit of its residents. It is a beautiful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together to celebrate their history, art, and entrepreneurship.