20th annual Halsey Festival returns to Newark

Downtown Newark will once again come alive on Thursday, September 17, as the 20th annual Halsey Festival returns from 3 to 8 p.m. along Halsey Street. The free event, organized by the Newark Alliance, promises a vibrant day filled with live entertainment, local cuisine, shopping, and family-friendly activities, uniting residents, students, entrepreneurs, and visitors.

Stretching 1.2 miles through one of Newark’s oldest commercial districts, Halsey Street has been a cornerstone of the city’s history, connecting commerce, the arts, education, and civic life. The festival aims to highlight the unique businesses and creative spirit of the corridor, showcasing the diverse community of entrepreneurs and makers.

"Halsey Festival is a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Newark community," said Ashley Mays, Chief Marketing Officer at Newark Alliance and President of Newark Happening. "This event allows us to celebrate the vibrant small businesses and artists that are shaping the future of Halsey Street and the broader city."

Several notable vendors will participate in the festival for the first time. HARVEST, a farm-to-community center by RWJBarnabas Health, will contribute its unique offerings. "We’re excited to be part of the energy and growth on Halsey Street," said Christopher Keys, logistics manager for HARVEST.

Harlem Cycle, which opened this past January, will also make its debut. "Being part of a street with such a rich history of entrepreneurship is truly special," said Tammeca Rochester, owner of Harlem Cycle.

Returning vendors are eager to reconnect with the community. Shakirah Dickens, owner of FABYOULIFE, a local fragrance and lifestyle brand, said, "I continue to participate in Halsey Fest because it genuinely feels like community."

Candace Guy, owner of Blush Velvet Boutique, echoed these sentiments. "The festival gives us the opportunity to connect with customers face to face and let them experience the brand in person," she added.

Sister Lovely S. Ali, founder of Lovely Life Products, will return annually to provide face painting for children and henna art for adults. "Halsey Festival is a chance to support fellow small businesses and artists and be part of the energy that makes Halsey Street so special," Ali said.

The festival will feature a mix of returning and new vendors, each contributing to the event’s diverse offerings. Supporting Sponsors Prudential Financial and United Airlines help ensure the free public event continues to thrive. "The festival is a celebration of what makes Newark special," said Lata Reddy, Senior Vice President of Inclusive Solutions at Prudential Financial and Chair of the Board of the Newark Alliance.

For Council Member Amina Bey, a resident of Newark’s Central Ward, the festival holds a special place. "Halsey Festival is a chance to support the people and businesses who have helped build this corridor," she said.

Halsey Street is situated at the heart of downtown Newark’s arts, academic, business, and cultural districts, near key institutions like The Newark Museum of Art, Rutgers University-Newark, and Newark Public Library. The festival’s success underscores the importance of community, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation in shaping Newark’s future.

As the city prepares for another memorable event, Halsey Festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Newark’s residents and businesses.