Musicfest of Union County
A new location, great new acts, and a whole new family carnival: Union County’s MusicFest 2009 offers all the fun of an old time county fair, with 21st century flair. Overlook Hospital is the presenting sponsor of the event, in partnership with the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, which features two days of free music on three stages.
MusicFest is scheduled for September 12 and 13 at Oak Ridge Park. A carnival will also be at Oak Ridge from September 10 to September 13.
“MusicFest is Union County’s updated, up-beat version of that great American tradition, the county fair,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “It’s a free public gathering for one and all to enjoy, and a stellar opportunity for Overlook Hospital and many other outstanding businesses and non-profits to showcase their civic pride. With a walkathon and a 5k run to raise money to fight cancer, MusicFest connects our little corner of the world with people and communities far beyond our borders.”
As MusicFest’s Presenting Sponsor for the second year in a row, Overlook Hospital plays a key role in the success of the event. Other major sponsors to date include Walmart, Kean University, TD Bank, The Hartford, Elizabethtown Gas, Brown & Brown Metro, Pennoni Associates, PSE&G, Verizon, CMX, Correctional Health Services, The Crossroads, Optimum Lightpath, Amaker Porterfield, Conoco Phillips, and Crowne Plaza Hotel.
Along with the free music, MusicFest 2009 includes all the extra attractions that have made it Union County’s premier outdoor family entertainment event, and more. The Kids Kingdom Traveling Jubilee returns with a full slate of children’s activities including moonwalks, crafts, and kid-friendly performers, all free or affordably priced. Parents can spread a blanket out on the grass and relax while children of all ages explore the sights and sounds.
A laser tag course will be part of the fun, and to the delight of young BMX fans all over Union County, the spectacular Hell on Wheels riders will show off their heart-stopping stunts with free performances. The Union County Performing Arts Center will also be on hand, providing a convenient way to check out upcoming acts at this beautifully restored 1920’s former vaudeville hall and purchase tickets for first class music, comedy, dance, and theater.
One brand new addition to MusicFest this year is a full scale carnival, complete with a Ferris Wheel and many other popular rides. Dozens of food stands, sponsor booths and vendors round out the festivities.
Raising funds to fight cancer will be the heart of MusicFest, with the Rock On! Walkathon and the 5k Rock ‘n’ Run, in partnership with the Love, Hope, Strength Foundation. Proceeds will also go to benefit the Valerie Fund.
Performing artists confirmed for Saturday so far are Fastball, The Alarm, and Cy Curnin of The Fixx. Confirmed for Sunday are The 1910 Fruitgum Company, Glenn Tillbrook & the Fluffers, Gin Blossoms, Tonic, and They Might Be Giants, who will play two sets, the first of which will concentrate on their Grammy Award-winning children’s music.
“We’re pleased to offer MusicFest at Oak Ridge Park this year, which will provide the public with more entertainment, more room to walk around and view the performances, and easier access including handicapped access,” said Mirabella. The new location will also improve logistics for the County’s public safety officers, and for performing artists, vendors and sponsors.
“The use of Oak Ridge enabled us to bring in the carnival, expand the parking concession, and increase the space for vendors,” said Mirabella. “That brings more revenue, and we can continue to offer free music and affordable entertainment for everyone.”
Free off-site parking and a free shuttle will be available. MusicFest’s official hotel, Crowne Plaza Hotel, will also offer discounted rooms and a free shuttle.
“MusicFest has grown from a small concert to a free community-wide celebration and a regional showcase for of all the things that make Union County a great place to live, raise a family, and do business,” said Mirabella.
The music kicks off at 8:00 am and lasts until 10:00 pm on Saturday, September 12. On Sunday, September 13, the music starts up at noon and goes to 8:00 pm.
Kids Kingdom will be open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday September 12, and from noon to 6:00 pm on Sunday September 13.
The carnival will be open from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Thursday and Friday September 10 and 11, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on September 12, and from noon to 8:00 pm on September 13.
For event details, visit UCMusicfest.com.
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