Following Outcry, Southwest Festival Will Return To Hoboken In June

HOBOKEN, NJ — Following an outcry, the Southwest Festival in Hoboken will return this June, just after school ends.

As reported first on Patch, 4th Ward Councilman Ruben Ramos Jr. expressed his frustration last month that the activity, which proved popular in 2023, was being postponed to fall or beyond. He said city officials told him the hiring of a new cultural affairs director meant they couldn't help get the event together in time.

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However, the city's retiring cultural affairs director was staying on to help with the transition, and Ramos noted that many people had already volunteered to make the event happen again.

Residents of the area and commissioners at a Hoboken Housing Authority meeting complained last month that the section of town with the most public housing was often overlooked.

But festival organizers announced on Thursday, just after noon, that the festival will return next month.

"It is official!" the organizers said in a message. "Please join us for the second annual Southwest Fest on June 23, 2024, powered by residents and" sponsors.

The festival is free. It will include a DJ and many activities and vendors.

It will run Saturday, June 23 from 12 to 5 p.m., on Jackson Street from Second to Fourth streets.

Organizers noted, "This family-friendly extravaganza promises a day packed with carnival games, live music by @djbripee along with live performances from local talent, face painting, a mechanical bull, and much more! Let’s bring the fun to the west side of Hoboken and beyond! Last year’s Southwest Fest was a blast, with neighbors coming together for a feel-good celebration."

They said, "Plus, the Southwest Fest made history with the highest number of new library cards issued in a single day at the Hoboken Public Library! This year, we’re taking it up a notch with even more games, attractions, food, nonprofits, and surprises. Don’t miss out on the kickoff to summer - see you there!"

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