Festivals United Newark (FUN) Launches Groundbreaking Citywide Festival Series

The city of Newark has turned up the heat this summer on culture, creativity, and community. Have you heard of FUN? Festivals United Newark (FUN) – a groundbreaking coalition of Newark’s most iconic festivals under one banner – was announced during the city’s annual Juneteenth cookout at Harriet Tubman Square Park in the city on Thursday, June 19.

The FUN coalition, supported by the Newark Alliance, aims to attract culture lovers, families, and tourists along the northeast corridor with a lineup of exciting festivals from June through January 2026.

FUN events include the AfroBeat Fest on Saturday July 12, Newark Pride Week – July 7 - 13, the 20th Annual Lincoln Park Music Festival starting on July 23, multiple Halsey Fest celebrations running now through September, the October Newark Arts Festival, and the unique Newark Winter Village. These festivals showcase Newark’s rich cultural tapestry through music, art, food, and community engagement. See the full schedule here.

“FUN is more than a lineup of events,” said First Lady Linda Baraka, and FUN spokesperson. “It’s a movement that honors our roots, celebrates our people, and invites the world to experience the soul of Newark.”

“This historic collaboration uplifts our artistic spirit and infuses our community with economic vitality,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “This is Newark at its best: thriving in the midst of art, joy and FUN!"

Festivals United Newark, backed by a $1.5 million grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority through its ART (Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation) program, plays a crucial role in Newark’s post-COVID revitalization.

To make it easier for festival-goers, Via, Newark’s free Friday through Sunday micro-transit service, provides app-based rides to venues across the city at no charge.

FUN, rooted in culture and united in celebration, positions Newark as a must-visit travel and tourist destination where culture and creativity rule. So come experience the heartbeat of Newark this summer, fall, and holiday season. Visit www.festivalsunitednewark.org for updates on happenings around the City.