MATAWAN — The Matawan Day Street Festival will return to Main Street with 150 vendors, live entertainment and fun-filled activities on Oct. 22.
The event, which is hosted by the Matawan Economic Development Commission and the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce, aims to promote local businesses and celebrate community.
The 2021 event enjoyed a large turnout as members the public emerged from a prolonged period of coronavirus lockdowns and restrictions. This year, borough officials are hoping to replicate that success with the addition of new initiatives and numerous sponsors.
On Oct. 22 from noon to 5 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to stroll along Main Street to window shop and enjoy a variety of festivities. Live performances from artists and bands are scheduled throughout the day.
In addition to popular food trucks and local restaurants, several booths and stores will be open for shoppers to explore. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the historic Burrowes Mansion.
Borough Council President Brian Livesey said there will be areas where children can interact and play.
“This year we have a new bounce house and a slide, and giant interactive blowups will be on the street for kids to enjoy. In addition to that, there will be a new KidZ Corral sponsored by MJ’s Restaurant and Buttonwood Manor that will include opportunities for kids to visit a face-painter and a balloon artist, or to make a small sand art takeaway,” he said.
Livesey said favorite activities from previous events will return. He said the festival is a showcase of what Matawan has to offer and encouraged everyone to attend.
“The Matawan Day Street Festival will include the return of some fan favorites like the DiBari Pizza Restaurant’s pasta eating contest and Maloney’s slider eating contest.
“This has always been a great fall day to come out, talk to your neighbors, enjoy great food and drink, shop local businesses and out-of-town vendors, and catch up with old friends. It is a great way to show off Matawan and what we have to offer,” Livesey said.
Parking for the Matawan Day Street Festival will be available at the Aberdeen-Matawan train station with all-day shuttle service running to and from the festival.
