MANALAPAN — A performance by Jay and the Americans will headline Manalapan Day 2022 as the long-running community event marks its return following the coronavirus pandemic on June 18 at the Manalapan Recreation Center.
According to a press release from the township, six high school classmates from Long Island, N.Y., joined together to form a group called the Harbor Lites, and soon after, Jay and the Americans were born. The group is known for songs including “She Cried,” “This Is It” and “Cara Mia.”
Manalapan Day welcomes attendees of all ages from all towns. The day-long celebration will include performances by local bands, area dance groups and additional performers on two stages. The entertainment will culminate with a concert by Jay and the Americans and a fireworks show, according to the press release.
The event is coordinated by the Manalapan Arts Council (MAC).
MAC Chairman Marty Gelfond said, “Our goal to bring to Manalapan living legends of music from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s continues with Jay and the Americans, following previous amazing shows which included Mickey Dolenz from the Monkees, David Cassidy from the Partridge Family, the Spinners, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, the 5th Dimension, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, Tommy James and the Shondells and Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone, all in an amazing family friendly setting with something for everyone. Come early and enjoy the day.”
Fun and games, food and exhibits from a midway full of vendors are just part of Manalapan Day, which also includes carnival rides, a petting zoo and non-stop entertainment on two large stages, including popular Manalapan music groups and the steel pan ensemble “The ManalaPANS.”
“Thanks to our truly dedicated and phenomenal MAC volunteers and sponsors, on Manalapan Day our town gives back to our residents and this is why Manalapan is such a great place to live,” Mayor Susan Cohen said. “Manalapan Day entertainment is brought to the residents without using any taxpayer money.”
Manalapan Day will be held on June 18 at the Manalapan Recreation Center, Route 522 and Taylors Mill Road, from 3-10 p.m. Rides for younger children will open at 2 p.m. The event has free parking and free admission for all attendees.
The master of ceremonies for Manalapan Day since 2008 is longtime New York and New Jersey radio personality Tommy G, who will also host “Trivia with Tommy G” with radio news reporter Jeff McKay at the main stage, providing participants a chance to win prizes.
