It’s no secret that Hudson County boasts some of the best original art, music, and festivals around, but you might not know just how much there is to see and do on any given day or night. 2006 was no exception. This issue is devoted to the talented artists and other residents who have made a difference this year, and to some of the great events that happened in your towns.
Parades
All the world loves a parade, and no one loves it more than the Irish.
Although most towns host their own St. Patrick’s Day parade, young Hobokenites have made the annual Hoboken parade and event to remember. It is known as the busiest bar day of the year, beating out even New Year’s Eve on volume. Some people wait upwards of an hour to get into one of Hoboken’s bevy of bars – starting in the morning.
Another big one is the annual Cuban Day parade in North Hudson. The parade, now in its seventh year, marches from Bergenline Avenue from 79th Street in North Bergen to 31st Street in Union City.
Jersey City is host to a melting pot of cultural parades throughout the year including: The Columbus Day Parade, The West Indian Parade, and the Puerto Rican Day Parade.
There are even marches for pint-sized creatures like the “Rag-a-muffin” Halloween parade for tots in Hoboken and the annual pet parade in that town.
Free fairs and festivals
Even those on a budget can find fun free things to do in Hudson County. Hoboken hosts the annual Art & Music Festival, which takes place in the spring and fall. The outdoor festival features over 300 vendors featuring original art and crafts, eclectic food, and musical acts on two stages. Other annual Hoboken festivals include: the St. Ann’s festival, the Italian feast of the Madonna in September, and more.
Theater buffs can get their fill of plays every summer that are performed in the scenic parks of Hudson County. Several theater companies participate annually including: DeBaun Theater Company (Hoboken), Hudson Exploited Theater Company (Union City), Mile Square Theatre (Hoboken), Hudson Shakespeare (Jersey City), and others.
In addition, during the summer many local businesses offer free fitness classes along the beautiful waterfront.
Music to your ears
There are concerts-a-plenty for the music lover, many of which are free!
Hudson Riverfront Performing Arts Center (HRPAC) provides listeners with outdoor concerts in beautiful Lincoln Harbor Park. This summer HRPAC brought new jazz musician Stefon Harris and indie rock girls Antigone Rising. Ultimately, HRPAC plans to build a permanent structure on the waterfront.
Jersey City has several series including: Liberty Jams, which is in Liberty State Park and the annual Jazz fest. For a slightly more intimate feel, Hoboken has concerts in Church Square Park and others.
And…
But that’s not all. These are just some of the exciting things to do in Hudson County. Stay tuned for an even better time in 2007!