You know when Starbucks releases its signature Pumpkin Spice Latte, fall is right around the corner. What better way to transition from the summer heat than to kick into autumn with the Hoboken Fall Arts & Music Festival, celebrating its 29th annual year! Held on September 28 of this year along Washington Street, featuring local food vendors, displays of art, live music, and unique items from local businesses. A perfect way to spend a Sunday with family and friends to take some time off the screen and enjoy what the fall season has to offer.
Walking down Washington Street, it was exciting seeing many local businesses take their shops outside for the day and showcasing what they keep inside the store, while also seeing new pop-up stands on the streets featuring unique finds. This year, the live music performed was classic ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s hits performed by Dwayne Gretzky and 10-piece band while on their U.S. tour. Their reputation for fun and energetic performances, loved by their audiences, brought a crowd together singing along and vibing together, creating a lively atmosphere all over.
The food options of local vendors were off the roof with a variety to choose from. Including savory bites ranging from crab cake, kabobs, BBQ, fresh lemonade, and so much more, you were able to smell the aroma from blocks away. They offered a wide range of tasty treats such as snow cones, kettle corn, funnel cake, and etc. Some popular treats were cake in a jar, healthy cookies, pickle on a stick, and chocolate-covered bacon. Akihi Bubble Tea offered 1,000 customers free bubble tea, which was a clear crowd favorite with lines that formed nearly instantly.
The festival was incredibly family-friendly and children had many activities to enjoy from bubble stations, make your own slime, bracelet stands, and crochet crafts. Furry friends were not left out: vendors catered to pets with gourmet dog treats and packaged snacks in shapes of macarons and customized cookie treats.
What was so unique about the event was the abundance of customizable items that gave visitors the chance to take home something memorable from this festival. Spending time with friends and family while choosing between customizable accessories, such as hats to bracelets, necklaces, and charms, added all the fun and an extra layer of excitement for the day. Taking home memories that will be carried beyond the season.
Getting ready for the fall season requires a cozy home and showcasing of home decor and artwork. Vendors displayed everything from handmade mugs, unique paintings, and colorful canvases. Each booth felt like a display of its own gallery show with artists who were more than willing to share their inspirations and ideas that brought their creation to life. One featured artist, Layes Hussain, has been in the art industry for over 13 years, showcasing remarkable pieces that drew visitors and delivering incredible pieces to happy customers featured on his Instagram.
The Hoboken Fall Arts & Music Festival was an incredible way to kick off autumn. With an array of tasty food, live music, captivating art, and different items, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy, the festival offered a perfect way to embrace the season in Hoboken.
