Newark Alliance, Invest Newark, and the City of Newark’s Arts and Education District recently launched “Newark Fan Fest,” a mobile passport for the estimated 19,000 visitors traveling to Downtown Newark during the National College Basketball Playoffs at Prudential Center, set for March 27-29, 2025. By engaging visitors and encouraging Newark residents to explore the Arts and Education District’s small businesses and cultural institutions, the goal is to further strengthen Newark’s reputation as a hub for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
“We’re proud to showcase our vibrant downtown with its tourism and destination ecosystem to all who travel here for the courtside thrill of March Madness,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “This is an exciting opportunity to activate the vibrancy of our city, spotlight the diversity of our retail and entertainment businesses, and create connections and new memories with visitors and residents alike.”
Ashley Mays, Chief Real Estate and Marketing Officer of Newark Alliance emphasized the broader impact, saying, “We launched Newark Fan Fest to welcome fans in our local businesses and cultural venues during the tournament, but the effort also strengthens Newark’s reputation as a go-to destination for entertainment and nightlife, supporting Newark’s long-term growth.”
The “Newark Fan Fest” mobile pass will be accessible to visitors and residents through the QR code on a convenient and engaging map/mini-guide available at hotels, businesses and online. The pass, which can be accessed here and on the Newark Arts & Education District website (newarkartsandeducation.com), will provide comprehensive details of special events, watch parties, local business and attractions, and exclusive deals and promotions. Additionally, the mobile pass allows the holder to enter a “punch card” game with prizes corresponding to the number of events and businesses attended.
More than 25 businesses in Downtown Newark are participating in Newark Fan Fest, including Bunkr., Tinjune Sports Lounge, Just Fish Bar & Grill, Bar Vanquish, The Executive Leaf Cigar Lounge, The Atelier and the newly opened Vault Lounge. Many of these establishments are proudly owned by Newark-based entrepreneurs, showcasing the city’s thriving and supportive small business community. Newark’s prolific arts scene is easy to access for visitors by way of Newark Grounds, a walkable cultural corridor featuring more than 75 consecutive public artworks and dedicated arts and culture spaces. Visitors can access the interactive map on the Project for Empty Space website here.
“Home Court Marketplace,” a vendor and food truck market at Mulberry Commons, produced by the Newark City Parks Foundation, will showcase even more of the city’s offerings and Newark-themed merchandise produced by local makers. Tourism ambassadors, led by local tour company Have You Met Newark Tours, will be visible on the streets in the District, guiding visitors, sharing recommendations, and offering group walking tours.
“This initiative is about creating meaningful connections between visitors and the Newark community,” said Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark. “We are excited for visitors to experience our local retail, restaurants, and culture during this major event.”
For more information, visit https://newarkartsandeducation.com/.
