Source: Newark Alliance
Dear Newark Alliance Members,
We’re excited to share that Newark Alliance, Invest Newark, and the City of Newark’s Arts and Education District are launching Newark Fan Fest, a highly collaborative campaign to make the most of the NCAA March Madness tournament at the Prudential Center (March 27-29, 2025). With 19,000 visitors expected in the city, this initiative will engage both visitors and residents, driving foot traffic to Newark’s small businesses and cultural institutions while reinforcing our city’s reputation as a premier destination for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Member Spotlights & Key Supporters
We’re proud to share that PSE&G and United Airlines, both Newark Alliance members, are sponsoring Newark Fan Fest, helping to make this initiative a success!
Additionally, we’re thrilled that Greater Newark Convention & Visitors Bureau (GNCVB) has printed and distributed the stunning new Official Visitors Guide, just in time to welcome our 19,000 guests.
Newark Fan Fest Highlights:
- Promotional materials & visitor guide – A printed and digital map of the Arts & Education District, featuring small businesses and cultural attractions, distributed at hotels, businesses, and online
- NCAA March Madness mobile pass – Powered by Bandwango, this digital pass will highlight events, promotions, and specials at participating local businesses
- High-touch engagement with local businesses – Bars, restaurants, and shops will be activated with watch parties, special events, and promotions.
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Newark Fan Zone at Championship Plaza – A dynamic activation in collaboration with the Prudential Center on the game days – Thursday, March 27 and Saturday, March 29 from 3:30-7:30PM (Note: as game times are not yet set, these times may shift slightly)
- Home Court Marketplace – A vibrant vendor and food truck market with family-friendly activities in Mulberry Commons on Friday, March 28 from 4-8PM, produced by Newark City Parks Foundation
- Tourism Ambassadors – Managed by Have You Met Newark Tours, ambassadors will greet visitors, provide information, and offer walking tours
How You Can Get Involved
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Share the flyer attached to help spread the word to your employees and networks.
- Encourage businesses and organizations in your network to participate and promote their business on the Bandwango mobile pass.
- Follow and engage with us on Instagram to stay updated and amplify the excitement:
- City of Newark: @cityofnewarknj
- Arts & Education District: @newarkartsed
- Newark Alliance: @newarkalliance60
- Halsey Street: @halseynwk
For more details, visit the Arts & Education District website, which will serve as the central hub for event listings and access to the Bandwango passport.
We’re excited to showcase Newark’s vibrant culture and businesses during this marquee event! Check out the official press release here: PR Newswire.
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REMINDER: Tomorrow, March 19 is the NJPAC Business Partners Roundtable featuring a conversation between Marc Lore of the Wonder Group and Bob Carrigan of Audible at 8:30AM. If you have not yet registered and are interested in attending, you can still do so here.
