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23rd Annual Hot Rods & Harleys | UCPAC Open House

Saturday, May 09, 2026 @ 11:00am



Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07065

For event updates, visit www.hrandh.com

Full day fun from 11 AM – 7 PM right in front of our Main Stage Theater! Join us outside for live music, our beer garden right across the street in Rahway Arts Park (starting at noon). From 12 PM – 4 PM head UCPAC’s Main Stage will be open to the public for free tours…while you’re there be sure to visit our box office for ticket deals on select upcoming UCPAC shows!

This Open House is supported in-part by funding through NJEDA’S A.R.T. – Phase II Grant Program.

 

Get ready to rev your engines! The 23rd Annual Hot Rods & Harleys returns to Downtown Rahway, NJ on Saturday, May 9, 2026, for one of the state’s most exciting spring traditions. This free, family-friendly event transforms the streets of Rahway into a celebration of classic cars, motorcycles, live music, local vendors, and community spirit.

Hot Rods & Harleys draws thousands of visitors each year to admire hundreds of vintage hot rods, muscle cars, choppers, and custom motorcycles lined up throughout the downtown streets. It’s a must-attend day for car enthusiasts, collectors, and music lovers too!

Beyond the cars and bikes, the event features multiple live music stages with performances from local bands and musicians, filling the streets with energy and entertainment. Visitors can also shop from local vendors and artisans, explore a wide variety of food trucks and beer gardens, and enjoy fun activities for all ages.

Downtown Rahway’s restaurants, bars, and businesses will be open all day, offering special deals and outdoor seating for guests to relax and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Hot Rods & Harleys is hosted by Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe, the Rahway City Council, the Rahway Special Improvement District, and U4 Guys and supported by local sponsors and businesses who make this signature event possible year after year. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or checking it out for the first time, this event is the perfect way to kick off the warm weather season and experience everything Rahway has to offer.

Mark your calendars — engines start at 11 AM and the fun continues until 7 PM. Admission is free and all are welcome!




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UPCOMING EVENTS




 

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EVENT PREVIEWS

(NEWARK, NJ) -- New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) presents a Spring Season of Jazz with free monthly jazz jams at Clement's Place and two special concert events inside the Victoria Theater. This series, running from September through June, is co-presented by NJPAC's Jazz Advisory Committee and Rutgers University–Newark's Institute of Jazz Studies (IJS). Immerse yourself in the relaxing sounds of jazz music that stimulate the players’ and listeners' minds.



PBS'

PBS' Independent Lens Launches 20th Season of Free Pop-Up Screening Series in Teaneck and Nationwide

(TEANECK, NJ) -- The award-winning PBS documentary series, INDEPENDENT LENS, presents the launch of the upcoming season of Indie Lens Pop-Up in partnership with the Teaneck International Film Festival and the Puffin Cultural Forum. The season kicks-off on February 4, 2026 with The Librarians and continues through May. The series is free for all but sign up is required.



State

State Theatre New Jersey presents The Sound Studio Series 2026

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- State Theatre New Jersey proudly presents The Sound Studio Series, an immersive musical experience that places concertgoers at the very heart of the performance. Held in STNJ's intimate Studio space, limited to just 80 attendees, The Sound Studio Series features a dynamic mix of both classical and rock performances. Each concert concludes with an exclusive post-show meet-and-greet with the artists, offering fans a rare opportunity to connect directly with the performers. Tickets for the series are $20-$30.



Megan

Megan Thee Stallion to make her Broadway debut in "Moulin Rouge! The Musical"

(NEW YORK, NY) -- Producers of the Tony Award®-winning, record-breaking Broadway hit Moulin Rouge! The Musical have announced that three-time Grammy Award-winning superstar and actress Megan Thee Stallion will make her Broadway debut in the production as "Zidler", impresario of the titular nightclub. Taking the stage for a strictly limited 8-week engagement, Megan will light up the Al Hirshfeld Theatre from Tuesday, March 24th to Sunday, May 17, 2026, promising an unmissable, moment in the show's legendary run.



Paper

Paper Mill Playhouse presents "1776"

(MILLBURN, NJ) -- Paper Mill Playhouse presents 1776, the Tony Award-winning musical, from April 1 through May 2, 2026. It brings the story behind the creation of the Declaration of Independence to the stage with witty satire, compelling drama, and a thrilling score. With music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and book by Peter Stone, 1776 follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and their fellow delegates as they navigate fiery debates, political tensions, and personal conflicts in their struggle to unite thirteen colonies.












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