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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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EVENT PREVIEWS

(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.



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Arden Children's Theatre presents "The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales"

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- This spring, Arden Children's Theatre invites families into a hilariously twisted world where classic fairy tales don't go quite as expected in its next production of the 2025/26 season, The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales (The Stinky Cheese Man). Based on the beloved book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, adapted by John Glore, the production brings the book's fractured fairy tales to life for kids and adults alike. Directed by Steve Pacek, the production runs on the Arden’s Arcadia stage with previews starting April 8, opening night on April 18, with performances running through May 31.



The

The Broadway Theatre of Pitman presents "A Bronx Tale, The Musical"

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Haddon Township to Hold 4th Annual String Band Parade

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George Street Playhouse presents "My Lord, What a Night" by Deborah Brevoort

(NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ) -- George Street Playhouse has announced the cast and creative team for My Lord, What a Night written by Deborah Brevoort (Blue Moon Over Memphis) and directed by Sheldon Epps (Play On!). It's about a remarkable friendship and a night in New Jersey that changed history. Performances run from April 28 through May 17, 2026.












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