(NEWARK, NJ) -- An afternoon of fall holiday treats, games, activities, resources and entertainment will be in-store next week for local youth and families at United Community Corporation’s (UCC) annual "Harvest Fest." The festival event will take place on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at the West Side Park Community Center in Newark. The event, which runs from 3:00pm to 6:00pm, will feature a wide range of fall-themed festivities and community services for attendees to enjoy.

Activities include trunk-or-treating, face painting, a free coat distribution, and live music by DJ Alvarez. Additionally, Jersey Cares donated 100 holiday costumes for a free giveaway, while supplies last, ensuring every child can participate in the seasonal fun.

“This year’s Harvest Fest is more than just a celebration—it’s our way of giving back to the community,” said Alena Minatee, UCC Director of Community Engagement. “We’ve designed the event to blend fun with important community resources so that every attendee has something valuable to experience.”

In addition to the festive activities, UCC will offer a variety of essential resources for residents. Services available include information on UCC’s utility assistance, lead abatement, and weatherization programs. Free groceries and fresh produce will also be distributed to attendees, courtesy of UCC.

Harvest Fest provides a relaxed, engaging environment for families to connect with these vital resources while enjoying the fall celebration.

This year’s event is made possible through the generous support of Peapack-Gladstone Bank, New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center, Wellpoint, City of Newark Deputy Mayor Jacqueline Mercado Quiles, Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs, the state Board of Public Utilities, PSE&G, state Department of Community Affairs, Newark Centers of Hope, Liberty Middle School, and the state Office of Faith Based Initiatives.

UCC’s Harvest Fest is free and open to all residents of Newark and surrounding communities. Whether attending for the festivities or to access important services, everyone is welcome to participate. 

For more information, visit uccnewark.org/events.