The Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC) has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to produce a massive, multi-location festival celebrating both the city’s cultural diversity and America’s 250th anniversary.
The initiative, titled Illumination 250, is scheduled for October 3. It will expand upon the city’s popular “HACKENSACKtoberfest” to create a full-day regional experience designed to drive foot traffic to downtown small businesses and revitalize the historic district.
The funding comes through the NJEDA’s A.R.T. (Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation) Phase II program, which distributed $15 million to 39 organizations statewide. The program specifically targets municipalities affected by the pandemic, using the arts as a tool for economic resiliency.
“Illumination 250 is by the people and for the people,” said Lynne Algrant, President of HACPAC. “We expect October 3 to significantly increase foot traffic, showcase our historic district, and demonstrate the transformative power of arts-led revitalization.”
Illumination 250 will stretch across several downtown landmarks, including Atlantic Street Park, Anderson Street Park, and the Courthouse Green.
Key features of the celebration include:
- Giant Community Puppet Procession: Led by the world-renowned Processional Arts Workshop, featuring puppets built by local residents in community workshops.
- Immersive Light Finale: A large-scale digital projection by Leni Schwendinger Light Projects on the historic Green.
- The World Forum: Folk artists performing at local businesses that share their cultural heritage.
- Samples and Sips: A culinary showcase where Main Street restaurants will offer complimentary signature bites to visitors.
- Audio Flash-Mob: A participatory “MP3 Experiment” staged by the comedic group Improv Everywhere.
Collaborative Roots
The project is a joint effort between HACPAC, the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF), the Main Street Business Alliance, Greater Bergen Community Action, and the City of Hackensack.
To ensure the festival truly reflects the community, organizers are hosting Community Info Gathering Sessions at the Bergen Makerspace. Residents are invited to share their personal “American” and “Hackensack” stories, which will be used by artists to inform the installations and performances.
