Weekend cruise

Weekend cruise


Classic cars lined downtown Red BankClassic cars lined downtown Red Bank

Blue skies and streets lined with nostalgic classic cars made a perfect backdrop last weekend for the annual Cruisin’ River Festival.

Known for serving up family fun, food, music and entertainment, the three-day festival had something for everyone.

The kitschy centerpiece of the event, the annual "New Jersey’s Best Elvis" competition brought out "The King" copycats and drew a crowd of onlookers young and old to Marine Park in Red Bank.

Played out against a backdrop of classic rock ’n’ roll supplied by Bill Turner and Blue Smoke, the good-natured crowd cheered on a parade of Elvis incarnations ranging from the early Elvis of "Blue Suede Shoes" to the jumpsuited Elvis of "My Way."


Crowds enjoy live performances in Marine Park during the Cruisin’ River Festival.Crowds enjoy live performances in Marine Park during the Cruisin’ River Festival.

Brandon Gallagher, 11, of Tinton Falls prepares to do combat with Frank Pierz, Red Bank, in Marine Park on Sunday.Brandon Gallagher, 11, of Tinton Falls prepares to do combat with Frank Pierz, Red Bank, in Marine Park on Sunday. Jerry El, of South Brunswick, took home the top prize in the “New Jersey’s Best Elvis” competition Sunday.Jerry El, of South Brunswick, took home the top prize in the “New Jersey’s Best Elvis” competition Sunday.


Chris Reeves, 16, of Red Bank, poses for a caricature.Chris Reeves, 16, of Red Bank, poses for a caricature. Emcee and performer Ray Kaminski offers a scarf to a fan.Emcee and performer Ray Kaminski offers a scarf to a fan.