MANALAPAN – The community celebration that brings residents and visitors together each year, Manalapan Day, will take place from 3-10 p.m. June 9 at the Manalapan Recreation Center, Route 522 at Taylors Mills Road. Residents of all communities are welcome to enjoy the festivities.
Headlining the entertainment at Manalapan Day this year will be Florence LaRue and the 5th Dimension. LaRue, 74, is the group’s original female singer. The 5th Dimension is known for hits that include “Up, Up, and Away,” “One Less Bell to Answer,” “Last Night I Didn’t Get to Sleep At All,” “Wedding Bell Blues,” “Stoned Soul Picnic” and “Aquarius/Let the Sun Shine In,” according to a press release from the township.
The Manalapan Arts Council (MAC) organizes the annual event. Other entertainment will include performances by local bands. Fireworks will light up the sky over the recreation center in the grand finale to the day’s events.
“Our goal to bring to Manalapan living legends of music from the 1970s continues with the 5th Dimension, following amazing outdoor shows by David Cassidy in 2015, the Spinners in 2016, and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes last year, all in an amazing family friendly setting with something for everyone. Come early and enjoy the day,” MAC Chairman Marty Gelfond said.
In addition to entertainment, Manalapan Day will feature games, food, exhibits, vendors, a carnival, pony rides and a petting zoo. The entertainment will include popular Manalapan music groups Alter Ego and the steel pan ensemble The ManalaPANS.
“This is why Manalapan is such a great place to live,” Mayor Jack McNaboe said. “Thanks to our truly dedicated and phenomenal MAC volunteers and sponsors, on Manalapan Day our town gives back to our Manalapan residents.”
Manalapan Day will be held from 3-10 p.m. June 9. Rides for younger children will open at 2 p.m. The MAC is organizing the annual community celebration, with free parking and free admission for all.
The master of ceremonies for the 11th consecutive year will be Tommy G, longtime New York and New Jersey radio personality and the afternoon host on WCTC-AM. Tommy G will also host “Trivia with Tommy G” with WABC-AM reporter Jeff McKay at the Main Stage, giving guests the chance to win prizes.