Every year, the borough of Highlands partners with presenters Cranston Dean and Telegraph Hill Records to host an outdoor event with diverse genres of music, activities and vendors to raise money for charity.
This year, instead of canceling the event due to the restrictions amidst the coronavirus pandemic, they are leveraging technology to keep the spirit alive by bringing more than 20 musical acts, children’s activities and lifestyle demonstrations to computer screens on May 16 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., according to a press release.
While the event is free, donations for United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties and Heartstrings music programs will be encouraged during the 12-hour live stream, according to the press release.
United Way is assisting the community by providing resources for individuals who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, and Heartstrings is working to set up live or virtual music programs for Highlands residents this summer, according to the press release.
Donations to United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties may be made at www.uwmoc.org/ParkFest2020, and donations to Heartstrings are accepted at www.paypal.me/heartstringsmusicnj
Under the federal CARES Act, donations up to $300 will receive a tax break in addition to the standard deduction, even if the tax return is not itemized, according to the press release.
The ParkFest 2020 lineup, including live musicians, story time for children, cooking, fitness and yoga demonstrations, is available on facebook.com/highlandparkfest
This page will also host the link for the live-stream and information about local sponsors who made the event possible.
As a bonus, Telegraph Hill will tap into its extensive music vault and provide select concert clips of recent Jersey Shore shows for an additional hour from 10-11 p.m.
At 11 p.m., viewers will be transported to the Chubby Pickle for an after-show featuring Cranston Dean, the Foes of Fern and Dan Apy. Additional details are available on the Highlands Parkfest 2020 Facebook Page or www.HighlandsBorough.org