Programs & Projects
Taking It to the Streets
NDD Plant Donation
At the end of each season, the NDD gives back to the local community by donating the plants from our planters for free. This initiative encourages residents to bring a touch of greenery into their homes and neighborhoods, creating a more vibrant, sustainable Newark. It’s an easy way to enjoy fresh plants and be part of our city’s beautification!
NDD Fitness Club
The NDD Fitness Club brought the community together for an energizing series of outdoor exercise sessions. Open to all fitness levels, the club provided a welcoming space for beginners and seasoned athletes alike. Participants enjoyed dynamic workouts led by expert trainers, offering a variety of exercises designed to build strength, improve endurance, and promote an active lifestyle. Set in the fresh air of downtown Newark, the sessions were not only effective but also fun, fostering camaraderie and motivation. The NDD Fitness Club proved to be a perfect blend of fitness, community, and the great outdoors.
NDD Game Nights
The NDD Game Night offered the perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and community connection in the heart of Newark. Attendees enjoyed a wide selection of games, ranging from beloved classic board games to exciting, interactive card games. The event brought together people of all ages for an evening filled with laughter, friendly competition, and fun. This vibrant gathering showcased the spirit of Newark’s community, providing a welcoming space for neighbors and friends to unwind, bond, and create lasting memories.
NDD Jewel Box Jams
The NDD Jewel Box Jams brought lively rhythms to Newark’s Gateway Junction, transforming lunch breaks into vibrant celebrations of local talent. This lunchtime concert series highlighted the city’s dynamic arts scene, showcasing local musicians who entertained and inspired attendees with their performances. It was a perfect midday escape, blending great music with the bustling energy of Newark.
NDD Paint with Pride
In celebration of Pride Month, NDD Paint with Pride offered a colorful and inclusive space for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to come together. This creative event invited participants of all skill levels to express themselves through art while fostering connection and celebrating Newark’s diversity. With a welcoming atmosphere and an emphasis on unity, the event embodied the spirit of pride and showcased the vibrancy of the community.
Halsey Nights
Halsey Nights, in partnership with Newark Alliance, brought a vibrant pulse to Newark’s nightlife with an engaging evening event along Halsey Street. Attendees explored a bustling showcase of local vendors, live music, and a diverse selection of food trucks. The event celebrated Newark’s rich culture while supporting local businesses, creating an unforgettable night of community and entertainment.
NDD Karaoke Night
NDD Karaoke Night at The Yard offered a lively stage for attendees to unleash their inner star. Whether seasoned performers or first-timers, participants sang their favorite hits in a supportive, fun-filled atmosphere. The event featured great music, delicious food, and a crowd ready to cheer, creating a perfect blend of entertainment and camaraderie.
NDD Play Streets
NDD Play Streets transforms our downtown streets into family-friendly zones filled with games, sports, and activities for all ages. This free event encourages the whole family to unplug and enjoy quality time together outdoors in a safe and vibrant setting. With plenty of interactive things to do, NDD Play Streets brings people together to play, move, and connect in downtown Newark.
NDD Edison Place Karaoke Session
(K-pop Edition)
The NDD launched a new karaoke program along Edison Place designed to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for concertgoers. The initiative aimed to transform the area into a vibrant gathering space before events at the Prudential Center, encouraging attendees to engage with the community and support downtown businesses along the streets.
NDD Western Night Market
The NDD Western Night Market brought Wild West charm to downtown Newark, offering a lively evening filled with themed fun and entertainment. Attendees embraced the spirit of the Old West by donning their best Western gear while exploring a vibrant marketplace featuring unique vendors, delicious food and artisanal goods. The event also featured line dancing, cowboys and their horses, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
NDD Art Block Party
The NDD Art Block Party was a vibrant celebration of creativity and community, held in collaboration with the Newark Art Festival, Art Walk Love, and the Newark Art and Education District. The event transformed the Bleeker Street into an inspiring artistic haven, featuring local artists, live performances, and live art. Families and art enthusiasts came together to enjoy the lively entertainment and celebrate Newark’s rich artistic culture.
NDD Annual Fall Festival
The NDD Annual Fall Festival was a fun-filled afternoon celebrating the season with the Newark community. Families enjoyed a free pumpkin patch, decorating stations, festive face painting, and games. Highlights included a petting zoo, pony rides, and a spirited costume contest. Attendees indulged in seasonal treats and free food, including hot dogs, cupcakes, and cotton candy, creating a perfect autumn day in downtown Newark.
NDD 11th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
The NDD Annual Holiday Tree Lighting is a magical evening where the community comes together to kick off the holiday season. With live music, hot cocoa, and festive cheer, this event culminates in the lighting of downtown Newark’s holiday tree. It’s a beloved tradition that brings warmth, joy, and holiday spirit to the heart of Newark.