From Bluegrass to the Grateful Dead: Fanwood's Summer Fan Jam Delivers Diverse Musical Lineup

Live music, classic cars, food trucks, and family-friendly activities filled La Grande Park on Sunday as the annual Fanwood Summer Fan Jam returned for another day of community entertainment.

The free event, presented by the Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce and lead sponsor Family Investors Company, featured a diverse lineup of performers and a popular car show that drew residents and visitors from across Union County.

Union County Life is covering Fanwood's signature community event. While Father's Day celebrations and ideal beach weather may have kept some families at the shore, those who attended experienced a full day of music and community spirit.

The day began with a performance by Theatrical Artist's Prep, the Scotch Plains-based performing arts school, which showcased young singers and actors. Local favorite Higher Ground followed with an energetic set featuring rock, country, blues, and gospel hits that had audience members singing along.

Bluegrass band Duck Foot brought a change of pace during the afternoon, delivering spirited performances highlighted by banjo, mandolin, fiddle, and acoustic guitar. Later, Strangers Stopping Strangers, one of New Jersey's best-known Grateful Dead tribute bands, drew enthusiastic fans with faithful recreations of the legendary group's music, improvisation, and harmonies.

Closing out the festival was veteran acoustic guitarist and vocalist Robert Matarazzo, whose laid-back performance provided a fitting conclusion to the day.

Beyond the stage, attendees enjoyed a variety of food vendors and the classic car show, which featured vintage and specialty vehicles that attracted enthusiasts throughout the day.

Since its debut in 2017, Fan Jam has become a summertime tradition, drawing visitors from Scotch Plains, Fanwood, and communities throughout Union County. As summer gets underway, the event once again demonstrated the community spirit that keeps it a popular fixture on Fanwood's annual calendar.

For more information about Fanwood events, arts, and community news, stay informed on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is Fanwood Summer Fan Jam?
A: Fanwood Summer Fan Jam is an annual free community event featuring live music, classic cars, food trucks, and family-friendly activities held at La Grande Park.

Q: When was the 2026 Summer Fan Jam?
A: The 2026 Summer Fan Jam took place on Sunday, June 22, 2026, at La Grande Park in Fanwood.

Q: Is there a cost to attend?
A: No. Fan Jam is a free event open to the community.

Q: What performers were featured at the 2026 event?
A: Performers included Theatrical Artist's Prep (Scotch Plains performing arts school), Higher Ground (rock, country, blues, gospel), Duck Foot (bluegrass), Strangers Stopping Strangers (Grateful Dead tribute band), and Robert Matarazzo (acoustic guitarist and vocalist).

Q: What activities were available besides music?
A: Attendees enjoyed food vendors and a classic car show featuring vintage and specialty vehicles.

Q: How long has Summer Fan Jam been held?
A: Fan Jam debuted in 2017 and has become an established summertime tradition for the Fanwood community and visitors from across Union County.

Q: Who organizes Summer Fan Jam?
A: The event is presented by the Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, with Family Investors Company as lead sponsor.