NJPAC Screening Draws Crowds as Transit Changes and Weekend Rally Plans Shape Newark Week

Newark is heading into the final stretch of March with busy theaters, shifting transit patterns, and another major rally on the calendar.

NJPAC Hosts Special ‘Goonies’ Anniversary Screening

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center welcomed movie fans Friday night for a 40th anniversary screening of The Goonies, featuring special guest appearances tied to the film. The event brought a strong turnout downtown, adding to an already active week for the arts district.

Local officials and venue organizers continue to lean into nostalgia programming and special events as a way to drive foot traffic to nearby restaurants and businesses.

NJ Transit Riders Adjust After Bridge Cutover

Commuters traveling through Newark Penn Station are still feeling the ripple effects of the recent Portal North Bridge track cutover, which wrapped up mid-March. The infrastructure shift is part of the broader Gateway Program upgrades between Newark and New York.

While officials say the new configuration is designed to improve long-term reliability, riders have reported schedule adjustments and occasional delays as crews fine-tune operations. Newark remains a central hub in the transition, with thousands of daily rail passengers passing through the city.

Downtown Rally Planned for March 28

Organizers are preparing for the No Kings March and Rally scheduled for Saturday, March 28, beginning near Springfield Avenue. The event is expected to draw participants from across Essex County and beyond.

City officials typically coordinate street closures and public safety planning ahead of large gatherings, and drivers are advised to monitor traffic advisories next week.

Looking Ahead

With spring events ramping up, Newark’s cultural venues and public spaces are seeing increased activity. Residents can expect a lively close to March as performances, rallies, and infrastructure projects continue to shape daily life across the city.

Sources

https://www.newjerseystage.com/articles2/2026/03/10/NJ-Stage-Daily-Recap-03-10-26/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal_North_Bridge
https://www.findaprotest.info/event/newark/76796b2f-39c1-4d56-b397-b8fa997635a0