Mayor Ras J. Baraka highlighted Newark’s 2026 summer of impact and applauded City Hall directors for successful and often record-breaking performances as they facilitated a safe, productive and fun summer to residents of all ages, local businesses, and visitors.
“Newark grabbed national headlines for the steepest decline in homicides this summer, but we celebrated successes every day that define what it means to be a Newarker,” said Mayor Baraka. “It means we provided summer jobs to our youth, we supported kids from justice-impacted families, and we used our juvenile curfew to engage young people and connect them to services. It means we planted trees to beautify our beloved city. We sang and danced at festivals. We protected our most vulnerable residents and had each other’s back.”
Following are sample highlights that illustrate the wide range of events, programs and accomplishments enjoyed by Newark this Summer…