WizardCon coming to Newton

NEWTON — Polish your wand, grab your spell book and rev up your broom as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Jersey has partnered with the Town of Newton and the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce to announce the return of the much-anticipated WizardCon to Newton on Saturday Nov. 24.
Formerly known as Spells on Spring Street, WizardCon is a new and improved magical event for all ages — centaurs, fairies and elves included — allowing witches and wizards to come together to celebrate adored books, movies and characters. Event organizers have conjured up a charmed event full of spells, potions and lore to transform downtown Newton into an enchanting oasis for magical folk and wizard-wannabe’s alike following the town’s annual 2018 Holiday Parade. All proceeds from the unparalleled event will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Jersey, the town of Newton and the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce.
From 1:30–5:30 p.m., patrons can peruse local businesses and experience a variety of magnificent marvels from tarot card readings to fairy fashion, take a break with a stein of butter beer and even enjoy a high-flying, exciting game of quidditch, everyone’s favorite broom-riding sport, over Spring Street courtesy of Flight Risk Aerials. Enthusiasts are also encouraged to take a stroll to Memory Park to check out a spirited quidditch match from the Clifton Warriors and a USQ-official community team, who will also teach pint-sized fans how to play kidditch, specifically designed for kids. A variety of food trucks will also offer tasty treats at Memory Park. Additional activities available include potion classes, costume contests, photobooths, themed drink specials at participating local bars, live music, trivia contests and several surprises.
“We are very excited to host WizardCon in partnership with the town of Newton, the Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce and all the local businesses in and around Spring Street in Newton,” said Lori Konya, President and Chief Executive Officer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Jersey. “We have worked tirelessly to ensure that this year’s event captures the spirit of the beloved characters and stories that have won the hearts of so many people, while attracting fans to celebrate in Newton with themed activities and festive food and drink. The funds raised from WizardCon will help us grow and improve our various programs so we can continue to mentor children throughout the year.”
WizardCon will feature a wide array of Newton’s businesses, including The Barrel House, Between the Bread, Charcoal Moons, Free Bird Tattoo, Maxwell and Molly’s Closet, O'Reilly's Pub, Penelope's Treasures, The County Seat, The Newton Theatre, The Scissor Joint, Sensible Addictions, Gizzi Productions, Salon Fig, Feels Like Home, Downtown Dollar Superstore, El Paraiso Deli, La Famiglia, CJ’s Barbershop, His n Hair Salon, John’s Barber Shop, Superior Shower Doors, Decades of Memories and more to be announced. Special discounts and giveaways at participating stores and restaurants on Spring Street will be available throughout the event. Parking will be available at Merriam Avenue Elementary School, Halsted Middle School and Newton High School and shuttle services will also be provided from Sussex County Community College and the Sussex County Fairgrounds.
Tickets for WizardCon are $15 for adults, $10 for children and children under 3 years old are free. Newton residents can purchase adult tickets for $13 and children tickets for $8 with valid I.D. Tickets for WizardCon are available by visiting www.WizardConNJ.com.
WizardCon would not be possible without the generous support from the community and our event sponsors: Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc and Thorlabs.
For more information, visit www.WizardConNJ.com and follow on Facebook using the hashtag #WizardConNJ.