Large crowd expected at Middletown Day 2001

MIDDLETOWN — More than 10,000 people are expected to descend on the great lawn at the Croydon Hall complex on Saturday to celebrate Middletown Day 2001.

"Middletown Day is a great way to bring everyone from Lincroft to North Middletown together in one place to have some fun and meet their neighbors," Mayor Joan Smith said. "I am looking forward to seeing all the new and the familiar faces I find at every Middletown Day."

Throughout the course of the day, live entertainment will be available under the big tent from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Other attractions include the sixth annual classic car show, a circus with magic and clowns, free gifts for children from the Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, pony rides, clowns, a petting zoo, food, children’s games, a hayride, and demonstrations by the fire department. The historical society will also offer a local history display.

The sixth annual Middletown Day car show, which will include more than 100 classic and antique cars, will also be held. Awards given to participants include the mayor’s trophy, people’s choice trophy, Middletown Day committee trophy, exhibitor’s choice plaque and many others. For a $1 donation, visitors may vote for the people’s choice award with proceeds benefiting the Middletown Explorers.

In addition, there will be a specialty craft show including more than 50 vendors. Holiday-themed crafts, dolls, jewelry, and other items will be for sale. Seniors will be selling a variety of homemade and craft items at Granny’s Flea Market, located at the senior center. Thrift shop items will be available at the flea market.

"Middletown Day is a wonderful way to kick off the fall season and a great way to highlight all that is available in our 42-square-mile town," said Parks and Recreation Director Gregg A. Silva. He noted Middletown’s continuing tradition of giving away free Middletown Day hats to the first 1,500 visitors is still in effect.

Due to school construction, parking will be limited at the Bayshore Middle School. Free parking will also be available at the commuter lot at Appleton Avenue and Route 36; Kunkel Park, located on Brevent Avenue; and Bayview Elementary School, located on Leonardville Road.

Free shuttle bus service will be provided from the commuter lot and Bayview Elementary School with continuous round-trip service every 5-10 minutes.