Downtown Washington Borough is taking a step into the retro-futuristic world of Steampunk for its newest free, outdoor music event on Saturday, May 8.

The Washington Rock ‘n’ Roll and Steampunk Fair pairs the steam-powered Victorian Era energy of the classic science fiction genre with a punk and rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack for an unforgettable day in small-town New Jersey.

Themed vendors, music, and activities are planned from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in and around the town’s pocket park at 44 East Washington Avenue (Route 57), Washington (Warren County), in the center of the downtown.

The music lineup includes punk-inspired bands to set the mood, including This Complete Breakfast, playing punk covers of classic pop songs, plus originals; Frenchy & The Punk, Euro-American acoustic alternative post-punk cabaret duo; and This Way to the Egress, whose most recent album was described as “a modern journey through Tom Waits-esque folk-punk junkyards.”

Attendees are encouraged to get in the spirit and dress for the occasion and be eligible for prizes, but don’t fret if you’ve left your favorite Edwardian garb at home.

“We wanted to bring something different and fun to the region,” said Melanie Thiel, Executive Director of the Washington Business Improvement District. “We are excited about this event in part because it has an attendee participation aspect to it. At similar events around the country getting dressed up is part of the fun.” 

Vendors include The Roguish Rabbit, featuring handmade and unique steampunk, gothic, and geeky inspired jewelry, wings, hats, goggles, and other accessories, and Captain Wilobys Emporium, fashioning ready-to-wear for men and women with Edwardian, Victorian, and Steampunk influences, and They Sew In France.

The Washington Rock ‘n’ Roll and Steampunk Fair is presented by Washington Business Improvement District, a non-profit organization that lifts up local business. Sponsors include Shembre & Gannon, LLC, Visions FCU, Dave Phillips Music & Sound, Swift Print Solutions, Good Impressions Print Communications, LLC

All attendees must follow current CDC guidelines for outdoor gatherings. For more information on the fair or to be a sponsor, or to stay on top of event announcements, please follow The Washington BID on Facebook, facebook.com/DowntownWashingtonNJ or go to washingtonbid.org.