Large Crowds Anticipated for Holiday Express

Each year, Red Bank welcomes thousands of area residents to its downtown for its annual Friday after Thanksgiving town lighting, Santa Claus sighting, and Holiday Express concert.

With many shore towns still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Sandy, Red Bank RiverCenter Executive Director Nancy Adams said she believes the already popular event, which sees crowds crowd in to closed off Broad and Monmouth Streets - could draw even more families and from a wider area this year.

This year's Black Friday festivities begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. when Santa throws the switch at the Dublin House, lighting up the the Christmas tree and the town's lights. The lighting will be followed by a Holiday Express concert around the corner on Broad Street at 7 p.m.

Vehicle travel through downtown Red Bank is not advised during this time.

The 19-year-old Holiday Express performs dozens of shows each holiday season, performing well known Christmas classics with a slew of participating musicians lead by Express founder Tim McLoone. Holiday Express is a charitable organization that delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children who are physically, mentally, and developmentally disabled. The organization also benefits the homeless and elderly, among others in need.

The public concert is a precusor to Holiday Express's annual Count Basie Benefit Concert, which is scheduled for Dec. 15 this year. McLoone is the owner of several shore staples, including Asbury Park's Tim McLoone's Supper Club, which was damaged during Hurricane Sandy. The Supper Club is hosting a Sandy relief concert on Dec. 9.

To contribute to Holiday Express or to purchase one of their CDs visit the organization’s website at www.holidayexpress.org.