The rain held off long enough for the crowd to settle in and enjoy the day. Drizzle came and went later on, and the forecast clearly kept some people at home, but those who came out found a street full of things to see and do.
The cars drew some of the most engaged crowds. Two of the stars were pieces of pop culture on wheels: a movie-prop replica of the DeLorean from the “Back to the Future” films, and the original Batmobile from the 1960s television series and movies starring Adam West. Around them, classic cars and souped-up sports cars lined the street, many with their hoods up for admirers.
Families found plenty to do. Bounce houses and other kids’ activities kept younger visitors busy, and robotic dinosaurs wandered through the crowd. Local children’s performance groups took the stage, and live music added to the soundtrack along the avenue.
Booths lined the route. Police, fire and EMS crews were on hand to meet residents, and township park services shared information about local recreation. Community groups and local businesses rounded out the lineup, and Scouts in uniform were among the many families strolling the street. Neighbors stopped to chat, snack and browse.
The weather added a twist. Clouds threatened for the entire afternoon, and the drizzle that arrived on and off thinned the crowd, yet the mood on the street stayed upbeat.
As October settled in, Scotch Plains Day did what it does best. It brought neighbors together, from toddlers in strollers to classic car fans, to celebrate the town and kick off the season.
