Writer, Haunt Hunters App
If you’ve ever wanted to throw a baseball at Jason Voorhees or sit behind the wheel of television’s most famous demon-hunting muscle car, your Saturday plans are officially locked in.
On July 18, the historic Blairstown Diner, immortalized by its role in the original Friday the 13th, is embracing its horror roots. The landmark NJ-94 eatery is hosting the Dusk 'Til Death Market and Music Fest, a day-long celebration of all things macabre, metal, and Jason Voorhees.
Mike Rumsey, owner of Blairstown Diner, said the spooky restaurant hosts monthly horror-related events that draw horror fans from all over the world.
That interest is a statement on the popularity of the hockey-masked slasher, who's been a part of horror history for more than 45 years.
“He has a cult following at this point,” Rumsey said.
Blairstown offers visitors the chance to see the filming locations of the first Friday the 13th up close, including the diner, which is decorated in Jason-related memorabilia and merchandise and serves themed menu items.
Here is what you need to know if you're planning to head out to the event, which is being held rain or shine:
The Free Vendor Market (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
The festivities kick off in the morning with an outdoor vendor market that is free to attend. Dozens of small businesses and artists will be set up on the grounds, offering a massive variety of oddities.
Expect to find:
Horror-themed artwork, candles, wreaths, and home decor.
Vintage toys, collectibles, and hard-to-find horror merch.
Custom hot sauces, themed cookies, and a physical presence from the Buffalo Bills House team.
A "Critter Corner" where visitors can learn about exotic bugs and insects.
Sit Inside "Baby" from Supernatural
For fans of the hit CW series Supernatural, one of the day’s biggest highlights is a guest appearance by "Baby,” the iconic 1967 Chevrolet Impala driven by Dean and Sam Winchester. For $30, fans can take photos and actually sit inside the legendary hunter vehicle.
The Green Goblin from Maximum Overdrive
Meet the Icons of Horror
The diner is playing host to a lineup of horror actors, directors, and creators for exclusive signings and photo opportunities.
Heading the guest list is Ari Lehman, the very first actor to portray Jason Voorhees on screen. Joining him are several prominent franchise alumni and indie horror icons, including:
- Warrington Gillette (Friday the 13th Part 2)
- Lauren Marie Taylor (Friday the 13th Part 2)
- Xander Goldman (Writer/Director/Actor)
- Amber Brooke (Actress/Model)
- The Platon Twins
- Kevin Redzinski
Dunk Jason and Live Music
If you've ever wanted some lighthearted revenge on Camp Crystal Lake's most infamous resident, the diner will feature a "Dunk Jason" tank. Baseballs are $1 each (with a $5 minimum) for a chance to send the slasher splashing into the water.
As the sun starts to set, the event shifts gears into a ticketed live concert running until 10:00 PM. Tickets for the concert are $30.
The stage will feature pre-concert acoustic performances by Carmine Gontz and Jerry Other, followed by the heavy-hitting evening music lineup:
5:00 PM – 5:50 PM: First Jason (fronted by Ari Lehman)
6:05 PM – 6:45 PM: Edgeways
7:00 PM – 7:40 PM: Burned Into Existence
7:55 PM – 8:45 PM: School's Out (An Alice Cooper tribute band)
9:00 PM – 9:50 PM: Horror Scene
Event Details
When: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Market: 10 AM – 4 PM | Concert: 5 PM – 10 PM)
Where: Blairstown Diner, 53 NJ-94, Blairstown, NJ
Tickets & Info: Entry to the vendor market is free. Concert tickets, meet-and-greet passes, and "Baby" photo-op tickets can be purchased in advance at blairstowndiner.com.
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| Photo: Blairstown Diner |
