Area 57: Flying Objects & Family Fun Invade Warren Community College on May 3
Drones, robots, hot air balloons, and classic arcade games will take over Warren Community College this spring as Area 57 returns on May 3, 2025. This exciting, tech-forward event promises a full day of innovation, education, and hands-on fun for visitors of all ages.
Held at the Washington Campus of Warren Community College and the neighboring Warren Tech School, Area 57 is a celebration of unmanned systems, aviation, robotics, and other cutting-edge technology. The event shines a spotlight on the College’s nationally recognized WarrenUAS program, one of the top Unmanned Systems programs in the country. Since its founding in 2017, WarrenUAS has earned acclaim from industry leaders and the FAA for its rigorous training in drone piloting, design, AI, robotics, and systems maintenance.
Guests will have the chance to meet SPOT, the robot dog, and explore a display of advanced drones while chatting with WarrenUAS staff about career paths in this rapidly growing field. With the industry facing a nationwide shortage of qualified professionals, it’s a great opportunity to learn about careers in unmanned systems and robotics.
More Than Just Drones
The event is packed with interactive activities. The Garden State Combat Robot League (GSCRL.org) will host thrilling bouts of robot-on-robot action in the Combat Robot Wreckage. These intense battles will feature 1 & 3 lb. Beetleweights, Plastic Ants, and Antweights duking it out in the arena.
Several First Robotics Competition (FRC) teams will also be on-site, showcasing their innovative robots and sharing their experiences. Visitors can meet members of Team 56 from Bound Brook and the Easton RoboRovers and learn how to get involved in these exciting STEM opportunities.
For those who dream of the skies, hot air balloon enthusiasts can dive into a demonstration on How a Balloon Works, courtesy of RE/MAX of NJ. Attendees can even step inside a cold-inflated balloon or meet Fred G Monster, a unique, special-shaped balloon making an appearance. Tethered balloon rides will be offered later in the day, weather permitting, providing an aerial view of the festivities. ($25 for adults, $15 for youth up to 12 years old.)
Family Fun and Retro Games
Kids can get hands-on at the Fascination Place activity area, packed with free STEM games and challenges. From building rockets at the Moon Base: Launch Pad 57 tent to cracking secret messages in a scavenger hunt, there’s plenty to keep young minds engaged.
Fans of retro gaming will love the Autocades mobile arcade, filled with space and sci-fi-themed classics. Guests can blast aliens in Galaga, take down asteroids, or channel their inner Jedi on Atari’s Star Wars space shooter and video pinball machine. Wristbands to play are $10, with a $20 family pack available for parents and one child.
Event Details
Area 57 is free for students, Veterans, and Seniors, while other adults are asked for a $5 donation. Tickets can be reserved or purchased online, with ID required at check-in. Food vendors will be on-site to keep everyone fueled for the day’s adventures.
To stay up to date on the full schedule of events, visit www.balloonfestnj.com. For questions, call or text event organizer Giulia Grotenhuis at 908-283-0721, or email info@balloonfestnj.com.
Organized by Flying Festivals of Warren County in partnership with the Warren Community College Foundation, Area 57 is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism (VisitNJ.org).
This May, whether you’re a drone enthusiast, future engineer, arcade lover, or just looking for a fun day out — Area 57 promises to be an unforgettable experience.
For more New Jersey events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.
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