East Rutherford, N.J. — The Jonas Brothers returned to their home state in a big way on Saturday, March 23, drawing thousands of fans to the American Dream mall for the first-ever JONASCON — a one-day fan convention that celebrated the group’s 20-year career. While the event brought nostalgia and star power, it also caused significant logistical headaches and disruptions across the area.
The massive crowd of attendees led to extensive traffic backups around the Meadowlands complex, with some fans reporting delays of over an hour just to access parking. Security struggled to manage the overwhelming turnout, especially during high-profile moments like surprise performances and meet-and-greets. Attendees shared concerns about overcrowding and confusion, particularly around unclear event schedules and limited access to key attractions.
Despite the logistical issues, the event marked a high point for New Jersey’s pop culture scene. Local businesses within the mall saw a spike in foot traffic, and hotels in the area reportedly booked out for the weekend. Restaurants and rides at American Dream were packed, benefiting from the influx of fans who traveled from across the country.
JONASCON featured multiple performances from the Jonas Brothers at stages across the sprawling venue, including a unique show at the DreamWorks Water Park. Other highlights included appearances by artists like the All-American Rejects and Franklin Jonas, as well as a nostalgic cameo from “Pizza Girl” Scheana Shay. Fans also enjoyed a Jonas Museum, themed installations, and announcements of new music and a holiday film.
As fans departed, discussions began around whether JONASCON could return annually. While the celebration showcased New Jersey pride and star-studded excitement, the day also highlighted the challenges of hosting such large-scale events — something both organizers and local officials may need to better prepare for in the future.
