After being rained out last year, the beloved Memorial Day Parade returns to Fanwood and Scotch Plains on May 26th, 2025. U.S. Army Air Forces veteran of World War II Greg Ruffa will serve as this year’s Grand Marshall. The parade is the highlight of a long weekend of celebration honoring our servicemen and women, past and present. Here’s the schedule:
| Saturday, May 24th Ruck to Remember– 8am. American Legion, 237 Park Avenue Scotch Plains. Rucking is the foundation of Special Forces training. It is the practice of walking with a weighted rucksack (aka backpack). It implies action, energy, and purpose. Rucking requires strength, endurance, and character — and builds it, too. This 6.5 mile Ruck Walkthrough Fanwood and Scotch Plains will require a 10lb minimum ruck/backpack/weighted vest and boots are encouraged. Organized by Fanwood’s own Oshanda Erb. For more scan the QR code or click here. |
| Memorial Day Ceremonies Monday, May 26 9:00 AM Fanwood Memorial Library, featuring laying of wreaths at the war memorial and gun salute INVOCATION Deacon Don Hessemer PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE WWII Veteran Joe Schott, US Navy STAR SPANGLED BANNER SPF High School GREETINGS TO DISTINGUISHED GUESTS Colleen Mahr, Mayor Greg Ruffa, Grand Marshal Sgt. Brian Santos, 2024 Grand Marshal Denise Sherwood & Family REMARKS Grand Marshal Gregory Ruffa MEMORIAL DAY PROCLAMATION Colleen Mahr, Mayor GOD BLESS AMERICA SPF High School LAYING OF WREATHS Fanwood Police Department Fanwood Fire Department Fanwood Rescue Squad American Legion Post 209 VFW Posts READING OF LOCAL VETS LOST TO WAR TAPS Durand Thomas BENEDICTION Deacon Don Hessemer St. Bartholomew’s Monday, May 26, 10:00 AM – Gazebo at Park Avenue and Front Street, downtown Scotch Plains, laying of wreaths and gun salute Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 26th, beginning 10:45 AM The 2025 Memorial Day Parade will proceed south on Park Avenue to Martine Avenue into downtown Fanwood, ending at La Grande Park. The parade is funded by the Township of Scotch Plains and the Borough of Fanwood. Individuals or organizations interested in participating in the parade or making a donation to support the concert may contact Bob LaCosta, Township of Scotch Plains, (908) 939-8448 or blacosta@scotchplainsnj.com. Self-Guided Walking and Gold Star Routes You can walk or bike through our community any time to view memorial banners and street signs honoring our veterans and gold star families. Walking Route Bike Route |
