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 Marshal. 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– UNFORTUNATELY THE RUCK IS CANCELLED THIS YEAR

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

A Special Thank You to our Planning Committee