Memorial Day 2025 events list: Complete checklist of parades, carnivals and other fests to attend

In the United States, Memorial Day is often considered as the unofficial beginning to the summer season. This long extended holiday weekend serves as the bright opportunity for Americans to be a part of multiple events, such as parades and festivals. Like the past several years, this time too New Jersey is set to host a wide range of events on Memorial Day 2025. This is surely a not-to-be-missed out opportunity for the ones looking forward to starting the season on a positive note with their family and friends.

Here's taking a look at major events taking place this year for the people of New Jersey and nearby states:

1. LEAD Fest Carnival

Venue: Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus

The annual event is back with a long list of rides and carnival games. It starts early on Thursday and remains open for one and all between May 22 and June 8. The carnival marks the perfect place for live entertainment seekers as well as foodies, who can try out pretzels, hot dogs and much more.

The entry fee this year is $5 per person and people will be required to pay separately for taking rides. The opening time is from 5 PM ET till close from Monday to Saturday and from 3 PM ET on Sunday.

2. The Ridgewood Run

Venue: Veterans Memorial Field, Ridgewood

The 48th year of The Ridgewood Run features multiple activities that range from 10K and 5K run to the Memorial Mile. Also, this is a race for kids as well. Participants will have to pay an entry fee depending upon the type of run, while the proceeds will be given to local organisations.

For more details, check the official website.

3. Sussex County Food Truck and Music FEASTival

Venue: 37 Plains Road, Augusta

Food lovers would definitely not like to miss out this event from May 24 to May 25 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. Visitors will get to experience different types of cuisines that will be served at 20 gourmet food trucks. Besides this, there will be live performances by bands and a special kids activity zone. The best part is that entry for children under the age of 10 is free.

Others will have to pay on a $5 per person basis. Timing will be from 11 AM to 7 PM (local time) on both the days.

Memorial Day 2025: Key events in Bergen

Parades: Several parades are being organised in cities like Allendale, Bergenfield, Dumont, Fort Lee, Ho-Ho-Kus, Oakland, Old Tappan, Waldwick and Township of Washington. Date and timings for each of these events varies from city to city.

Ceremonies: Ceremonial events will take place in Allendale, Emerson, Alpine and other regions.

Some of these include the events being organised in association with American Legion Post.

Memorial Day 2025: Key events in Essex

For the residents of Essex, the Glen Ridge is hosting an observance on May 26 to pay respect to the ones who have lost their lives while serving the country.

The Memorial Day parade in Millburn starts at 11 AM on May 26, while the parade in Montclair is from 10:30 AM onwards on the same day. Meanwhile, another parade is being organised in Nutley.

Memorial Day 2025: Key events in Morris

In Morris County, a wide range of events are lined up to take place this Memorial Day in regions like Bloomingdale, Chatham, Chester, Dover, Jefferson, Long Hill, Madison, Mount Arlington, Mount Olive, Morristown, Rockaway Township, Roxbury and Wharton.

Memorial Day 2025: Key events in Passaic

Parades in Bloomingdale, Butler and Passaic start at 9 AM (local time) on May 26. There are events being organised in cities like Wanaque and Woodland Park as well.

Memorial Day 2025: Key events in Sussex

Sussex residents can be a part of the parade this year in cities like Hopatcong, Newton, Sparta and Vernon. Ceremonies will take place in Hamburg, Montague, Stanhipe and Stillwater.

FAQs

1. What is Memorial Day?
The federal holiday, marked on the last Monday in May, honours people who have lost their lives serving the US military.

2. When is Memorial Day this year?
It is being observed on May 26 this year.