May 26th 2023

The family-friendly event also includes a children’s bike-decorating contest.

Patriotism will prevail throughout the day, from the parade and red-white-and-blue theme of decorated bikes and wagons, to the solemn ceremony at American Legion Post 198.

Mayor Tim Donohue, Deputy Mayor Ike Gandy and Committeeman Jim Norris will walk in the parade, as will Middle Township’s own Miss New Jersey, Augostina Mallous. First responders, including fire companies, the sheriff’s department and the mounted patrol, also will join the procession.

Middle Township holds a Memorial Day essay contest to help children understand the significance of the holiday. American Legion Post 198 will choose the winners from around 100 submissions received this year. The students with the winning essays on the topic “What Memorial Day Means to Me” will read them aloud at the ceremony.

All the events start bright and early on Monday, with bike-decorating contest judging at 9:20 a.m. on Memorial Field. The parade starts at 10 a.m. at Memorial Field on Pacific Avenue. It will continue north on Boyd Street, turn left on Mechanic Street, left on Dias Creek Road and end at the American Legion Post 198. The ceremony will be held after the parade at Post 198.

Participants in both the bike contest and the parade must be registered prior to May 25. Registration forms can be returned via email to abecica@middletownship.com or completed online.