From the Front Row: Make It a Memorable Memorial Day

Although summer 2018 doesn’t officially begin until June 21, many people consider Memorial Day weekend to be the unofficial kickoff to the season. Undoubtedly, the holiday offers all kinds of rest, relaxation, fun, and festivities – but first and foremost, it is important to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day. Observed each year on the last Monday of May, it is meant to honor the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military (not to be confused with Veterans Day in November, which honors all those who have and who continue to serve). Memorial Day first began in the years after the Civil War and was originally known as Decoration Day; it became an official federal holiday in 1971.

In communities throughout the nation, moving ceremonies are held to remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice – and, in doing so, made it possible for all the rest of us to live in freedom. There are less somber celebrations, as well, with parades and festivals where we can revel in American pride. Here are details available at press time about just some of the Memorial Day events that are planned in our area, including those where you can bring along a lawn chair or blanket for a front row seat of your own – and remember those on the front lines.

Bradley Beach Memorial Day Weekend Celebration

May 25 through 27

Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday Parade at 10:00 a.m., Festival from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Come out to enjoy one mile of food vendors, crafters, kids’ activities, rides, and more along the Bradley Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk.

Decoration Day Celebration at Historic Longstreet Farm

May 28 from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Join in this special free celebration as staff members and visitors to Historic Longstreet Farm, at Holmdel Park in Holmdel, enjoy an old-fashioned Decoration Day.

Fair Haven Memorial Day Parade

May 28 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m.

Families, friends, and neighbors turn out for this annual tradition, which starts at Knollwood School and ends at Memorial Park, to honor veterans and heroes. The parade features patriotic anthems, reading of the names of fallen Fair Haven military members, guest speakers, presentation of memorial wreaths, and more.

Freehold Memorial Day Parade

May 28 at 10:00 a.m.

The largest and longest consecutively running Memorial Day Parade in Western Monmouth County takes place in Freehold, stepping off from the corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue and Main Street with more than 70 marching groups. The parade will include military units, veterans’ organizations, bands, fire departments, EMS squads, youth groups, custom floats, civilian units, and more.

Colts Neck Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

May 28 starting at 10:00 a.m.

This favorite Colts Neck community event begins with a bicycle decorating contest at 10:00 a.m. at the first aid building on Heritage Way, followed by the parade from Heyers Mill Road to Memorial Park for the ceremony. The event concludes with activities and refreshments at Fire House No. 2 on Conover Road.

Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival at Monmouth Park Racetrack in Oceanport

May 26 through 28

Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to approximately 5:30 p.m.

Monday from 11:30 a.m. to approximately 5:30 p.m.

Dedicated foodies and casual food fans alike turn out for this tasty festival, featuring about 45 of the area’s best gourmet food trucks. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and up, and $5 for parking.

Fleet Week

May 23 through 29

Military members from all over the country descend upon the five boroughs of New York City every year for Fleet Week. Come and see the U.S. Navy ships, U.S. Coast Guard cutters, and other vessels. There will be tours available at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum and on ships docked at Pier 86.

Holmdel Memorial Day Ceremony

May 28 at 10:30 a.m.

Join Holmdel veterans and the Holmdel Recreation Office as they honor those who have served in all wars. The ceremony will be held at Memorial Circle in front of Town Hall. All are invited to attend and refreshments will be served.

Middletown Memorial Day Parade

May 28 at 10:00 a.m.

Middletown’s annual parade steps off at Bayshore Middle School. The route will continue on Leonardville Road to Appleton Avenue to Center Avenue to Brevent Avenue. Marchers will then turn right onto Highland Avenue, left on Leonard Avenue, and right on Viola Avenue, ending at the American Legion Post on Route 36 at approximately 11:30 a.m.

New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation Memorial Day Ceremony

May 28 at 11:00 a.m.

This moving annual ceremony, held at the impressive NJ Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off GSP Exit 116 in Holmdel, honors the memory of New Jersey service members and inducts Vietnam veterans into the In Memory Program. There will be notable guest speakers, musical performances, and presentation of memorial wreaths. The Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center will remain open until 2:00 p.m. following the ceremony.