Memorial Day Parade returns to Middle Township this year

Traditional holiday event includes bike-decorating contest

After observing Memorial Day from their porches last year, Middle Township residents can look forward to the return of the Memorial Day Parade on May 31.

The summer kick-off parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Memorial Field on Pacific Avenue. The route proceeds from Memorial Field to Boyd Street, going north on Boyd Street turning left onto Mechanic Street, then turning left onto Dias Creek Road, ending at the American Legion Post 198. The parade will be followed by the Memorial Day Ceremony

A kids’ bike-decorating contest also will be held at Memorial Field, with judging at 9:20 a.m. Divisions are for 3- to- 6-year-olds; 7- to 9-year-olds and 10- to 12-year-olds.

Last year’s Memorial Day parade was canceled amid strict COVID restrictions. Instead of gathering for an event, residents were encouraged to create “Patriot Porches” at their own homes by displaying flags and other red, white, and blue decorations. The Memorial Day Ceremony and a virtual concert were streamed through the Recreation Department Facebook page.

Although last year’s alternative event kept the community connected, Township officials are happy to welcome back the traditional parade.

“We are very happy to be able to safely and sensibly return to the great Middle Township traditions of Memorial Days past,” Mayor Tim Donohue said. “Now, more than ever, it is proper and important that we gather as a community to honor and remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the liberty and freedom that defines America.”

Those who wish to participate in the bike-decorating contest and the parade must be pre-registered before May 27. Registration forms can be returned via email to nmcdevitt@middletownship.com or completed at middletownship.recdesk.com/Community/Home.

All attendees and participants are required to practice social distancing and wear a mask when unable to socially distance. Middle Township reserves the right to manage the capacity of the event if needed for health and safety reasons.

Those who don’t attend the parade in person can watch the live stream on the Middle Township Facebook page.