The Memorial Day Parade in Hamilton Square, New Jersey

Hamilton Square, New Jersey, is a 40-square mile community located in central New Jersey. The town is less than an hour drive from New York City, Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore, making it an ideal community for commuters. Hamilton Square was founded in the mid-1600s and was initially named Yardville. The town also hosts a myriad of community events, including an annual Memorial Day Parade, which has been happening for more than 140 years.

Memorial Day Parade

The official title of the Hamilton Square Memorial Day Parade is the Groveville/Yardville Memorial Day Parade. In 2011, the event marked its 141st anniversary. The parade's name dates back to the initial version of the parade, which was held on Decoration Day, the original name for Memorial Day. The parade is traditionally held on Memorial Day, which is a Monday in late May. In 2011, the parade started at 8:30 a.m. and ended at 9:45 a.m.

Parade Route

In 2011, the Groveville/Yardville Memorial Day Parade started on South Broad Street then went down Route 156, the Yardville-Allentown Road, Church Street and Main Street. The parade line-up was held on Sunnybrae Boulevard beginning at 7 a.m. In 2011, all of the roads for the parade route were closed from 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

Parade Participants

The parade features an abundance of different community groups, including local Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, veterans, fire and police departments and local sports teams. Local children are also invited to decorate their bikes in a patriotic theme and ride in the parade. The bikes are traditionally near the end of the parade and parents are welcome to walk with the kids.

Other Ceremonies

Following the parade there is a ceremony honoring veterans. The ceremony takes place at the Groveville Cemetary and focuses on veterans who have passed away both in battle and of other causes. Hamilton Square also holds a ceremony to honor veterans the Sunday before Memorial Day at the Greenwood Cemetery. In 2011, the event featured a military speaker, a 21-gun salute and the playing of "Taps."