The Mountainside community gathered Monday morning to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

The annual Memorial Day ceremony began at 11:30 a.m. at the Veterans flagpole monument on Constitution Plaza, in front of the library. Residents, veterans, and local officials stood together in solemn remembrance of those who died defending our country's freedoms.

Following the ceremony, the community parade kicked off around 12:35 p.m., transforming the quiet streets of Mountainside into a vibrant celebration of patriotism and local spirit.

Parade Winds Through Mountainside

The parade route took participants and spectators from Constitution Plaza up Bridle Path to Wood Valley Road, then along Central Avenue before ending at Deerfield School parking lot next to Our Lady of Mountainside. The procession concluded around 12:55 p.m. as the remembrance Ceremony was extended slightly.The parade route took participants and spectators from Constitution Plaza up Bridle Path to Wood Valley Road, then along Central Avenue before ending at Deerfield School parking lot next to Our Lady of Mountainside. The procession concluded around 12:55 p.m. as the remembrance Ceremony was extended slightly.

Mayor and local veterans led the procession, including the Grand Marshal. The Mountainside Fire Department and EMS vehicles rolled through with lights flashing, while the Police Department helped ensure a safe and orderly event.

The Mountainside Rotary Club, Rescue Squad, and various community groups joined the procession, waving to families gathered along the route.The Mountainside Rotary Club, Rescue Squad, and various community groups joined the procession, waving to families gathered along the route.

Scouts Lead the Way

Local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops were prominent participants in both the ceremony and parade, continuing a tradition of youth involvement in Memorial Day observances.

Following the parade, the celebration continued at Pollard Hall where the Boy Scout troop displayed their model rockets. The post-parade picnic gave residents a chance to connect with neighbors and reflect on the day's meaning in a more casual setting.

A Day of Remembrance

Memorial Day in Mountainside balanced the solemnity of honoring fallen service members with the relaxing atmosphere of the community coming together. From the quiet moments at the Veterans flagpole to the cheerful parade and family picnic, the day served as a reminder of both the sacrifices made for our freedoms and the strong community bonds that make Mountainside special.

The annual event continues to be a cornerstone of the town's calendar, bringing together residents of all ages to remember, celebrate, and connect.