Summit Unveils Extensive Memorial Day Parade Plans

SUMMIT, NJ — With outdoor gathering limits removed as of Wednesday, several area towns have announced their in-person Memorial Day Parade events for next month, including Summit.

Summit's parade will take place the morning of Memorial Day, May 31, at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at 25 Deforest Ave. and proceed to the Village Green.

Free hot dogs and cold drinks will be served on the Village Green courtesy of the Summit Elks Lodge.

"From the American Revolution up to present day conflicts, the parade honors those men and women who lost their lives in military service to our country," the city said.

Sponsored by the Summit Fourth of July Celebration Committee, the parade will be led by members of the Summit American Legion Post 322. Summit civic and school groups are encouraged to participate and march along with veterans.

The Summit High School marching band, Summit Police Department, Summit Fire Department, Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad, and scout troops will also march in the parade.

Spectators are encouraged to gather on Deforest Avenue, Beechwood Road, Union Place and along Maple Street to the Village Green. Flags will be distributed to the crowd by marchers along the route.

Veterans who are unable to march may request a ride in the parade; please meet members of the American Legion at the start of the parade at 25 Deforest Avenue to request assistance.

The ceremony on the Village Green will feature music from the Summit High School marching band, a rifle salute and wreath-laying, and a special performance of “taps.” A Summit Veteran Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented by Summit Mayor Nora Radest and followed by readings from local students.

Veterans participating in Summit’s Hometown Heroes program will be acknowledged during the ceremony as well. All veterans who attend the ceremony will receive a 2021 commemorative coin in recognition of, and appreciation for, their service.

Masks must be worn by all marchers at all times and social distancing guidelines will be adhered to. Please note that changes may be made to comply with any existing COVID guidelines set forth by the State of New Jersey.

To register your organization to march in the 2021 parade, contact David Guida at dguidajr@cityofsummit.org.

More information on the parade and ceremony is available at summitcommunityprograms.com.

Don't miss breaking news alerts for Summit when they are announced, or get a free daily newsletter each morning with local news. Sign up with your preferences here.

Got news? Email caren.lissner@patch.com. Got photos? Please include express written permission from the photographer for us to use them. To be the first to get free news alerts with breaking stories in your town, or to get a free local newsletter each morning, sign up for Patch breaking news alerts or daily newsletters.