Toms River, NJ — Thousands of residents, veterans, marching bands, and first responders are expected to fill downtown Toms River on Monday as the township hosts what organizers call the largest Memorial Day parade in Ocean County.
The annual procession begins at 9:30 a.m. on May 25 and will move through the township’s downtown corridor before concluding with a wreath-laying ceremony honoring U.S. service members who died defending the nation.
Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick and organizers from George P. Vanderveer American Legion Post 129 are encouraging residents to line Main Street in a show of support for veterans and military families during one of Ocean County’s most visible Memorial Day observances.
Parade Route Brings Traffic Closures to Downtown Toms River
The parade will begin at Highland Parkway and Main Street (Route 166), then proceed south along Main Street before turning east onto Washington Street and ending at Toms River Town Hall.
Following the parade, attendees will gather outside Town Hall for a memorial ceremony featuring honored guests, speakers, a rifle salute, and a wreath-laying tribute dedicated to fallen military personnel.
Road closures are expected shortly before the event begins.
Main Street will close between Route 37 and Water Street, while Washington Street will shut down between Main Street and Hooper Avenue as parade participants move through downtown.
Organizers said lineup for participating groups is expected to begin around 9 a.m.
Key Points
• Toms River’s Memorial Day Parade begins Monday, May 25, at 9:30 a.m.
• The downtown parade route ends at Town Hall with a wreath-laying ceremony and rifle salute.
• Main Street and Washington Street will close to traffic before the event begins.
Veterans, Marching Bands and Community Groups Expected
The decades-long tradition routinely attracts large crowds from across Ocean County and features veterans organizations, military vehicles, local high school marching bands, scout troops, civic groups, and emergency responders.
Residents often arrive early with lawn chairs and American flags as the procession makes its way through the township’s downtown district.
The parade is presented by George P. Vanderveer American Legion Post 129 in partnership with the Township of Toms River and supported by the township’s Veterans Commission.
Memorial Day ceremonies throughout New Jersey typically serve as both public celebrations of patriotism and solemn remembrances of military members who lost their lives in service.
Officials Urge Early Arrival Due to Crowds
Organizers are advising spectators to arrive early because of anticipated crowds and downtown traffic restrictions tied to the event.
The Memorial Day parade remains one of the township’s largest annual gatherings and a centerpiece of Ocean County’s holiday commemorations.
Officials said the ceremony at Town Hall will directly follow the conclusion of the parade.
