TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Thousands of residents, veterans, first responders and community groups are expected to line Main Street on Monday, May 25, as Toms River hosts its annual Memorial Day Parade, a decades-long tradition recognized as the largest Memorial Day parade in Ocean County.
Toms River Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick is inviting the community to come out and show their support for our veterans and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom in America.
Presented by the George P. Vanderveer American Legion Post 129 in partnership with the Township of Toms River, the 2026 parade begins at 9:30 a.m. and will travel through the township’s downtown corridor before concluding with a wreath-laying ceremony at Town Hall honoring military personnel who died in service to the United States.
The annual event draws marching bands, military veterans, civic organizations, vintage vehicles and residents from across the region, turning downtown Toms River into one of the county’s largest Memorial Day gatherings.
Parade Route and Ceremony Details
The parade will begin at the intersection of Highland Parkway and Main Street (Route 166), proceeding south along Main Street before turning east onto Washington Street. The route concludes at Toms River Town Hall on Washington Street.
Lineup for participants typically starts around 9 a.m., with road closures expected shortly before the parade begins. Main Street will close from Route 37 to Water Street, while Washington Street will close from Main Street to Hooper Avenue.
Following the parade, attendees will gather at Town Hall for a memorial ceremony that includes honored guests, speakers, a rifle salute and a wreath-laying tribute dedicated to fallen service members.
Key Points
• Toms River’s Memorial Day Parade takes place Monday, May 25, at 9:30 a.m.
• The parade begins at Highland Parkway and Main Street and ends at Town Hall
• A wreath-laying ceremony and rifle salute will follow the parade
Largest Memorial Day Parade in Ocean County
The parade, organized by George P. Vanderveer American Legion Post 129 with assistance from the township’s Veterans Commission, has become a signature Memorial Day tradition in Ocean County. Participants are expected to include local high school marching bands, veterans organizations, military vehicles, first responders, scout troops and community groups. Residents traditionally line the parade route carrying American flags and lawn chairs as the procession moves through downtown Toms River.
Organizers encourage families and spectators to arrive early because of expected crowds and traffic restrictions in the downtown area.
The event serves not only as a public celebration of patriotism, but also as a solemn reminder of the purpose behind Memorial Day — honoring military personnel who lost their lives while serving the country.
Residents planning to attend are encouraged to account for road closures and limited parking near the parade route. Organizers also encourage attendees to display American flags and support participating veterans and service organizations throughout the event.
The 2026 Toms River Memorial Day Parade remains scheduled for Monday, May 25, beginning at 9:30 a.m., with the memorial ceremony immediately following the conclusion of the parade at Town Hall.