Memorial Day in New Jersey 2025: Where to BBQ, Honor, and Celebrate

May 14

Memorial Day in New Jersey isn’t just the unofficial start of summer—it’s a time to honor our fallen heroes and come together as a community. Whether you're looking for a public BBQ, a meaningful ceremony, or family-friendly activities, there are plenty of ways to spend Memorial Day 2025 across the Garden State.

🔥 Where to Find Public Memorial Day BBQs in New Jersey

Looking to skip the backyard prep and join a community cookout instead? These public Memorial Day BBQ events offer great food, fun, and a chance to gather with neighbors.

1. Westfield Memorial Day Parade & BBQ

📍 Location: Downtown Westfield
📅 Date: Monday, May 26, 2025
Enjoy a patriotic morning parade followed by a free BBQ hosted by the Martin Wallberg American Legion Post 3. A local tradition filled with pride, this event is perfect for all ages.

2. Cedar Grove Memorial Day Ceremony & BBQ

📍 Location: Community Park, Cedar Grove
📅 Date: Monday, May 26, 2025 | Time: 11:30 AM
After the formal ceremony, enjoy a full sit-down BBQ courtesy of Eight Hills Catering, plus sweet treats from Towne Scoop. A wonderful mix of honor and hospitality.

3. Crystal Springs Resort Memorial Day BBQ

📍 Location: Sweetgrass Pavilion, Minerals Hotel
📅 Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025 | Time: 5–8 PM
Get your fill of delicious BBQ, lawn games, goat races, axe throwing, and live music—all with a scenic mountain backdrop. Ideal for those looking to escape for the weekend.

4. Spring Hills Morristown Memorial Day BBQ

📍 Location: 17 Spring Place, Morristown
📅 Date: Friday, May 23, 2025 | Time: 12 PM
A fun kickoff to the holiday weekend featuring live music, great food, and a friendly, festive atmosphere.

🕯️ Honoring the True Meaning of Memorial Day

Before the hot dogs and music, it’s important to pause and remember what this day is truly about. Many towns across New Jersey will hold Memorial Day parades, flag ceremonies, and wreath-laying tributes. Attending one is a powerful way to honor those who gave their lives in service.

🔎 Search Tip: Try Googling “Memorial Day parade near me NJ 2025” to find events in your specific town.

🍔 BBQ Tips for the Perfect Holiday Weekend

Hosting your own cookout? Here are a few quick ideas to level up your Memorial Day BBQ:

Stick to the classics: Burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and pasta salad never go out of style.
Safety first: If you're grilling at a public park or beach, check if permits are needed. Most NJ beaches do not allow open flames or charcoal grills, so plan ahead!
Keep it festive: Red, white, and blue napkins, patriotic playlists, and star-spangled desserts bring the spirit.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Memorial Day Fun

Looking to keep the whole family entertained? Consider:

Backyard games like cornhole, water balloon toss, or relay races
DIY crafts for kids, like flag painting or Memorial Day wreaths
Scavenger hunts at your BBQ with fun patriotic clues

✅ Quick Tips for a Great Memorial Day in NJ

Plan early: Public events can draw crowds, so arrive early for parking and the best BBQ spots.
Respect public space rules: Check your local town's website for BBQ regulations at parks and beaches.
Take a moment of silence at 3 PM: This is the National Moment of Remembrance, honoring fallen soldiers across the country.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're enjoying a BBQ with friends or attending a local parade, Memorial Day in New Jersey is a chance to reflect, reconnect, and recharge. Let's honor the reason for the holiday while making meaningful memories together.