The township Bicentennial is going to make this year's Memorial Day events more, well, memorable than ever.

The annual parade, coinciding with the 145^th observance of Memorial Day, begins at 9:30 AM on Broad & Warren Streets and ends at the Town Green.

Everyone in town is encouraged to attend this special commemorative event.  Because it's a historic year, the Historical Society of Bloomfield (HSOB) has announced that it is seeking an especially big turnout of members and friends to march this year. All will gather at 9:00am at Brookside Park (Hoover Avenue and Broad Street) under the HSOB banner.  Marchers are encouraged to dress comfortably in red, white and blue or wear something that says “Bloomfield” on it. Those with period clothing from the 1800s are encouraged to come in costume!

Adults and children wishing to honor those who fought in all wars are also welcome to march under the HSOB banner.  Membership is not a requirement. 

For more information on the Historical Society of Bloomfield, click here. 

Perhaps the most unique event at this year's parade will be the opening of the "Sesquicentennial Time Capsule."  Members of the Bloomfield High School Class of 1962 will open a box buried 50 years ago and see what surprises lie within.  

Immediately following the opening of the Time Capsule, the Bicentennial Committee will host a gala community picnic.  All are welcome to enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage sandwiches, baked beans, drinks and snacks. To make the day even more fun, there will also be children's rides at the picnic.

"We are asking that people bring a lawn chair or blanket," said Bloomfield Recreation Department Director Michael L. Sceurman. "Bicentennial merchandise will also be available for purchase, as part of our ongoing fundraising efforts to keep the Bicentennial event free of charge for the entire year."

Please note that the Recreation Department is still accepting vintage cars to ride in the parade.  Anyone driving a vintage automobile should convene at Broad and Bay Streets at 9:00 am.  Bring an American flag to wave and wear your red, white and blue!

For more information on Bicentennial events this year, click here.