Everything You Need to Know About Matawan's Annual Memorial Day Parade

Matawan's annual Memorial Day Parade will take place on Sunday, May 26 down Main Street. Here are five things you need to know before the day gets here.

1. When & Where

To honor all those who have made the supreme sacrifice for our nation the Borough of Matawan will be holding . The parade steps off from the St. Clement Church parking lot at 2 p.m. and marches along Route 79 to Main Street, ending at Memorial Park where there will be a brief ceremony. Watch a video from last year -->

2. Parking Guidance

The best way to avoid pre-parade traffic is to grab your handheld American flags and walk over to Main Street. However, if walking isn't an option, free parking will be available at the Matawan Municipal Community Center on Broad Street, according to Recreation Director Deirdre Ring. People are also welcome to park on the side streets off of Main, however make sure to double check for and obey "No Parking" signs.

3. Road Closures

The Matawan Borough Police Department will be shutting down the parade route from 1:15 p.m. to about 3 p.m. on Sunday, according to Lt. Ben Smith. The portion of Main Street between Little Street and Broad Street is expected to remain closed until about 4 p.m. for a ceremony held after the parade. Please use caution and patience if driving in the area.

4. Meet the Grand Marshall 

Matawan resident and retired United States Marine Mike Plant will serve as the grand marshall of the borough's 2013 Memorial Day Parade. Read about his military career here -->

5. Understand the History

The sheer carnage of the Civil War, America’s deadliest war, inspired Memorial Day as a way to honor the war dead. The observances originally were called Decoration Day because thankful Americans decorated and cared for soldiers’ graves. “Memorial Day” usage began appearing in 1882, but “Decoration Day” was common until post-World War II. Congress officially changed the name in 1967.

Going to the parade? Make sure to upload your pictures and videos to our 'Pics & Clips' section.