Across New Jersey, communities continue to gather each September to honor the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The 24th anniversary in 2025 brings together local residents, first responders, and officials for remembrance ceremonies, 5K runs, memorial workouts, and community service events designed to ensure that the day’s legacy is never forgotten. These moments of reflection highlight the state’s deep commitment to remembrance, resilience, and unity.
This year, towns and counties throughout New Jersey will once again host solemn observances at local memorials, each event carrying its own unique tradition while collectively sharing the message of “Never Forget.”
Central and Southern New Jersey
Monmouth County will open the day with its annual ceremony at the Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook in Atlantic Highlands. At 8 a.m., the community will gather at the Monmouth County 9/11 Memorial, one of the most significant sites in the region, overlooking the Manhattan skyline. Later that evening, the “Tribute in Lights” will shine into the night sky, with the memorial remaining open until 11 p.m. for quiet reflection.
In Pennsauken Township, volunteers will join together for a flag placement at the township’s 9/11 Memorial on September 10 at 9 p.m. The flags will remain in place until they are removed the following evening, marking a 24-hour vigil of remembrance.
Ventnor City will host a morning ceremony on the Boardwalk at Jackson Avenue beginning at 10 a.m., while Allentown residents will gather in the evening for a 6 p.m. “Day of Remembrance Procession and Memorial.” Pennsauken will also host the annual “9/11 Heroes Run 5K” at Cooper River Park on Sunday, September 7, beginning at 9:11 a.m., an event that brings athletes and families together to honor first responders. Brigantine’s Fire and Police Departments will unite for a 9:30 a.m. remembrance ceremony at 1417 West Brigantine Avenue, a longstanding tradition within the community.
Northern and Central New Jersey
Jersey City will once again serve as a central gathering point with its annual remembrance at the Empty Sky Memorial in Liberty State Park. Beginning at 9:30 a.m., the ceremony will be followed by a 5K run and walk along the waterfront, providing both a reflective and active way to honor the day.
In Vernon Township, the ceremony at the Municipal Center will start at 8:30 a.m. beneath the Survivor Tree, a living symbol of resilience. Westfield will hold its community remembrance at 6:30 p.m. at the town’s 9/11 Memorial on North Avenue and East Broad Street, while Summit residents will gather earlier in the morning at 9:45 a.m. at Fire Headquarters on Broad Street.
Fort Lee’s Constitution Park will host its annual service at 6 p.m., and Union will mark Patriot Day with a combination of a memorial bike ride and ceremony hosted by the township’s fire department. Bridgewater will host a unique tradition with a 9/11 Memorial Workout beginning at 7:05 a.m., combining physical endurance with symbolic remembrance.
In Englewood, the Center for Food Action will use the day to give back, organizing a “National Day of Service and Remembrance” meal-packing event at the Crowne Plaza from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., preparing meals for local children in need.
Coastal New Jersey
Along the Jersey Shore, communities will once again come together in honor of the fallen. In North Wildwood, the ceremony will take place at the 15th Street Fire Station at 8:40 a.m. Wildwood Crest will gather later in the day at Alameno Park for a 5:30 p.m. service.
Many smaller municipalities, including Roselle Park, Elizabeth, and Franklin, are also planning local ceremonies and moments of reflection. Residents are encouraged to check their town or county websites for details on additional programs throughout the state.
Morris County Marks 24th Anniversary With Moving Ceremony
One of the largest gatherings in North Jersey took place at the Morris County 9/11 Memorial, where hundreds attended a candlelit ceremony filled with solemn tradition and powerful storytelling. The keynote was delivered by retired FDNY firefighter Rudy Sanfilippo, who recounted his harrowing survival of both World Trade Center tower collapses.
As bagpipes played, a procession of uniformed first responders and officials carried the American flag to the memorial. Randolph Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Dunn presented the flag to Sanfilippo, who then raised and lowered it to half-staff alongside Sheriff’s Capt. Walter Rawa. The ceremony included the national anthem performed by the Morris Choral Society and an invocation by Rev. Herman Scott of Calvary Baptist Church.
Sanfilippo’s keynote speech drew on his experiences from that tragic day, highlighting the bravery of firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and everyday New Yorkers who risked everything. He later recalled ordering the evacuation of 7 World Trade Center before its collapse, saving countless lives. His remarks reminded the crowd of the 343 FDNY firefighters who never made it home.
The evening also featured a poem read by Parsippany-Troy Hills resident Loretta Viglione in memory of her brother, FDNY Firefighter Tommy Sabella, one of the many who perished. Commissioners Deborah Smith, Douglas Cabana, and Thomas Mastrangelo participated in a candle-lighting vigil, reading aloud the names of the 64 Morris County residents lost, each name honored with the toll of a bell.
The program closed with a 21-gun salute, “Taps,” and a musical performance of “Amazing Grace” by the Police Pipes and Drums. The Morris Choral Society ended the night with an “Irish Blessing,” a moment that brought the community together in reflection and unity.
For more than two decades, Morris County has held its vigil at the memorial built in 2003, a site that continues to stand as a lasting reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and the importance of remembrance.
Honoring Through Reflection and Service
As New Jersey marks the 24th anniversary of September 11, the ceremonies across the state reflect not only grief but also gratitude, strength, and the power of community. From candlelight vigils and memorial workouts to flag ceremonies and service projects, New Jerseyans are finding countless ways to remember the lives lost and to honor the spirit of resilience that defines this day.
For more stories of local traditions, arts, and cultural events happening across the state, visit Explore New Jersey’s Art and Culture guide
