New Jersey has long been a place where culture, community, and history come together, and this fall offers two meaningful ways to experience that tradition. From the colorful celebrations of the Jersey City Columbus Day Parade to the launch of a new veterans’ tribute at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum, residents and visitors alike can find opportunities to connect with heritage, honor service, and celebrate what makes the Garden State unique.
Jersey City Columbus Day Parade Returns October 11
The streets of Jersey City will come alive on Saturday, October 11, 2025, as the annual Columbus Day Parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. This beloved community tradition celebrates Italian American heritage while welcoming people of all backgrounds to enjoy the sights and sounds of the parade.
The parade begins at Dickinson High School on Palisade Avenue, with floats, marching bands, community organizations, and cultural groups filling the route with music, color, and pride. It’s not just a celebration of Italian traditions but also of the lasting contributions Italian Americans have made to Jersey City and beyond. From cuisine and art to family and community values, the parade highlights the influence of Italian heritage on the cultural fabric of New Jersey.
The event is free and open to all ages, making it a perfect outing for families, students, and anyone looking to experience the energy of the city in full celebration mode. For those who love local culture and events, this is one of the highlights of the fall calendar. More about the state’s rich arts and cultural offerings can be found here.
The Healing Garden of Morris: A Living Tribute to Veterans
While Jersey City prepares to celebrate, Morris County is turning its attention to honoring service and sacrifice. The Morris County Park Commission, in partnership with Veterans Valor of New Jersey, has officially launched The Healing Garden of Morris, a new public space at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum.
Designed as a place of reflection, connection, and renewal, The Healing Garden will serve as a living tribute to veterans and their families. At the heart of the garden is the “Disarm PTSD” initiative, a campaign to transform experiences of trauma into healing and purpose. Plans call for seven dedicated areas within the garden, each telling a part of the veteran’s journey:
- Point of Sacrifice: Honoring courage and bravery.
- Medevac: Recognizing moments of urgent care and rescue.
- Triage: Reflecting on the first steps of treatment and recovery.
- Homeward: Capturing the emotions of returning to family and community.
- Recovery: Showcasing ongoing support for body and mind.
- Fallen: Remembering those who were lost, even after returning home.
- New Life: Inspiring hope for fresh beginnings.
Local veterans spoke at the signing ceremony about the personal importance of such a space, sharing experiences of PTSD and the challenges of adjusting to civilian life. The Healing Garden will not only be a place for quiet reflection but also a hub for veteran-focused programming such as art installations, wellness events, and storytelling initiatives.
The project represents years of planning and collaboration, with support from county officials, community groups, and local organizations. Once completed, it promises to be both a sanctuary and a source of strength, bridging the experiences of veterans with the broader community.
Culture, Community, and Connection in New Jersey
These two events highlight what makes New Jersey so vibrant — the ability to celebrate diverse traditions while creating spaces that honor service and resilience. Whether you’re gathering with family along the parade route in Jersey City or walking the pathways of the Healing Garden in Morris County, both experiences reflect a shared commitment to remembering, celebrating, and supporting the people who shape our state.
For more ways to explore local culture, heritage, and community events throughout New Jersey, visit Explore New Jersey’s art and culture page.
