Randolph families, mark your calendars: on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the community will come together for one of the most exciting and heartwarming family events of the season — Mission Gratitude Touch-a-Truck. Hosted at Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph (390 NJ-10, Randolph, NJ 07869), this free event is designed to celebrate local heroes while giving kids an unforgettable, hands-on experience.
A Celebration of Heroes, Big and Small
Mission Gratitude isn’t your typical family fair. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who serve our communities — firefighters, police officers, emergency responders, and military personnel — along with their loyal service dogs who play a critical role in keeping people safe.
Children will have the rare opportunity to climb into the driver’s seat of fire trucks, rescue vehicles, police cars, and even military trucks. For many kids, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the vehicles they normally see racing down the street with sirens blaring.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. Expect a festive atmosphere filled with live music, face painting, balloon twisting, and interactive demonstrations.
Special Features That Make This Event Shine
What makes Mission Gratitude extra special are the experiences beyond the trucks themselves:
- Meet service dogs in training – Families can interact with puppies preparing to become guide dogs and learn about the incredible bond between handlers and their canine partners.
- Police K-9 demonstration – A thrilling live demonstration will showcase the skills of these four-legged officers, from obedience to action-packed takedowns.
- Community connections – Kids and parents alike will get the chance to meet the everyday heroes who protect and serve Morris County.
This combination of fun, education, and gratitude makes the Touch-a-Truck event much more than just a kids’ outing — it’s a community celebration.
Who Should Attend?
The event is recommended for children ages 2 to 12, but families of all sizes and ages will find something to enjoy. Parents will appreciate the community spirit, while younger kids will love the hands-on play. Preschoolers can explore at their own pace, while older kids can take in the live demonstrations and ask questions directly to first responders.
Best of all, the event is completely free, making it an accessible day of fun for families across Northern New Jersey.
Why Mission Gratitude Matters
Events like Mission Gratitude highlight the importance of teaching kids about service, sacrifice, and community at an early age. By giving children a chance to meet first responders, sit in their vehicles, and learn about their jobs, this celebration helps bridge the gap between generations and fosters respect for those who put their lives on the line every day.
It’s also a reminder of the unique role that service animals play — from guide dogs assisting people with vision loss to K-9 units ensuring community safety. Showcasing these animals alongside first responders makes the event even more meaningful.
Plan Your Visit
📅 Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
📍 Location: Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, 390 NJ-10, Randolph, NJ 07869
💲 Cost: Free
Families are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the two-hour event. Parking is available on-site, but spots may fill quickly due to the expected crowd.
Whether your child dreams of being a firefighter, loves dogs, or simply enjoys climbing on big trucks, Mission Gratitude Touch-a-Truck is the perfect way to spend a fall morning in Morris County. It’s more than just entertainment — it’s a community tradition in the making, built on appreciation, connection, and family fun.
For more family-friendly events happening across the state, check out our Entertainment section.
