Belleville Will Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday With Local Events

BELLEVILLE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of Belleville. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Banners, barbecues, a brass band and the bangs of fireworks – Belleville is getting ready for a blowout celebration to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Belleville is proud to honor the generations of men and women who built, defended and strengthened our nation,” said Mayor-elect Frank Velez. “This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our shared history, celebrate our community spirit and create new memories with family, friends and neighbors. From decorating our homes and honoring Revolutionary War heroes to enjoying music, recreation and fireworks, these events showcase the pride, patriotism and sense of community that make Belleville such a special place to call home.”

The township is already being draped in red, white and blue; residents are trying to outdo each other in the Home Decoration Contest.

The contest runs through June 26. Residents who best decorate their homes in red, white and blue will have a chance to win the ultimate barbecue package sponsored by Rinaldi’s at 313 Union Ave.

The grand prize winner will receive five pounds of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken kabobs and sausage patties, two pounds of homemade pasta salad and potato salad and a pound of cheese – American, of course.

Members of the committee will be driving around town, judging homes. You can also submit photos to events@bellevillenj.org.

The winner will be announced June 30.

In another part of the town, Belleville’s official artist, Athena Zhe, is putting the final touches a mural to commemorate America’s 250^th birthday.

Zhe is using a bright color palette and an aerial lift to bring the mural to life on a wall near Route 21. See if you can spot Belleville’s famous cherry blossoms incorporated in the art piece.

On June 27, the Belleville Public Library will mark the 250th anniversary of the United States with a celebration highlighted by a performance of popular marches and other patriotic favorites by the Navesink Brass Band.

The program, which starts at 11 a.m., will also include popcorn, ice cream, pretzels and other activities.

On July 4, get stretched out and ready for the day’s events with a Yoga in the Park event at 9 a.m. at School No. 7 Field. It’s a free event, and participants should bring their yoga mat.

At 11 a.m., the town will pay tribute to the men and women who fought for our nation’s freedom. A ceremony is planned to honor the Revolutionary War soldiers buried at the Dutch Reformed Church at 53 Main St. between Rutgers and Main streets.

Belleville’s free Color Run will begin at 1 p.m. at the high school’s horseshoe at 100 Passaic Ave. Participants should wear white, gray or black and be ready for an afternoon of fun.

The highlight of the Belleville’s celebration – the annual free fireworks show – will be held July 3.

The fireworks are part of a night of family fun at Municipal Stadium that will start at 6 p.m.

There will be face painting, games, food trucks and a DJ. Bring your blankets and beach chairs, and find a spot on the lawn to watch the rockets’ red glare across the Belleville sky.

• Related: Belleville Will Hold Free Fireworks Show To Kick Off Independence Day Weekend

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