A Summer of Fun in Jamesburg: 2004

A Summer of Fun in Jamesburg: 2004

Summer has arrived and Jamesburg has a wonderful calendar of events planned for the coming months. For the next three and a half months, Jamesburgers will be out and about, celebrating our nation and Jamesburg's heritage. In addition, there will be fun for the whole family. So instead of hitting the crowded beaches this summer, drive down to Jamesburg to experience a fun and unique family tradition.

May

Parades are a Jamesburg tradition. The Annual Jamesburg, Monroe, and Helmetta Memorial Day Parade will be held on May 31, 2004 at 10:00 A.M. beginning at Veterans' Memorial Park, formally known as Triangle Park. The parade route covers Gatzmer Avenue down to Forsgate Drive, up Forsgate to East Railroad Avenue and back to the park. Groups in the parade include the Jamesburg School Band, Monroe Township Band, local churches, library organizations, boy and girl scout troops, police, firemen, and first aid squads from all three communities, and most importantly, our veterans. An appearance by the Jamesburg Cannon and Lincoln Coach are always a possibility! Following the parade, a wreath laying ceremony is held at the momument in Veterans' Memorial Park. This is a free event!

June

The Presbyterian Church of Jamesburg celebrates 150 years in 2004. To kick off the celebration, the Presbyterian Church of Jamesburg will be hosting a choral festival June 5, 2004 at 7:00 P.M. The festival will feature choirs from various churches throughout central New Jersey. Admission to the concert is free, but donations are always welcome. The evening will conclude with a free reception.
On Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 3:00 P.M., The Jamesburg High School Alumni Association will dedicate the 25th anniversary of the closing of Jamesburg High School with a plaque dedication at Forsgate Commons, the former Jamesburg High School building. Former Superintendent of Schools Mr. Michael F. Gaeta is guest speaker. A dinner following the dedication will be hosted at Fiddlehead's Restaurant, East Railroad Avenue. The dedication is free and the public is encouraged to attend. The dinner however, requires reservations. Forms for the event can be found on the Jamesburg High School Alumni Association's Web Site.
On Friday, June 18, Jamesburg will have its first Cruise Night on West Railroad Avenue. Once again, Antique cars, food vendors, and music will fill West Railroad Avenue between the Fire Department and the Augusta Street railroad grade. Parking will be available on East Railroad Avenue and any of the immediate side streets; Harrison, Front, and Grand Streets. Yet another free event! Begins at 5:30 P.M.

July
The big top comes to Jamesburg once again! On July 2nd, the Alain Zerbini Circus will fill the soccer field at the Mark B. Madden Athletic Complex at the John F. Kenndedy Elementary School on Davison Avenue. The event is made possible by the Jamesburg Civic Association. Tickets are on sale at Barbara's Unique Antique Boutique, Sweet William & Thyme, Little Shop of Treasures, Gray Rock Supply, and Auto King Parts. All ticket sale locations are located on East and West Railroad Avenues. The Jamesburg Public Library and Jamesburg Public Schools will be selling tickets in addition. Advance tickets are $9.00 through July 1st and will be $11.00 at the door the night of the circus. All proceeds benefit the Jamesburg 4th of July Fireworks Celebration and the Scholarships awarded to local students. Shows are at 5:15 P.M. and 7:30 P.M. Come enjoy a night out with the kids - and clowns!
July 4th is an important day in Jamesburg and for the United States. Cities across the nation celebrate the independence of the United States and Jamesburg will end the day with a big bang! Fireworks are set to go off from Thompson Park approximately 9:00 P.M. that night. Prior to the fireworks, vendors and tables will be lakeside. This year, the Happenings will be performing lakeside beginning at 8:00 P.M.
"The Happenings virtually exploded onto the national charts in May of 1966 with their first single release, "See You In September".

Today, the group consists of three principal members. With Bob Miranda at the helm, complemented by the outstanding musical and vocal talents of long standing members Bob Kulik and George Rizzi, the group is a powerhouse of nostalgia and contemporary material that truly captures the classic signature sound that has made The Happenings a worldwide favorite for 30 years! The Happenings continue to perform in concert arenas and major show rooms throughout the country. Their extraordinary vocal talent and unparalleled showmanship continues to consistently bring audiences to their feet literally everywhere they go!"
Food and music are a highlights of the afternoon. Festivities in the park begin at 5:00 P.M. and conclude prior to the fireworks. This event is sponsored by the Jamesburg Civic Association and the Monroe Recreation Department. This is a free event and expected to be the most spectacular Fourth of July in Jamesburg ever!
On Friday, July 16, Jamesburg will have its second Cruise Night on West Railroad Avenue. Once again, Antique cars, food vendors, and music will fill West Railroad Avenue between the Fire Department and the Augusta Street railroad grade. Parking will be available on East Railroad Avenue and any of the immediate side streets; Harrison, Front, and Grand Streets. Yet another free event! Begins at 5:30 P.M.

August
A scene from the Annual Tonkery Day Street Festival.

In August, Jamesburg celebrates the life of one of its more recent townspeople, the late Joseph Tonkery, who served as Mayor of Jamesburg for over 10 years. In memory of him and his dedication to Jamesburg, the Borough of Jamesburg celebrates him and his life with a street festival on the Boulevard named after him, known to most as West Railroad Avenue. This year, the Tonkery Day Street Festival will be held August 14th. The event runs from 12 noon until dusk. During that time, vendors fill West Railroad Avenue from end to end! There is a large car show / competition. A DJ, live bands, and fair rides keep attendees entertained, as well as the vast amount of goods for sale from local vendors. This event draws residents from many surrounding communities and is an excellent social event for the area. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, entering an antique car, or have any questions about the event, please call the Jamesburg Borough Hall at 732-521-2222. This is a free event!

New in 2004
Roll-A-Keg Races @ 5:00 P.M. and Outhouse Races @ 6:00 P.M.!
Call 732-521-2222 ext 112 for more information or regulations!
On Friday, August 20, Jamesburg will have its final Cruise Night on West Railroad Avenue. Once again, Antique cars, food vendors, and music will fill West Railroad Avenue between the Fire Department and the Augusta Street railroad grade. Parking will be available on East Railroad Avenue and any of the immediate side streets; Harrison, Front, and Grand Streets. Yet another free event! Begins at 5:30 P.M.

September
Jamesburg's founder and namesake, Mr. James Buckelew will be honored September 11th by the Jamesburg Historical Association at its annual Buckelew Day celebration. The Lakeview Mansion, which dates to the late 1600s, will be open from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. for tours and viewing. The grounds, including the Dinglefield Blacksmith Shop, smokehouse, and outhouse will also be open. Civil War reenactors will be camped on the grounds and band music will fill the air with sweets sounds of a time long gone. Local community groups will also be on hand. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. There is no addmission, but donations are always welcome. All proceeds benefit the Jamesburg Historical Society and the continued preservation of the Lakeview Mansion. This is a free event!

A Summer of Fun in Jamesburg: 2004

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