The Township of Verona is proud to announce a series of family-friendly and educational programs to honor America’s 250th Anniversary. Programming is being thoughtfully curated to bring together residents, students and local organizations in a meaningful and memorable way blending tradition, education and entertainment.

Planning for this milestone is being led by the America 250 Planning Committee including Verona’s Mayor Dr. Christopher Tamburro, whose doctoral research focused on the American Revolution in New Jersey and is a history and social sciences teacher atVerona High School, members of the Township Administration including Township Manager Kevin O'Sullivan, Deputy Township Manager Michael Kraus, Public Information Officer Elisa Northrop, Community Services Director Pam Priscoe, Historic Preservation Commission Chairperson Sandra Smith, Superintendent of Verona Public Schools Diane DiGieseppe, Verona Public Library Director Claudine Pascale and long-time Verona historian Bob Williams.

Verona will host its annual Independence Day festivities on Wednesday, July 1st at Liberty Field serving as the centerpiece event in Verona’s broader America 250 celebrations. The July 1st festivities will feature a range of family-friendly activities transporting you back to 1776 including:

• Betsy Ross portrayer leading a flag-making activity
• Town crier portrayer
• Live entertainment with traditional fife and drum band 
• Raffles, music, dancing and more

Independence Day Celebration Details:

• Date: July 1st
• Location: Liberty Field
• Gates open 7pm
• Fireworks display begins at dark, approximately 9pm
• Parking is limited, please plan ahead
• For those with sensory sensitivities, residents are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy activities prior to the fireworks.

“This year, we commemorate a defining milestone in the history of the American republic and recognize Verona’s place in that amazing story.” said Mayor Dr. Christopher Tamburro “I encourage all residents to take part in the many festivities and educational opportunities as we reflect on the enduring promise of our nation that was eloquently communicated in our Declaration of Independence 250 years ago.”

Educational components will expand past the Independence Day celebrations to include speaking engagements, tavern talks and movie screenings. The Township will also be introducing a virtual map highlighting historic locations throughout Verona which will allow residents the option to either virtually or in person experience the history Verona has to offer, including locations such as Kips Castle, Verona Park Lake and Grist Mill, Annin Flag, Montclair Railway, Verona Methodist Church, Freight Shed, Bloomfield Avenue School, Civic Center and Library, White Rock and Grove Park.

Additional details, including a full schedule of America 250 programming will be announced in the coming weeks. For updates and more information please continue to check the Township of Verona’s website, VeronaNJ.org and social media outlets.