Bernards Township Announces Charter Day Events

Bernards Township has announced event information for its annual Charter Day event, celebrating its 225th Anniversary on Saturday, May 16.

The celebration will run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday May 16 in Downtown Basking Ridge. This is the 21st year in which the event will be held, township officials said. The annual Charter Day celebration draws about 10,000 visitors to Downtown Basking Ridge each year.

The all-day event, coordinated by the Department of Parks and Recreation, will feature a street fair, entertainment, art and history displays, food and amusements. The street fair will begin at 11 a.m. and features local businesses, non-profit organizations, school groups, service organizations, and crafters, according to Jennifer Gander, director of the Bernards Township Parks and Recreation.

The Opening Ceremonies will take place on the Main Stage and subsequent entertainment at the location will continue throughout the day. The Main Stage will feature numerous performances, including performances by the Pettet Sisters, professional performers from Broadway, movies, and television, and singer-songwriter Gordon Thomas Ward, according to Township officials.

The Battle of the Musicians, featuring eight musical groups made up of middle and high school students, will tke place on the Henry Street Stage, at Oak Street School, beginning at 12:30 p.m. Cash prizes will be given to those musicians who place first, second and third.

In addition to live music and numerous exhibits, the Charter Day fair will include rides, inflatable amusements and carnival games on the Oak Street School field from 11 a.m to 6 p.m.

Parking is available at Ridge High School, 268 South Finley Ave., and the Bernards Township Municipal Building, 1 Collyer Lane. A free shuttle bus will make stops throughout the day to bring passengers downtown to the fair.

For more information, contact the Bernards Township Parks and Recreation at 908-204-3159.