Message from Mayor Josh Losardo | August 21, 2024
It’s been a busy summer in Scotch Plains and there is still much more planned in the coming weeks and months to bring the community together.
One of the highlights was our annual Independence Day celebration, which featured a spectacular fireworks display at the Shady Rest Golf and Country Club. This event brought families and friends for an evening of music, ice cream and patriotic spirit.
Another very popular event is the Scotch Plains Farmers Market, held every Saturday through November. The Farmers Market, now in its 32nd year, showcases local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products, offering us all a chance to support local businesses while enjoying fresh, seasonal foods.
The Township also ran numerous “Concerts in the Park,” a series of live music performances at the Alan M. Augustine Village Green right next to town hall. These free concerts featured a range of musical genres, from classic rock to jazz, and a relaxed setting for residents to unwind and enjoy the warm evenings with family and friends.
On September 14, the Township will hold its Second-Annual East 2nd Street Fair, showcasing local businesses, music and more, as we invite everyone to see what is new along the shopping corridor in our downtown.
On October 4, Scotch Plains will hold Movie Night on the Village Green. Movie Night is another great opportunity to build community, enjoy the early fall weather, and offer a fun and accessible way for residents to connect and unwind together.
On October 5, the annual Rose Checchio 5K will be held. This is a beloved event in Scotch Plains that honors the memory of Rose Checchio, a dedicated community leader and advocate for breast cancer awareness. Organized by the Scotch Plains Recreation Department, the event draws runners, walkers, and supporters from across the area to raise money for research and treatment.
And on October 6, the Township will once again close Park Avenue for Scotch Plains Day. If you’ve never attended, Scotch Plains Day is a lively annual celebration that showcases the spirit of the community. It features a variety of family-friendly activities, including live music, food vendors, games, and local business showcases. Scotch Plains Day brings residents together to celebrate our town’s unique character and strong community bonds, making it a much-anticipated event each year.
On October 19, we will once again bring Howl-O-Ween to Scotch Plains. This fun and festive event is designed for the town's furry friends and their owners. The event features a costume contest with various categories, like "Best Dressed" and "Funniest Costume," offering prizes for the winners.
In addition to the contest, there are pet-friendly activities, vendors, and opportunities to socialize with other pet owners. Howl-O-Ween is a delightful way for the community to celebrate Halloween with their pets in a lively, inclusive environment.
And, as we begin to look to the holiday season, on October 26, we will hold Trunk or Treat in Scotch Plains. This popular Halloween event facilitates local families gathering for a safe and fun trick-or-treating experience.
Held in front of Town Hall, participants decorate the trunks of their cars in festive themes and hand out candy to children dressed in costumes. The event fosters a sense of community, allowing kids to enjoy Halloween in a secure environment while showcasing creativity in trunk decorations. Trunk or Treat is a family-friendly celebration that brings the town together for an evening of spooky fun and treats.
No doubt, Scotch Plains is filled with community-oriented activities that foster a strong sense of togetherness and local pride. I look forward to seeing you at many of the exciting events that are planned. Join us!
