My Favorite Holidays in Mountain Lakes

I have two favorite holidays in town: Memorial day and the 4th of July.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a big deal in Mountain Lakes. First there is the parade (pictured above) where 1/2 of the town is in the parade and the other 1/2 watches it. With so many town based organizations, you are bound to find yourself walking in the parade.  The course is short and it is a lot of fun.

After the parade there is a ceremony in which awards are given, the Briarcliff Middle School band plays, and speeches are given by residents recognized for their service.

The next activity is the Mountain Lakes Day celebration. Rides, food, and local groups gather at the Esplanade parking lot (across from the railway station) for all-day fun. I always make sure to get my fill of zeppole for a once a year treat.

The 4th of July

It's all about the fireworks. The fireworks are setup on Island Beach on Mountain Lake. It is a day of house parties for those who live on the lake. If you weren't invited to a party, you can settle down at the Mountain Lakes Club, paddle out in your canoe, or just take a chair to the Midvale dock. No matter where you are, it is breathtaking as the fireworks are huge and very close. The lake is a perfect setting for the full effect of the deafening booms and color. I was so surprised that the fireworks were so spectacular for such a small town  -- especially after having seen the NYC fireworks on many occasions.