Full Notification

Join us today June 13th  for the  most anticipated event of the summer as Franklin Lakes celebrates America's 250th Anniversary at Freedom Fest, from 2:00 PM – 9:30 PM at the Municipal Complex behind Borough Hall.
This exciting community celebration will bring together residents of all ages for a day filled with patriotism, live entertainment, family activities, food, vendors, and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Community Parade & Opening Ceremony
A special highlight of the day will be our Freedom Fest Parade, led by Jack Wallace, Franklin Lakes resident and 3-time Paralympic Gold Medalist in Sled Hockey, alongside current and former professional athletes and our local youth athletes.

Parade Information
The parade will begin promptly at 2:00 PM.
Parade Route:
The procession will travel from behind Borough Hall, down the pathway, around MUNI, in front of the playground, along the fence line, and conclude at the main stage. Residents are encouraged to gather along the field and cheer on Jack Wallace, our professional athletes, and our youth athletes as they make their way to the stage for the opening ceremony.
The ceremony will include:
• Flag Raising Ceremony
• Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence
• Musket Salute
• Ringing of Bells
• National Anthem performed by the Bravados A Cappella Choir
Following the ceremony, athletes and families are invited to visit the Dunking Booth, where kids can dunk their coaches and enjoy all the activities in the Kids Zone.

Enjoy a Full Day of Entertainment
Freedom Fest will feature live music and performances throughout the day, including:
Entertainment Schedule
• 1:50 PM – Phantom DJ
• 2:00 PM – Youth Athlete Parade & Jack Wallace Celebration
• Flag Raising Ceremony
• Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence
• Musket Shot
• Ringing of Bells
• 2:15 PM – Bravados A Cappella Choir – National Anthem
• 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Grace Notes Brass Ensemble
• 2:31 PM - 2:35 PM – Franklin Lakes Cheerleaders Perform
• 3:35 PM – 4:15 PM – First Shot Soccer Juggling Contest
• 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM – The Benjamins
• 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Ryan Townsend 
• 8:15 PM – 9:30 PM – 17 North Band
• 9:30 PM – Fireworks Spectacular

Family Fun All Day Long
Visitors can enjoy:
• Food Trucks
• Artisan & Craft Vendors
• Kids Activities & Games
• Colonial Village
• Dunking Booth
• Beer Tavern sponsored by the Franklin Lakes Football Booster Club
• Community Exhibits and Demonstrations

*Kids' Activity & Game Wristbands will be available for $20. Be sure to visit the Dunk Tank, where tickets are $5 for 2 throws, $10 for 6 throws, or $40 for a guaranteed dunk of your favorite coach!*

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and spend the day celebrating with friends, neighbors, and family.
Guest Parking
Parking will be available at:
• Borough Hall Parking Lot 
• Veterans Plaza
• Franklin Avenue Middle School (FAMS) – Trolley Stop
• Franklin Lakes Recreation Center, 1 Vichiconti Way – Trolley Stop

Accessible Parking: First row directly in front of Borough Hall.

Complimentary Trolley Service: Trolley service will operate continuously between the Franklin Lakes Recreation Center and Freedom Fest from 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Drop off location in front of Borough Hall.

Important Reminder: No e-bikes, scooters, or motorized recreational vehicles are permitted around or within the event area.

We look forward to celebrating this historic milestone with our community as we honor our nation's past, recognize our hometown heroes, and create new memories together.