Passaic New Year’s Eve Celebrates Patriots of Color for U.S. 250th Anniversary
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Passaic, New Jersey, is set to kick off the festivities with a unique New Year’s Eve event. This gathering, taking place on December 31, will celebrate not only the New Year but also the city’s significant role in American history.
Passaic’s Historic Celebration
Passaic will commemorate its designation as one of New Jersey’s “Victory Towns” during the American Revolution. This year’s event will be the first of many planned throughout 2026, marking a year dedicated to honoring American pride and history.
Cultural Significance of the Event
- The celebration includes the traditional lowering of a giant piñata from the city’s tallest building at 663 Main Avenue.
- A star-shaped piñata will feature the Victory Town emblem, symbolizing the city’s historical significance.
- Mayor Hector Lora will emphasize contributions made by diverse soldiers, including “patriots of color,” who played crucial roles in the fight for independence.
Among these individuals is Isaac Toby, a drummer with the 3rd New Jersey Regiment, who represents the often-overlooked contributions of people of color to the Revolutionary War. His regiment fought in several key battles, including Brandywine and Monmouth, after its authorization by the Continental Congress in January 1776.
New Year’s Eve Festivities
The New Year’s Eve celebration starts at 8 p.m. in front of 663 Main Avenue. Attendees can expect:
- Live music and food trucks
- Restaurants open throughout the night
- Giveaways and free parking
At 11:45 p.m., the piñata will make its descent, leading up to the midnight moment when the city will unleash a cascade of confetti upon the crowd.
Additional Celebrations in New Jersey
Passaic is not alone in its New Year’s celebrations. Other notable events include:
- Times Square, New York: Hosting the iconic ball drop.
- Hackettstown: Featuring an M&M drop from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
- Hammonton: Recognizing its title as the “blueberry capital of the world” with a blueberry drop between 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.
- Beach Haven: Celebrating the Irish New Year at Ship Bottom Brewery at 6:59 p.m.
- Sewell: Rowan University’s Edelman Fossil Park will host a unique noon asteroid drop, followed by family-friendly activities.
As Passaic welcomes the New Year, it sets the stage for a year of festivities leading to America’s 250th anniversary, honoring both its historical past and vibrant cultural tapestry.
