Events
Upcoming Events
Cranford Jaycees Annual Golf Outing
The 20th Annual Cranford Jaycees’ Golf Outing is our annual year-end event that brings together Jaycee members and guests to enjoy a day of non-competitive golf.
The 2026 Firecracker 4-Miler and Fun Run
Registration is now open! Cranford’s July 4th tradition is back for its 47th year. Whether you run the classic 4-miler or participate in the family friendly 1-mile fun run, be part of one of Union County’s great Independence Day traditions, and start your 4th off with a bang!
Save These 2026 Dates
6/12 – Jaycees Golf Outing
6/20 – Jaycees Pride of Cranford Softball Tournament
6/21 – Father’s Day Fishing Derby
7/4 – Firecracker 4-Miler and Fun Run
Past Events
Rahway River Cleanup
The river is one of our town’s jewels. On Saturday, April 18th from 9-noon, we’re joining several local groups in cleaning it up. There are 7 meetup spots across town, and garbage bags will be provided. The Jaycees will be at the footbridge on Riverside Drive. Sponsored by the Cranford Clean & Green Team.
Cranford Jaycees Scholarship Applications
We’re awarding a total of $55,000 this year between our college and trade school scholarships. Applications are due 3/27.
Pancake Breakfast
Our annual pancake breakfast is back at the Cranford VFW on Sunday, March 22nd with eggs, sausage/bacon, coffee, juice, and of course pancakes (with optional chocolate chips). Tickets are $10 or $30 for a family and are available at the door.
Cranford Easter Egg Hunt
Our annual free Easter Egg Hunt is back on Saturday, March 21st behind Orange Avenue School for children ages 0-12 at 10:00 am SHARP. There will be separate fields by age group. BYO basket or bag to collect the eggs.
Santa Deliveries & Toy Drive
We’re excited to once again partner with Santa and the Cranford Police & Fire Departments to accept donations for less-fortunate children and to deliver gifts to Cranford homes!
Kids Christmas Party
Join us for our annual free family holiday party with treats and photos with Santa! We’ll also have face painters, treats, and music from the Cranford middle school bands. As always, we’ll share the professional-quality portraits post-event.
Track Friday
Join the Cranford Jaycees and fellow residents on Friday, November 28th for the 10th Annual Cranford Track Friday! Track Friday is a family-friendly event where fitness meets fundraising. All are encouraged to run or walk laps on the track to burn off some Thanksgiving calories and support charitable causes they care about.
Cranford Halloween Parade, Costume Contest, & Pumpkin Chunkin’
The 25th Annual Brian Jenkins Memorial Halloween Parade, Costume Contest, and Pumpkin’ Chunkin’ will be held on Sunday, October 26th starting at 1:00 PM at the Cranford Community Center.
Cranford Carve-Out & Parade of Pumpkins
The Cranford Carve-Out & Parade of Pumpkins is back for its 10th year on Saturday, 10/26 at Hanson Park.
Stroll along the pumpkin-lit garden paths beginning at 5:00 pm with last entry at 8:30 pm (closing at 9:00) to see the amazing carved creations on display. Hosted by Jersey Central Art Studios (JCAS) with support from the Cranford Jaycees and the Hanson Park Conservancy.
Oktoberfest
TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE! The party of the fall returns on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Union College starting at 5:00 pm with live music, games, food trucks, and, of course, a dozen beers on tap.
Buy your table or individual tickets here.
Leonard Snyder Memorial Father’s Day Fishing Derby
Our Leonard Snyder Memorial Father’s Day Fishing Derby tradition is back! The Nomahegan Park pond will be stocked with bass and catfish. Free bait and bobbers for all participants! Prizes by age group for the top 3 biggest fish caught.
Fall Blood Drive
Our annual fall blood drive will be on Friday, 9/6 at the Cranford Community Center from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Help us unlock a $1,000 donation to our scholarship fund if we collect 100 pints!