04/22/2026
Montclair July 4th Committee Announces Grand Marshals
**Montclair History Center, James Howe House and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church will be honored**
**The organizations are being recognized for their inclusion on the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail**
Montclair, New Jersey (April, 2026) – The Montclair Celebrates July 4th Committee is pleased to announce that three organizations – The Montclair History Center, The James Howe House, and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church – have been named as the Grand Marshals of the 2026 July 4th parade. The organizations are being recognized for their inclusion on the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail, which honors institutions that foster awareness and appreciation of Black history across the state. The parade will take place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, beginning at 11am. A festival with food trucks, games and music will immediately follow the conclusion of the parade and will be held at Edgemont Park.
“These three organizations are central to the history and culture of Montclair,” said Donato DiGeronimo, President of the Montclair Celebrates July 4th Committee. “Our community is proud that each has been named to the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail and it is our privilege to honor their important contributions to understanding and celebrating the history of Montclair.”
The Montclair History Center was founded in 1965 to preserve and celebrate the Township’s complex and diverse history and is home to the Crane House and Historic YWCA. Educational programs, tours, local history resources and a treasure trove of artifacts related to Montclair’s history offer opportunities for learning and discovery. The Montclair History Center was added to the inaugural list of the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail in 2024 for its preservation of the legacy of the leadership and contributions of Black women at the Historic YWCA.
“Montclair History Center is honored to be named a 2026 Grand Marshal for the Montclair Fourth of July Parade alongside Friends of the Howe House and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church,” says Angelica Diggs. “As we reflect on the nation’s 250th anniversary, we celebrate the shared history and rich diversity of the Montclair community. By connecting our past to the present, we deepen our understanding of who we are today. It is the people and organizations here that make Montclair’s story deeply meaningful within the broader American narrative.”
The Friends of the Howe House is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving the historic house of James Howe, a formerly enslaved man who was freed in 1817. As one of the oldest standing buildings owned by an African American, this house tells the story of freedom and slavery, the importance of homeownership, the development of African American communities in the United States, and the role of African Americans in the growth of towns like Montclair, NJ. This house stands as a monument to African American history, serving as a gathering place for education, community, and honest reflection on the past, present, and future of African American experiences in New Jersey and across the nation. The James Howe House was added to the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail in 2025.
“Friends of the Howe House is incredibly excited and honored to be named a 2026 Grand Marshal for Montclair’s Fourth of July Parade,” says Kimberly LaTortue. “We’re proud to celebrate alongside Montclair History Center and St. Mark’s! This is such a special moment for us—one that celebrates the history, culture, and community that make Montclair so unique. We can’t wait to be out there celebrating with everyone and sharing in the energy, pride, and joy of the day!”
St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, affectionately known as The Mark Montclair, is a vibrant United Methodist community that began its journey in 1880 as the first African American church in Montclair. From humble beginnings with 25 members, but with a powerful, divine calling to serve and transform lives, its mission of love and hope has embraced, encouraged and empowered children, adults, families, and communities. The Mark has made a lasting impact, embraced social justice and community service, and played pivotal roles in establishing key organizations, such as the Washington Street YMCA, the Montclair NAACP, and the Montclair YWCA, the only YWCA in the nation founded and directed by African American women. St. Mark’s United Methodist Church was added to the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail in 2025.
“It is a true honor to be named one of the Grand Marshals,” says Reverand Karline Dubuisson.” I receive this recognition with a grateful and humble heart, knowing that I stand here because of the faith, courage, and love of the people of The Mark: St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. This honor reflects a congregation that continues to serve, welcome, and hope. We believe God calls us beyond our walls to walk with our neighbors, to lift one another, and to keep building community rooted in compassion and justice. I am thankful to represent a historic church that is still trusting God for what is ahead. We walk forward together in faith, and for that, I give thanks.”
This year’s Independence Day celebrations will be the highlight of the summer. Thousands of people from Montclair and neighboring communities line the parade route every year, joining marching bands community groups, organizations, sports teams, local businesses, elected officials and civic leaders.
The Montclair Celebrates July 4th Committee is asking for the community's help to keep this tradition alive. Whether you are new to town or have family roots dating back generations, we rely on your generous contributions to fund the programming on July 4th. Every donation helps us make Montclair's festivities the most memorable event of the summer season.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations or for press inquiries contact:
Donato DiGeronimo, President of the Montclair Celebrates July 4th Committee
973-809-9586 [email protected]
