The 89th Annual Baby Parade

By Jennifer Ersalesi

Photo Credits: Janice Guzman

Last year one of Rutherford’s longest-standing traditions, the Annual Baby Parade, had to be canceled due to the pandemic. This year families were excited that the 89th Annual Baby Parade had returned. Many young children were registered to be part of the historical parade on Saturday, June 26th in Lincoln Park. Children under the age of five were invited to participate in the event sponsored by Lightbridge Academy.

Skylar Wazinski sang the National Anthem

Families chose a number of different themes and costumes such as red, white, and blue all-American, summer, Pride, dinosaurs, and Hawaiian luau.

After a panel of judges had a chance to see each participant parade past the bandshell twice, they collaborated to decide the winners of the adorable contest. Awards were given to the following young residents:

Grand Prize:

American Express Choo Choo Train

Child: Riley Frick

Parent: Amy Frick

1st-6th Place:

1st Place: CELEBRATING RUTH BADER GINSBURG

Child: Winnie Rose Noth

Parent: Kally Noth

2nd Place: LITTLE MISS FIRECRACKER

Child: Abby Cronin

Parent: Bridget Cronin

3rd Place: WONDER WOMAN

Child: Rose Fabiano

Parent: Erin Healey

4th Place: LUAU on the 4th

Child: Mina Patel

Parent: Katie Patel

5th Place: RED, WHITE & BUBBLY

Child: Allison Elliott

Parent: Tara Elliott

6th Place: SWEET BABY FIRECRACKER

Child: Aurora Elizabeth Sahadi

Parent: Katrina Watt

The Grand Prize winner received a $100 savings bond and the first through sixth place winners received a $50 savings bond.