North Bergen was the launchpad for the 50th annual Hispanic State Parade of New Jersey on Sunday, Oct. 5. The enormous event featured a seemingly endless procession of elaborate floats, spectacularly costumed musicians, performers, and dancers, and throngs of spectators along Bergenline Avenue.

 

Commissioners Hugo Cabrera and Claudia Rodriguez marched at the head of the parade along with County Commissioner Robert Baselice and Assemblyman Julio Marenco, backed by the North Bergen High School Spanish Club and many local residents.

 

Behind them paraded many hundreds of performers and several dozen floats, with bands playing, giveaways tossed the crowd, and a pervading atmosphere of heady celebration. The avenue was lined on both sides with crowds dressed in their national colors, waving flags, and cheering at the representation from their countries of origin.

 

The Township of North Bergen is proud to participate each year in the parade as part of its observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the histories, cultures, contributions, and achievements of Hispanic Americans. Many other local municipalities marched in this year’s parade as well, along with local businesses and organizations.