Springfield Hosts Free America 250 Celebration Aug. 8

On Saturday, August 8, Meisel Field in Springfield becomes the setting for a free, full-morning celebration tied to the nation's 250th anniversary. The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, is hosting the event—titled "Union County: American as Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie, Autos, and Music"—at 278 Meisel Ave. from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Three programs run back to back. The Galloping Hill Cruisers, a car club founded in 1988 that supports local charities including the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities, hosts a show of classic and modern vehicles from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Westfield Community Concert Band, described as one of the oldest community bands in the U.S., performs from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Then, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., the 1859 Hoboken Base Ball Club faces the Elizabeth Resolutes in a vintage baseball exhibition played under the original rules of baseball and featuring authentic 19th-century uniforms.

"Baseball is not only deeply rooted in Union County's heritage; it is a part of America's cultural identity," said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph Bodek. "This event honors that history through two outstanding teams, bridging our past and present, and offering a wonderful opportunity for some residents to reminisce while introducing new generations to the joys of baseball."

Hot dog and ice cream vendors will be onsite throughout the event. The first 750 guests will each receive one free mini apple pie, courtesy of Bimbo Bakery/Entenmann's. Admission is free and the event is open to all.

The event is funded in part through a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the New Jersey Department of State. Rebecca Williams, Union County Commissioner and chair of the Union County America 250 Committee, noted the program's focus on local roots. "One of our goals with history programs like this is that residents return home with not only new memories, but also a renewed sense of pride in living in a county with a rich history like ours," she said.

For more information, contact the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 908-558-2550.

Find more Springfield events, Union County news, and community information on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is happening on August 8 at Meisel Field?
A: Union County is hosting a free, all-day celebration honoring America's 250th anniversary, featuring vintage baseball, live music, classic and modern vehicles, vendors, and authentic Americana activities.

Q: What time does the event start and end?
A: The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Q: Where is Meisel Field located?
A: Meisel Field is located at 278 Meisel Ave., Springfield, NJ.

Q: What is the vintage baseball exhibition?
A: The 1859 Hoboken Base Ball Club will face the Elizabeth Resolutes in a 19th-century style baseball game played from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., featuring original rules and authentic uniforms from the 1800s.

Q: What time does the Westfield Community Concert Band perform?
A: The Westfield Community Concert Band performs from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Q: What is the Galloping Hill Cruisers car show?
A: The Galloping Hill Cruisers, a car club founded in 1988 that supports charities including the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities, will display classic and modern vehicles throughout the event from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Q: Can I get food at this event?
A: Yes. Hot dog and ice cream vendors will be onsite. The first 750 guests will also receive one free mini apple pie, courtesy of Bimbo Bakery/Entenmann's.

Q: How much does admission cost?
A: Admission is completely free and open to all residents and visitors.

Q: Who is hosting this event?
A: The event is hosted by the Union County Board of County Commissioners through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, with funding partly provided by the New Jersey Historical Commission.

Q: Is this event suitable for families with children?
A: Yes. The event includes multiple activities—vintage baseball, live music, classic cars, and food vendors—designed to appeal to families and audiences of all ages.

Q: Where can I find more information?
A: For more details, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 908-558-2550. Union County Life covers Springfield events and countywide news at unioncountylife.com.