25 YEARS LATER, WE REMEMBER
September 11, 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks that changed our nation forever.
A quarter century later, we still remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, 2001. We remember the first responders who ran toward danger, the families who were changed forever, and the countless acts of courage, compassion, and service that emerged in the days that followed.
We invite the River Vale community to come together for our annual September 11 Candlelight Commemoration—a quiet opportunity to pause, remember, and honor those whose lives were forever connected to that day.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
5:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Park, behind Town Hall
This year marks a special 25th anniversary, and we will gather in the same spirit of remembrance that has guided this tradition for many years.
A small change in timing for this year's ceremony:
Our candlelight commemoration is traditionally held later in the evening, after sundown. This year, we are gathering at 5:00 PM so that members of our community can attend after work while also allowing those observing the first evening of Rosh Hashanah to return home and be with family before sundown.
Candles will be provided, and everyone is welcome.
Whether you remember September 11 firsthand or are part of a generation that knows it through the stories of parents, grandparents, teachers, first responders, and neighbors, we hope you will join us as we remember, reflect, and honor.
Twenty-five years later, we remember the lives lost, we honor those who served, and we carry their stories forward.
In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to the Council Chambers inside Town Hall.
For more information:
culturalaffairs@rivervalenj.org
♟️ River Vale Community Chess Club Starts September 18!
Looking for a fun way to help your child build confidence, improve critical thinking, and make new friends? Don't miss this opportunity.
The River Vale Recreation Department, in partnership with New Jersey Sports Academy, is excited to offer our Fall 2026 Community Chess Club to River Vale residents and non-residents!
Whether your child is just learning the game or already knows the basics, these classes provide a supportive environment where players can develop strategy, concentration, and problem-solving skills—all while having fun! Chess is a game they will play long into adulthood!
📅 Fridays, September 18 – November 6
📍 The Pavilion at Mark Lane Field
400 Mark Lane, River Vale
Foundation Chess (Ages 5–14)
Perfect for beginners learning the fundamentals of the game.
Session Times:
Ages 5–8: 4:00–4:50 PM
Ages 9–14: 5:00–5:50 PM
Fee: $179
Intermediate Chess (Ages 7–14)
Designed for players with prior chess experience who are ready to sharpen their skills.
Session Time:
6:00–6:50 PM
Fee: $219
♟️ Chess sets are provided!
To register or for more information:
📧 newjerseysportsacademy@gmail.com
📞 646-541-3976
Don't miss this opportunity to challenge young minds, develop strategic thinking, and discover the lifelong game of chess!
Registration for the 2027 season of Pascack Valley Junior Wrestling is now OPEN!
This K–8 Youth Wrestling Program for residents of River Vale and Hillsdale focuses on learning the basics, building confidence, and having fun on the mat!
Register here - https://pascackvalleywrestling.sportngin.com/register/form/053021121
Please email pascackvalleywrestling@gmail.com for more information or questions.
BERGEN250 RESUMES REVOLUTIONARY WAR ROUNDTABLE SERIES WITH DIVE INTO TWO NOTABLE FIGURES AND THEIR IMPACT ON BERGEN COUNTY
Learn More about John Fell, Patriot and Signer of the Declaration of Independence, and William Franklin, Last Colonial Governor of New Jersey
HACKENSACK, NJ – Bergen250, the Bergen County Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs, and the County of Bergen invite the public and media to attend the first lecture of the fall 2026 American Revolutionary War Roundtable Series on Wednesday, September 9th at 7:00 PM at the Bergen County Administration Building’s 1st Floor Multipurpose Room, 1 Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ.
William Franklin, illegitimate son of Benjamin Franklin, was the last royal governor of New Jersey. John Fell led the local opposition to the British during that time. Although their paths probably never crossed, their dual lives provide a unique look at New Jersey in Revolutionary times.
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, noted local author, Jim Wright of Allendale, will talk about these two exceptional men – and their legacies in Northwest Bergen County.
For those unable to attend in person, the lecture will be recorded and published on the County of Bergen’s official YouTube channel following the event.
Fall 2026 Lineup (7pm at the One Bergen County Plaza Multipurpose Room):
September 9th: “The Turncoat & The Patriot” Presented by Jim Wright
October 14th: “The Baylor Massacre” Presented by Edmund Moderacki
November 10th: “George Rogers Clark & The Revolutionary War in the West. The Siege of Fort Vicennes, February 23-25, 1779” Presented by Pat Schuber
December 9th: “Pillage, Plunder, and Arson in 1780 in Bergen County: Material Culture of the Inhabitants” Presented by Peggy Norris
About Bergen250
Bergen250 is Bergen County’s initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, highlighting the county’s critical role in the nation’s founding and engaging the public through lectures, events, and community programming. For more information, visit www.Bergen250.com.
In addition to the Candlelight Vigil being held in River Vale at 5pm on Friday, September 11, the County of Bergen is also offering a Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, September 10 at Overpeck Park in Leonia at 6:30pm. River Vale residents are welcome at both events.
💉 FIGHT THE FLU! — 2026 FLU SHOT CLINIC 💉
River Vale residents are invited to the 2026 Flu Shot Clinic, sponsored by the Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission.
📅 Monday, September 28, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
📍 River Vale Town Hall
406 Rivervale Road
⚠️ PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
📞 Call 201-445-7217 to register.
Insurance & Cost Information:
• Traditional Medicare Part B is accepted. Medicare Advantage plans (HMO, PPO, etc.) are not accepted.
• Medicare Part B participants must bring their Medicare Part B card.
• Other insurance: $30 regular vaccine / $80 high-dose vaccine
• Cash only for non-Medicare Part B participants.
If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or other non-Medicare Part B plan, you may wish to check with your primary care physician, where there may be no charge.
Protect yourself and your community this flu season! 💙
🌶️ BRING THE HEAT TO RIVER VALE DAY! 🌶️
Get ready for one of the tastiest traditions of River Vale Day — the 6th Annual Chili Cook-Off!
Think your chili has what it takes to impress the judges? Bring your best recipe and compete for bragging rights and prizes! Or simply come hungry and enjoy a delicious day of chili, community, and fun with family, friends, and neighbors.
🏆 PRIZES
Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place entries!
🌶️ FREE TO ENTER
Registration is required, so don’t wait!
📅 Sunday, October 4, 2026
📌 River Vale Day
⏰ Registration deadline: October 2, 2026
Ready to compete?
Scan the QR code on the flyer or check our webpage https://www.rivervalenj.org/page/river-vale-day for details and to REGISTER !
For more information, contact:
events@rivervalenj.org
Grab your favorite recipe, bring the heat, and be part of this delicious River Vale Day tradition!
🌶️ We can’t wait to see what you’re cooking up! 🏆
😂 NEW PROGRAMS! LAUGH, CONNECT & HAVE FUN WITH RIVER VALE RECREATION! 🎭
River Vale Recreation is excited to offer two new programs from The Anita Laugh Comedy Troupe designed to bring laughter, creativity and connection to our community!
🎤 Improv & Comedy Workshop
Get ready to laugh, play and surprise yourself! This fun and supportive workshop will help you:
- Enjoy laughter with others
- Unleash your inner comedian
- Build confidence presenting in front of people
- Get creative through play
No experience necessary — just bring yourself and a sense of humor!
📅 Fridays, Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 9
⏰ 7:00–8:30 PM
💲 $125 per participant
😄 Rediscover Your Humor — Adults 55+
Rediscover the joy of laughter and connection in this friendly 4-week class! Participants will write, share and play through storytelling, conversation and improv games.
📅 Fridays, Sept. 18, 25 & Oct. 2, 9
⏰ 12:00–1:30 PM
💲 $100 for the 4-week series
📍 River Vale Community Center
48 Greenhalgh Lane, River Vale
📞 Register today by calling 201-310-3980
Great programs. New friends. Lasting memories.
🍂Register NOW for Fall Programs with USA Sport Group! ⚽🏀🏈📣
Looking for fun, active programs for your child this fall? USA Sport Group, in partnership with the River Vale Recreation Department, is offering exciting sports programs for children ages 1–7 beginning in September!
Choose from:
🏅 Multi Sports
🏀 Basketball
🏈 Flag Football
⚽ Soccer
📣 Cheer Dance
🎉 REGISTER BY SEPT. 3 TO AVOID A LATE FEE!
Visit https://usasportgroup.com/recreation/866-river-vale-twp-river-vale-nj or scan the QR code on the flyer for schedules, pricing, and registration.
🎭💃 FALL FUN IS COMING TO RIVER VALE! 💃🎭
Looking for something fun, active, and engaging this fall? Win at Fun, in partnership with River Vale Recreation, is offering great programs for KIDS AND ADULTS in our community!
🎬 FALL MUSICAL THEATER CLASSES
Let your child’s inner star shine! ⭐ Led by Winter Gabriel, these 8-week classes include a Recital Showcase and are designed for young performers:
🌟 Mini Stars (Ages 4–5)
Thursdays, 4:15–5:00 PM
Sept. 17 – Nov. 12
🌟 Rising Stars (Ages 6–8)
Tuesdays, 4:15–5:15 PM
Sept. 8 – Nov. 17
🌟 Triple Threats (Ages 9–12)
Tuesdays, 5:30–6:30 PM
Sept. 8 – Nov. 17
📍 River Vale Community Center
💲 $175
💃 DANCING THROUGH LIFE – ADULT CLASSES
Ready to get moving and have some fun? Join Winter Gabriel for a positive, energetic dance class for all levels and ages! Learn fun dance routines while building confidence on the dance floor.
📅 Thursdays, 6:15–7:15 PM
Sept. 17 – Nov. 12
💲 7 sessions for $150
🎁 First class is a FREE trial (registration required)
📍 River Vale Community Center
❤️ Plus, 10% of adult class fees will benefit Meals on Wheels, helping provide meals and combat adult isolation.
👉 Registration is now open at Win at Fun https://www.winatfun.co/
Come dance, perform, have fun, and make this fall a memorable one in River Vale! 🎭✨
🏠 REMINDER: RIVER VALE 2027 REASSESSMENT IS UNDERWAY
River Vale residents are reminded that the Township’s 2027 property reassessment is currently underway.
Appraisal Systems, Inc. (ASI), contracted by the Township, is conducting inspections throughout River Vale, including exterior measurements/photos and required interior inspections.
A few important reminders:
🔹 ASI inspectors will carry photo identification and their names are registered with the River Vale Police Department and Township Clerk’s Office.
🔹 If you are not home for the initial visit, you will receive information about arranging a return visit for the interior inspection.
🔹 Video conference/contactless interior inspections are available upon request.
🔹 New 2027 property values will be based on estimated market value as of October 1, 2026.
🔹 Property owners will receive their proposed assessed values by mail and will have an opportunity to question or contest those values.
📞 Questions about the inspection or valuation process?
Contact Appraisal Systems, Inc. at 201-493-8530.
Additional information: www.asinj.com → “Current revaluation information” → River Vale.
Thank you for your cooperation!
Save the Date: River Vale Day is Back! 🎉
There are 365 days in a year… but there is really only one that everyone in River Vale waits for…
🎉 RIVER VALE DAY 🎉
Sunday, October 4, 2026 • 12–4 PM
It’s our biggest celebration of the year, our favorite day of the year, and one giant excuse for the whole community to come together and have some fun.
Think music, games, local vendors, food, activities, entertainment, and plenty of reasons for kids (and kids-at-heart) to stay awhile. From rock climbing and bouncy houses to the mechanical bull, mini golf, performances, robotics, dancing, cheering and more — River Vale Day is packed with the kind of fun you can’t fit into any old ordinary Sunday.
Yes… there will be ice cream 🍦
And food trucks.
And a Chili Contest. 🌶️
And live music. 🎶
And all the familiar faces that make River Vale feel like home. ❤️
So before calendars start filling up with soccer, school events, Sunday errands and everything else October throws at us…
SAVE THE DATE!!!!
📅 Sunday, October 4, 2026
⏰ 12–4 PM
River Vale Day.
The biggest celebration in town.
Everyone’s favorite day.
We’ll share more details as we get closer — but for now, just put it on the calendar and tell the family.
We’ll see you there! 🎈
FALL ART PROGRAMS ARE COMING TO RIVER VALE! 🎨
Give your child a place to create, explore, and build their artistic skills this Fall!
In partnership with River Vale Recreation, One River School of Art + Design is offering two exciting art programs for students in grades K–5. Each season features new artists and projects designed to spark creativity and have fun! Classes begin September 14, 2026.
🎨 Kids Art Shuffle
Grades K–2
Mondays | 4:00–5:00 PM
Students will explore drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media, inspired by contemporary artists. Each season brings fresh projects and new artists to help children develop their skills and creativity.
✏️ Focus on Cartooning & Manga
Grades 3–5
Wednesdays | 4:00–5:00 PM
Young artists will explore cartooning and illustration, including character design, comics, and storytelling. Students will be inspired by artists from around the world while developing their own unique artistic style.
📍 River Vale Community Center
48 Greenhalgh Lane, River Vale, NJ
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE — ENROLL TODAY! https://oneriverschool.com/river-vale-community-center-2026/
Questions?
📞 551-218-1919
📧 partnerships@oneriverschool.com
On Wednesday, September 16, a local Food Handler's Class is being offered to restaurant owners and managers, food service workers, temporary food operators, schools, childcare providers, and others responsible for food preparation or service.
See flyer for details!
♟️ Join the River Vale Community Chess Club This Fall!
Looking for a fun way to help your child build confidence, improve critical thinking, and make new friends?
The River Vale Recreation Department, in partnership with New Jersey Sports Academy, is excited to offer our Fall Community Chess Club beginning this September!
Whether your child is just learning the game or already knows the basics, these classes provide a supportive environment where players can develop strategy, concentration, and problem-solving skills—all while having fun!
📅 Fridays, September 18 – November 6
📍 The Pavilion at Mark Lane Field
400 Mark Lane, River Vale
Foundation Chess (Ages 5–14)
Perfect for beginners learning the fundamentals of the game.
Session Times:
Ages 5–8: 4:00–4:50 PM
Ages 9–14: 5:00–5:50 PM
Fee: $179
Intermediate Chess (Ages 7–14)
Designed for players with prior chess experience who are ready to sharpen their skills.
Session Time:
6:00–6:50 PM
Fee: $219
♟️ Chess sets are provided!
To register or for more information:
📧 newjerseysportsacademy@gmail.com
📞 646-541-3976
Don't miss this opportunity to challenge young minds, develop strategic thinking, and discover the lifelong game of chess!
We look forward to seeing you this fall!
🍂USA Sport Group Fall Registration is Open! ⚽🏀🏈📣
Looking for fun, active programs for your child this fall? USA Sport Group, in partnership with the River Vale Recreation Department, is offering exciting sports programs for children ages 1–7 beginning in September!
Choose from:
🏅 Multi Sports
🏀 Basketball
🏈 Flag Football
⚽ Soccer
📣 Cheer Dance
🎉 Register by August 7 and SAVE!
Use promo code:
FLS2026
Don't wait—this special offer ends August 7!
Visit USASportGroup.com or scan the QR code on the flyer for schedules, pricing, and registration.
#RiverValeRecreation #RiverValeNJ #USASportGroup #YouthSports #FallSports #RegisterNow 🍂🏅
🚨 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Volunteers Needed! 🚨
Could you help your neighbors when it matters most?
The River Vale Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is looking for volunteers 18 years and older to join this dedicated group of community members committed to emergency preparedness.
✅ FREE CERT Training
📅 Classes Begin September 29, 2026
CERT training teaches valuable skills that can help you care for yourself, your family, your neighbors, and your community during emergencies and disasters. You'll receive hands-on instruction in emergency preparedness, fire safety, disaster response, search and rescue, and much more.
By becoming a CERT volunteer, you'll play an important role in strengthening River Vale's emergency response efforts and helping build a safer, more resilient community.
💙 Learn. Prepare. Serve. Make a Difference.
Visit the Township website for additional information. We hope you'll join the River Vale CERT team!
🎉 Now Just $30! Celebrate River Vale & America's 250th Anniversary with Our Commemorative Travel Tote! 🇺🇸👜
The River Vale Social & Cultural Affairs Committee has reduced the price of our limited-edition River Vale Travel Tote from $40 to just $30!
This beautifully crafted tote commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the United States while celebrating the pride and spirit of our River Vale community. Whether you're heading to the beach, traveling, shopping, attending sporting events, or running everyday errands, this durable canvas tote is the perfect companion.
River Vale Commemorative Travel Tote
👜 Now only $30 each (previously $40!)
💵 Check or cash accepted (exact change please)
📍 Available exclusively at River Vale Town Hall
⏳ Limited quantities available while supplies last
Tote Features
• Premium 24 oz. cotton canvas
• Dual 26-inch handles for comfortable carrying
• Zippered main compartment
• Convenient front slip pocket
• Size: 14" H × 23" W × 6½" D
Every purchase helps support River Vale Social & Cultural Affairs events and community programming, making this tote more than just a great bag—it's an investment in our community.
Stop by River Vale Town Hall (406 Rivervale Rd.) to purchase yours today!
Town Hall Summer Hours
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Don't wait—once they're gone, they're gone! Grab this commemorative keepsake at its new lower price and show your River Vale pride wherever you go! 🇺🇸✨
💃 Dance Through Life This Fall! 🕺
Looking for a fun way to stay active, meet new people, and learn exciting dance routines?
Join Win at Fun's "Dancing Through Life" Adult Dance Class in partnership with River Vale Recreation!
✨ Perfect for all experience levels
🎵 Learn 3 easy-to-follow dance routines
💜 Build confidence on the dance floor
🤝 Connect with others in a positive, energetic environment
📅 September 17 – November 12
🕡 Thursdays | 6:15–7:15 PM
📍 River Vale Community Center
💲 7 sessions for $150
🎉 Your first class is a FREE trial (registration required).
❤️ Even better—10% of every registration supports Meals on Wheels, helping provide meals and reduce isolation for older adults in our community.
⚠️ Please note: No classes October 23–November 3.
👉 Register today:
https://www.winatfun.co
Bring a friend and dance your way into fall! 🍂💃
#WinAtFun #DanceThroughLife #AdultDance #RiverValeRecreation #StayActive #Community #MealsOnWheels #FallActivities
Registration is now open for the 2026 - 2027 season of River Vale's First Friends Playgroup!
First Friends is a municipally sponsored playgroup, run by volunteer parents, for children ages 1 - 5. Children, as well as their parents, have the opportunity to meet new families and make new friends. The children participate in songs, crafts and other age appropriate activities as well as many special events throughout the year.
Click here for more details and to register: https://www.rivervalenj.org/page/first-friends
