✦ Program of Events

Week of Celebration

Three landmark events anchoring a full week of prayer, ceremony, parade, and community pride. Mark your calendar and join us.

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✦   COUNTING DOWN TO INDEPENDENCE DAY   ✦

April 27, 2026 — Naaman Williams Park, Somerset NJ

27APR

Independence Day

Monday, April 27

🇸🇱
12:00 PM

Flag Raising Ceremony

Official raising of the Sierra Leone flag at Naaman Williams Park, 33 Irving St, Somerset NJ 08873.

🙏
Afternoon

Interfaith Prayers

Muslim and Christian prayers offered for Mama Salone and her people — unity in faith.

28APR

Proclamation Night

Tuesday, April 28

🏛️
7:00 PM

Proclamation Reading

Official proclamations read for our Sierra Leonean community at Franklin Township Municipality Building. All community members welcome.

2MAY

Grand Parade Day

Saturday, May 2

🎉
10:00 AM

Tent Showcase Opens

Authors, businesses, professionals and cultural displays open to the public. Meet the authors, browse books, and explore Sierra Leonean businesses.

🎺
Midday

Independence Parade

Grand parade featuring colorful floats, indigenous music, traditional food, and our community marching through Somerset.

🎤
Afternoon

Speeches & Recognition

Congressional representatives, community leaders, and eminent personalities address the celebration and recognize community achievements.

📚
All Day

Literary Showcase

Sierra Leonean authors present their books, meet readers, and sign copies. Published and upcoming titles both featured.

🌙
8:00 PM

Closing Ceremony

End of grand celebration. Thank you for celebrating 65 years of Sierra Leone's independence with us.

✦ Venue

Getting There

All main events take place at Naaman Williams Park in Somerset, New Jersey.

📍

Main Venue

Naaman Williams Park 33 Irving St, Somerset NJ 08873

🏛️

Proclamation Night (Apr 28)

Franklin Township Municipality Building 7:00 PM

🅿️

Parking

Free parking available at the park. Arrive early on May 2nd — large crowds expected.