Break out the tie-dye, grab some flowers, don the peace sign necklace, and become a flower child for a day. Honestly, anyone who considers themselves a proponent of peace worldwide should really attend this event!

Sunday, August 4th, is the 11th annual “Peace Fair.” It is to be held at Eastman Plaza in Cranford, right at the town clock, located at 2 Eastman St. at North Avenue. It will run from noon to 6:00 PM, is absolutely free to the general public, and is an extremely family-friendly event.  The timing of the Peace Fair is not random; August marks the 68th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan.
There are actually two themes of this year’s fair . . . “Making a Living,” which addresses the correlation of economics and peace, and “The Courage of their Conviction: honoring those who have said ‘No’ to war,” acknowledging non-violence, pacifist, and war resistance movements. Come out with the family to enjoy some free music, art, poetry, dance, and other activities. Artwork by Union County artists will be displayed, local musicians will perform, and visitors can enjoy an opportunity to learn paper crane origami, children’s events, and representation by local organizations that foster peace, diplomacy, humanitarianism and an end to nuclear weapons.

And, in keeping with the theme of peace and bettering the world, the public address system will be powered by a solar panel and a bicycle generator. How cool is that?! The only thing that could possibly make this better is free parking. AND GUESS WHAT?! Parking IS free.

Oh, and be sure to BYOD. Bring your own drum, or other percussion instrument, because the day will end with a drum circle for peace. It promises to be a fun filled afternoon, but also one of merit and meaning. A fine combination.

Doesn’t this sound like a fun way to promote a perfect ideal?