This year marks the 10th year of the now famous Metuchen Cookie Walk. The annual event has grown from a small neighborhood bake sale into one of Metuchen’s most beloved holiday traditions. Each December, hundreds of volunteer bakers and cookie lovers come together to celebrate the season and support local families in need. Organized by It Takes a Borough (ITAB), a volunteer-run nonprofit that provides aid to Metuchen residents facing crises, the event has raised more than $70,000 to date.
To learn more about the history, mission, and magic behind this community favorite, we spoke with ITAB board member Jennifer D’Agnes. She shared her insights along with input from fellow board members, reflecting the team spirit that makes the Cookie Walk such a success year after year.
How did the idea for the Metuchen Cookie Walk come about?
The Metuchen Cookie Walk began in 2015 as a small community fundraiser created by local residents who wanted to combine the joy of holiday baking with the spirit of giving back. Courtney McKnight, a Metuchen resident, was inspired by the famous Cookie Walk at St. Nicholas of Myra Orthodox Church in New York City’s East Village. What began as a small neighborhood effort quickly took on a life of its own.
Our Cookie Walk aimed to help local families facing hardship and loss, and was originally launched as a fundraiser for the Fuccile Foundation. When It Takes a Borough (ITAB) was founded in 2024, it proudly continued this mission. In its first year, ITAB provided more than $90,000 in aid to neighbors impacted by fires, medical emergencies, and the loss of caregivers, all made possible through the generosity of the Metuchen community.
Today, our signature events are the Cookie Walk and the Fuce 5K Family Fun Run/Walk, which takes place every Father’s Day, in memory of Mike Fuccile.
What was the initial goal?
The original goal was simple: bring the community together during the holidays and raise money for local families in need. That mission has grown stronger over the years. Now under ITAB, the Cookie Walk continues to support families through direct financial aid and community outreach, while also celebrating the joy of baking and the holiday season.
How do the funds help the community?
All proceeds directly support ITAB’s programs, providing compassionate assistance to Metuchen residents experiencing crises such as fires, medical emergencies, or the loss of caregivers. Funds cover essentials like housing, food, and emergency expenses.
How many bakers take part, and how do you coordinate them all?
Last year, 145 volunteer bakers participated, ranging from young first-timers to seasoned home bakers. Each baked at least 8 dozen cookies, totaling around 16,000 cookies! ITAB coordinates bakers through an online registration system, providing detailed guidelines to ensure all cookies are consistent, labeled, and beautifully presented.
What kinds of cookies are the biggest hits each year?
While classic favorites like chocolate chip, sugar cookies, and thumbprints are always popular, the real crowd-pleasers are the elaborately decorated cookies, like mini hot cocoa mug–shaped treats and stained glass cookies. Bakers go all out with creative, visually stunning designs that draw people in as much as the flavors do.
Each year offers a mix of traditional family recipes and inventive new creations, making the Cookie Walk a unique experience every holiday. The event also ensures there’s something for everyone, with gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan options available to accommodate all dietary needs.
How has it grown over the years?
The Cookie Walk has grown tremendously. What began as a small-town bake sale is now a beloved holiday tradition, attracting hundreds of visitors and selling thousands of cookies each December. The event has raised more than $70,000 over the years. With ITAB’s support, it now benefits from expanded community partnerships, organized volunteer support, and a streamlined structure for greater impact.
What’s new for this year?
2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the Metuchen Cookie Walk! We’re celebrating with special event merchandise and plan to expand in future years with features like hot cocoa/coffee stations and carolers.
What’s your favorite memory over the years from the Cookie Walks?
A favorite moment is always seeing families, both parents and kids, carefully fill their boxes with cookies, chat with neighbors, and discover new favorites. The mix of ages among bakers and shoppers highlights the community spirit: young bakers, experienced bakers, kids picking cookies, adults connecting. Watching that generosity in action, knowing it directly supports local families, is what keeps everyone coming back.
What’s the best way for people to get involved?
- Bake: Volunteer to bake at least two batches of cookies via the baker registration link and on ittakesaborough.com. We have a QR code as well.
- Buy: Attend the event and fill a small ($15) or large ($25) box with homemade cookies.
- Share: Simply attending, spreading the word, and supporting the event helps strengthen the community impact.
The 2025 Metuchen Cookie Walk will be held on Sunday, December 14, from 8 am to 1 pm (or until cookies sell out!) at the Metuchen High School Cafeteria, 400 Grove Avenue.
Website: ittakesaborough.com
Social Media: Facebook & Instagram – Fuce 5K | Metuchen Cookie Walk
