Ring in America’s 250th birthday at one of these 4th of July events in New Jersey. Beyond the fireworks and parades, there’s so much more to do during our 250th Independence Day weekend, like 5Ks, reenactments and concert series. Check dates, times, locations and weather before heading out.
July 2
Fourth of July Celebration
Philadelphia
Philly will celebrate early on Thursday, July 2, the date John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife Abigail that the nation’s independence was going to be celebrated with fireworks, a parade and pomp and circumstance. There will be a flag raising at the Betsy Ross House, the Red, White & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade, a parade with Radio Flyer wagons turned into floats rolling along Independence Mall, and a block party at City Tavern. More free activities include live music throughout the city, picnics and a drone show. Museums, historic sites and local businesses will come together in one square mile with festooned décor, concerts, games, extended hours at historical sites, restaurant specials, and more.
Westfield Community Concert Band Summer Concert Series
Mindowaskin Park, Westfield
A special Independence Day celebration concert will feature appearances and presentations by “George Washington” and members of the Westfields Chapter of the Sons and Daughters of the Revolution in period dress. Also featured will be special vocal performances by Mr. Kerry Stubbs, accompanied by the band.
Ewing’s Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza
Green Lane Fields, Ewing
Before the fireworks light up the sky, a Heritage Showcase includes live music, reenactors, storytelling tents, and youth activities centered on the crossing of the Delaware and its significance to Ewing’s geography and Revolutionary heritage.
July 2 and 4
Ocean City Pops Orchestra Concerts
Carey Stadium, Ocean City
There will be patriotic performances on both nights, including a drone show on July 2.
July 3
Remember George Washington’s March to Trenton
Brimingham Park, Ewing
The West Trenton Garden Club maintains Birmingham Park, the corner where George Washington’s troops split on their march towards Trenton and attacked the German Hessians from two directions on a snowy night in December 1776. During this event, a costumed reenactor will tell the story of Washington’s victory march. You’ll get to place a flag on the perimeter of the garden.
July 4
Fourth of July 2026
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
This free festival will have music, speakers, artmaking, community partners and food on the grounds of the historic house and museum.
Sail 4th 250
Port of New York and New Jersey
There will be a massive flotilla of tall ships open for public tours throughout the week. Expect family-friendly festivals, cultural performances, and a fireworks display.
Florham Park 4th of July Parade & Celebration
Florham Park
New Jersey’s longest-running Independence Day parade is followed by a social garden, food and drinks, cake to celebrate the nation’s birthday, rides, games and activities for the whole family.
Jersey City Fireworks & Tall Ships
Jersey City
From the waterfront, you’ll be able to see 60 tall ships and 40 naval vessels sailing by, followed by a large-scale fireworks display over the Hudson River.
Revolutionary Celebration: Independence Day on the Raritan
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
On July 4, 1778, General George Washington ordered the Continental Army to perform a fue de joie (fire of joy) on the banks of the Raritan River. This day begins with A Revolutionary Celebration Run 5K, and continues with a patriotic-themed concert on the front lawn. At the Indian Queen Tavern, listen to 18th-century music and hear stories from General George Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Baron von Steuben.
Oceanfest
Long Branch
At one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in New Jersey, you and your crew can watch dance performances, listen to musicians and see clowns. Stroll the boards, shop local businesses and grab a bite at nearby restaurants; then stay for the fireworks display to cap off the night.
Fue de Joie
East Jersey Old Town Village, Piscataway
On July 4, 1778, Washington ordered the Continental Army to perform a fue de joie (fire of joy) on the banks of the Raritan River. To mark the occasion, East Jersey Old Town Village in Piscataway will be open on July 4, offering A Revolutionary Celebration Run 5K and a patriotic-themed concert on the front lawn. Listen to 18th-century music and hear stories from Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Baron von Steuben inside the Indian Queen Tavern.
4th of July in Evesham
Evesham
Activities include the 4th of July 5K Run & Walk, a Kid’s Bike and then a regular parade along Main Street, and fireworks later at Savich Field.
Bergen County’s Star Spangled Spectacular
Overpeck County Park, Bergen County
The afternoon of July 4 will feature over 20 food trucks, a beer and wine garden, carnival attractions and fireworks. Major acts set to hit the stage include legendary hip-hop group and Bergen County natives the Sugarhill Gang, the New Jersey Wind Symphony, Super Trans AM, Glenn Roberts Band and Tempo Alegre.
Declaration of Independence Reading
Morristown National Historical Park, Morristown
A public reading of our nation’s foundation document will coincide with a musket salute and self-guided tours of the Ford Mansion.
Fourth of July Celebration
Ridgefield Park
Start the day with a reading of the Declaration of Independence before a cannon salute and flag raising. After the Baby and Youth Parade, the Civic Parade steps off. At night, come to Veterans Park for a performance by the Rutherford Community Band and a fireworks display.
Fourth of July Celebration
Congress Hall, Cape May
For more than 200 summers, Congress Hall has celebrated the Fourth of July on its front lawn. Come for the All-American Cookout in the afternoon, and then fireworks at dusk.
Red, White, and Blueberries BBQ Bash
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
The 4th of July party includes live entertainment, family activities, a watermelon-eating contest, and blueberry-themed BBQ faves.
July 4-5
Celebrate America Food Trucks & Fun
Laurita Winery & Marketplace, New Egypt (Plumsted)
Spend Independence Weekend at the winery, where activities include food trucks, live music, lots of wine, time with the kids in the vineyard, and fireworks on Saturday night.
July 5
Jersey Freeze Hot Dog Eating Contest
Jersey Freeze, Freehold
The third annual hot dog eating contest is held on the same night as fireworks at the racetrack. While enjoying some ice cream, bring the kids for a DJ, face painting and balloon artist. The East Freehold Fire Department bringing out the fire truck for the kids.
Editor’s Note: Always check times, dates and weather updates before heading out.
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