This July 4 marks a major milestone as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. New Jersey is marking the occasion with events and experiences all year long.
Now through June 13
Face(t)s of America Exhibition
Gallery Space, Rahway
Six artists whose work explores what it means to live, belong and define oneself in America will present their artistic thoughts through portraiture, photography and painting.
Now through July 4
Monmouth County’s 250 For 250 Challenge
Virtual
From October 27, 2025, — exactly 250 days before America’s 250th birthday — the challenge is to walk or run 250 miles – anytime, anywhere – by July 4, 2026. You’ll get a medal once you finish your challenge.
Now through October
Philadelphia’s Historic Germantown Celebrates America’s 250th
Historic Germantown, Philadelphia, PA
The neighborhood will open its 20 historic houses, museums, gardens, and cultural institutions to the public. Highlights include 26 weeks of walking tours, Firefly Hours (extended hours at 17 sites), a Green Space Stamp Rally, Juneteenth and Revolutionary-era celebrations, poetry and jazz, and Second Saturdays free admission at select sites.
A Time for Liberty: Our Shared History, Our Shared Future
Eastern State, Philadelphia, PA
A Time for Liberty will explore liberty and justice in America through family-friendly festivals, panel discussions with scholars and systems-impacted leaders, pop-up exhibitions drawn from Eastern State’s archival collections, and new online learning resources.
Now through December 31
New Jersey State Parks Celebrate 250 Challenge
The yearlong initiative encourages New Jerseyans to explore New Jersey’s 41 state parks, 11 state forests, five recreation areas, and 50+ historic sites and districts. Complete one of five challenge options to earn a Certificate of Achievement and the opportunity to be recognized on New Jersey State Parks’ social media platforms. You can choose 250 miles in a year, 25 miles in a year, 25 trails in a year, 2.5 miles per week, or 25 minutes per week outdoors.
Now through February 21, 2027
Spirit of ’76: The Bicentennial
New Jersey State Museum, Trenton
This exhibit focuses on the 200th anniversary of America through lithographs and screen prints, historical artifacts, government-issued items like license plates and maps, New Jersey-made flags, commemorative medallions, ceramic works, and a handcrafted album quilt from Princeton.
June 1 – August 31
Sights in Sand: An American Road Trip
Peddler’s Village
Celebrating America’s 250th birthday, Peddler’s Village will display five magnificent sculptures created by two world-renowned master sand sculpting teams. Each sculpture will be dedicated to a region of the U.S., and collages on each will show sites like the Statue of Liberty, Kennedy Space Center, Mount Rushmore, Route 66, and the Golden Gate Bridge, among others, as well as animals, architecture and American history scenes.
June 6
Seeds of Liberty Garden Tour
Artworks, Trenton
A historical reenactor dressed as General George Washington will be part of a hop-on, hop-off shuttle that journeys around Trenton’s Mill Hill neighborhoods and landmarks.
USA 250th / Hopewell 135th
Hopewell Borough Train Station, Hopewell
Celebrate the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence and the anniversary of the incorporation of Hopewell Borough. The town crier will kick off the reading of the Declaration. There will be historical presentations, pioneer games and crafts, period re-enactors and a musket firing. Join a walking tour to John Hart’s monument and the Old Baptist Meeting House. Brick Farm Tavern will host a buffet pig roast dinner, after which Castle Lane will perform.
June 7
Juneteenth Celebration
Downtown Freehold
The Monmouth County Diversity Alliance will honor America’s 250th anniversary and commemorate Juneteenth with a block party in Downtown Freehold featuring food, music, vendors and live entertainment.
June 13
Salute to Service
Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton
The Flag Day Weekend celebration honors veterans, active service members, and the families who support them, in addition to first responders who serve their communities. The Quilt of Valor Ceremony will be held following the 21-Gun Salute and Echo Taps, where handcrafted quilts will be awarded to local vets. Historic quilts, peace flags and Civil War artifacts will be on display. The Swingtime Dolls will sing an afternoon concert. Head to the historic log cabin for more activities.
Red, White & Brew (Blue) 5K Run & 1-Mile Run/Walk
Moore’s Tavern, Freehold Twp.
Run or walk in the historic Revolutionary area in support of the Veterans Community Alliance. Anyone can join, but adults will get two free domestic beers after the race The first 150 finishers will get a patriotic medal.
Community Festival
Robbinsville Community Park, Robbinsville
Celebrate all things Robbinsville along with the nation’s 250th anniversary. There will be live music, food trucks, business exhibits, a non-profit area, a DJ, amusements, laser tag, pony rides, a trackless train, and fireworks. Best of the Eagles and The Fryboys will perform. The new cornhole tournament and beer booth will support Robbinsville Meals on Wheels.
June 14
MonmouthNJ 250 Stars & Strides Flag Day 5K & 1-Mile Freedom Walk
Bell Works, Holmdel
Wear red, white and blue as you join this race (or non-timed walk) in honor of America’s semiquincentennial.
June 20-21
Battle of Monmouth Reenactment
Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Manalapan
See one of the most historical battles of the Revolutionary War come to life right before your eyes, with reenactors shooting guns, firing cannons, and fighting for independence. There is a village set up where you can see historical wares, clothing and food.
June 21
Princeton Festival: American Fanfare Salute
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
The Princeton Symphony Orchestra salutes the USA with Broadway star Julie Benko and Edward T. Cone Music Director Rossen Milanov. The patriotic program includes works by Aaron Copland, Valerie Coleman, Virgil Thomson, Richard Rogers, Harold Arlen, and John Philip Sousa. Before the concert, family activities will be held on the grounds of Morven. America 250 flags and red, white, and blue pom-poms will be given out to the first 150 people to come.
June 23
Celebrate America Concert
Ross Dock Picnic Area, Fort Lee
The West Point Band will perform a free, outdoor concert.
June 25; July 2, 9 and 16
Westfield Community Concert Band Summer Concert Series
Mindowaskin Park, Westfield
The 114th Summer Concert series will feature works in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, including Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, Stephen Foster, Rogers and Hammerstein, Sousa and others. A special “Independence Day” celebration concert will take place on July 2, featuring 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 on July 2nd will be special vocal performances by Mr. Kerry Stubbs, accompanied by the band.
June 28
America’s Big Birthday Parade & Festival: Red, White & You
Middletown Twp.
The MonmouthNJ 250 Committee and Middletown America 250 will host a countywide semiquincentennial parade coinciding with the 248th anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth, one of the most pivotal battles of the Revolutionary War. Following the parade, America’s Big Birthday Festival takes place at Mater Dei Park with food trucks, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and more.
Revolution in Harmony: Celebrating America 250 Concert
Monmouth County Library Headquarters Branch, Manalapan
MadRegalia will perform songs depicting iconic moments from the American Revolution in addition to music that was popular at the time.
July 1
America’s 250th Celebration
Casino Pier, Seaside Heights
Patriotic characters will roam the pier and stop for photos with your kids. There will be free face painting, a patriotic drumline performance, a new beach ball drop and special wristband promos for the rides.
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.
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.
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.
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.
July 23
Revolution in Harmony: Celebrating America 250 Concert
Monmouth County Library – Howell branch
MadRegalia will perform songs depicting iconic moments from the American Revolution in addition to music that was popular at the time.
August 13
Revolution in Harmony: Celebrating America 250 Concert
Monmouth County Library – Malboro branch
MadRegalia will perform songs depicting iconic moments from the American Revolution in addition to music that was popular at the time.
Opening September 4
Voices in Print: New Jersey Black Women Printmakers Shaping the American Narrative
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
See prints by Black women artists who have a connection to New Jersey.
September 11-12
Wildwoods Airshow
Wildwood
The practice day on Friday and the actual show on Saturday will feature headline aerial acts, including military aircraft, custom-built planes, highly skilled aerialists, and parachuters. A Tribute to the Armed Forces is part of the America 250 tribute; and there will be special recognition of the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
September 14
Revolutionary Voices: We Declare
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Madison
This theatrical performance will feature readings of founding documents, primarily focusing on the Constitution, but also other speeches and proclamations. You’ll hear the voices of Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Maya Angelou, Robert Frost and James Baldwin.
October 3
Princeton 1776 Fest
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
This community celebration 250 years in the making will include live music, living history interpreters and craftspeople, special exhibitions, and food and drink.
November 21-22
The Great Retreat Reenactment
Fort Lee Historic Park, Fort Lee
Historic New Bridge Landing, River Edge
Be a part of the 250th anniversary reenactment of the British invasion of Fort Lee, and Washington’s “Retreat to Victory” through New Bridge at Fort Lee Historic Park.
December 26-31
Patriots Week
Trenton
The year-end commemoration of the Battle of Trenton features reenactments, tours and “Follow the Footsteps” walking tours that bring the winter of 1776 to life, as experienced by General George Washington and his troops.
For additional information, events and programs, visit:
- America250
- Allentown, Monmouth County
- Bergen County: Bergen250
- County of Mercer 250th
- Cranford, Union County: Cranford’s 250 RevolutionNJ Committee
- Middletown Twp, Monmouth County: Middletown America 250
- Middlesex County
- Monmouth County: Monmouth NJ 250
- Philadelphia250
- Somerset County
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Read More:
Your Family’s Guide to Celebrating America’s 250th — From New Jersey to Philly and Beyond
19 Cool Historical Sites in New Jersey to Explore With Kids
Step Back in Time at The Battle of Monmouth Reenactment
America250 Celebrations Are Coming to Philadelphia in 2026
Previous Events:
January 14
Revolutionary War Roundtable Series
Bergen County Administration Building’s Learning Center, Hackensack
“Roots of Resistance: Why Some Jersey Dutch Joined the Patriot Cause in the Revolution” will be presented by Tim Adriance, a well-known local historian and lifelong Bergen County resident. He will talk about the people who wanted to break free from Britain during the war.
Dine & Sip With General George Washington
Vino 61, Mount Holly
Have some food and drinks while you talk with Gen. Washington, played by a historical reenactor.
January 15
Joshua Huddy Era: Documents of the American Revolution
Virtual; sponsored by Woodbridge Public Library
Near the end of the Revolutionary War, Captain Joshua Huddy of the New Jersey Militia was captured while defending the salt works at Toms River. He was lynched on a beach in Highlands by British Loyalists at the direction of ex-New Jersey Governor William Franklin, the son of Benjamin Franklin. For the Patriots, Huddy’s death was an outrage, especially since it came after the war was essentially over. This lecture reviews the key events in Huddy’s life and its aftermath through primary source documents.
January 19
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast
The Gibson House Community Center, Marlton
The annual breakfast has the theme: From Declaration to Dream: 250 Years of the American Promise. The event will reflect on the nation’s journey toward equality. Students will honor Dr. King’s life and work.
January 25
Generation Declaration
Held virtually by Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Organization of American Historians Distinguished Lecturer Holly Brewer will discuss the deleted clauses of the Declaration of Independence, and why those condemning the actions of the English king related to slavery were removed.
February 11
Revolutionary War Roundtable Series
Bergen County Administration Building’s Learning Center, Hackensack
Kevin Tremble will talk about how the Hudson River Battlefield played a role in defending the area during the Revolutionary War.
February 19-21
Men W/O Shoes: A Student-Led Tribute to Forgotten Heroes
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Students from Foundation Academies in Trenton have been studying at least fourteen Black men who fought alongside General George Washington in the Battle of Princeton.
February 22
The Story of James Woby
Allentown Methodist Church, Allentown
Learn about Allentown native James Woby, who was his regiment’s color bearer during the Civil War, and survived a “blizzard of bullets” with his fellow soldiers of the 22nd Colored Infantry. Woby will be honored for his service during the Civil War’s longest battle, the Siege of Petersburg. This is part of TAVI’s celebration of the semiquincentennial.
March 7
Red, White & Brew Fest
CURE Insurance Arena, Trenton
Did you know that George Washington once brewed his own “small beer” back in the 1750s? At this festival, there will be 50 craft beers, wines, and spirits to sample; plus music, interactive games and contests.
March 11
Revolutionary War Roundtable Series
Bergen County Administration Building’s Learning Center, Hackensack
Char Weigel will discuss “A Revolutionary Revelation: The Complex Story of Peggy Shippen Arnold,” who was married to traitor Benedict Arnold.
Now through April 3
Monmouth County Digital Art Competition
Monmouth County
Pro and amateur artists who are at least 14 years old, and who live in Monmouth County, can submit their revolutionary artwork for a contest.
March 21
Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Huddy Park to Bay Avenue, Highlands
This event will celebrate Irish culture, with nearly 100 marching units including bagpipers, marching bands, Irish dancers, and decorated floats. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s parade will also include a patriotic nod to our nation’s history, inviting you to creatively blend Irish pride with red, white, and blue. Join in the fun at the annual float competition, then head to different restaurants around town after for pipe bands, live entertainment, and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
April 8
Revolutionary War Roundtable Series
Bergen County Administration Building’s Learning Center, Hackensack
Jack Kelly will discuss Thomas Paine’s role in the American Revolution.
Speaker Series: “This Sacred Soil”
Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Hopewell
Celebrate the 250th anniversary year with Nancy B. Kennedy, whose illustrated talk, “This Sacred Soil,” tells the often-overlooked story of women in Revolutionary times.
April 10-12
Battle of Bound Brook Living History Weekend
Bound Brook, South Bound Brook, Bridgewater
Friday – Sunday
The 249th commemorative battle coincides with the 250th anniversary of America. Activities include solder drills, a reenactment of the battle through the streets, historical lectures, and tours of The Abraham Staats House.
April 11-12
LivingHistory USA Weekend
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Historical figures from the home’s past will help you solve a centuries-old mystery.
April 18-19
First Oval Office Project Weekend
Liberty Hall Museum, Union Twp.
The weekend is filled with historical interpreters, crafts, lectures, a historical costume contest, a monument design competition, opportunities to interact with other local historic sites, games and more. You can sign up to help set up the exhibit on Friday, or help break it down on Sunday.
April 19
America’s Founding Homes & Gardens
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
Grand Homes & Gardens: Freedom at Home: Telling the Full Story of America’s Founding Homes and Gardens talks about the original 13 colonies, showcasing the residences and landscapes of the Declaration’s signers, and telling the stories of the people who lived and worked in these grand spaces: enslaved people, families, and free Black and immigrant servants. Each session has a different theme.
April 25
250 Years of Music with Lyrica Chamber Music
Liberty Hall Museum, Union Twp.
A trio of artists from Lyrica Chamber Music will perform an America250 social concert: clarinetist Moran Katz, cellist Ani Kalayjian, and pianist David Kaplan.
May 2
Voices Chorale Spring Concert
Trinity Church, Princeton
Singers will be joined by an orchestra to feature music by American composers in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Buena Fine Crafts & Artisans Spring Festival
Landisville
This is one of the most all-inclusive festivals in the state. Shop from over 125 artists, crafters and antique dealers; take a horse & carriage ride or hop on a restored Atlantic City tram car; play at the amusements and games area; get your face painted or do sand art; take a pony ride; tour the museum; listen to a live broadcast by WVLT-92.1, live bands and the Western Atlantic Wind Ensemble; check out the food trucks; visit the garden center booths; watch a livestream of the NASCAR race and see the Pellegrini Motorsports exhibit; celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a special flag raising; meet authors at a book signing; and view the cars on display during a fundraising car show for Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Through May 2
1776
Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn
In this tribute to the country’s 250th anniversary, 1776 follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and some other delegates as they try to unite the 13 Colonies.
May 9
Building Princeton: America 250 Edition
Updike Farmstead, Princeton
Teams will use 100,000 LEGO blocks to recreate scale models of historical Princeton buildings, which will then be placed on a large-scale map. In honor of this year’s semiquincentennial celebration, eight additional 18th century buildings have been added, including homes of two signers of the Declaration of Independence. At the end of the program, each team will get a scavenger hunt map so they can explore Princeton and find the real buildings.
May 1-31
U.S. Military History Exhibit
Museum of American History at Deptford, NJ
This exhibit, covering World War I through the Iraq War, is a tribute to the American veteran and all of our fallen heroes. Included will be military as well as civilian artifacts. The museum’s permanent exhibits include artifacts from the Pre-Columbian (Native American) period, American farmstead, antique hand tools and equipment, a glass and ceramics room, a fossil exhibit, artifacts from the Pine Barrens, and, just in time for the America’s 250th, several new exhibits from the Colonial Era.
Opening May 3
Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey
Morven Museum & Garden, Princeton
The exhibit will bring together personal items, manuscripts, furniture and artwork from Abraham Clark, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson, Richard Stockton and John Witherspoon – all of whom signed the Declaration of Independence. You’ll be able to see their actual signatures! Also, since all five had also owned slaves, there will be information on the revolutionary ideas of freedom, equality and liberty intertwined with the practice of slavery.
May 13
Revolutionary War Roundtable Series
Bergen County Administration Building’s Learning Center, Hackensack
Todd Braisted presents “The Mud Rounds” about the British invasion and the troops’ retreats across New Jersey.
May 15 – December 31
A Celebration & Reflection on America’s Semiquincentennial
Medford Twp. Building, Medford
Members of the MAC-VAC (Military Artist Community | Veteran Art Class) created art based on patriotism, sacrifice, freedom and resilience to celebrate America’s birthday.
May 17
Whippany River Ramble Excursion Train
Whippany Railway Museum, Whippany
Take a 45-minute train ride through the area that General George Washington’s armies trod in the winters of 1777 and 1779. You can choose to ride in a historic caboose; or aboard a premium club car, which is how the upper class commuted back in the day. Your ticket includes admission to the museum building and grounds.
Cranbury Colonial Fair & Historic Dedication
Cranbury-Millstone Park, Cranbury
Celebrate the 1713 East Jersey cottage with a historic plaque dedication, guest speakers, a performance of Colonial music, kids’ crafts and games, a marketplace and demos.
Tour de Elizabeth
Elizabeth City Hall, Elizabeth
Anyone can suit up and take the 15-mile escorted bike tour through Elizabeth’s parks, waterfront paths, neighborhoods and historic sites. Dress in colonial attire, or wear uniforms representing your favorite soccer team in honor of the FIFA World Cup. The 3rd NJ Regiment of NJ (Colonials) will fire a musket round to start the ride in honor of America’s 250th birthday. When you cross the finish line, you’ll get some free food from Elizabeth’s eateries.
May 25 (Memorial Day)
Complimentary Gourmet Breakfast for Veterans
The Mathis House, Toms River
This meaningful morning will honor veterans with a breakfast (scones, frittata, fruit salad, tea) served inside the Victorian tea room. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, the vets will get to see the Memorial Day Parade as it passes by along Main Street.
