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 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.
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.
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.
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
Cranford’s 250 RevolutionNJ Flag Raising
Municipal Council Chambers, Cranford
After a brief ceremony indoors, a flag raising will be held outside of the municipal building, featuring a color guard, members of the VFW, local scouts, live re-enactors, a bagpiper and the Cranford High School Choir.
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.
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.
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.
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.
May 2
Voices Chorale Spring Concert
Singers will be joined by an orchestra to feature music by American composers in honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
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.
June 19-21
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 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 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, 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.
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.
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.
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
Thunder Over the Waves 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.
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.
For additional information, events and programs, visit:
- America250
- 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
