The whole state is dressed in red, white, and blue and ready to celebrate America's Independence! New Jersey is famous for its 4th of July waterfront extravaganza in Atlantic City and other great locations along the coast. But there are many other smaller events that bring in the charm of small-town celebrations with communities getting together and enjoying traditional entertainment.
Long Branch 4th of July Oceanfest Fireworks Celebration (July 4)
Long Branch offers a massive Fourth of July celebration along the Jersey shore. The Annual Oceanfest is the biggest Independence Day festival at the oceanfront promenade, all the way from Seven Presidents Park to the Ocean Place Resort. This event is for the whole family, featuring plenty of entertainment like clowns, dancers, musicians, carnival, arts and crafts, sand sculptures as well as children's favorite costumed characters. Dozens of vendors offer an array of food options. Several stages of entertainment on the famous beachfront host live music, performances by dancers, and much more. Festivities run from 1 pm to 10 pm. The fireworks show begins at 9 pm, being the culmination of the fun activities that take place on this day.
L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair at Mercer County Park (June 28-July 7, 2024)
The annual L.E.A.D. Fest is one of the top New Jersey Independence Day events, featuring carnival rides, food, shows, and much more. L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) is the leading drug and violence prevention program in the United States with the mission to help create safer, healthier communities across the country. One of the main highlights of the L.E.A.D. Fest at the Mercer County Park Festival grounds is the spectacular fireworks show held on July 4th. The fireworks start at 9:40 pm. Admission to the fair is $1.
Point Pleasant 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular (July 4)
Point Pleasant Beach is the favorite summer beach getaway for many locals. Waterfront Jenkonson's Broadwalk is a prime family-friendly destination in Point Pleasant, offering carnival rides, an arcade, mini-golf, and fireworks on Thursdays all summer long. However, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular on Jenkinson's Broadway is a truly special event that definitely stands out! Starting from 9 pm. the most amazing pyrotechnic show of the year lights up the skies throughout Point Pleasant Beach. Bring a picnic and a blanket to sit on and watch a free show.
Jersey City 4th of July Celebrations (July 4)
Jersey City hosts the most massive 4th of July celebration in the state. More than 100,000 people gather for in Liberty State Park in Jersey City every year. Spectacular fireworks over the Hudson River with the Statue of Liberty as a backdrop with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, shouldn't be missed. It's the largest fireworks display in the state! The fireworks, which start at 9:30 pm, are visible along the Hudson River Walkway, The Heights, and the north part of Liberty State Park. From noon to 10 pm, Exchange Place at Liberty State Park also hosts many fun activities: Jersey City Night Market, carnival rides, games, live music, and many food vendors.
Smithville 4th of July Parade (July 4, 2024)
A historic town of Smithville in Atlantic County hosts the largest 4th of July parade in New Jersey that attracts over 10,000 people. The procession starts at 9 am on Smithville Boulevard, then heads to Moss Mill Road and turns west on Moss Mill. It features floats, marching bands, reenactment groups, and Rolling Thunder motorcycle group. Staging for the parade begins at 7:45 am in the Smithville Town Center parking lot.
State Fair Meadowlands in East Rutherford (June 20–July 7, 2024)
State Fair Meadowlands in East Rutherford is a great spot to celebrate America's birth! With dozens of carnival rides, live entertainment, music, games and favorite fair foods, New Jersey's biggest fair is a weekend of never-ending fun. Insert an amazing picture of firework displays after dark.
Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration (July 4, 2024)
The town of Ridgewood in Bergen County hosts an impressive morning parade to celebrate America's independence and to honor its servicemen and women. The celebration starts with the flag-raising ceremony in Wilsey Square at 9 am, followed by the parade at 10 am. The procession, which heads out from the corner of Monroe St. and Godwin Ave., is followed by a street festival and picnics lasting until dark. The evening celebration starts at 6 pm at Veteran’s Field, located at 131 N. Maple Avenue. The evening program runs from 6 to 9:30 pm, featuring live bands and culminating with a fireworks display at 9:10 pm.
4th of July Celebration at North Branch Park (July 4)
Travel back in time at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, where America's Independence is celebrated with the Revolutionary War Encampment. North Branch Park opens at 6 pm. It allows picnics on park grounds. Visitors can take a blanket, some food and enjoy the fireworks that begin at 9:30 pm. The NJ 3rd Regiment Revolutionary War Encampment show offers free admission.
East Brunswick 4th of July Celebrations (July 4)
East Brunswick is especially festive during the 4th of July. There is red, blue, and white decorations all around Community Arts Center, live music, bounce houses for kids, and plenty of food vendors offering favorite treats. The event culminates with a fireworks show at 6 pm.
4th of July Celebrations in Summit (July 4)
Summit hosts Fourth of July celebration at Soldiers Memorial Field. Here you'll find everything from children's bicycle parade, live music, and entertainment to carnival rides and food trucks with a wide range of meals. Fireworks end the celebration at 9:15 pm.
4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza in Seaside Heights (July 4)
Seaside Heights borough of New Jersey is famous Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza that starts at 9:30 pm and lasts until 10 pm. A fantastic fireworks display on the oceanfront is visible from anywhere on the Classic American Boardwalk! Bring a blanket to sit down and enjoy the Independence Day.
4th of July Firework displays in Atlantic City (July 4)
Atlantic City is always a great getaway; however, it's especially festive on July 4th. With not one, but two fireworks displays over the marina district and waterfront, it simply cannot be surpassed. The pyrotechnic spectacle begins at 9:30 pm at Borgata and 10 pm at Tropicana.
Independence Day Celebrations in Wildwood (July 4, 2024)
Wildwood celebrates Independence Day with fireworks, a party, and many family-friendly activities. The day starts with the Independence Day Parade. The parade starts at 9 am at 9th & Atlantic Ave., then joins the Pooch Parade at 8th & Atlantic Ave. and finishes at 1st & Surf Ave. Later in the day, the Juliano Brothers throw a July 4th Party at Byrne Plaza, located at 3400 Pacific Avenue in Downtown Wildwood. The free dance party starts at 7:30 p.m running until the Boardwalk Fireworks Spectacular. Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular takes place on Pine Avenue beach. It can be seen from anywhere on the Wildwoods Boardwalk. Extravaganza, synchronized to patriotic music, lasts from 10 pm to 11 pm, so grab a blanket and enjoy. The rain date is July 5th at 10 pm.
Cape May Independence Day Celebration (July 2024)
Cape May is one of the most beautiful seaside resorts of southern New Jersey. Every Fourth of July, Cape May Peninsula offers visitors a free concert of patriotic music at Rotary Park Bandstand. Visitors can bring chairs and blankets. The evening ends at Congress Beach and Perry Street with a massive fireworks show.
