Pier village at long branch in new jersey, usa. Long branch takes its name from the long branch or south branch of the shrewsbury river.
Pier Village at Long Branch in New Jersey, USA. Long Branch takes its name from the long branch or south branch of the Shrewsbury River.

Thousands expected at Oceanfest in Long Branch on Fourth of July

by
June 30, 2025
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LONG BRANCH, N.J. — Oceanfest, the massive annual Fourth of July celebration on the Long Branch oceanfront, returns Thursday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., drawing crowds in the thousands to the city’s popular beachfront promenade.

The free, family-friendly event stretches along the Oceanfront Promenade at 228 Broadway and features live entertainment, food vendors, crafters, costumed characters, and a sand sculpture exhibit. The celebration concludes with a fireworks display at dusk over the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors can expect musical performances, dance troupes, street performers, and a variety of activities throughout the day, making Oceanfest one of the largest Independence Day gatherings in New Jersey.

Key Points

  • Oceanfest runs Thursday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Long Branch
  • The event includes live performances, food vendors, crafts, and fireworks
  • Attendance is expected to reach into the hundreds of thousands

“Oceanfest, visitors can stroll the famous beachfront, take in the wonderful views, enjoy performances by dancers, musicians, clowns and musical acts,” the event listing notes.

The celebration has become a summer mainstay in Monmouth County, attracting families and tourists with its combination of entertainment, ocean views, and festive atmosphere.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

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