TRENTON, N.J. — Fireworks will light up the skies across New Jersey Friday night as part of a full slate of Independence Day celebrations, with several large-scale events planned from the Jersey Shore to the Delaware River.
One of the state’s most popular annual celebrations, Oceanfest in Long Branch, will draw crowds along the Oceanfront Promenade starting at 1 p.m. The beachfront festival features live entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts, and culminates in a large fireworks display over the ocean at dusk.
In Camden, the Freedom Festival at Wiggins Waterfront Park begins at 5 p.m. and includes performances by Matt Cappy & Friends and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Spinners, followed by a fireworks show. “The Spinners at 8 PM and the night closes with a firework spectacular,” organizers noted.
Tropicana Atlantic City will hold its free fireworks display at 10 p.m., visible from the beach and boardwalk in front of the casino and resort. The second show in the summer series is scheduled for July 19.
Beyond the fireworks, many daytime events across the state will celebrate the holiday. Piscataway’s Independence Day on the Raritan kicks off at 8:30 a.m. at East Jersey Old Town Village, featuring a 5k race, historical reenactments, and patriotic music. Entry is free to the public.
In Smithville, the Fourth of July Parade—touted as the largest in the state—begins at 9 a.m. with an estimated 10,000 spectators expected along the route. Visitors can also explore 50 shoppes and other local attractions in the historic village.
Princeton’s Morven Museum & Garden will host an afternoon festival from noon to 3 p.m., including artmaking, garden tours, and music. Readings of the Declaration of Independence will take place at the nearby Princeton Battlefield State Park at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
