HomeHolidays4th of JulyNJ 4th of July: The Best Events, Fireworks, and Features

NJ 4th of July: The Best Events, Fireworks, and Features

It’s no secret that 4th of July is a big deal in America. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating a little thing called independence. Here at Best of NJ, 4th of July is our biggest event of the year. To celebrate, we’re curating the most comprehensive list of events and fireworks displays in New Jersey; for parades and Revolutionary War reenactments to live music and fireworks.

Of course, events and fireworks are only half the fun; which is why we also develop original editorials and features highlighting the best ways to enjoy the holiday weekend with friends, family and loved ones. From backyard barbecues to red, white & blue-themed recipes, we’ve got all the best content to make your 4th of July… well, the best!

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| Featured Fireworks | North Jersey Fireworks | Central Jersey Fireworks | Jersey Shore Fireworks | South Jersey Fireworks | 4th of July Articles | Fireworks Tips |


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Featured 4th of July Fireworks


Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022

Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022
When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 AM
Where: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch
Details: Oceanfest is not just the biggest seasonal event of the Jersey Shore; it is also the biggest 4th of July celebration in the entire state. Returning for 2022, this massive event takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Pier Village in Long Branch. Tha family-friendly event starts at 10:00 am and continues until 10:00 pm, with a spectacular fireworks showcase at 9:00 pm. Other festivities include music, a food festival, the craft sale, a street fair, and more. To learn more about this summertime staple, visit the Oceanfest website. 

North Jersey Fireworks


Montville Township 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 06/29/2022 - 07/01/2022 at 12:00 PM
Where: 100 Horseneck Road, Montville
Details: The Montville Township 4th of July 2022 celebration takes place from June 29 until July 1. There will be a carnival with rides and many kiddie rides. In addition, many live bands of all different genres of music will be performing. In particular, Wednesday is country night with a classic car show and live country music. Other activities at this 4th of July celebration include a hotdog eating contest and a pie eating contest. Finally, a fireworks show choreographed to music will be on Friday night. Visit their website for details.

Mendham Township 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 07/01/2022 at 6:00 PM
Where: Mosle Preserve Rd, Mendham Township
Details: The Mendham Township 4th of July celebration takes place on Friday, July 1, 2022 at Mosle Field. The gates for this event open at 6:00 pm and the actual celebration kicks off at 6:30 pm. For 2022, guests can expect live music, food trucks, arts and crafts, and of course, fireworks. The town asks guests to arrive early in order to guarantee parking availability. The Township Committee is permitting alcohol for this event, but ask that guests please drink responsibly. Visit the Mendham Township website to learn more about this 4th of July Celebration.

Livingston 4th of July 2022 Celebration + Auto Fest

When: 07/04/2022 at 9:00 AM
Where: 30 Robert Harp Drive, Livingston
Details: The Livingston 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. The town is actually hosting Auto Fest 2022 the same day. Auto Fest is a showcase of antique cars, collector cars, motorcycles, and muscle cars. Meanwhile, the 4th of July list of all-day family and kids' activities include live music and games. The celebration starts at 10:00 am and continues until the fireworks display at 9:15 pm. All festivities are held on or near Memorial Oval on Robert Harp Drive. Visit the Livingston NJ website to learn more.

Millburn/Short Hills 4th of July Fireworks 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 9:00 AM
Where: 78 Main Street, Millburn
Details: The Millburn/Short Hills 4th of July fireworks celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. The all-day celebration starts with a flag raising ceremony at 9:00 am at Taylor Park. Shortly after, the family fun begins at 10:00 am. Later in the day, entertainment and food will be available at 7:00 pm at the Millburn High School Football Field. The 4th of July celebration ends with a fireworks showcase at 9:30 pm, also at Millburn High School. Tickets for fireworks are available for $10 per person. Visit the Millburn/Short Hill July 4th website to learn more.

Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 AM
Where: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch
Details: Oceanfest is not just the biggest seasonal event of the Jersey Shore; it is also the biggest 4th of July celebration in the entire state. Returning for 2022, this massive event takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Pier Village in Long Branch. Tha family-friendly event starts at 10:00 am and continues until 10:00 pm, with a spectacular fireworks showcase at 9:00 pm. Other festivities include music, a food festival, the craft sale, a street fair, and more. To learn more about this summertime staple, visit the Oceanfest website. 

Montclair 4th of July Parade 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 11:00 AM
Where: 280 Valley Rd, Montclair
Details: The Montclair 4th of July Parade takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. This event consists of both a parade and a picnic. The day begins with the 4th of July parade at 11:00 am; the parade will include live music, floats, and community groups. After the parade is over, guests can enjoy a fun family picnic at Edgemont Park at 1:00 pm. The family-friendly picnic will include food trucks and music, as well as games and other activities. The parade is dedicated in memory of Al Pelham. Visit the Montclair NJ website to learn more about this event.

Paramus 4th of July 2022 Celebration & Fireworks

When: 07/04/2022 at 2:00 PM
Where: 501 Garden State Plaza Boulevard, Paramus
Details: The Paramus 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at the Garden State Plaza. The celebration starts at 2:00 pm and continues until 8:30 pm. For 2022, the Paramus 4th of July Committee is working together with Just Jersey Fest. As a result, there will be many activities available to guests; including 20 food trucks and a beer, sangria, and margarita garden, as well as axe throwing, vendors, and more. There will also be a DJ, kids activities, and of course, fireworks. Visit the Paramus 4th of July website to learn more.

Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 6:00 PM
Where: N Maple Ave, Ridgewood
Details: The Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. (The fireworks rain date is July 5.) This night of evening entertainment and fireworks starts at 6:00 pm at Veteran's Field. (The gates open at 6:00 pm and will at 9:00 pm.) Meanwhile, there will be two separate lines at the gate, for those carrying bags and those without. The Ridgewood 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks show is entirely funded by donations and firework ticket sales. Visit the Ridgewood July 4th website to learn more about this event.

Central Jersey Fireworks


Flemington 4th of July Fireworks 2022

When: 07/03/2022 at 6:00 PM
Where: 50 Court St, Flemington
Details: After a three-year hiatus, the Flemington 4th of July Fireworks show is back. For 2022, the fireworks take place on Sunday, July 3, right before Independence Day itself. (However, in case of bad weather, the rain date is July 5.) As is tradition, the fireworks are set off at the Reading Fleming Intermediate School on Court Street. This is the first time since 2019 Flemington will host a fireworks show; the events were canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, and in 2021 because of the school's construction project.

Highland Park Fireworks in the Park - 4th of July 2022

When: 07/03/2022 at 6:00 PM
Where: 526 S 2nd Ave, Highland Park
Details: The Highland Park Fireworks in the Park event takes place on Sunday, July 3, 2022. (The rain date is July 7, if necessary.) This 4th of July celebration will be held at Donaldson Park, with the festivities starting at 6:00 pm. This family-friendly event is free to attend, and features numerous activities for children. In addition to entertainment for kids, there will be food and music. Of course, the highlight of this Fireworks in the Park event is the fireworks, which start at 9:20 pm. Visit the Highland Park Boro website to learn more about this 4th of July event.

Milltown 4th of July 2022 Fireworks and Celebration

When: 07/04/2022 at 6:00 AM
Where: Downtown, Milltown
Details: The Milltown 4th of July celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 in Downtown Milltown. The event starts at 6:00 am with a fishing derby and ends with a fireworks display starting at 9:30 pm. But there is much more to this all-day event, including activities, contest, food vendors, raffles, and a parade; as well as live music, a series of races, and more. Of course, the evening closes with their fireworks showcase, titled "Back with a BANG" for 2022. Visit the Milltown 4th of July website to learn more about this Independence Day celebration.

Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 AM
Where: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch
Details: Oceanfest is not just the biggest seasonal event of the Jersey Shore; it is also the biggest 4th of July celebration in the entire state. Returning for 2022, this massive event takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Pier Village in Long Branch. Tha family-friendly event starts at 10:00 am and continues until 10:00 pm, with a spectacular fireworks showcase at 9:00 pm. Other festivities include music, a food festival, the craft sale, a street fair, and more. To learn more about this summertime staple, visit the Oceanfest website. 

Summit 4th of July 75th Annual Celebration

When: 07/04/2022 at 12:00 PM
Where: 5 Myrtle Ave, Summit
Details: The 75th Annual Summit 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Soldiers Memorial Field. The celebration starts at Noon and includes entertainment, rides, amusements, food court, and fireworks. This all-day event is free to attend, and is fully funded by residents and local businesses. (Anyone looking to make a contribution towards future events can do so from the Summit Community Programs website.) Visit the City of Summit website to learn more about this 75th Annual 4th of July celebration.

Springfield July 4th Celebration & Fireworks 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 5:00 PM
Where: 278 Meisel Ave, Springfield
Details: The Springfield July 4th Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Meisel Avenue Park. The celebration starts at 5:00 pm, the concert starts at 7:00 pm, and finally, the fireworks will be after dark. For 2022, there are two musical acts; the first is Twice Heard, and the second is 1910 Fruitgum Company. This is a family friendly event and admission is free. In addition to live music and fireworks, there will be activities for kids as well as food truck vendors. Visit the Springfield NJ website to learn more about this 4th of July event.

East Brunswick 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 6:00 PM
Where: 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Details: The East Brunswick 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. This year, the event will be hosted at the East Brunswick Community Arts Center. Doors for this Independence Day celebration open at 6:00 pm. (The rain date is July 5.) This is a free event that is fun for the whole family. There will be children's activities, as well as live music and food truck vendors on-site. However, the town asks guests to leave all pets at home for their own safety. Visit the East Brunswick website to learn more about this event.

Bridgewater 4th of July Celebration at North Branch Park

When: 07/04/2022 at 7:00 PM
Where: 355 Milltown Rd, Bridgewater
Details: The Bridgewater 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at North Branch Park. The celebration starts at 7:00 pm and goes until 10:00 pm. This 4th of July celebration and fireworks show is a free event for all ages. Guests can expect entertainment in the form of live music that begins at 7:30 pm; of course, the evening ends with a fireworks showcase which takes place at 8:30 pm. Visit the North Branch Park July 4th Celebration event page on Facebook to learn more or register for the event. (This is not a requirement for attendance.)

Jersey Shore Fireworks


Belmar 4th of July & Summer Fireworks 2022

When: 07/01/2022 at 8:00 PM
Where: Main St, Belmar
Details: For 2022, The town of Belmar is hosting fireworks on two separate occasions to celebrate the summer. First, the Belmar 4th of July fireworks will take place on Friday, July 1 on Belmar Beach. (This is on 7th Ave beach and Ocean Avenue.) Then, the town will say goodbye to summer with a second fireworks showcase on Friday, September 2. Both fireworks displays are free to the public. The 4th of July fireworks will start at dusk. In the case of inclimate weather, a rain date is set for Friday, July 8. Visit the Vacation in Belmar website to learn more.

Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 AM
Where: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch
Details: Oceanfest is not just the biggest seasonal event of the Jersey Shore; it is also the biggest 4th of July celebration in the entire state. Returning for 2022, this massive event takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Pier Village in Long Branch. Tha family-friendly event starts at 10:00 am and continues until 10:00 pm, with a spectacular fireworks showcase at 9:00 pm. Other festivities include music, a food festival, the craft sale, a street fair, and more. To learn more about this summertime staple, visit the Oceanfest website. 

Ocean City 4th of July Celebration & Kite Flying Competition

When: 07/04/2022 at 7:00 PM
Where: Moorlyn Terrace & The Boardwalk, Ocean City
Details: The Ocean City 4th of July Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. This event and related activities all happen on the beach next to Music Pier. The fun begins at 7:00 pm, when Ocean City is hosting a kite-flying competition. After the kite-flying is over, there will be other live entertainment available on the beach. This entertainment will lead directly into the fireworks showcase, which begins at 9:00 pm. The Ocean City 4th of July Celebration is a free event for the whole family. Visit the Ocean City Vacation website to learn more.

Cape May 4th of July Fireworks and Parade 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 9:00 PM
Where: 714 Beach Ave., Cape May
Details: The Cape May 4th of July Fireworks showcase takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. But before that, the town will host their annual Independence Day parade the Saturday before, on July 2. The parade begins at 1:00 pm and will run along Beach Ave. As for the fireworks, they are lit from a barge a quarter-mile offshore from Congress Hall. The show takes place after dark, and is weather permitting. (At the moment, there is no set rain date in case of delay.) Visit the Cape May website to learn more about these 4th of July events.

Margate Mother's 4th of July Fireworks 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 9:00 PM
Where: 101 S. Huntington Ave., Margate
Details: The annual Margate 4th of July Fireworks Show takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. For this year, the event is once again presented by the Margate Mother's Association. The fireworks show begins at approximately 9:00 pm on the beach at Huntington Avenue. However, in case of inclimate weather, the rain/wind date for the show is Saturday, July 9. This is a family friendly event that does not require tickets. Visit the Margate Has More website to learn more about this 4th of July Fireworks event.

Wildwood 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 PM
Where: Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood
Details: The Wildwood 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular on the Boardwalk takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022. There is no major festival or concert, this event is all about the fireworks. The show begins at 10:00 pm and is viewable from anywhere on the Wildwood Boardwalk. This is a free, family friendly fireworks show. Of course, since the show takes place on the boardwalk, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy beforehand. Visit the Wildwoods NJ website to learn more about this 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.

South Jersey Fireworks


Collingswood Independence Day Celebrations 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 9:00 AM
Where: 424 W Collings Ave, Collingswood
Details: The Collingswood Independence Day Celebrations take place all day long on Monday, July 4, 2022. These 4th of July festivities take place at Collingswood High School. The celebration starts at 9:00 am with the decorating of bike parades; shortly after, the bike parade itself begins at 10:00 am. The town is also hosting water games, raft races, a coin toss, and prizes at Roberts Pool from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm. As for the fireworks, the gates to the high school open at 6:30 pm. Guests can expect live entertainment at around 7:00 pm, and Fireworks at dusk.

Oceanfest at Long Branch 4th of July Celebration 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 10:00 AM
Where: 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch
Details: Oceanfest is not just the biggest seasonal event of the Jersey Shore; it is also the biggest 4th of July celebration in the entire state. Returning for 2022, this massive event takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Pier Village in Long Branch. Tha family-friendly event starts at 10:00 am and continues until 10:00 pm, with a spectacular fireworks showcase at 9:00 pm. Other festivities include music, a food festival, the craft sale, a street fair, and more. To learn more about this summertime staple, visit the Oceanfest website. 

Camden Freedom Festival & 4th of July Fireworks 2022

When: 07/04/2022 at 5:00 PM
Where: 2 Riverside Drive, Camden
Details: The Camden Freedom Festival takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Wiggins Park. This Freedom Festival is the town's version of a 4th of July celebration. The event kicks off at 5:00 pm and continues until 10:30 pm. For 2022, guests can expect food and beer, as well as three different live bands and a fireworks show; courtesy of Serpico Pyrotechnics. This 4th of July event, and fireworks show, is free for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Camden County website to learn more about this Freedom Festival.

Fireworks by Region


tall NJ map
NJ Regions Map © 2013 BestofNJ.com

North Jersey Fireworks

Bergen, Hudson, Essex, Morris, Passaic, Sussex & Warren County

Central Jersey Fireworks

Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset & Union County

South Jersey Fireworks

Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester & Salem County

Jersey Shore Fireworks

Atlantic, Cape May, Ocean & Monmouth County


The Best 4th of July Features


Get a Unique View of South Jersey’s Fireworks in Ocean City

As bright flashes of red, white and blue lights burst across the night sky, the annual fireworks displays along the Jersey Shore captivate South Jersey locals and visitors each Fourth of July. Every summer, eager observers make their way to the beach or the boardwalk to get a glimpse of the unique fireworks displays. But this summer, the Ocean City Fishing Center is offering a different and more personal way to catch the fireworks.


DIY Flag Decorations for Summer Holidays

Want to make flag decorations on a budget? Fortunately there are a number of cute, affordable and easy options. Celebrate Flag Day or Independence Day with a star-studded door wreath, patriotic bunting or NJ-themed banner. These projects are so simple that the kids could pitch in and help out too. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your own flag decorations this summer.


Kid-Friendly 4th of July Party Ideas

Independence Day has become synonymous with backyard barbecues and cold brewskies. But Independence Day can also be the perfect holiday to celebrate with a neighborhood party or a big family gathering. So, rather than leaving the kids at home with a babysitter, why not add food, crafts and games the whole family will love? With just a few simple ideas, you can throw a holiday party that kids will love.


The Best Recipes for a Homemade 4th of July BBQ

Aside from parades and fireworks, cookouts typically top the list of much-anticipated Fourth of July festivities. If you’re looking to take your grilling game to the next level, we’ve got just the thing: We asked the quartet of a New Jersey-based chef, caterer, nutritionist, and wine expert to share their recipes and recommendations.


9 Best Red, White & Blue Cocktails for 4th of July

With parades from Paramus to Point Pleasant, fireworks from Finesville to Freehold, and barbecues from Bayonne to Buena Vista Township, no one celebrates Independence Day like New Jersey. Though the holiday weekend is just around the corner, there’s still plenty of time to add a splash of Jersey pride to your cocktails for 4th of July festivities.


Historic July 4th Celebrations in NJ

For your Fourth of July celebration, maybe you’d like to go really old-school, as in colonial old-school. If so, you’re in luck! The Garden State is more than just a hotspot for fireworks displays. New Jersey is full of historic sites dating back to colonial times, and many of these spots hold special celebrations to commemorate our nation’s Independence.


The Best Healthy Red, White and Blue Recipes for 4th of July BBQs

Nothing is more American than hosting a BBQ while waiting for your town’s fireworks to begin on 4th of July. But even though BBQs may be absolutely delicious (who can resist a second helping of your best friend’s macaroni salad, and those ice cream pops that are not just for kids?), they can lean toward the calorie-laden side of the recipes scale.


The Best Year-Round Fireworks Events in NJ

We’re constantly updating our guide to fireworks as new events pop up. Typically, firework events are centered around New Year’s and Independence Day, but we periodically come across other firework events as well. Since fireworks always make for a fun night out, we’ve compiled a list of the Best Year-Round Fireworks in New Jersey.


Family-Friendly July 4th Celebrations in NJ

Here’s to the red, white and blue! Independence Day is the biggest celebration of the summer season. While New Jersey offers tons of spectacular fireworks to top off the holiday, the celebrating doesn’t have to wait until the evening. There are an abundance of family-friendly July 4th festivals and events happening throughout the day.


Helpful NJ Fireworks Tips

It is always wise to check the information on each event yourself before you travel any great distance. Fireworks displays do get canceled and you should confirm the details if the weather looks iffy. You can easily check the borough, city or township website or Facebook page before you go. Make sure to double-check the showtimes and rain delay dates (if any).

Fireworks Displays almost always cause traffic nightmares. Our advice is to go early and park in a location that is as far away from the fireworks as possible, yet as close as possible to a major road. Another potential tactic is just to use a shuttle bus if one is available.

For outdoor events, don’t forget to bring a blanket. Even if it isn’t cold out (for instance, during Fourth of July fireworks events), it’s a good idea to have a blanket in the car. If the venue turns out to be in a park area, it’s never a bad idea to have a blanket to sit on during the show.

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