As America celebrates the 250th holiday weekend, there is plenty of activities across Southern Ocean County to keep everyone excited. The milestone unfolds with concerts, fireworks, waterfront celebrations, and patriotic tributes stretching from town to town. The Southern Ocean Chamber makes it easy to plan for a happy Fourth!

                                        2026 Fireworks Schedule — Southern Ocean County

July 2: Barnegat Township - Festivities begin 5 PM, Fireworks at dusk at Barnegat High School (rain date 7/10)

July 3: Lacey Township - Festivities 7:30 PM, Fireworks 9:15 PM at Lacey Township High School (rain date July 5)

July 3: Surf City - 9 pm Bay Beach off 17th St

July 4: Beach Haven - 9:30 PM Taylor Ave Bayfront

July 4: Tuckerton -  Dusk at Lake Pohatcong 

 250th Not to Be Missed Events 

July 3 - Little Egg Harbor becomes the centerpiece of the region’s American 250 programming with its township‑wide celebration at 1 Sports Complex Drive. Running from 5 to 8 PM, features a free outdoor concert by 40 North, community car show, complimentary burgers and hot dogs plus giveaways 

July 3 and 4 - Jersey Shore BlueClaws in Lakewood host their annual Red, White & BlueClaws series taking on Rome, NY. July 3 features their Independence Week Fireworks Celebration, highlighted as the biggest fireworks show of their season, along with Thirsty Thursday drink specials and limited‑edition Independence‑themed caps. July 4, the BlueClaws present their America’s 250th Birthday Celebration, complete with a massive post‑game fireworks display and the unique “250 First Pitches” experience, where fans can purchase a commemorative package that includes throwing one of 250 ceremonial first pitches. Both games begin at 7:05 PM tickets on sale

July 4 brings Beach Haven’s most anticipated tradition. From 5 to 9 PM, Queen City Marina on 2nd Street hosts a waterfront Fourth of July celebration offering one of the most premium vantage points for the Beach Haven fireworks. Guests can enjoy a classic clambake and BBQ, with drinks available for purchase from Tuckerton’s Tavern, all while overlooking the bay as the fireworks prepare to launch. Once dusk arrives, the Beach Haven fireworks illuminate the sky over Taylor Avenue Bayfront. Tickets available. Email events@qcmarina.com or call 609-492-2150

July 4 Barnegat Light hosts its annual Independence Day Parade. The parade begins lineup at 5:30 PM and steps off at 6:00 PM, traveling from West 11th Street down Central Avenue, turning onto Broadway, and continuing toward West 6th Street before finishing at the Bayview Avenue pavilion. Residents and visitors decorate bikes, floats, golf carts, and classic vehicles.

Purchase tickets for Surflight Theatre's American 250‑themed programming with the musical 1776, running August 18 through August 30, offering audiences a spirited retelling of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The production features both matinee and evening performances. Order through Box office or official website.

 Free Outdoor Concerts

• Wednesday, July 1 — Beach Haven Veterans Park — 7:30 PM - Eddie Testa Band
• Thursday, July 2 — Ship Bottom Boat Ramp — 6:30 PM - Simmerr
• Thursday, July 2 — Holgate Wooden Jetty Beach — 6:30 PM - The Amy Elizabeth Band
• Friday, July 3 — LBT 68th Street Beach — 7:00 PM - Glenn Roberts Band
• Friday, July 3 — Barnegat Township Municipal Dock — 6:30 PM - Remember When
• Saturday, July 4 — Barnegat Township Municipal Dock — 6:30 PM - Joey D’s Rockin’ Oldies Band
• Sunday, July 5 — LBT 68th Street Beach — 12:00 PM - The Metaphoricals

The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce wishes everyone a safe and memorable holiday. The regional business organization celebrates its 112th Summer of Service, please follow up for updates, events and announcements @southernoceanchamber @LBIregon or on our weekly radio show/podcast on 91.9 Vinyl FM available for download everywhere.