July 4 Events Are About More Than Fireworks
With the Fourth of July falling on a Tuesday this year, Princeton and neighboring towns have four full days to celebrate. Numerous area activities commemorate America’s independence. From traditional fireworks and barbecues to visits by George Washington and readings of the Declaration of Independence, there are events for history buffs and party-goers of all ages.
Princeton
Morven July 4th Jubilee: From noon to 3 p.m., this free event offers live bluegrass music, a barbecue, an appearance by George Washington, a chance for kids to “sign” the Declaration of Independence, a dramatic presentation about women who “belonged to the army” during the American Revolution, ice cream making, paper making, and several other activities. It will be cancelled in the event of prolonged rain. Morven is at 55 Stockton Street. morven.org.
Princeton Battlefield: From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 4, this free event features Revolutionary War period soldiers from Mott’s 6th Company, 2nd Continental Artillery, who will demonstrate drill, artillery, and flintlock muskets. Period games will be available for children of all ages. The Thomas Clarke House and the “Arms of the Revolution” exhibit will be open to tour. There will also be a talk on the Battle of Princeton at noon, followed by a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 1 p.m. Bring a picnic lunch and hike the trails of the adjacent Institute Woods. The Battlefield is at 400 Mercer Road (Princeton Pike). Call (609) 921-0074 for more information.
Montgomery
Fireworks Spectacular: On the front lawn of Montgomery High School Thursday, June 29, starting at 6 p.m., a fireworks display complete with children’s activities, food vendors, and music by the John Oakes Band are planned. 1014 Route 601, Skillman. Shuttle buses will run continuously from Upper Montgomery Middle School to the high school starting at 6 p.m. until 8:55 p.m. For more information, visit www.montgomeryfireworks.org.
Washington Crossing, Pa.
The 37th Annual Revolutionary Run on July 4 includes a 1-mile fun run, 5k, and 10k. Starting at 8, 8:15, and 8:30 a.m. (registration from 6 a.m.), the fundraiser for Upper Makefield, Pa. community organizations is open to all. For details, visit revrunpa.com.
East Windsor
Fireworks are Saturday, July 1 (rain date, July 8) at Etra Lake Park, starting at 9:30 p.m. Visit East-Windsor.nj.us.
Trenton
On July 4, Trenton’s Arm & Hammer Park has scheduled a post-game fireworks display set to a patriotic musical theme. Visit TrentonThunder.com.
Bordentown
Fireworks are scheduled for Friday, June 30 at Bordentown’s Joseph Lawrence Park on Ward Avenue, starting at dusk. The rain date is July 7. Visit bestofnj.com.
Doylestown, Pa.
Fonthill Castle’s Fourth of July celebration is a day of family-friendly activities. Food, old-fashioned games, crafts, and live music are on the grounds of Henry Mercer’s eccentric estate, which will be open for self-guided tours. Fonthill is at East Court Street and Route 313. Visit visitbuckscounty.com.
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