Fourth of July Events
Avalon
The Fourth of July celebration in Avalon begins around 7:30pm at Surfside Park (30th Street and the beach) with a concert by the Bay Atlantic Symphony, led by music director Jed Gaylin. The concert will feature classics such as “The Star-Spangled Banner,” as well as selections from George Gershwin, John Philip Sousa, “West Side Story,” Scott Joplin and Elmer Bernstein’s “The Magnificent Seven.”
Fireworks will be held after the concert, and this show is something not to be missed. With the largest fireworks display in South Jersey, Avalon really pulls out all the stops. The display, which is choreographed to music every year, is a spectacular display of American pride. Head down to the 30th Street beach for full effect of the show, which is set to begin around 8:45pm. Tune to WCZT 98.7-FM to listen a simulcast of the music for the display wherever you are.
Stone Harbor
Start your Independence Day right by stopping at the Stone Harbor Farmers Market any time from 8am-12:30pm. Grab some fresh local produce for your lunch or dinner and pick up some delicious baked goods and fresh coffee while you’re there. Don’t forget a special treat for your four-legged friend, too!
The annual Fourth of July races and contests are back this year! Registration begins at 9am in the
82nd Street Recreation Pavilion, and the opening ceremonies start at 10am on the 80th Street Recreation Field. The sand sculpting contest for ages 2 and up starts at 9am, with judging at 11:30am. Foot races for ages 7 and up will start around 10:15am. The Phillies Home Run Derby for boys and girls ages 7 and up begins at 10:30am. Slow bike races for ages 7 and up are scheduled to start around 10:45am. Finally, the ever-popular decorated bike contest concludes this celebration for kids up to 18 years old, as they decorate their bikes, tricycles, wagons, strollers, wheelchairs and power wheels. Judging will take place in the parking lot next to the softball field at 11:30am, followed by the parade at 11:45am. Contestants will walk south on Second Avenue to
83rd Street, east on 83rd to First Avenue and back to the field for the presentation of awards. Awards will be given for six categories including “Most Patriotic.”
It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without fireworks, sponsored by the Stone Harbor Volunteer Fire Company. Fireworks will be set off on a barge by the beach at 96th Street. The colorful display starts at dusk (around 9:15pm) and can be seen from any beachfront.
