June 29, 2026

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary down the shore

Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a summer vacation, these events offer plenty of ways to celebrate America's 250th anniversary at the Jersey Shore.

By Cape May County

Provided Courtesy/Cape May County

As America marks its 250th anniversary, Cape May County is celebrating in true “Down the Shore” style with a summer filled with history, music, tradition, and festive coastal fun. From Revolutionary War reenactments on Sunset Lake to patriotic concerts, dazzling drone shows, family festivals, and even surfing Santas, the Jersey Cape is rolling out a vibrant lineup of events that honor the nation’s past while creating new memories along the beach and boardwalk. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking for classic shore‑town charm, there’s something special waiting for you all season.

Sunday, June 28

Reenactment of the Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet

Wildwood Crest | Sunset Lake

Step back to the Revolutionary War during a reenactment of the Battle of Turtle Gut Inlet, the only Revolutionary War battle fought in Cape May County. Two free performances take place at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on the shores and waters of Sunset Lake.

Website: More information

Wednesday, July 2 & Friday, July 4

Ocean City Pops Patriotic Concert & Drone Show

Ocean City | 6th Street and Boardwalk | 8 p.m.

Celebrate Independence Day with a free outdoor concert followed by a patriotic drone show above the beach and boardwalk. Bring a beach chair or blanket.

Website: Visit Ocean City

Friday, July 4 & Saturday, July 5

Semiquincentennial Fourth of July Celebration

Historic Cold Spring Village | Cape May

Historic Cold Spring Village celebrates America's 250th birthday with special programming, family activities and demonstrations.

Website: Historic Cold Spring Village

Saturday, July 5

Drone Show on the Wildwood Beaches

Wildwood Beaches | 10 p.m.

Hundreds of synchronized drones will light up the night sky with patriotic animations choreographed to music.

Website: Visit the Wildwoods

Sundays: July 6, 13, 20 & 27

America 250: Lights Over Ocean City

Ocean City | After dusk

Weekly patriotic drone shows featuring hundreds of illuminated drones over the beach and boardwalk.

Website: Visit Ocean City

Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 12

New Jersey State Barbecue Championship & Anglesea Blues Festival

North Wildwood

Enjoy championship barbecue, live blues music, cooking demonstrations and food throughout the three-day festival.

Website: NJ BBQ

Wednesday, July 22

Christmas in July

Sea Isle City | 6:30-8 p.m.

Celebrate Christmas in July during a festive evening at Excursion Park.

Website: Visit Sea Isle City

Wednesday, July 22 through Saturday, July 25

Santa Week

Stone Harbor

Santa heads to Stone Harbor for his annual summer getaway.

Website: Cape May MAC

Saturday, July 25

Night in Venice

Ocean City | 6:30 p.m.

One of the world's largest boat parades returns to Ocean City, followed by fireworks.

Website: Night in Venice

However you choose to celebrate America's 250th anniversary, Cape May County invites visitors to experience the history, traditions and coastal charm that make the Jersey Cape a memorable summer destination. Find even more events and itinerary ideas on the official Cape May County tourism website.

Cape May County