A Revolutionary Celebration: Independence Day on the Raritan

Join General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette for a commemoration of the feu de joie (fire of joy) that took place on the banks of the Raritan River on July 4th, 1778. The day begins with A Revolutionary 5K Celebration Run, starting at the village and along Johnson Drive, which will be closed to traffic. Sign up for the 5k here.

Bring a blanket or a chair and enjoy patriotic-themed concerts on the front lawn. Listen to 18th-century music and hear stories from General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette at the Three-Mile Run Church.

FOOD VENDORS Damnpanadas and Uncle Eddie’s Touch of Sauce will be serving savory eats and sweet treats.

ACTIVITIES Tracy Coon Art: America-themed Lanterns – Kids and kids-at-heart can visit the craft table to make a 250th Celebration paper lantern. Personalize the lantern with patriotic messages, drawings, pre-cut stars, and stickers. Or print some patriotic flag-inspired art. We’ll have stars-and-stripes cutouts and washable paint to create festive designs inspired by the American flag while learning about its history. On Sunday, 7/5, Tracy will demonstrate plein air painting. *All materials are non-toxic.

EJOTV will host a live stage play, Liberty Madness, by local theater company, Thinkery & Verse. Click here for details. Cornelius Low House – Join us at the Cornelius Low House for a special tour of our newest exhibit, Caught in the Crossfire: Divided Loyalties in Middlesex County.

The Highland Park Historical Commission, in partnership with Middlesex County RIDE, has organized a FREE shuttle bus to East Jersey Old Town Village in Johnson Park this Saturday, July 4. The shuttle will run from 10 AM to 4 PM, departing every 20-25 minutes from the Welkovitz Pavilion (near 212 Raritan Ave) and the Highland Park Community Center (222 S. 6th Ave). Costumed interpreters will be on board the shuttle bus to entertain riders with local history.

For your convenience, RIDE, the County’s shuttle service, will provide FREE, accessible, on-demand transportation between East Jersey Old Town Village and the Cornelius Low House, Park in one spot, and experience multiple historic sites.

2026 will mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The turmoil of the war happened right here, on the doorstep of those living in Middlesex County. What unfolded was an account of politics, divided loyalties, battles, destruction, and ultimately, rebuilding. This led to the founding of a new nation on July 4, 1776, with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, shaping the communities we enjoy today. In honor of the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, Middlesex County is proud to celebrate this milestone as one community, embracing our rich history, taking pride in our fight for independence, and continuing our legacy of welcoming new cultures and traditions worldwide. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/250 for detailed information and events in honor of this significant period.