It’s the Fourth of July in New Jersey! Any other year, I’d be down the shore enjoying a beach barbecue or watching fireworks with friends on the water. I’d be enjoying a local parade, live music, and loads of ice cream from Hoffman’s. This July 4th, we’re in the midst of a pandemic. For safety reasons, many events have been canceled…but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good old-fashioned Garden State tradition.

Fireworks are just so beautiful...I couldn't go a whole year without them.
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Some towns are still putting on shows or hosting car parades but most of the festivities have been cancelled or postponed.
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No fireworks? No problem! There are several ways to celebrate online.
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Milltown is doing the MOST. If you live there, you're lucky! They've had virtual 5Ks and patriotic pizza contests for locals, but they've also got something every New Jerseyan can enjoy!
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Head to the Milltown YouTube Channel or Channel 15 for live performances and an Uncle Sam drive by! The fun starts with a virtual flag raising at 9 am. You can check out the full schedule of events here.

If you’re looking for some out-of-state fun, from home, you can also explore the U.S. capitol through capitol.gov. There are photos, videos, and fun facts. See offices, discover historic figures, and more. Another big way to spend the day? Philadelphia’s Welcome America celebration! All sorts of talks, tours, and performances have been going on for days! Missed a few fun events? No worries – they’re saved online.

And if you’re really missing good old Garden State fireworks, you can check out the terrific drone footage of fireworks over Lake Hopatcong captured by YouTube user Rick Knox. During part of the show (which lasts about 3.5 minutes), you’ll feel like you’re actually going right THROUGH the display.

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