Fourth of July in Cape May

Live Music & Fireworks

Published on June 16, 2016

I can’t think of anywhere else that I’d rather spend Independence Day than in Cape May, or any day for that matter, but if you want to combine beach day fun with stunning fireworks at night then Cape May should be your destination of choice this July.

With the Fourth of July falling on a Monday, you’re guaranteed to find a variety of activities and celebrations throughout town the Saturday and Sunday before it. So, what’s there to do in Cape May for the holiday weekend?

Independence Day parade

On Saturday, July 2 is Cape May’s Independence Day parade from 1 – 2 p.m. along Beach Avenue. The parade features live music from a few bands, community members showing off their vintage cars or decorated bicycles, and veterans. The parade starts at the intersection of Beach Avenue and Philadelphia Avenue and heads toward Patterson Avenue.

Independence Day celebration

If you want a touch of history with your holiday celebrations, visit the Historic Cold Spring Village for its Independence Day Celebration. Running July 2 – 3, you can find concerts, patriotic programs, and fun activities on-site. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the summer and adult tickets are $12.

Free concert at Rotary Park

On Sunday, you can enjoy live music from the Jack Melton Band at Rotary Park (on Lyle Lane between Decatur and Jackson streets) by the Washington Street Mall from 7 – 8 p.m.

Fireworks at Ocean Street Beach

On July 4, head on down to Ocean Street Beach. Watch the free display from 9 – 10 p.m. Don’t forget to take a beach towel or chair from The Queen Victoria!

Dinner & fireworks

Our friends at the Cape May MAC have a fun and unique way to celebrate Independence Day with a wonderful viewing spot of the fireworks with the dinner and fireworks event on July 3 and 4. First, you’ll start with a trolley ride to Cape May Point’s Red Store for a five-course dinner comprised of fresh, seasonal dishes prepared by Chef Lucas Manteca. After dinner, climb to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse and enjoy the show from this fantastic vantage point. Reservations are necessary as this is a limited-seating event and tickets are $100.

Fireworks cruise

Another fun way to watch the fireworks is on the fireworks cruise with Cape May Whale Watcher. You’ll have the chance to spot some dolphins, catch the breathtaking sunset, and watch the fireworks display. Pizza and hot dogs are free onboard and there’s a cash bar for drinks including alcoholic beverages. Tickets are $40 per adult and the ship departs at 7 p.m. on July 3 and 4. This event is quite family-friendly with children three and younger admitted for free, so if you’re planning a more romantic getaway that holiday weekend, this cruise may not be ideal.

Anna Marie and I hope to be checking you into one of our beautiful rooms for our country’s 240th birthday so you can join in on all the festivities and activities in Cape May.