JERSEY CITY, NJ – Jersey City’s 2025 Fourth of July celebration is set for Friday, July 4th, running from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Exchange Place, centered around Montgomery Street between Hudson and Greene Streets.
Jersey City’s modern Fourth of July celebration—what we now know as the all-day street festival and fireworks extravaganza—was revived in 2013 by Mayor Steven Fulop. Before that, the city had sporadic or smaller-scale observances, but 2013 marked the beginning of the large-scale, annual tradition that now draws tens of thousands of people to the waterfront.
Since then, it’s grown into one of the biggest Independence Day events in the region, featuring food vendors, live music, family activities, and the signature Grucci fireworks over the Hudson. It’s become not just a celebration of the nation’s independence, but also a showcase of Jersey City’s diversity, small businesses, and community spirit.
This year, it is shaping up to be another full-on festival experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Food Festival: Four city blocks of food trucks and vendors curated by Jersey City Night Market—think global bites, local favorites, and sweet treats.
- Live Entertainment: DJs and family-friendly performances throughout the day to keep the energy high.
- Shopping & Activities: Local artisans, pop-up shops, and interactive zones for all ages.
- Fireworks: The grand finale is a spectacular fireworks display by Grucci over the Hudson River at 9:25 PM, viewable from both the New Jersey and New York sides.
“Each year, Jersey City’s Fourth of July Festival brings people together from throughout the tri-state area to celebrate our country’s independence in one of the most diverse cities in America,” said Fulop. “We have built a tradition that showcases the incredible talent we have right here in Jersey City and gives our small businesses a platform to shine in front of tens of thousands of people.”
The July 4th annual celebration in Jersey City is designed to be family-friendly, and there are several activities tailored for kids:
- Bounce Houses & Inflatables: Set up along Montgomery Street and nearby blocks, these are perfect for younger kids to burn off some energy.
- Interactive Activations: The New York Red Bulls and New Jersey Devils will host fun, sporty experiences—think mini games and giveaways.
- US Army Flight Simulator: A thrilling (and educational) experience for older kids and teens who want to test their piloting skills.
The Jersey City Office of Cultural Affairs is the lead organizer behind the city’s Fourth of July celebration. They coordinate the festival in partnership with the City of Jersey City, Jersey City Night Market, and other local organizations.
“Jersey City’s July 4th celebration brings together everything that makes this city so special: the people, culture, music, food, and community. It’s an unmatched energy—and an honor to be part of it,” adds Director of Cultural Affairs, Christine Goodman.
Midnight Market Owner and Operator, Analysis Vasquez, said the celebration will feature over 60 local food and artisan vendors, offering a variety of flavors, including BBQ, jerk chicken, empanadas, pupusas, soul food, Indian momos, Mongolian skewers, tornado potatoes, dumplings, and more. It is still a curated food lineup that spans global flavors.
“We’ll have three stages of DJ entertainment throughout the day: The Cookout Stage, The World Stage, and the House Music Stage,” Vasquez said.
In 2024, Jersey City’s July 4th celebration reportedly featured 80 local food and artisan vendors. For 2025, the number is slightly lower but still robust, with over 60 vendors confirmed.
The night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show, beginning at 9:30 p.m., lighting up the Hudson River synchronized to a patriotic soundtrack and visible across the waterfront.
“We are excited to welcome residents and visitors back for a safe, fun, and unforgettable Fourth of July experience,” said City Council President Joyce Watterman. “This is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and pride in the place we call home.”
