Celebrating Independence Day Around Manalapan

By: Kathleen Reilly

Happy July 2!  Huh?

Although Independence Day is officially July 4th, if our second president, John Adams, had his way, we would be celebrating on the 2nd rather than the 4th. During the Second Continental Congress, our founding fathers actually approved a resolution of independence from Great Britain on July 2nd, but Americans  honor July 4th, the date actually inscribed on the world famous Declaration of Independence—the day it was officially recognized.

Nowadays, the real question isn’t when to celebrate Independence Day, but how, where, and with whom.

More than likely, the first celebratory event that comes to mind is a colorful—and loud—fireworks demonstration.  Although Adams may not have been right about the specific day of celebration, he did get the celebration format right, allegedly predicting that such an auspicious day would be annually observed with illuminations. 

While Manalapan does not have a fireworks display on July 4, a lot of neighboring towns do. Head on over to Freehold Raceway for a live concert and fireworks display at dusk. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.; the rain date is set for Friday. 

There is also a concert and fireworks display set at West Long Branch. A live concert by the Angeltones begins at 7 p.m. and the fireworks start at 9 p.m.

Pyrotechnics are best to behold at night, so how can you honor July 4 during the day?

Start the day with a flag raising ceremony—or purchase and display a flag of your own. Typically done at historic sites, or by fraternal, military or scouting organizations, flag raising follows a specific protocol as our national flag is hoisted on the flagpole.

Couple your patriotic pride with a dose of marching bands by attending a parade as a spectator, or joining one as a participant. Various town and fraternal organizations, as well as sporting and youth groups proudly march to commemorate our nation’s separation from Great Britain.

If there's no local parade, how about hosting your own merriment?

Host your friends and family at home—or export the fun to a local park—with a picnic or barbeque replete with tasty food and lawn games. Outfit your backyard with outdoor amusements such as badminton, corn-hole or croquet—to name just a few—that can delight party attendees throughout the day. Head on over to Thompson Park and have a picnic with your family and friends. 

Perhaps a bit of Yankee Doodle Dandy?

What better time of year to attend a carnival, or even a concert with musical pieces specifically tailored to this summer holiday. This might be your opportunity to hear “God Bless America,”  “America the Beautiful,” and even George M. Cohan’s “I’m a Yankee Doodle Boy,” plus other melodies performed by talented professionals. 

Long Branch Oceanfest is being held on July 4. Enjoy food, vendors, live music, and fireworks at 9 p.m. The event begins at 10 a.m.

And if Independence Day doesn’t give you enough cause to set off a few firecrackers?

This July also marks the 150 anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, a major turning point in the Civil War – a war which many consider the re-birth of our nation.