Speeches, songs, fireworks, burgers: Celebrate America’s birthday in Revolutionary Greater Morristown

Morris Plains fireworks, 2011. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Morris Plains fireworks, 2011. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
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How are you planning to celebrate the Fourth of July? Fireworks are a great option, but Greater Morristown offers many additional activities before dark.

Many of them pay tribute to the area’s rich history.

“Our activities on July 4th are a mix of tours and programs that highlight Morris County’s Colonial heritage,” says Carol Barkin, program coordinator and docent of the Morris County Tourism Bureau. Here are some family-friendly events to explore:

  • Tour of 1718 Burying Yard: The Hanover Township Landmark commission offers a look into colonial life via exploration of the oldest cemetery in Morris County. Pre-register by calling 973-631-5151 or signing up at info@morristourism.org.
    • When: Wednesday, July 4, at 10:00 a.m.
    • Where: On Route 10 in Whippany
    • Price of Admission: Free
  • Powder Mill Hike and Tour: The Morris County Historical Society will host a hike along Patriot’s Path from Acorn Hall to the site of New Jersey’s Revolutionary War Powder Mill, with a subsequent tour of the site.
    • When: Wednesday, July 4, at 11:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.
    • Where: Starting at Morristown’s Acorn Hall, 68 Morris Ave.
    • Price of admission: Free
  • Stars and Pipes: A Star-Spangled Organ Concert: Enjoy a patriotic organ tribute by an accomplished musician.
    • When: Wednesday, July 4, at 11:00 a.m.
    • Where: St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 70 Maple Ave., Morristown
    • Who: Joshua Stafford, champion of the Longwood Gardens International Organ Competition.
    • Price of admission: Free

stars and pipes July 4 2018 at st peters

  • Reading of the Declaration: The Morris County Tourism Bureau will a host a traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence on the Morristown Green, preceded by a march from the Ford Mansion to the Green with costumed Revolutionary War re-enactors. “Hopefully the crowd, usually about 1,500 people, will be dressed in red, white and blue, and responding with boos and hisses when King George is mentioned,” comments Barkin. Citizens are invited to participate in the procession. Or they can enjoy the musical stylings of Gordon Thomas Ward, on the Green from 11:30 am to noon.
    • When: Wednesday, July 4, at 11:30 a.m.
    • Where: Beginning at the Ford Mansion, at 30 Washington Place, ending at the Morristown Green. (Rain location: the Morristown United Methodist Church, 50 South Park Place.)
    • Price of admission: Free
Huzzah! Revolutionary Times Weekend on the Morristown Green, July 4, 2016. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
Huzzah! Revolutionary Times Weekend on the Morristown Green, July 4, 2016. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
  • Tour of the Presbyterian Church and Graveyard: This graveyard was founded in 1733, and its headstones are historical artifacts. Take an in-depth tour, exploring the colonial-era architecture and learning more about Morristown’s significance in the Revolution.
    • When: Wednesday, July 4, at 1:00 p.m.
    • Where: 57 East Park Place
    • Price of admission: Free
  • Fireworks: While Morristown will not be hosting fireworks on July 4, there are plenty of them nearby.
    • Saturday, June 30: Morris Plains Fireworks at Community Park, 51 Jim Fear Drive. Festivities start at 5 pm with fireworks at 9:30 pm.
    • Wednesday, July 4: Parsippany Concert and Fireworks at Parsippany Hills High School, 20 Rita Dr., Morris Plains. Concert by Overboard starting at 7 pm, fireworks at 9:30 pm.
Morris Plains fireworks, 2011. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Morris Plains fireworks, 2011. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
  • Pool Party: The Morris Township Department of Parks and Recreation hosts its Grand Opening Swim Pool Party at the Streeter Pool. The Route 80’s Band performs from 5 pm to 7 pm. And there will be DJ music from Cloud Nine plus games, crafts, activities and a barbecue with hamburgers, hot dogs, ice tea and lemonade.
    • When: Tuesday, July 3, from 3 pm to 8 pm.
    • Where: Streeter Pool, 2 Inamere Road, 973-326-7378.
    • Price of admission: Free for Swim Pool members, $5 for non-members, pay at the entrance.
Burger Brigade at Streeter Pool grand reopening. Photo by Berit Ollestad.
Burger Brigade at Streeter Pool grand reopening. Photo by Berit Ollestad.

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