New Jersey Free Events July 2023

Looking for free activities in New Jersey this July? Look no further! New Jersey offers a wide range of exciting and cost-free options for you to enjoy. From vibrant festivals and cultural events, there is something for everyone. Get ready to discover the best free things to do in New Jersey this July and make unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

For more events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.

If you’d like to submit your event, click here.

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New Jersey Free Events July 2023:

Craft Day by the Bay
July 1, 10 am – 4 pm (rain or shine)
Start your 4th of July weekend with Craft Day by the Bay on July 1st with 70+ vendors with something for everyone.
Sunset Park, 3 W. Salem Ave, Harvey Cedars, NJ

Blueberry Summer Fest Markets
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 10 am – 2 pm
Blueberry Summer Fest Saturday Markets will run All Blueberry Season Long at Whitesbog! Order a plant, a flat of fresh local blueberries, local blueberry pie in advance. Live music, handmade crafts and art, blueberry picking all on a smaller scale in the historic farm and village. No entry fee but donations are welcome, No overflow parking so entry will close once we reach capacity.
120 West Whites Bogs Road #34 Browns Mills, NJ

Celebrate our Stars & Stripes – Concert & Fireworks
July 3, 5 pm – 10 pm (The rain date is July 5th)
This celebration features a 25-minute fireworks program over the Raritan Bay. The launch will have over 3,000 shells and effects, including glittering, strobe, and whistling, with various colors synchronized to a patriotic musical compilation produced by Garden State Fireworks. The best views to enjoy the Celebrate Stars & Stripes Fireworks Spectacular Show will be from Sadowski Parkway in Perth Amboy, the Raritan Bay Waterfront Park in South Amboy, The celebration will also feature food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and live music at 3 PM on Sadowski Parkway in Perth Amboy and at the Raritan Bay Waterfront Park in South Amboy.
Perth Amboy Waterfront, Sadowski Parkway & High Street, Perth Amboy, NJ
South Amboy fireworks viewed at Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, Keenen Way, South Amboy,NJ

4th of July Parade at Historic Smithville
July 4, 9 am
Come out and celebrate our Nations’ birth! Historic Smithville has the largest Fourth of July parade in all of New Jersey. The parade will start at 9 a.m. with an expected 10,000 people to line the parade route.
615 E. Moss Mill Rd. Galloway, NJ

Little Falls PBA #346 July 4th Street Fair
July 4, 10 am
Over 40+ years July 4th Street Fair. Food Trucks, Vendors, & Kids Area.
Main Street & Stevens Avenue 89 Main Street Little Falls, NJ

Oceanfest
July 4, 1 pm – 10 pm
This all day fun family event, with crowds in the hundreds of thousand, have turned out for the most memorable sights, sounds and sensations of the summer season.
At Oceanfest, visitors can stroll the famous beachfront, take in the wonderful views, enjoy performances by dancers, musicians, clowns and musical acts, sample from a smorgasbord of food vendors, and check out the wares of crafters from all over the northeast. You can even see a fabulous sand sculpture, meet a familiar costumed character, and catch some cool ocean breezes.– and caps it all off with the most spectacular fireworks display at dusk.
The Oceanfront Promenade, 228 Broadway Long Branch, NJ

Kites in the Heights
July 4, 5 pm – 9 pm
Free, kite flying with huge, entertaining kites for the kids. Bring the whole family. Bring your own kite to join in the flying.
Carteret Ave. beach (north of Casino Pier), Seaside Heights, NJ

Freedom Festival – 4th of July
July 4, 5 pm
Celebrate Independence Day at the Freedom Festival on the Camden Waterfront. Presented by the Camden County Board of Commissioners, City of Camden and WMGK at Wiggins Park. This festival brings thousands of people together to enjoy a series of artists and a spectacular firework show from Serpico Pyrotechnics. Be sure to come to the Camden Waterfront for food, beer, music and fireworks in celebration of the annual Freedom Festival.
1 Harbour Blvd Camden, NJ

2023 Randolph Freedom Festival
July 6 – 8
In partnership with Randolph Township, the Kiwanis Club is hosting its annual Freedom Festival. Nightly, there will be carnival rides, games, beer garden, music and food, and craft vendors. The schedule: July 6 – Stereo Junkies, July 7 – Car Show (5-8:30 pm) and The Norton Smull Band, and July 8 – DJ Nick and the Jerseytones; and fireworks (rain date is July 9)
County College of Morris, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ

Glassboro Summer Fest
July 6, 13, 20, 27, 5 pm – 9 pm
Join the annual Summer Fest, happening every Thursday in June and July from 5:00-9:00pm in the Glassboro Town Square. Enjoy live entertainment with a variety of bands and activities, as well as food trucks and local craft beer and wine!
Glassboro Town Square, Glassboro, NJ

Thrilling Thursdays in Margate
July 6, 13, 20, 27
Get a head start on the weekend with this busy Thursday roster of activities in Margate. Start your day with a visit to the farmers market, shop at local sidewalk sales, play free cornhole and visit the beach free-of-charge. Top it off with a beachfront movie night.
7/6- Minions: Rise of Gru
7/14- Top Gun: Maverick
7/21- Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
7/28- Elf
South Decatur Ave, Margate, NJ

Kites and Castles
July 6, 13, 20, 27, 7 pm
Bring your kites to the Philadelphia Avenue beach every Thursday night for sandcastle building and kite flying. A first place prize is awarded each week, and prizes are given to all participants.
Philadephia Avenue Beach, 1200 Oceanfront, Lavallette, NJ

Dinner Under the Stars
July 7, 6 pm – 10 pm
Back for its eighth year, Dinner Under the Stars provides a great opportunity to enjoy “al fresco” dining along with live entertainment every Friday evening in the heart of Downtown Bloomfield on Washington Street. It’s a great, enjoyable, and relaxing way to begin your weekend!
Washington Street Bloomfield, NJ

Wildwoods Boardwalk Friday Night Fireworks
July 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 10 pm
The fireworks will be launched from the beach on Pine Avenue and visible from anywhere on the Wildwoods Boardwalk!
Wildwoods Boardwalk, Pine Ave, Wildwood, NJ

Somerville Cruise Nights
July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 6 pm – 9 pm
Cruise Nights are Back in Downtown Somerville! Come out and enjoy the classic cars that line Main Street every Friday (weather permitting) from 6:00 – 9:00PM. Own a classic car? Come be a part of a downtown tradition thats over 30 years in the making!
W Main St, Somerville, NJ

Freehold Twp Day
July 8, 4 pm
Freehold Township in partnership with the Veteran’s Community Alliance invite you to attend the 18th Annual Freehold Township Day at Michael J. Tighe Park. Free rides, local organizations and vendors, Teen Center, Screaming Broccoli and The Phil Engel Band on the main stage, Don’t Forget the Vet Car Show with over 100 cars and most importantly, showing our patriotic support and helping our veterans. FIREWORKS at 9:15 p.m.
Michael J. Tighe Park, Freehold, NJ

Maplewoodstock Music & Arts Festival
July 8 & 9, 12 pm – 9 pm
A two day family festival celebrating of community music and art. the event feature local music from more than 20 performers and arts put on by friends and neighbors of Maplewood. The event also includes art, collectibles, crafts, clothes, provided by local artists and merchants, food from many local food vendors. For kids there is a Kidzone with bouncy rides, face painting, arts and crafts, and ice cream.This year’s featured performers are: Mihali and Louis Cato will be our headliners, and Red Baraat and Remember Jones will be the Featured Acts.
Memorial Park, Dunnell Rd.and Jefferson Avenue, Maplewood, NJ

Haddonfield Crafts and Fine Art Festival
July 8 & 9
This event features more than 200 artists showcasing the best of best of fine art and craft from the region and beyond. 200 artists showcasing the best of fine art and craft from the region and beyond. This two-day outdoor festival will be held along Kings Highway between Washington Avenue and Haddon Avenue and along Tanner Street to Euclid Avenue and on Kings Court. As always, a curated selection of artists and crafters will exhibit a wide range of work, including ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood, fiber, paper, drawings, paintings, photography, and wearable art. What is usually a busy main artery through the center of town is transformed into a festive corridor, alive with a panorama of artists’ tents, outdoor cafés, and more.
Downtown Haddonfield, NJ

Fanwood Summer Fan Jam
July 9, 11 am – 7 pm
This family festival features Live Bands, Food Trucks with specialty foods for all tastes, a Kid Zone with rides and activities, and a Classic Car Show.
Performers include: Radio Petty (Tom Petty Tribute), Christina and the Gents, The Funktion Band (Funk, Soul & Pop), Kings of Pain (Police Tribute), and Macho Men
LaGrande Park Pavillion, Fanwood, NJ

Second Saturday in Collingswood
July 9, 5 pm
Enjoy live music and art all over Collingswood! Second Saturday was started by a collection of store owners that had an interest in promoting the arts in Collingswood. Each month from March to December visitors can plan a night on the town to experience the unique arts, music, shopping and dining Collingswood is known for. As always, Second Saturdays are free and there are local artists and musicians on each block. Just arrive & enjoy the culture.
Haddon Ave, Collingswood, NJ

JAWS on the Big Screen
July 9, 7 pm – 10 pm
When a killer shark unleashes chaos on a beach community off Cape Cod, it’s up to a local sheriff, a marine biologist, and an old shark hunter to kill the beast. Come see this classic summer blockbuster on the big screen and feel the fear of being in the ocean all over again.
Hawthorne Theaters, 300 Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ

Sweet Sounds Downtown Jazz Festival
July 11, 18 & 25, 7 pm – 9 pm
Enjoy a night out in town with free music as you stroll, eat, and relax at outdoor venues around town featuring live musicians. Talented jazz groups play and entertain each Tuesday evening through August with Wednesday rain dates. Bands will play at various locations: on Central Avenue in front of Banana Republic, the lawn in front of the North Avenue Train Station, Elm Street in front of the Baptist Church, and in Foundation Park across the street from 439 South Avenue West (near the corner of South Avenue Weast and Westfield Avenue).
Downtown Westfield, NJ

State Theatre New Jersey’s FREE Summer Movies Series
July 11, 18 & 25, 10:30 am & 7 pm
State Theatre New Jersey’s FREE Summer Movies Series is back with morning and evening weekday screenings. Experience your favorite films on a gigantic 46’ screen, with our state-of-the-art sound system, in our newly renovated theater! Groups and camps are welcomed and encouraged to join us! If you are bringing a group of 20+, please email education@stnj.org. All movies will include Spanish subtitles.
State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ

Annual Sandcastle Contest
July 12, 8 am
The Annual New Jersey Sandcastle Contest at Belmar’s 18th Avenue Beach from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm.  The competition is free and open to participants of all ages.
Belmar, NJ

Downtown Summer Sounds Concert
July 12, 7 pm
Free outdoor, summer concert with Back to the 80s’s & Saved by the 90’s, featuring pop star Tiffany. Concert is outdoors at the Borough Plaza, corner of New & Pearl Streets. Rain Location is Metuchen SportsPlex. Free parking at Woodmont Deck.
Metuchen Plaza, New & Pearl Streets, Metuchen, NJ

Shakespeare in the Park: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
July 12, 19, & 26, 7:30 pm
Shakespear in the Park is back! The play consists of five interconnecting plots, connected by a celebration of the wedding of Duke Theseus of Athens and the Amazon queen, Hippolyta, which are set simultaneously in the woodland and in the realm of Fairyland, under the light of the moon.
Atlantic Street Park 102 State Street Hackensack, NJ

Summer Concert Series hosted by the Roxbury Arts Alliance
July 13 & 20, 7 pm – 9:30 pm
This summer marks the 18th Summer Concert Series presented by the Roxbury Arts Alliance. These free concerts take place weekly during July and August at the bandshell* at Horseshoe Lake in Succasunna–be sure to bring blankets or chairs to sit on.
Horseshoe Lake Bandshell, 72 Eyland Avenue, Succasunna, NJ

New Jersey State Barbecue Championship™ and the Angelsea Blues Festival
July 14 – 16
The New Jersey State Barbecue Championship℠ is a three-day open-air festival featuring championship barbecue competitions; live cooking demonstrations, special displays, and food and beverage vendors to satisfy every taste and appetite. The Anglesea Blues Festival℠ features both national and regional blues musicians and is held in conjunction with the New Jersey State Barbecue Championship℠. Throughout the weekend, free live entertainment is featured on our outdoor main stage, as well as additional acts in neighboring establishments.
201 New Jersey Ave, N Wildwood, NJ

Black Farmers & Artisan Market
July 15, 9 am – 1 pm
BrickNKulture Black Farmers’ & Artisan Market is a vibrant community that fosters support and appreciation for creators, makers, and those who enjoy the fruits of their labor. This inclusive space specifically uplifts Black local growers, makers, and entrepreneurs, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and products. Taking place rain or shine, the market runs from June to September every third Saturday, from 9am to 1pm. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the market, meet the talented makers and growers, and explore the wide range of offerings they have in store for you.
The Cultural Collective Cafe & BrickNKulture Event Space, 65 North Broad Street Woodbury, NJ

Bell Works Fresh Saturday Night Market
 July 15,  1 pm – 6 pm
A monthly night market season runs on Saturdays from March until November and features around 50 local artists, makers, live music, & drinks. Located in Holmdel, NJ, Bell Works is a 2 million square foot metroburb featuring 5 floors of offices, a full restaurant and retail experience, and a rooftop bar
101 Crawford’s Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ

Asbury Refresh Vintage and Oddities Market
July 16, 10 am – 3 pm
REFRESH is a monthly celebration of all things vintage, oddities & one of a kind collectibles. Join Asbury Fresh Markets on select Saturdays through the year where you can shop from a curated collection of over 50 vendors selling unique items & more.
Kennedy Park next to Cross+Orange, Asbury Park, NJ

Summer 2023 Main Street Pops Artisan Market
July 16, 11 am – 4 pm
Main Street Pops Artisan Market attracts a diverse selection of artists & makers offering their handmade creations such as art, photography, jewelry, fashion, home and lifestyle accessories, artisanal food, pet products, and much more! This bustling market always features live music and a variety of vendors with new offerings each month.
Under 14th Street Viaduct 1401 Adam’s street Hoboken, NJ

I Paddle Camden
July 16, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Connect the Lots together with Urban Trekkers and the Center for Aquatic Sciences present “I Paddle Camden” a free, all-levels paddle excursion in the back channel of the Cooper River.Experienced River Guides and Aquatic Sciences Fellows will guide small groups of paddlers of all ages and comfort levels on a canoe or kayak excursion launching from Pyne Poynt Park in North Camden. Kids and Pets are welcome
Pyne Poynt Park, 7th and Erie Streets Camden, NJ

MetLife Stadium Wedding Expo
July 19, 4:30 pm – 9 pm
NJ’s biggest wedding expo with 100’s of top vendors, amazing ideas, $1,000’s of savings with show specials, 2 Honeymoon Giveaways & more.
MetLife Stadium, 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ

Hammonton Green Market
July 20, 5 pm – 8 pm
The Hammonton Green Committee is preparing to host our first series of Green Market events that will take place from 5 to 8 p.m., in collaboration with Downtown Hammonton’s “Third Thursday”. The Green Market will be located on Horton Street in Hammonton near Marcello’s and Chimney Rustic Ale. Downtown Hammonton’s Third Thursday events attract people from Hammonton and the surrounding communities with a variety of activities and seasonal-themed shopping opportunities with the downtown arts district, nonprofit organizations, restaurants, breweries and retail businesses.
Horton St, Hammonton, NJ

Outdoor Movie Night at Memory Park
July 21, 7 pm, Rain Date July 22
Join Outdoor Movie Night Friday, July 21 at 7:00 P.M. in Memory Park. Movie: “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish”.The event will be held in Memory Park and admission is FREE.
Memory Park, Newton, NJ

St. Ann’s Festival
July 21 – July 26
Enjoy Italian food like St Ann’s famous zeppole, music, rides, crafts, a beer garden, raffles, and games. Nightly entertainment on 2 stages. Feast Day Mass on July 26 followed by the Procession with a 600-pound statue of St. Ann will be carried through the streets of Hoboken.
On the streets around St. Ann Church, 704 Jefferson Street, Hoboken, NJ
Cost: Free to attend

Cutler Street Summer Fair
July 22, 12 pm – 6 pm
Join the Cutler Street Street Fair on July 22nd, 2023, a non-profit event dedicated to fostering a stronger community. With four exciting sections, including a Job Fair, Family Zone, Wellness + Health Zone, and Block Party, there’s something for everyone. Network with companies at the Job Fair, while the Family Zone offers fun activities for kids. Learn about health and wellness in the Wellness + Health Zone. End the day with delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live music and performances. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a great time and contribute to building a better community!
Cutler Street Newark, NJ

FilmOneFest
July 22, 6 pm – 11 pm
FilmOneFest takes place in a beautiful outdoor setting with the majestic Manhattan skyline as the backdrop. FilmOneFest (a production of the Atlantic Highlands Arts Council) is the Jersey Shore’s preeminent showcase for all forms of short films under two minutes in length. FilmOneFest also promotes local and international filmmaking through the use of new media and technology, educational activities and screenings, and supports its local food bank. The Atlantic Highlands Arts Council is comprised of a team of dedicated volunteers who include professional artists, educators, business leaders and community organizers. There will be Artist Vendors, Food Trucks, Live Music, 50/50 Raffle, and more.
SeaStreak Parking Lot, Atlantic Highlands, NJ

July Craft & Antique Show
July 23, 10 am – 3 pm
A monthly outdoor market featuring an eclectic mix of local homemade, vintage, and antique goods. Plus live music and food vendors.
200 Creek Rd, Mt Laurel, NJ

HEAL & RELEASE Move N Groove
July 23, 12 pm – 9 pm
Cultivating wellness & community through holistic disciplines, art, movement & music, GetOpen Sessions & Urban Sanctuary join Move n Groove in association with Jersey City Caribbean Carnival Parade to present HEAL & RELEASE Move N Groove, The Jersey City Caribbean Carnival wellness day party & lime!
Pier A Park, 100 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ

Sensational Music Festival
July 29, 11 am – 8 pm (rain or shine)
This family event features live music on two stages, crafters, vendors, free yoga, vegetarian and organic food, food trucks, a beer garden, and a kids’ village.
Veterans Park, Bayville, NJ

Mercer County 4-H Fair & Wheat Threshing
July 29 & 30
This event features animal shows and exhibits, homemade ice cream, hay rides, pony rides, music magic shows and farm tours. On Saturday, Howell Farm’s 2022 wheat sheaves will be fully dried and ready to be “threshed” to separate the grain and straw. Live music featuring the Jugtown Mountain String Band, Magnolia Street String Band, and Crown Acoustic.
Howell Living History Farm, 70 Woodens Lane, Hopewell Township, NJ