NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ–Looking to celebrate the 4th with some fireworks? Check out this list below, and have a Happy Independence Day!

The highlight of the weekend is sure to be a re-enactment of the original July 4, 1778 celebration ordered by George Washington.

“On the 4th of July in Buccleuch Park at 1:30 p.m. there will be a /feu de joie/ celebrating the 237th Anniversary of the original /feu de joie/ ordered by George Washington in 1778,” wrote Bob Belvin, Director of the city’s public library.

“Washington had two miles of soldiers sequentially fire their muskets to celebrate both the second anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the army’s performance at Monmouth Courthouse.”

Talks will also be given by city historian George Dawson and David Martin.

This historical event is one of the main reasons that the nation decided to officially celebrate the nation’s independence on July 4.

However, increasingly New Jersey communities have been holding the most beloved tradition, fireworks, on days other than the Fourth, mostly to save on costs.

Here is a list of places to see fireworks in the Greater New Brunswick area:

New Brunswick
Where: Buccleuch Park
When: July 2nd, 9:20 PM
New Brunswick and Highland Park share a fireworks display over the Raritan River that can be seen at Buccleuch Park. The fireworks reflect over the water, and are a beautiful experience for all to see.

Highland Park
Where: Donaldson Park
When: July 2nd, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
To fully celebrate Independence Day, Highland Park is holding a community festival at Donaldson Park from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This festival will include family events, youth theater, live music, and shops and stands. The fireworks display will be shared with New Brunswick’s fireworks display over the Raritan river.

Franklin Township
Where: 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset
When: July 2nd, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Join Franklin Township at their Independence Day celebration. Among the fun activities will be food stands, a children’s zone, an art show, and local vendors. Fireworks will start at 9:15 PM. The rain date for this festival is July 10th.

South Brunswick
Where: South Fields of Crossroads Middle School
When: 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Another Independence Day festival, this one will have kids events, food vendors, and live music. Locals are advised that traffic will be heavy on Georges Road between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM so attendees are encouraged to show up early. The fireworks will start around 9:15 PM.

Milltown
Where: Van Liew Avenue, Milltown
When: All day event, July 4th
Milltown is going all out this Independence Day. They will be holding a fishing derby at 6:00 AM and a 5K race at 8:00 AM. Later in the day, there will be a carnival with a $7.00 admission fee. The carnival includes a giant slide, a big top circus, and free hot dogs and soda provided by Milltown. Fireworks will start around dusk.

Take a picture of the fireworks display you like the most, and tag us on Instagram at nb_today for a chance to win a prize!

Reporter at New Brunswick Today