America’s 250th Birthday has arrived, and there are a plethora of star-spangled activities taking shape in South Jersey. From hometown celebrations to sparkling firework displays, you won’t want to miss out on the festivities this weekend. Read all about it in our Top Weekly Entertainment Picks.
What: Borgata Fireworks Spectacular
Where: Borgata Hotel Casino
When: Friday, July 3
Time: 9:30 p.m.
Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/event/borgata-fireworks-spectacular/7302/
Fourth of July weekend kicks off with a stunning fireworks display over the bay, produced by Fireworks by Grucci. Enjoy a dazzling 20-minute display with musically synchronized pyrotechnics lighting up the Atlantic City skyline. Public viewing areas will open at 8:30 p.m. with on-site parking at the Borgata’s surface lot.
What: Drone Shows in Atlantic City
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
When: Fridays
Time: 9 p.m.
Website: www.theoceanac.com/droneshows
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a patriotic-themed drone show over the boardwalk every Friday night through the month of July. Illuminated drones will paint the night sky with spectacular aerial formations and stunning visual displays. Guests are invited to watch the display from The Park, Ocean’s three-acre oasis.
What: Rewind Fridays
Where: The Yard at Bally’s
When: Fridays
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: https://casino.ballys.com/atlantic-city/entertainment
Take a trip back in time as your favorite tribute bands take the stage for free live performances every Friday night. Sing and dance to the greatest hits of the 70s and 80s every week while soaking in immersive summer atmosphere just steps from the world-famous Boardwalk.
What: Historic Smithville 4th of July Parade
Where: Smithville Boulevard and Moss Mill Road
When: Saturday, July 4
Time: 9 a.m.
Website: www.historicsmithville.com/smithville-events-2/july-events/4th-july-parade
This annual parade is considered one of the largest in the entire country, welcoming over 170 units and more than 10,000 spectators every year. The parade will travel along Smithville Boulevard to Moss Mill Road, then west to Historic Smithville, where an Independence Day Ceremony at the Village Greene will honor all who have served along with police and service members.
Who: The Disco Biscuits
Where: Borgata Event Center
When: Saturday, July 4
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: https://borgata.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/event-calendar/the-disco-biscuits.html
Celebrate Independence Day with The Disco Biscuits as they bring their genre-defying sound to Borgata. The Philadelphia-based band has reached captive audiences across the country for their signature blend of electronic dance music, jam rock, and improvisational performances. Audiences will enjoy a night of high-energy music and extended jams.
Who: Let’s Groove Tonight: The Ultimate Earth, Wind & Fire Experience
Where: Superstar Theater at Resorts
When: Saturday, July 4
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.resortsac.com/events-and-promotions/earth-wind-fire-tribute-show-tickets/
Join Resorts for an incredible night of live music featuring the legendary music of Earth, Wind & Fire, performed by Let’s Groove Tonight. This exceptional ensemble of musicians will authentically recreate the group’s signature sound, perfect for audiences of all ages.
What: Tropicana Fourth of July Fireworks
Where: Tropicana Atlantic City
When: Saturday, July 4
Time: 10 p.m.
Website: www.caesars.com/tropicana-ac
Light up the summer night with a spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks display over the Atlantic City skyline. Gather your friends and family and grab a spot along the beach and boardwalk and enjoy an awe-inspiring seaside celebration.
Who: Boat House Row: A Yacht Rock Experience
Where: Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino
When: Sundays
Time: 4 p.m.
Website: www.theoceanac.com/boat-house-row-yacht-rock-experience
Celebrate the smooth sounds of the late-70s and early-80s as Boat House Row docks at Ovation Hall for weekly shows all summer long. Hear the sounds of Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross, Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, and Kenny Loggins come to life with the band’s unique blend of nostalgia and studio-perfect grooves.
What: Comedian Elon Gold
Where: Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC
When: Thursday, July 9
Time: 7 p.m.
Website: www.jccatlantic.org/2026/04/28/elon-gold
Get ready for an evening of stand-up comedy as acclaimed comedian Elon Gold brings his nationally recognized show to Margate. As a seasoned actor, writer and comedian, Gold has performed on some of the country’s biggest stages and is widely known for his sharp humor, quick improvisation and storytelling.
What: America’s Birthday Bar
Where: Ocean Casino Resort
When: Now – August 31
Website: www.theoceanac.com/restaurants/americas-birthday-bar
The 1927 Lounge has been transformed into an immersive red, white, and blue experience with festive decor, photo ops, and crafted cocktails rich with American flavor. Celebrate our nation’s milestone, enjoy a lineup of signature drinks, and soak in the spirited ambiance of this pop-up experience all summer long.
What: America 250: Lights Over Ocean City Drone Show
Where: Ocean City Boardwalk
When: Mondays
Time: 8 p.m.
Website: www.visitatlanticcity.com/event/borgata-fireworks-spectacular/7302/
Ocean City will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation with a weekly patriotic drone show over the beach and boardwalk. The show will feature hundreds of drones lighting up the night sky, creating star-studded animations that salute America. The 15-minute shows will be held after dusk on Monday nights through Aug. 17.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
