Fourth of July in Toms River
A 250th-anniversary drone show over Barnegat Bay
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Fourth Of July Weekend at a Glance
Thu, July 2
Concert & Drone Show
7:30 PM
Ocean County Park
Sat, July 4
Bay Fireworks
America 250
Semiquincentennial
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While You're in Toms River
Don't Miss
- Cattus Island County Park — 500+ acres of pristine bayfront trails, salt marshes, and the Cooper Environmental Center. Birding with views of Barnegat Bay.
- River Lady Paddle Wheeler — Scenic lunch and dinner cruises aboard an authentic paddle wheel riverboat. Sails the Toms River to Barnegat Bay with live entertainment.
- Insectropolis — The Bugseum of New Jersey - an interactive insect museum featuring live insects, hands-on exhibits, and educational programs. A favorite for families with kids.
Parking Tips
Staying overnight?
Find hotels and B&Bs in Toms River
Why Toms River for July 4th?
For America's 250th birthday, Toms River - the big mainland hub of Ocean County on Barnegat Bay - is going bigger than ever. The Ocean County Parks Department is hosting a Patriotic Concert capped by a drone show on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 7:30 PM at Ocean County Park (1198 Bandon Road), with the synchronized drones lighting up the sky over Silver Bay. It's a modern, family-friendly twist on the holiday and the differentiator that sets Toms River apart this year.
The traditional fireworks still follow on Saturday, July 4. Expect them to launch over the Toms River and Barnegat Bay - the Beachwood Beach area is a classic free vantage point - with the show generally getting underway around 9 PM once it's fully dark. Times can shift year to year, so confirm with the township and Ocean County before you head out.
Beyond the holiday, Toms River anchors a whole region of family fun: Cattus Island County Park and Jakes Branch for nature and trails, a revitalized riverfront downtown for dining, and easy access to the township's own ocean beaches at Ortley Beach out on the barrier island. It's a flexible home base for a full Independence Day weekend.
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How to Spend the Fourth
Bayfront Morning
Start at Cattus Island County Park or the Ortley Beach oceanfront before the crowds build.
Riverfront Downtown
Lunch and a stroll through downtown Toms River, then ice cream along the river.
Concert at the Park
July 2: arrive early at Ocean County Park for the Patriotic Concert; blankets and chairs welcome.
Drone Show Finale
July 2: stay for the 250th drone show over Silver Bay - a high-tech twist on the classic finale.
Where to Eat
Surf Taco
$Mexican
Beloved local chain for tacos and burritos
The Office Tavern
$$American
Casual pub grub and a lively bar scene
Artisan's Brewery & Italian Grill
$$Brewpub
House-brewed beer and from-scratch Italian
Shut Up and Eat
$$Breakfast
Quirky pajama-themed diner, big weekend lines
Pour House
$$American
Downtown gastropub with craft beer
Toms River Seafood
$$Seafood
Fresh local catch near the riverfront
Where to Stay
The Mathis House
Historic Victorian B&B
Restored 1880s mansion, downtown location, antique charm
Holiday Inn Toms River
Reliable mainland base
Pool, free parking, easy GSP access
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center
Family-friendly value
Indoor pool, on-site dining, central location
VRBO Vacation Rentals
Home away from home
Full kitchens, multiple bedrooms for families
Choose your stay
Choose a place in Toms River, then check the room and full price for your dates.
Check dates, full price, room details and terms.
Powered by Booking.com
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Things to Do
fourth of july Weekend Tips
Parking Tips
- • Arrive early at Ocean County Park
- • Downtown garages are handy for riverfront dining
Drone Show Tips
- • Concert and drone show are July 2, not July 4
- • Bring blankets and low chairs to the park lawn
- • Drones run rain-or-shine more reliably than fireworks
Fireworks Tips
- • July 4 fireworks generally start around 9 PM at dark
- • Times can change - confirm with the township first
- • Bay vantage points like Beachwood offer wide views
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More July 4th Shore Towns
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Toms River special for July 4th 2026?
For America's 250th anniversary, Ocean County is hosting a Patriotic Concert and drone show on Thursday, July 2 at 7:30 PM at Ocean County Park, with the drones flying over Silver Bay. It's a modern, family-friendly headline event in addition to the traditional July 4 fireworks.
When and where are the Toms River July 4 fireworks?
Traditional fireworks are expected on Saturday, July 4 over the Toms River and Barnegat Bay, typically starting around 9 PM once it's dark. The Beachwood Beach area is a popular free viewing spot. Confirm exact timing with the township as dates can shift.
Is the drone show the same night as the fireworks?
No. The Ocean County Patriotic Concert and drone show are on Thursday, July 2, while the traditional fireworks fall on Saturday, July 4. You can enjoy both across the long weekend.
Plan Your Toms River July 4th
A 250th-anniversary drone show, a patriotic concert, and bay fireworks await.