Come Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday in Cape May!

If you’re looking for the ultimate place to celebrate Independence Day weekend, Cape May has you covered. From high-energy live music to spectacular firework displays over the ocean and the bay, here is your go-to itinerary for an unforgettable holiday.

The party starts early at  Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille with delicious cocktails, live music, and much more. Beginning July 3rd, you can kick back with incredible cocktails, great food, and a packed lineup of live music. The entertainment stretches across the entire holiday weekend, leading right up to the big fireworks show!

Reserve a table at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille.

Cape May 4th of July at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille 

Music and celebrations go hand-in-hand and that’s why Harry’s is the perfect spot to celebrate. Want the absolute best seat in the house for the fireworks? Grab a spot on the Montreal Beach Resort’s 4th-floor sundeck, ONLY oceanfront rooftop bar in town! Spaces fill up fast, so be sure to reserve your table at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille ahead of time.

4th of July Celebrations at Harry’s

Harry’s is kicking off the 4th of July with special live music performances beginning July 3rd. The party continues on July 4th when the E-Street Shuffle performs before the fireworks display. See the full lineup below!

July 3rd:

Warren Montgomery & The DeRailed Gang from 5-9pm

Philly Keys from 9pm-12am

July 4th:

Mark Fisher from 1pm-4pm

E Street Shuffle from 6:30-9:30pm

Philly Keys from 9:30pm-12:30am

Cape May Fireworks to follow! Get the best view from the Montreal Beach Resort 4th-floor sundeck 

Cape May 4th of July Festivities  

Independence Day Parade | July 4, 2026

Celebrate the 4th of July in Style: Cape May’s Independence Day Parade is back!

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to kick off your Independence Day festivities, look no further than the City of Cape May! On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the community is coming together for its beloved annual Independence Day Parade, kicking off at 1:00 PM.

It’s going to be a spectacular lineup dedicated to honoring our veterans. You can look forward to a lively procession featuring vibrant string bands, diverse performing groups, unique family entries, classic cars, veteran organizations, and local officials.

Got a Creative Streak? Enter the “Best Decorated” Contest!

This year, there’s an exciting new twist to the festivities! The parade is introducing a “Best Decorated” competition, and everyone is invited to join in on the fun. Dust off your red, white, and blue decorations and deck out your golf cart, bicycle, or baby carriage.

Not only do you get to show off your patriotic spirit, but you also have a shot at bragging rights. The top three entries (1st, 2nd, and 3rd place) will be crowned winners right after the parade wraps up, with the big announcement happening right in front of Convention Hall.

Gather your family, deck out your rides, and get ready for a fantastic afternoon celebrating community and country!

Cape May Fireworks | July 4, 2026

Cape May gives you two fantastic opportunities to see the sky light up this weekend. The city’s main event launches on the Fourth of July right from a barge located about a quarter-mile out in the ocean, directly across from Congress Hall.

Best Viewpoints: You’ll get a stellar view from the local beaches, the bustling promenade, or any spot along Beach Avenue.

Pro-Tips for Attendees:

• Watch the Weather: The display is weather-permitting, so keep an eye out for rain delays or cancellations.
• Be Beat-the-Traffic Savvy: Parking is notoriously tight. Arrive early to claim a spot, or prepare for some gridlock.
• The Post-Show Strategy: Once the grand finale wraps up, Beach Avenue and the promenade will be packed. Instead of rushing to your car, grab a scoop of local ice cream and relax while the crowds thin out!
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And if you are staying on the bayside—including North Cape May or the Villas—you don’t have to miss out. Lower Township typically hosts its fireworks display the day before or the day after Cape May City’s main event.

Where to Watch: Set up camp right on the Bayfront Beach!

Pro-Tips for Attendees:

• Pack Warm: Even in July, the bayside sand gets surprisingly chilly after the sun goes down, so bring chairs or extra towels.
• Expect a Walk: Because it’s a popular local tradition, expect to park a few blocks away and walk down to the shoreline.
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Be sure to check the local events calendar for official time updates, and get ready for a fantastic holiday weekend!