Happy July 4th from MercerMe!
This Independence Day, we’re celebrating a different kind of freedom: the freedom to know what’s happening in your own community.
In just the past few weeks, MercerMe has reported on:
- Hopewell Township’s final affordable housing plan—and the public’s role in shaping it
- A $23.8 million visitor center and museum breaking ground at Washington Crossing State Park, ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence
- The Hopewell Valley school board’s support for an $84.2 million referendum to improve aging school buildings and meet rising enrollment needs—now headed for the November ballot
These aren’t just headlines—they’re the foundation of civic life. And they matter whether you live here, grew up here, or simply care about Hopewell Valley’s future.
This kind of community-rooted reporting only happens because of reader support. On a holiday that honors independence, we’re grateful for yours.
🎆 What’s Happening on July 4th
🇺🇸 Titusville 4th of July Celebration
Titusville’s parade returns with a full lineup of family fun:
- 10:00AM – River Drive closes; food tent opens
- 10:00AM–12:30PM – Live music by The River Dogs
- 10:30AM–1:30PM – Face painting & balloons
- 11:00AM – Opening ceremony
- 11:15AM – Baby Parade
- 11:30AM – Bike & Scooter Parade
- 12:00PM – Scholarship winner announced; recognition of Grand Marshals & past Miss 4th of July honorees
- 12:30PM – Titusville 4th of July Big Parade
- 1:30PM – Cornhole tournament (behind Titusville Academy; $20 per team)
🏃 Pennington Parks & Recreation July 4th Races
- Time: 9:00–11:30AM (races begin at 9:30AM sharp)
- Location: Pennington School Track
- Ages: Children 3–11
- Events: Races, relays, long jump
- Bonus: Refreshments provided!
Celebrate July 4th Weekend at Washington Crossing State Park
Washington Crossing State Park is marking America’s 249th birthday, with events that bring Revolutionary history to life.
Friday, July 4 (1–4PM):
- Visit the Nelson House on River Drive for historic interpretations by reenactors in period dress.
- At 3PM, hear the Declaration of Independence read by an 18th-century-style Reverend, with a focus on the fates of its signers—especially the five from New Jersey.
- Activities also include quill pen writing and a Revolutionary-era education demonstration.
- At 2PM, the Visitor Center will host another Declaration reading, followed by a musket firing demonstration.
Saturday, July 5 (2PM):
- Historian Russ Dutcher will present “New Jersey’s Unknown Intelligence Network” during the Ten Crucial Days campaign. Held in the Visitor Center Museum auditorium.
Sunday, July 6 (1–3:30PM):
- Historian Julie Power presents “Revolutionary War Rations: Feeding the Army” at the Visitor Center Museum, with a 1PM talk and ongoing demonstrations until 3:30PM.
🎇 Fireworks Schedule
Friday, July 4
- L.E.A.D. Fest State Fair, Mercer County Park
1638 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor
🎆 Fireworks at 9:00PM - Trenton Thunder Ballpark
1 Thunder Road, Trenton
🎆 Post-game fireworks around 9:00PM
Saturday, July 5
- East Windsor Township – Etra Lake Park
9 Disbrow Hill Road
🎶 Festivities begin at 6:00PM
🎆 Fireworks at approximately 9:30PM
Wherever you’re celebrating, stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy the holiday!
