One of the highlights of the summer season is celebrating our nation’s independence. We’re fortunate to live in communities that go all out to bring neighbors together in honor of this turning point in American history. From family-friendly activities to fabulous fireworks displays, New Providence and Summit pay homage to July Fourth with events that are fun for all ages.
Fortunately, the entertainment doesn’t end once the Independence Day festivities come to a close. Weekly outdoor concerts present a chance to relax and unwind while taking in a top-notch performances. Later in month, Summit hosts its much-anticipated Restaurant Week. As summer heats up, enjoy a multi-course meal at one of the Hilltop City’s first-rate restaurants at an attractive price. With so many delicious options, you may want to hang up your apron for the entire week.
So grab your calendar and make a note of these events you won’t want to miss.
July 3
New Providence’s Independence Day Celebration returns to the borough on Monday, July 3. Children can create a sidewalk masterpiece as each will be given a free bucket of chalk. DJ John Souren of Club Souren will spin popular and patriotic tunes, getting revelers in the spirit of the holiday. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to settle in for an evening of fun.
When: The event starts at 7 p.m. and the fireworks begins at approximately 9:30 p.m.
Where: South Street from Gales Drive to Springfield Avenue
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July 4
Summit celebrates the Fourth of July from morning ’til night with activities for all ages. Kick off the holiday with breakfast at the Food Truck Festival. Then, stick around for the Children’s Decorated Bicycle Parade. Rides and amusements keep Summit’s youngest residents entertained while a little grown-up fun takes place at noon during the City Services Softball Game. Evening festivities include live musical performances and culminate in the always-impressive fireworks show.
When: Activities begin at 9:30 a.m. and end with the Grand Fireworks Display at 9:15 p.m.
Where: Soldiers Memorial Field, Ashland Road, Summit
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July 8
Grab you swimsuit and sunscreen as the New Providence Community Pool hosts its annual Family Fun Day. In addition to perennial favorites like the ‘Big Splash’ and chalk contests, Stretch the Silly Man will present his highly-acclaimed magic show. This is a day pool members and their guests look forward to year after year.
When: 1p.m.
Where: 1378 Springfield Ave., New Providence
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July 9
Calling all bakers! Bring one dozen of your very best from-scratch blueberry muffins and your recipe to the Summit Farmers Market by 10:45 a.m. for a blueberry muffin contest. Judging begins at 11 a.m. Muffins will be evaluated for their flavor, texture, and appearance. After the judging takes place, the public will be invited to sample the popular breakfast treat. Winners will receive Fun Money to be spent at the market.
When: Drop off muffins by 10:45 a.m., Judging starts at 11 a.m.
Where: Summit Farmer’s Market
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July 11
The Hot Summer Nights Concert Series, presented by Investors Bank, has become a favorite summertime tradition in the City of Summit. Each Tuesday, thousands flock to the Village Green to check out some of the best bands on the East Coast. Food trucks and free ice cream, courtesy of Investors Bank, make these weekly events even more appealing.
July’s line-up is as follows:
Tuesday, July 11 – Dancin’ Machine
Tuesday, July 18 – Daddy Pop
Tuesday, July 25 – Brian Kirk and the Jirks
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Village Green, 356 Broad St.
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July 13
Can’t get enough live music? New Providence Business is proudly presenting its summer concert series. The free performances include face painting and a magician to entertain little listeners. Skip dinner and sample free hot dogs from The Prestige Diner followed by free ice cream from Zita’s Homemade Ice Cream. In the event of rain, performances will be held inside in the municipal gym.
The 2017 concert dates and entertainers are as follows:
Thursday, July 13 – Asbury Fever Band
Thursday, July 20 – Cindy Gelormini
Thursday, July 27 – The Kootz
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Centennial Park; Should it rain, the performance will be held in the municipal gym.
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July 20
Summit’s eagerly-anticipated Restaurant Week returns this July and begins with a Kickoff Celebration on Thursday, July 20. Enjoy live music downtown and prizes at participating restaurants before dining at one of the Hilltop City’s delicious eateries. Prix fixe menus and specials abound so bring your appetite.
When: July 20
Where: Downtown Summit
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