The Fourth of July may have come and gone, but the celebration isn’t over yet! At Point Pleasant Beach on Thursday, July 16, we’re celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with an evening full of rides, live entertainment, and fun for the whole family. Here’s everything you need to know about the event, and a few tips to turn it into a full day at the boardwalk.
Red, White, and Ride: America’s 250th Celebration
This event is a combination of live performances and special promotions that make spending the summer at the Jersey Shore so special. You can expect free interactive programs and performances, 3-Hours Unlimited Rides wristbands for $17.76, $2.50 hot dogs at Little Macs, and an impressive fireworks display to end off the night. Among this lineup will be our official ribbon cutting ceremony for Patriot’s Run, our new American-themed roller coaster. It’s an easy night full of excitement that you can build your whole day around!
Patriot’s Run
Part of the celebration is the debut of Patriot’s Run, which has recently opened as of early May 2026. It’s one of the largest ride additions in Jenkinson’s Amusement Park history. This family coaster stands at nearly 40 feet tall, giving you the perfect view of the beach and the ocean! The red, white, and blue color scheme is inspired by and celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, and adds to the patriotic-themed fun. Read more about Patriot’s Run here!
South Beach Stage Entertainment
As for free entertainment, you’re in luck! Starting at 5pm is the Spirit of America performance that blends American history, music, and patriotism and engages the audience through singing and participation. Following this live performance is the Yosi’s Patriotic Cowboy America performance at 7pm. This event is an interactive sing-along where kids celebrate America’s 250th by dancing to the live music! Both of these free and family friendly events are sure to engage the kids as we celebrate America’s 250th!
Fireworks Display
To end off the patriotic evening, our Independence Day Fireworks Show has been rescheduled for July 16th! This isn’t your standard fireworks show, this is an impressive display that is sure to be worth the wait. Grab a spot on the beach with your friends and family and enjoy the celebration. This is our biggest show of the summer, and you won’t want to miss it!
A Few Things to Know Before You Go
When does the event start? The ribbon cutting ceremony will be at 12:15pm, and the rest of the festivities will follow after that, with fireworks to end off the night. At the South Beach Stage, on the beach across from the ride park, there will be live entertainment happening at 5pm and 7pm. You can find more information and the entertainment schedule here!
Do I need a ticket for the event? The live entertainment, ribbon cutting ceremony, and fireworks have free admission for everyone! The rides at the ride park, including Patriot’s Run, will operate with the wristband or ticket pricing.
Is Patriot’s Run good for younger kids? Yes! This roller coaster is designed to be a family-friendly coaster. Be sure to check the height requirements before you ride.
When and where can I view the fireworks? The fireworks show will start at dark, and it can be viewed anywhere along the beach or the boardwalk. Make sure to check our website for any updates as well!
Planning Your Trip
The celebration is a great excuse to make a full day out of everything Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has to offer! Make sure to arrive early for parking and a good beach spot. When you’re done by the ocean, grab some food and check out the live performances happening around the boardwalk! Next, be sure to check out the ride park to take advantage of the special deals happening. While you’re there, check out Patriot’s Run and be among the first guests to celebrate the official opening of the attraction! Before the fireworks begin, make sure to have dinner beforehand so you can find a good viewing spot. The Boardwalk Bar & Grill has rooftop seating that is perfect for viewing the fireworks display, but anywhere on the beach or boardwalk is also a great spot! Finally, end off the night with some ice cream at Mister Softee.
However you decide to spend the day, we can’t wait to celebrate America’s 250th with you on the boardwalk! Make sure to check out Patriot’s Run, enjoy the live entertainment and patriotic-spirit throughout the boardwalk, and stay for a fireworks show that you won’t want to miss!