BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Somerset County's annual Independence Day fireworks display is returning for 2026 on Friday, July 3, at North Branch Park on Milltown Road in Bridgewater.
The free event will begin with park access at 6 p.m., and the fireworks are set to start at 9:30 p.m.
North Branch Park gates will open early to allow vehicles to enter and give families time to picnic on the grounds before the show.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, with heavy car and foot traffic expected as the start time approaches.
Milltown Road is expected to close at about 9 p.m. ahead of the display.
The event will include more than just fireworks.
The NJ 3rd Regiment Revolutionary War encampment will be on-site, giving park visitors an added attraction before nightfall.
Organizers also said food trucks will be available, and people may bring picnic baskets into the park.
Those heading to North Branch Park are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets to use while spending the evening on the grounds.
Alcohol is prohibited, and personal fireworks are not allowed.
Traffic changes are expected to continue after the fireworks end.
Milltown Road will remain closed for 30 minutes to one hour following the show while pedestrians make their way out of the park and through nearby neighborhoods.
Bridgewater Police will assist park staff with traffic flow during that period.
For more information, visit somersetcountyparks.org/north-branch-park/pages/independence-day-fireworks.
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