Independence Day Fireworks Postponed Over Extreme Heat In Somerset County

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Somerset County has postponed its Independence Day Concert and Fireworks at North Branch Park because of a forecast for extreme heat.

The event was initially set for Friday, July 3. It is now moved to Friday, July 17.

The Somerset County Park Commission(SCPC) announced the change after the National Weather Service predicted that the heat index will exceed 100 degrees Friday evening.

"The Park Commission’s primary concern is the safety of our visitors, and so we made the difficult decision to postpone this year’s fireworks by two weeks in light of the expected extreme heat," said SCPC Director Dan Hayes. "We are happy to announce that all of our partners can make the new date, and that Somerset County will be able to dance to the live music of Suit and Mai Tai, select dishes from more than a dozen food trucks, and enjoy the best fireworks in Central Jersey."

The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning that remains in effect through 8 p.m. on Saturday.

"Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees expected each day," according to the NWS.

The rescheduled event will remain at North Branch Park in Bridgewater.

Park gates will open at 6 p.m. so attendees can set up blankets, chairs and picnic items ahead of the fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Suit and Mai Tai will perform from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and again from 10:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., with songs spanning the 1970s through current chart hits.

Traffic restrictions will also be in place.

Vehicular access via Milltown Road will be prohibited once the parking lot is full or at 8:30 p.m., whichever comes first, though foot traffic will be permitted throughout the event.

Attendees may exit to Route 202 at any time during the event.

The county also said the NJ 3rd Regiment Revolutionary War encampment reenactors will be on site to demonstrate New Jersey’s role in helping the Continental Army secure victory in the Revolutionary War during the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Picnic baskets are permitted, but alcohol is prohibited. Personal drones and fireworks are not allowed.

The weather-related change does not affect the 2026 Summer Concert Series at Duke Island Park.

Admission and parking are free for the remaining shows, which run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.: Arena Flashback on July 12, The TeeTones on July 19, Whiskey & Roses on July 26, Starman on Aug. 2 and High in the Mid 80's on Aug. 9.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.