Summer is in full swing, and New Jersey is bursting with free events and activities that let you enjoy the season without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking for fireworks, live music, outdoor movies, nature adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top free things to do in NJ this July:

Free July 4th Fireworks 

Celebrate Independence Day across the Garden State with spectacular fireworks displays. See our list of firework shows. Many towns offer live music and food vendors alongside the show!

Free Summer Movies

Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a family-friendly film outdoors. Reserve a free ticket for select indoor movies. See our list of Summer movies.

Free Summer Concerts & Music Series

Enjoy live music under the stars at these free concert series throughout New Jersey shore towns and communities. See our list of Summer concerts.

Boardwalk Fun

A classic New Jersey experience is to walk on a beach Boardwalk. Play arcade games, eat boardwalk food and treats, smell the ocean air, or sit and relax on a bench. Check out Point Pleasant, Ocean City, Wildwood and Cape May. See our list of Boardwalks.

Badge Free Beaches

Enjoy a family day at some free NJ beaches - Atlantic City, North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest. Other NJ beaches have nominal fees and/or free for children under a certain age. See our list of beaches.

Explore NJ’s State Parks 

Some parks have no Entrance Fees. Take a hike, swim, or picnic at one of NJ’s beautiful state parks.

* Allaire State Park
* Hacklebarney State Park
* Liberty State Park
* Voorhees State Park
* Washington Crossing State Park
* Saddle River County Park
* Island Beach State Park (fee Memorial Day to Labor Day)
* Cheesequake State Park (fee Memorial Day to Labor Day)
* Ringwood State Park (fee Memorial Day to Labor Day))
* Highpoint State Park (fee Memorial Day to Labor Day)
* Swartzwood State Park (fee Memorial Day to Labor Day)

Visit a Museum

Free (or super affordable) Museum Days & Family Events. Some museums and centers offer free admission days or events.

* Rutgers Geology Museum - Historic geology & paleontology displays
* Newark Museum of Art - Free Community Day (July 13)
* Grounds for Sculpture - Select free family days (check website)
* Princeton University Art Museum - Always free!
* Monmouth Museum - Free some dates (check schedule)
* All‑Sports Museum of Southern Jersey
* Heritage Glass Museum - Showcases historic glass pieces
* Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum - Wildlife art & conservation
* Montclair Art Museum - American & Native Art
* Long Pond Iron Works - Historic ironworks within a state park

July in New Jersey offers a wide variety of free events and activities for all ages. Residents and visitors can enjoy fireworks shows, live outdoor concerts, movies under the stars, nature programs, and access to state parks and museums. Whether you’re looking for family fun, cultural experiences, or relaxing entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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