New Jersey Stage logo
New Jersey Stage Menu



 

New Hope Announces First Friday Summer Series and Fireworks Shows

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 07/02/2024


(NEW HOPE, PA) -- The Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce and New Hope Celebrates has announced First Friday Summer Series and Fireworks Shows. New Hope's signature summer program expands in 2024 with even more dazzling fireworks displays and a monthly block party on First Friday of each month. Festivities will include local artists and crafters, live art with New Hope Arts, a cocktail garden and outdoor lounge with Kylr Rum, captivating live music, food from Italian Cucina, and other festivities.

The outdoor block party will shut down and take place on Stockton Avenue (between Bridge and Ferry streets) on July 5, August 2 and September 13, between 5:00pm and 9:00pm. Fireworks will light up the sky over the Delaware River each night, creating a spectacular and Instagram-worthy grand finale. For July and August, fireworks will take place at 9:00pm, and for September the final time will be between 9:00pm and 9:15pm. July's celebration and official summer kick-off is made possible with support from sponsor Union Chill Cannabis Company.  All festivities are no charge and open to the public, with families welcome! For more about the event, and for a list of restaurants, bars, shops and hotels to visit on summer weekends, visit www dot newhope dot com and @visitnewhope on social media.

"We are proud to bring back the New Hope First Friday Summer Series and Fireworks Display," said Michael Sklar, President of The Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce. "New Hope is one of Pennsylvania's top destinations to visit in the summer months.  Our charming Bucks County town is the quintessential place for a great American getaway. This program lets us light up the night skies and offer a monthly celebration that brings together over 10,000 people for a night of food, drink, art, music and fireworks. There's truly something for everyone."

He added, "We started this pilot program last year and have expanded it in 2024. It is a great time and tons of fun, especially for families. It is also a winner and gives a boost to local businesses. It adds to the over-all summer experience and drives visitors to our restaurants, shops and hotels. Additionally, it lets us offer opportunities for talented artists and vendors to showcase and sell their work - and hopefully encourage them long-term to look to open a brick and mortar in New Hope."

“We are excited to be a part of this collaboration with Visit New Hope," said Melissa Patterson, President of New Hope Celebrates. "We ran the fireworks at the PrideFest weekend this past spring and they were awesome. Standing on the grass between the Playhouse and Stella I saw locals, visitors, and families enjoying the evening, which was an amazing experience of all of us coming together to enjoy the night. We can’t wait for the program to kick-off off for summer and run through September."




New Jersey Stage provides affordable advertising for the arts, click here for info



New Hope First Friday Summer Series and Fireworks Display is one of the town's signature programs that started in 2023 and has expanded in 2024. The program aims to spotlight New Hope as a top tourist destination and is designed to bring in visitors to the charming Bucks County town on weekends from July to September. For locals, it is also something out of the ordinary to bring together the community.

Every First Friday, between July and September, Stockton Avenue between Bridge and Ferry streets will be closed between 5:00pm and 9:00pm. Festivities will include an expanded al fresco dining experience offered by Italian Cucina enhancing the festive atmosphere with delicious culinary delights. Reservations are highly recommended!  For cold drinks, KLYR RUM will present a special outdoor pop-up cocktail garden and lounge with cocktails for sale. Musicians and bands will fill the street with live music. Artists, crafters and makers will be selling their wares on the street. New Hope Arts will celebrate the towns creative spirit with live art demonstrations. In addition to the festivities on Stockton Avenue, visitors are encouraged to explore and support the many charming small businesses throughout New Hope, each offering unique products and services that reflect the vibrant spirit of our community.

For July's kick-off event, festivities are made possible with support from sponsor Union Chill Cannabis Company. Celebrating their one-year anniversary in June, Union Chill has generously sponsored the costs for the Lambertville police force and additional EMS services, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Union Chill, known for its commitment to community support and education, will have their doors open from 9:00am to 7:00pm during the fireworks shows, offering specials and promotions for attendees.

For July's line-up, look for Sam Ryan to provide the lively tuns and look for the follow list of artists and vendors: Scrambled Gallery of Gifts, LOLA New Hope, Remi Threadz, Lumberville Candle Company, Freitag Art, Luna Lisa Designs, Malina Crafts, You Got a Lovett, Michelle Kott Art, Paper Pie Books, Annie B's Treats, Drink Up! With Jenn, Wandering Wildflowers, Energy Revealed, Kate's Hair Boutique, Hazzon Has It, Vaishali Pundir Studios, Style It Custom Creations, Mannys Makes, and Lillo Stained Glass.

For August, the starting list of vendors includes: Lillo Stained Glass, Scrambled Gallery of Gifts, LOLA New Hope, Avant-Garden Pottery, Remi Threadz, Freitas Art, Yura’s Apiary, Drink Up! With Jenn, Malina Crafts, Wandering Wildflowers, You Got a Lovett, Kate’s Hair Boutique, Annie B’s Sweets, Bead On!, Style It Custom Creations, + More!

For September, the starting list of vendors includes: Lumberville Candle Company, Scrambled Gallery of Gifts, LOLA New Hope, Remi Threadz, Freitas Art, Beyond the Wildflowers, Drink up! With Jenn, Luna Lisa Designs, Malina Crafts, Wandering Wildflowers, Stitched Together Handmade Mutual Aid, Yura’s Apiary, Amazing Grace, You Got a Lovett, Helene Ann Studio, Kate’s Hair Boutique, Glitter Magic by Tiffany, Kevin Van Holt Gallery, and Annie B’s Sweets.

Look for more vendors and artists, plus musicians, to be announced for August and September.

This no charge, rain-or-shine event promises to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together residents and visitors alike for an unforgettable celebration. In the event of severe weather, notifications will be provided for any necessary changes on all of social media platforms.

The Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the economic and cultural landscape of New Hope, PA. Governed by a Board of all volunteers, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community spirit through a wide array of events, advocacy efforts, and collaborative projects. Since its inception, the Chamber has been instrumental in organizing initiatives that promote commerce, cultural enrichment, and educational opportunities. Funds generated through Chamber events are reinvested into the community, supporting collaborative business ventures and cultural projects that make New Hope an exceptional place for both residents and visitors.

New Hope Celebrates (NHC) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused on highlighting the history and cultural nuances of New Hope, PA and Lambertville, NJ while stimulating the retail, hospitality, and professional community. NHC is comprised of a Board of Directors that drives activities and events that serve the diverse LGBTQ+ populace through the creation and promotion of marketing opportunities, educational activities, and cultural events. One such event is the annual, week-long Pride celebration held in May. Since 2003, NHC has organized events that recognize the strong LGBTQ+ presence in the New Hope area and celebrated the history and culture of our scenic river towns. Funding generated through New Hope Celebrates events is channeled back into our community to support our neighbors in collaborative business and cultural initiatives that make New Hope a great place for residents and visitors alike.

Union Chill Cannabis Company is a community-focused cannabis dispensary committed to giving back through education and support. Celebrating its one-year anniversary in June, Union Chill continues to be a pillar of the local community, dedicated to making a positive impact.




EVENT PREVIEWS

(PHILADELPHIA, PA) -- Manayunk Development Corporation is excited to celebrate the 37th Annual Manayunk Arts Festival on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 11:00am to 7:00pm and Sunday, June 28, 2026 from 11:00am to 5:00pm. The tradition of being the tri-state area's largest outdoor juried art festival - and the largest in Pennsylvania - will continue as Main Street hosts approximately 300 different local and nationally known artists and crafters.
Carteret

Carteret's Independence Day Festival to feature country star Walker Hayes

(CARTERET, NJ) -- One of New Jersey's most popular Independence Day Festivals will take place in Carteret's Civic Center Park (100 Cooke Avenue) from 6:00pm to midnight on Friday, July 3, 2026 in celebration of America's 250th birthday.
Bergen County presents 3rd Annual Star-Spangled Spectacular

Bergen County presents 3rd Annual Star-Spangled Spectacular

(RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ) -- County Executive Jim Tedesco, the County Board of Commissioners, and the Bergen 250 Initiative are excited to announce that Bergen County's 3rd Annual Star-Spangled Spectacular will return July 4, 2026 at Overpeck County Park. All are invited to attend this patriotic afternoon of family fun which will include live music, children's activities, over 20 food trucks, a beer and wine garden, carnival attractions, and stunning fireworks to conclude the evening over Overpeck Creek.
Washington Crossing Historic Park Launches Community-Wide Call to Support Expanded Independence Day Celebration in America

Washington Crossing Historic Park Launches Community-Wide Call to Support Expanded Independence Day Celebration in America's 250th Anniversary Year

(WASHINGTON CROSSING, PA) -- Washington Crossing Historic Park (WCHP) in Pennsylvania plans to host an expanded Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, July 4, 2026 from 4:00pm to 9:30pm featuring immersive living history experiences, family-friendly activities, live music, and the return of fireworks over the Delaware River. Designed as a community-wide celebration of America250, the event is intended to create a meaningful space for residents and visitors to commemorate this historic milestone year. Please note: Admission is required; registration is recommended only for the 4:00pm ‐ 8:00pm Living History Program. The evening concert and fireworks are free and open to the public; no registration is required to attend those portions of the event.
Passage Theatre Company presents 3rd Annual Word on Front festival

Passage Theatre Company presents 3rd Annual Word on Front festival

(TRENTON, NJ) -- Passage Theatre Company's third annual Word on Front event is set to be its biggest yet. In celebration of the United States of America's 250th Anniversary, the company is presenting Word on Front 250, three consecutive weekends of a variety of live arts from June 26 to July 12, 2026. This festival of spoken word, music, and solo performance will celebrate the untold and underrepresented stories of America.
Centenary Stage Company Announces Lineup for SUMMERFEST 2026

Centenary Stage Company Announces Lineup for SUMMERFEST 2026

(HACKETTSTOWN, NJ) -- Centenary Stage Company's SUMMERFEST 2026 is set to take center stage in the Lackland Performing Arts Center with four productions running through the summer months. SUMMERFEST will feature, A Taste of Ireland presented by Pace Live, The Wedding Singer, Four Sticks: The Music of Led Zeppelin, and Maltby & Shire's Closer Than Ever.

Hallmark Stars Take the Stage at The Carteret PAC on July 22nd during First-Time Multi-City Tour Experience Hallmark Stars Live

(CARTERET, NJ) -- Hallmark and Gershwin Entertainment are proud to announce Hallmark Stars Live presented by Michaels, a new live tour kicking off at URSB Carteret Performing Arts and Events Center on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 7:30pm where some of the network's most beloved stars step off screen and onto the stage. Hosted by fan-favorite Nikki DeLoach (A Grand Ole Opry Christmas), the tour will feature Hallmark mainstays for a night where the cameras are off – and the stories keep rolling.
Hallmark Stars Live comes to MPAC on July 26th

Hallmark Stars Live comes to MPAC on July 26th

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Hallmark Stars Live presented by Michaels, is a new live tour kicking off this summer where some of the network's most beloved stars step off screen and onto the stage. Hosted by fan-favorite Nikki DeLoach (A Grand Ole Opry Christmas), the tour will feature Hallmark mainstays for a night where the cameras are off – and the stories keep rolling. The tour comes to Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 7:00pm.

 

FEATURED EVENTS


Director's Cut: A Tribute to Visionaries

Sunday, June 21, 2026 @ 4:00pm
State Theatre New Jersey
New Brunswick, NJ


4th Annual Spring Recital MDC Animation Studios

Sunday, June 21, 2026 @ 11:00am
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
Rahway, NJ


4th Annual Spring Recital MDC Animation Studios

Sunday, June 21, 2026 @ 2:00pm
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
Rahway, NJ


4th Annual Spring Recital MDC Animation Studios

Sunday, June 21, 2026 @ 6:00pm
Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) - Main Stage
Rahway, NJ


MAC Music Café

Sunday, June 21, 2026 @ 4:00pm
Middletown Arts Center
Middletown, NJ



 

Advertise with NJ Stage for $50-$100 per month, click here for info