Fourth of July in Barnegat Light
A scenic LBI fireworks show with Old Barney lighthouse as the backdrop
Get Fourth of July Updates
Weather alerts, parking tips, and last-minute changes for Barnegat Light
No spam. Just event updates. Unsubscribe anytime.
Fourth Of July Weekend at a Glance
Saturday
July 4, 2026
~9 PM
After Sunset
Lighthouse Area
Best Viewing
Old Barney
Scenic Backdrop
While You're in Barnegat Light
Make the most of your visit with these local highlights and essential info.
🎯 Don't Miss
- Barnegat Lighthouse — Climb 217 steps to the top of "Old Barney" for panoramic views of LBI and the inlet. Just $1 admission—4.7/5 stars. One of NJ's most iconic landmarks since 1859.
- Viking Village — Working commercial fishing fleet where you can watch boats unload their catch. Craft fairs, art shows, and fresh seafood market. Authentic LBI experience.
- Barnegat Light State Park — Nature trails, wildlife viewing, and the widest beaches on LBI. Excellent fishing from the inlet jetty.
🚗 Parking Tips
Staying overnight?
Find hotels and B&Bs in Barnegat Light
Book Barnegat Light Tours & Experiences
Make the most of the weekend — book a tour, tasting, or guided experience. Free cancellation on most reservations.
Why Barnegat Light for July 4th?
Barnegat Light sits at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, and its July 4th fireworks are among the most scenic on the shore — set against the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse, known to locals as "Old Barney." The show goes off after sunset, around 9 PM (confirm with the borough).
This is a quieter, charming corner of LBI, home to the Viking Village commercial fishing docks, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, and the dramatic Barnegat Inlet. The celebration trades big-crowd energy for a relaxed, family-friendly, picturesque display you won't find anywhere else on the island.
Spend the day climbing the lighthouse, watching the boats come in at Viking Village, and walking the inlet jetty, then catch the Independence Day parade (it steps off at 6 p.m. on July 4 from West 11th Street and Central Avenue) before settling in near the lighthouse for an unforgettable fireworks view with Old Barney lit against the night sky.
How to Spend the Fourth
Morning Beach Time
Start on Barnegat Light's beaches near the inlet — badges required, but crowds are light.
Afternoon Lighthouse
Climb Old Barney at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and walk the inlet jetty.
Sunset Dinner
Dinner at Kubel's or Mustache Bill's Diner before the show.
Fireworks Magic
Head toward the lighthouse area after sunset — fireworks light up around 9 PM with Old Barney as the backdrop.
Where to Eat
Tables fill up fast over the holiday weekend. Reserve a few days out, especially anywhere with a water view.
Mustache Bill's Diner
$Diner / Breakfast
James Beard America's Classic — legendary breakfast, long waits on the holiday
Kubel's
$$Bar / Seafood
Barnegat Light institution near the docks for casual dining and drinks
The Gateway
$$American / Casual
Friendly local spot for burgers and seafood
Daymark
$$$Upscale Seafood / Bayfront
Waterfront dining at Viking Village — reservations recommended for the 4th
Off The Hook
$$Seafood / Casual
Fresh local seafood near the fishing docks
Barnegat Light Market
$Deli / Market
Sandwiches and provisions to pack for a beach picnic
Where to Stay
The rooms closest to the beach and the fireworks book up first for the Fourth. Compare hotels and rentals below and reserve early.
The Sand Castle B&B
Boutique inn
Intimate stay near the lighthouse — books months ahead for July 4th
Sunset Motel (nearby)
Classic LBI motel
Simple, affordable rooms close to the inlet and beaches
LBI North Beach Rentals
Island beach houses
Sleep 8-12, July 4th week is peak demand — book 4-6 months ahead
VRBO Vacation Rentals
Home away from home
Full kitchens, multiple bedrooms for families
Book Your Stay
Find hotels, vacation rentals, and B&Bs in Barnegat Light
July 4th weekend availability limited
Barnegat Light fills up months in advance
Powered by Booking.com
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Things to Do on the Water & Around Town
Things to Do
fourth of july Weekend Tips
Parking
- • State park lot fills by midday — arrive early for the lighthouse
- • Street parking near the north end is limited on the 4th
- • Biking is the easiest way around Barnegat Light
Beach Access
- • Beach badges required in Barnegat Light
- • Day badges available at beach entrances
- • The lighthouse-area viewing spots are free — no badge needed
Fireworks
- • Show goes off after sunset, around 9 PM — confirm the exact time with the borough
- • Old Barney lighthouse is the scenic backdrop
- • LBI's Route 72 causeway backs up on the holiday — arrive early or stay overnight
Book Your Barnegat Light Holiday Weekend
Book everything you need for your Barnegat Light trip in one place.
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
More July 4th Shore Towns
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Barnegat Light July 4th
Old Barney lighthouse, Viking Village, and a scenic after-sunset fireworks show make Barnegat Light a one-of-a-kind July 4th on LBI.