BELLEVILLE, NJ – June 28, 2019 – Tom Agosta remembers the anticipation of waiting all year for Belleville’s annual Independence Day fireworks display and the thrill of seeing the summer sky light up.
“I grew up here in town in the 1960s and I remember how we would count the days until the fireworks,” Agosta recalls. “We would head over to Belleville High School to watch. It was always the highlight of the summer.”
Agosta has grown from Little Leaguer to police officer in Belleville to his current role as the township’s Director of Recreation. The July 4th fireworks display has always been a time-honored tradition he refuses to miss.
As in past years, the fireworks display will be preceded by a host of festivities.
Everything kicks off at 6 p.m. at the high school at 100 Passaic Ave. on July 4.
There will be trackless trains, games and inflatable rides for children of all ages. There will be several food trucks, serving everything from hot dogs to empanadas to ice cream and more. Meanwhile, American Party DJs will crank up the party on the football field, too. The entertainment team plays music, dresses up in costumes, hosts games and gives out prizes and gifts to residents.
The star of the show, as always, is the fireworks.
Belleville contracts with Garden State Fireworks, which has worked on such notable events as the annual July 4th fireworks show at Washington’s National Mall, Rutgers’ 250th anniversary celebration, Major League Soccer’s MLS Cup and Super Bowl XVLIII.
It has resulted in a bigger, brighter and longer show in Belleville.
“It has always been a great show,” Agosta said, “Last year’s display was the best I have ever seen here. The display is about 20 to 25 minutes. In the past it has been I would say 10 to 15 minutes. So, come on out. Belleville will be the place to celebrate the holiday.”
The celebration is heightened as American Party DJs plays patriotic music as a backdrop to Garden State Fireworks’ aerial display.
“We are proud of our annual Independence Day fireworks display,” Mayor Michael Melham said. “Not only it is lots of fun for thousands of people, it’s a great way to celebrate our nation’s birthday and once again let freedom ring.”