Wyclef Jean is set to headline the Jersey City 4th of July Festival and Fireworks, with Fat Joe and Funk Flex opening for the Fugees founder.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
As part of the free concert, Fat Joe and Funk Flex will hit the Exchange Place stage at approximately 7 p.m., with Wyclef Jean set to begin his set at roughly 8 p.m.
“Fat Joe, Funk Flex, and Wyclef Jean are music legends in their own right, and their performances will further elevate our Fourth of July festivities for an unforgettable day of family fun, music, and community spirit as we celebrate our nation’s independence,” Mayor Steven Fulop said in a statement.
The day-long celebration starts at 12 p.m. with food vendors, family activities, and much more hosted by Jersey City Night Market along the Hudson River waterfront.
Local talent from Jersey City will take the concert stage ahead of the main performances to excite the crowds of 100,00 residents and visitors from all over the tri-state area.
Following Wyclef Jean’s headlining performance, Jersey City’s fireworks – conducted by Guinness World Record holder Fireworks by Grucci – will launch from two barges located in the middle of the Hudson River with a large viewing area along the waterfront.
Spectators can watch the fireworks show along the Hudson River Walkway, from Grundy Pier to the Colgate Clock.
“We are incredibly proud to promote Jersey City artists who will get the unique chance to share the stage with such renowned musicians,” added Cultural Affairs Director Christine Goodman.
“After a day of good music, family fun, and lots of great food, Wyclef Jean’s performance and Grucci fireworks will undoubtedly be the main highlights, offering our community and visitors an unforgettable experience as we come together to celebrate our nation’s independence.”
The event is also being organized in conjunction with the Exchange Place Alliance.
“The Exchange Place Alliance is proud to help host an event that brings together Jersey City’s diverse community for an unforgettable day of music, patriotism, and spectacular fireworks,” said Elizabeth Cain, the former EPA executive director who now serves as a spokesperson for the organization.
For the fourth consecutive year, Jersey City Night Market will host the dayside vendors lining Montgomery Street, offering a range of family-friendly activities and delicious food options.
“The City’s support of small, local businesses is tremendous, and it is an honor to represent our city and its diversity! Guests can expect incredible food ranging from Filipino BBQ to Brick oven Pizza to desserts like handcrafted macarons and chocolate-covered bacon! Local artisans and creators will also be on-site, so be prepared to discover new treasures,” stated Alysis Vasquez, the owner MMFB Productions and Jersey City Night Market.
Fireworks by Grucci is a sixth-generation, family-owned and operated fireworks company with a prominent reputation, having performed at eight U.S. Presidential Inaugurations, Olympic Games, and the World’s Fair. Grucci also earned the Guinness World Record for “largest fireworks display” ever recorded.
Please visit the city’s website at July4thNJ.com for more information on the event, transportation, directions, and what to bring.
Anyone attending the event is strongly encouraged to arrive by foot, bike, or public transportation, as parking will be extremely limited. Roads surrounding Montgomery Street along the waterfront will be closed for the duration of the event.
Bike JC will also host a free bicycle valet at Exchange Place.
