If you thought all the excitement around America\u2019s 250th birthday was happening only in Philadelphia, think again.<\/p>\n
Across the Delaware River, New Jersey’s Camden County is planning a wide range of events to mark the nation\u2019s milestone anniversary, highlighting the region\u2019s role in the American Revolution.<\/p>\n
On Wednesday, April 8, officials gathered to make the announcement regarding the big upcoming celebrations.<\/p>\n
\u201cA lot of great things happened here in New Jersey\u201d said Commissioner Director Lou Cappelli.<\/p>\n
Officials said weeks of activities are scheduled throughout the spring and summer. Plans include the opening of a historic museum, a parade through the city of Camden, historical reenactments, walking tours and a waterfront Freedom Festival featuring The Commodores.<\/p>\n
Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen said he\u2019s especially looking forward to the festival\u2019s headlining act.<\/p>\n
\u201cMan I can\u2019t wait, The Commodores, lady, you pick me up when I\u2019m down, woo!\u201d Carstarphen said.<\/p>\n
Historic celebrations will also take place on the water. At the Battleship New Jersey, visitors are invited to attend events around Flag Day and World War II Day, along with two fireworks shows leading up to the Fourth of July.<\/p>\n
County leaders said the celebration is already driving tourism interest.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are starting to hear from our hotels they\u2019re getting far more bookings than they have in the past for the summer, so hopefully that trend continues,\u201d Cappelli said.<\/p>\n
Cappelli said officials expect a strong spillover effect from Philadelphia, similar to what the region experienced during the Pope\u2019s visit in 2015.<\/p>\n
As Philadelphia prepares for large crowds, some visitors are expected to stay in Camden County, while others may travel across the Ben Franklin Bridge on PATCO to take part in New Jersey’s events.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re hoping to have a great time and a big economic boost this summer,\u201d Cappelli said.<\/p>\n