Avalon, Stone Harbor Get County Grants For America’s 250th

Posted June 22nd 2026

Avalon and Stone Harbor each received grants from the Cape May County Commission to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States while highlighting each borough’s individual Fourth of July and summer tradition.

On May 13, County Commission Director Leonard Desiderio presented the Borough Council of Avalon with a $20,725 grant, and Stone Harbor received a grant of $12,500. This money comes from the Cape May County Board of Commissioners’ “CMC Land of the Free, Celebration 250” grant program. The towns are among 16 to be awarded a grant, and Avalon is one of six to receive the maximum individual amount. The awards were unanimously approved by the commissioners during the public meeting on April 28, totaling $248,346 in grant money.

In Avalon, festive fun starts a few days earlier on July 2 with a reading of the Declaration of Independence prior to the Thursdays at Surfside performance by American Soul. A new patriotic golf cart parade with prizes will take place on July 3 followed by a special concert by Nashville Express Americana. On July 4, the boat parade is scheduled for noon, and this year it will be livestreamed. Finally, there will be an expanded fireworks show starting at 9pm.

“We were able to add a longer, more spectacular type [of firework] show than we’ve had before,” Mayor John McCorristin noted. In addition, on Aug. 27, there will be a grand finale patriotic drone show over Surfside Park during the Summer Concert Series. The Johnny Folsom 4, a Johnny Cash tribute band, will perform before the drone show at 7pm.

McCorristin added: “We’re looking forward to a good summer. We really appreciate the county for helping us out, and Lenny Desiderio for coming over in person to deliver the check. We do appreciate that.”

Stone Harbor is gearing up for the 250th celebration as well. Its America 250 Home and Business Decorating Contest began on June 10 and will run through July 2. Register your house today so the judges know where to find you.

On July 3, head to 82nd Street Recreation Fields for all the evening events. Awards will be given out to the most patriotically decorated homes and businesses. At 7pm, there will be a concert by Jim Bannach & the BLT Orchestra. The enhanced fireworks show will follow the concert and will begin at dusk (approximately 9:15).

On July 4, the Stone Harbor traditions continue at 10am, with activities on 82nd Street until noon. The opening ceremony will begin at 10am and will be followed by a sandcastle building contest, a Phillies home run derby, and the iconic kids’ bike race. For each event, there will be trophies awarded for first, second, and third place. At noon, a USA decorated golf cart parade will begin from St. Paul’s parking lot and will end at the recreation fields.

“From the excitement of our America 250 celebration to the simple joys of a day at the beach, Stone Harbor is ready for a summer to remember,” said Mayor Tim Carney. “We invite residents and visitors alike to join us as we honor our nation’s history, celebrate our community’s traditions, and create new memories with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying our special America 250 events, shopping along 96th Street, attending concerts and recreation programs, or simply watching the sunset over the bay, there’s something for everyone in Stone Harbor this summer. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing all that makes our hometown such a special place.”

Photo caption: Cape May County Commissioner Director Len Desiderio presented Mayor John McCorristin and members of Avalon Borough Council with a grant for America’s 250th anniversary celebration during its May 13 council meeting.