Lacey’s Firework Show Tonight

Independence Day is coming to Lacey a day early this year as the township holds its annual firework show tonight.

“It’s always a real exciting time in town…Come on out and enjoy it,” Committeeman Gary Quinn said.

Fireworks begin at dusk at Lacey Township High School, on Haines Street in Lanoka Harbor.

The Township Committee thanked Exelon Corporation for donating more than $10,000 for the fireworks show, calling them a “good neighbor.”

“We couldn’t do it without them,” Mayor Mark Dykoff said.

Quinn also reminds residents that illegal fireworks are not permitted in Lacey. Year after year, residents get hurt, he said.

“The police can only handle so many calls. We will react. We will have the police come out there. Summonses will be issued. As we move forward, we’ll enforce it stronger each year,” he said.

Dykoff asks residents to “be safe and patient.”

“If you’ve ever been out to the fireworks, people arrive in drips and drabs and they all want to leave at one time. Police do the best they can and Public Works and Recreation do the best they can to organize and get everyone out,” he said.

The night will feature music by Jersey Shore DJs. Residents should bring their own chairs and blankets.

“So have a good time, enjoy the night and have a happy and safe holiday,” Dykoff said.

The rain date is Thursday, July 5.

Fourth of July Picnic

The Lacey Elks Lodge will host a Fourth of July Picnic on Saturday, July 7 from 1 to 6 p.m.

The traditional family-style picnic will take place at Elks Point pavilion on Beach Boulevard in Forked River.

The day will feature musical entertainment by Michael Kelly, supervised children’s games including tug of war, volleyball, musical chairs and more.

The barbecue will be 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 and all proceeds will benefit local veterans, special needs children and youth activities.

For information on Fourth of July events throughout Ocean County,