If you thought all the excitement around America’s 250th birthday was happening only in Philadelphia, think again. Across the Delaware River, New Jersey’s Camden County is planning a wide range of events to mark the nation’s milestone anniversary, highlighting the region’s role in the Ame rican Revolution. On Wednesday, April 8, officials gathered to make the announcement regarding the big upcoming celebrations. “A lot of great things happened here in New Jersey” said Commissioner Director Lou Cappelli. 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. Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen said he’s especially looking forward to the festival’s headlining act. “Man I can’t wait, The Commodores, lady, you pick me up when I’m down, woo!” Carstarphen said. 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. County leaders said the celebration is already driving tourism interest. “We are starting to hear from our hotels they’re getting far more bookings than they have in the past for the summer, so hopefully that trend continues,” Cappelli said. Cappelli said officials expect a strong spillover effect from Philadelphia, similar to what the region experienced during the Pope’s visit in 2015. 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. “We’re hoping to have a great time and a big economic boost this summer,” Cappelli said. To learn more about the upcoming celebrations, visit this website. ...read more read less