The Randolph Freedom Festival returns for its 50th year from Thursday, July 9 through Saturday, July 11, 2026, giving Rockaway families a nearby Morris County tradition to mark Independence Day. The festival runs from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night at County College of Morris, Lot 1, 214 Center Grove Road in Randolph, a short drive from Rockaway Township.
Presented by Randolph Recreation in partnership with the Kiwanis Club of Randolph, the three night celebration includes carnival rides, games, food trucks, craft vendors, and a beer garden for guests 21 and older. Live music runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the Norton Smull Band on Thursday and 80’s Revolution on Friday.
The Randolph Kiwanis Freedom Parade steps off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, featuring local marching bands, military units, floats, and community groups. The parade marches rain or shine and is only cancelled for an electrical storm.
The weekend ends with a fireworks display on Saturday, July 11 at 9:45 p.m., synced to music. The rain date for the festival and fireworks is Sunday, July 12.
Admission is free. Parking at County College of Morris is a suggested $5 donation per car, which benefits a Randolph youth group. Smoking and pets are not allowed on the campus, and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for the fireworks.
More details are available on the Randolph Township event page and the Kiwanis Club of Randolph festival schedule.
