One of Rockaway Borough’s longest-running summer traditions is back this weekend. The Rockaway Borough Fire Department Family Festival returns to Firemans Field on Beach Street on Saturday, July 11, 2026, starting at 5 p.m., with live music, food, and a full fireworks show to close out the night. If the weather does not cooperate, the rain date is Sunday, July 12.
Now in its 49th year, the festival is the all-volunteer department’s signature community night, and every dollar raised goes right back to the firefighters who show up for their neighbors year round.
What to expect at Firemans Field
The evening is built for families. Live music comes from Wind-Up Monkey, and the food lineup runs from the fire department’s own kitchen to Rita’s Italian Ice, fresh clams, and a beer truck for guests 21 and over with valid ID. Kids and grown-ups can settle in on the field for a relaxed evening before the sky lights up after dark.
The fireworks are handled by Garden State Fireworks, the Morris County based company known for shows up and down the East Coast, and they are scheduled to kick off around 9:45 p.m.
A 50/50 with real stakes
The festival’s raffles are part of the fun and part of the fundraising. An on-field 50/50 runs at $5 per ticket, and an off-premise 50/50 offers a shot at up to $20,000 at $20 per ticket, with only 2,000 tickets sold. Winning tickets are drawn at 9:30 p.m., right before the fireworks begin. For the off-premise drawing, you do not need to be present to win.
Why it matters
Rockaway Borough is protected by a volunteer fire department, and nights like this are how a small town keeps that tradition going. The festival covers gear, training, and equipment while giving the community a reason to gather on a summer Saturday. Firemans Field sits at 144 Beach Street, and admission is a chance to support the people who answer the call.
You can find the latest details on the Rockaway Borough Fire Department Facebook page. Looking for more to do this weekend? See our roundup of things to do in Morris County July 11 and 12, and browse our guide to free things to do in Morris County this summer.
