Elizabeth, New Jersey: A Yearlong Celebration of American History and Local Legacy
Along with its diverse dining, shopping, culture, and nightlife, Elizabeth’s rich heritage and Revolutionary War history make the city one of New Jersey’s most exciting destinations for visitors. As America prepares to celebrate its milestone 250th birthday in 2026, there is no better time to experience Elizabeth’s past while enjoying everything the city offers today.
“Founded in 1665, Elizabeth is one of the oldest cities in New Jersey and our first state capital. There's a tremendous amount of history here," said Jennifer Costa, President and CEO of the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce (GECC) and Executive Director of GoElizabethNJ/Tourism. “The events and programming taking place throughout this historic year are bringing our Revolutionary legacy to life in meaningful and engaging ways.”
Originally known as Elizabethtown, Elizabeth was a Revolutionary War hotspot. Visitors can explore Boxwood Hall, once home to Founding Father Elias Boudinot, and the Belcher-Ogden Mansion, which hosted the young Alexander Hamilton. Within walking distance, Snyder Academy—where Hamilton studied—stands beside the First Presbyterian Church, home to historic burial grounds and the 313+ Monument honoring individuals in unmarked graves whose stories were long untold.
History enthusiasts can also step back in time at Liberty Hall Museum, which offers a full calendar of year-round tours, educational programming, and special events. The event lineup includes walking tours, historic reenactments, immersive storytelling, pop-up performances, and family-friendly initiatives designed to engage visitors of all ages. Highlights throughout the year also include:
- The Reunion of Descendants: a powerful gathering of families connected to those buried in the historic Old First Cemetery.
• A FAM (Familiarization) Tour for destination marketing professionals and travel planners to experience Elizabeth’s cultural and historical assets firsthand. - • July 4, 2026: The Official 250th Anniversary Parade & Fireworks Extravaganza, featuring marching bands, patriotic floats, and a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the city skyline.
• October 2026: The Elizabethtown Dinner and Ball, an elegant 18th- and 19th-century-inspired evening featuring period attire, music, and cuisine—an immersive historical experience reminiscent of the popular Netflix series Bridgerton.
Adding to the excitement of the semiquincentennial celebration is Rosie, Elizabeth’s official GoElizabethNJ250 mascot. Rosie is an authentic 1933 Lincoln KB Brunn Victoria, representing the height of American luxury coachbuilding. With its powerful V12 engine and elegant convertible design, the rare vehicle—one of only three known Lincoln Brunns in the world—serves as a spirited ambassador for the anniversary, appearing at events and helping connect visitors to Elizabeth’s enduring American story.
As New Jersey’s first capital and a key location during the American Revolution, Elizabeth continues to share a story that helped shape the nation. In 2026, the city proudly brings that story to life for visitors from across the country and around the world.
For semiquincentennial updates and the full schedule of events, click here.
MORE TO SEE AND DO
Beyond its historic landmarks and commemorative events, Elizabeth offers visitors a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. The Market at Elizabeth Avenue features generations-old shops, boutiques, and ethnic grocery stores that reflect the city’s vibrant cultural diversity. For additional shopping, The Mills at Jersey Gardens offers a two-level indoor outlet mall with more than 200 stores, dining options, an AMC movie theater, and Round1 Bowling & Arcade.
Elizabeth’s dynamic culinary scene is another highlight for visitors, with restaurants serving Brazilian, Colombian, Mexican, Portuguese, and many other international cuisines. Many of these eateries are located within lively shopping and dining districts along Elizabeth, Elmora, and Morris avenues.
The city’s arts and cultural scene is anchored by the historic Ritz Theatre, which features a diverse lineup of concerts, shows, and live performances. As one of the oldest and largest fully operational theaters in New Jersey, this iconic 3,000-seat venue has hosted legendary performers ranging from the Marx Brothers and Miles Davis to Rodney Dangerfield.
For tour operators and group planners looking to add a destination rich in history, culture, and diverse experiences to their itineraries, Elizabeth offers a welcoming gateway to the region. With its convenient location near Newark Liberty International Airport and close proximity to New York City, the city provides easy access for motorcoach tours and multi-day group travel.
To learn more about planning group visits and tour opportunities in Elizabeth, visit the tour operator resource page at GoElizabethNJ.com/industry/tour-operators.
Courtesy of Elizabeth DMO.
Photos courtesy of Elizabeth DMO.
