04/30/2026
The Cape May County Board of Commissioners has authorized the award of $248,346 in matching grants to all sixteen municipalities under the “CMC Land of the Free, Celebration 250” Grant Program. The grants will help local communities create memorable, family-friendly patriotic celebrations honoring the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States while preserving each town’s unique Independence Day traditions. The Commissioners unanimously approved the awards at their April 28th public meeting.
The program was established by Resolution on February 10, 2026. It provides 50/50 matching grants of up to $25,000 per municipality to support, enhance, and elevate local patriotic events. The County appropriated up to $250,000 for the initiative. All sixteen municipalities submitted applications with the commitment of matching funds and detailed project descriptions. County Administration reviewed and approved every request as fully compliant with program guidelines.
“These grants represent a meaningful investment in our communities and in the shared celebration of America’s 250th anniversary,” said Board of Commissioners Director Leonard C. Desiderio. “From drone shows and expanded festivals to parades, historical reenactments, and new patriotic traditions, residents and visitors across Cape May County will have abundant opportunities to come together to honor and celebrate the enduring values of liberty and independence that define our nation.”
Specifics on what each municipality received is in the comments.