Millburn was full of happy residents celebrating in red, white and blue for the Fourth of July festivities that even drew locals from a few surrounding towns. 

"This is the best thing of the year," Elizabeth Henry, of Millburn, said while picnicking in Taylor Park in the afternoon. 

The events are ran by the Millburn Short Hills Fourth of July Committee, which has been around since 1940.

The day kicked off a flag-raising in Taylor Park abd the Patriot Award presentation for the Millburn-Short Hills Girl Scouts. Following that was the bike, trike and stroller parade and then the girls’ All Star softball game.

Taylor park was filled with locals from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  lounging around or following their children to miniature golf, giant trampolines with bungie cords, pony rides, moon-bounces and rides.

The Lambs Artillery set up shop to show residents how things were done in the 18th century.

"They helped fight the British," eight-year-old, Sarah Jane Rasmussen, said reenacting with Lambs Artillery. 

The committee charged $12 for a day full of rides and fireworks at night. It was $5 admission for just the fireworks.

Local businesses, investors and residents all donated money to support the event Bob Hevnon of the committee said. 

Donations this year came from Investors Bank, LaserCenter at Associates in Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Paper Mill Playhouse, Stop & Shop and Towne Realty Group, LLC.