America's 250th celebrations in Philadelphia despite extreme heat | Live updates

Many people headed to the Jersey shore on the Fourth of July to celebrate both Independence Day and America's 250th birthday, taking part in holiday traditions while looking for ways to stay cool.

In Avalon, a longstanding Fourth of July boat parade brought more than 100 patriotic vessels through the water. Decorated boats featured themes, including the Liberty Bell, the U.S. Constitution and even representations of the nation's founding fathers.

The event also included plenty of interaction between spectators and boaters.

Jersey Shore communities celebrate Fourth of July and America's 250th birthday

"Sometimes we hook the hose up and we squirt everybody and a lot of people throw Eagles footballs, and it's very fun to try to catch them," said Maggie Hogentogler of Malvern.

Toy ducks and T-shirts were tossed into the crowd as boats passed by.

"It's really fun," said Cam Neitz of West Chester. "My brother likes to jump in the water and get the T-shirts that fall."

For many families, this year's holiday carried added significance because of the nation's 250th birthday celebration.

"The kids get so excited about dressing up, and just all the festivities and this is a big year with the 250th year celebration," said Jamie Simon of West Chester.

Meanwhile, beaches in Ocean City drew large crowds as visitors spent the day by the water.

"Beautiful day. The water keeps you cool. The people keep you entertained. No problems," said Shereema Molette of Clementon, New Jersey. "It's very crowded. We found this spot by luck."

For some visitors, the holiday was also an opportunity to reflect on the milestone anniversary and what Independence Day means to them.

"I remember when it was the 200th anniversary; I was a little kid. So I don't remember much from that day, but I feel great to be here," said Doreen Greenberg of Egg Harbor Township.

Jack Victor of Egg Harbor Township said the holiday has personal meaning because of his family's military background.

"I'm in a long line of military family. It means a lot to me. Without my family, without our military personnel, we wouldn't have this day. So it means everything to me," Victor said.

Some visitors came to the Jersey shore just for the day, while others planned to stay through the weekend as Independence Day events continued along the coast.

Action News is at Belmont Plateau, where people are firing up the grills for family cookouts to celebrate the Fourth of July in Philadelphia.

For the William's family, July 4th represents a time to celebrate family as they hold their annual family reunion.

Action News is at Belmont Plateau, where people are firing up the grills for the Fourth of July in Philadelphia.

Action News reporter Trish Hartman found a way to beat the heat at the Jersey Shore as Avalon's annual boat parade turned into a giant water fight.

Boaters could be seen squirting watchers with water guns as they passed by in the extreme heat.

The Avalon Boat Parade is an annual 4th of July tradition in the Cape May County town, where locals decorate their boats with a patriotic theme and parade from the Yacht Club down the back bay.

Action News reporter Trish Hartman found a different way to beat the heat at the Jersey Shore.

Joey Chestnut is a champion once again at the Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest at Coney Island.

Chestnut captured the men's title for the 18th time, downing 66 dogs.

Competitors consume as many hot dogs and buns as possible in 10 minutes, usually dunking the wieners in water first to make them easier to swallow.