Perhaps the Philadelphia Flyers’ 4-1 defeat of the Soviet Red Army hockey team on Jan. 11, 1976, was a sign of things to come that year.

Why? Because the rest of the year would turn out to be a national celebration of heritage and patriotic pride as the United States observed its 200th birthday, known as America’s Bicentennial.

The yearlong celebration included commemorative art, flags and coins and large-scale events, some of which stretched from coast to coast.

The ubiquitous star-shaped Bicentennial logo, selected from a contest sponsored by the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission (should I insert the art here? YES), was designed by Bruce Blackburn, who also co-designed the NASA insignia used from 1975 to 1992. Also seen everywhere was the Bicentennial flag featuring ‘76’ in the flag’s blue field surrounded by 13 stars. Special quarter, half-dollar and dollar coins were also issued by the U.S. Mint.

The American Freedom Train started a 21-month, 25,388-mile tour of the 48 contiguous states beginning in April; heads of state from throughout the world visited historic sites, and even Disneyland replaced its traditional Main Street Electrical Parade with “America on Parade” for the year.

But it was at the local level where the Bicentennial spirit took hold and was truly celebrated for 12 months. Communities held parades; schools presented programs and projects. Fire hydrants and locomotives were painted red, white and blue. It seemed everyone was willing to participate in some way to honor the national birthday.

Here’s a look at some of the Bicentennial activities in New Jersey. Be sure to click on the captions button for more information and links about these classic photos.

Coming soon: amusement parks and fairs. You must have photos taken at many of New Jersey's fun places taken prior to 1985! If you do, we'd love to see them and possibly use them in a gallery or Glimpse of History column. Attach your jpg images and email them to ghatala@starledger.com.