Chicagoland Fourth of July Celebrations
There are few nights more magical than the Fourth of July — when communities gather to watch fireworks celebrations all over Chicagoland.
Even though Independence Day falls this year on a Thursday, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a great fireworks show.
Whether you’re seeking the downtown experience at Navy Pier, taking in the sights and sounds at your community park or watching the sky light up from your vacation home, here are a few of the best shows around town:
Barrington
Barrington has a lot of fun to offer. Kick off the day with a Barrington Fourth of July tradition, the Advocate Good Shepherd Family Fitness Run. Enjoy a 10K run, 5K run/walk or kid’s run first thing in the morning to support the local arts.
From there, join in the parade at 10:00 a.m and dive right into the annual Brat Tent Festivities with music by the Chris Walz Bluegrass Band. Fireworks will take place at duck at Barrington High School.
Visit Barrington’s website for a detailed schedule of events.
Chicago
If you’re celebrating the Fourth of July downtown, Navy Pier has a fireworks show above the lakefront around 9:30 p.m. If you don’t want to brave the downtown crowds at the pier, find a nearby beach or patio and you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful night in Chicago.
Keep the fun going through the weekend by attending Fireworks Night at the Arlington International Racecourse. Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day and finish Saturday night up with a colorful display.
Evanston
Chicago’s neighbor to the north is also hosting major Fourth of July festivities this year. The Evanston 4th of July Parade kicks off at 2:00 p.m. and goes until the Palatine Concert Band takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. to play some patriotic tunes.
Evanston’s musical fireworks will be launched from Clark Street Beach. The city is encouraging attendees to park downtown and find a viewing spot along the lakefront.
Glenview
Glenview is hosting a bevy of events for the town’s residents this Independence Day. The day kicks off with the Children’s Bike Parade at 10:30 a.m., which leads into the parade at 11:15 a.m.
The celebrations close out with a majestic performance from the Glenview Concert Band and fireworks display timed to a patriotic musical score.
Glenview’s website has the details for the day’s events.
Highland Park
Like Glenview, there’s a full slate of events on the docket for Highland Park this Independence Day. Starting with the Children’s Bike & Pet Parade at 9:30 a.m. the festivities continue into the Independence Day Parade.
After the parade will be the Fourth Fest, a gathering at Sunset Woods Park that is set to feature food, live music, carnival rides, a petting zoo, and more. After Fourth Fest, the day is set to close out with the Bitter Jester Music Festival & Fireworks.
Check out Highland Park’s website for the day’s schedule.
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates’ takes Independence Day celebrations to the next level with its annual Northwest Fourth Fest. From July 3-July 7, there will be family-friendly activities including a carnival, a craft fair, and multiple concerts. A stunning fireworks display will begin at 9:30 p.m.
Lake Forest
Do we have any Beatles fans out there? If so, Lake Forest is probably where you want to be this Independence Day.
The Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks kicks off at 5:00 p.m. and at 6:00 p.m. Liverpool Legends will take the stage. This Beatles Tribute Band is hand-picked Louise Harrison, sister of the late George Harrison. Their performance is sure to bring you ‘The Complete Beatles Experience.’
Since we’re extra lucky this year, they are hosting double headliners with Bella Cain.
After the performances, the fireworks will light up the sky around 9:40 p.m.. A variety of food, desserts, beer, and wine will be available to purchase or BYO.
Skokie
If you’re looking for more than just fireworks this weekend, you might want to consider heading out to Skokie.
Skokie has become known for its’ Parade & 3D Fireworks Festival.
The parade kicks off at noon and eventually ends at Niles West High School where the 3D Fireworks Fest gets underway.
The first 10,000 patrons to arrive will receive a free pair of 3D glasses to enjoy the fireworks in their full glory.
St. Charles
Widely known for their dazzling annual firework display, the community hosts their Fourth of July Celebration with awe-worthy fireworks, a live band, and the fun activities Pottawatomie Park offers.
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