By: Ashmar Mandou
As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Chicagoans can enjoy a weekend filled with Independence Day parades, fireworks, civic-related activities, and so much more. We’ve compiled a list of fun events occurring throughout the Fourth of July weekend for families to enjoy.
Illinois Voices 250
Illinoisans are invited to chronicle their stories, memories and reflections in audio recordings that will be permanently archived at the U.S. Library of Congress during a series of community recording sessions scheduled for this summer. For more information on how you can submit your story, visit www.il250.org/events
Rockin’ in the USA Fest
Rosemont’s Fourth of July fireworks will take place at Parkway Bank Park (5501 Park Place) as part of the inaugural three-day “Rockin’ in the USA” festival from July 2–4. A spectacular extended fireworks display will light up the sky at 10:00 p.m. each night. Visitors can bring lawn chairs to the great lawn or enjoy the show from the patios of the surrounding entertainment district venues. For more information, visit www.rosemont.com
Fourth of July at Independence Park
Sponsored by the Independence Park Advisory Council, families are welcome to enjoy a morning Fourth of July parade. Decorate your self, kids, bikes and pets and walk in in the annual parade. Music, fun, and games for all ages following the parade. Running races, sack races, egg toss and water balloon fight. Don’t be late, the parade starts as soon as the fire truck arrives. It is scheduled at 10am through Noon at 3945 N. Springfield Ave., Chicago.
Civic Season 2026 Independence Day
The Chicago History Museum is hosting a full day of civic-related activities in celebration of Independence Day on Saturday, July 4th. The day will include United States-themed trivia, a sing-along and outdoor activities. For tickets and/or additional information, visit www.chicagohistory.org.
The People’s Fourth
Spend Independence Day outside at the Obama Presidential Center. The day will include live music, performances, and activities across the John Lewis Plaza. The campus is open to the public on July 4th and activities are first-come first-served. The Museum admission is not included. The events run from 2p.m., to 7p.m. For more information, visit www.obama.org
Independence Day Salute
The Grant Park Music Festival will host the Independence Day Salute on Saturday, July 4th at 7:30p.m., at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Christopher Bell conducts the Grant Park Orchestra in this annual Chicago tradition and will play songs like, “From Sea to Shining Sea,” the “Armed Forces Salute,” and the “Stars and Stripes Forever.” More information can be found at www.grantparkmusicfestival.com
Navy Pier Independence Day Fireworks
Celebrate the Fourth of July with Navy Pier’s award-winning fireworks show. This year, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., is lighting up the lakefront with an unforgettable 15-minute performance. Starting at 10pm, the extended show commemorates the 250th anniversary of America, honoring the enduring spirit of independence that has shaped our nation for centuries.
First Lady’s 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza
Chicago is going all out this year to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and First Lady Cruises will have the best view in the city. Enjoy the Chicago Riverwalk to Lake Michigan with front row view of the fireworks show. The cruise will depart on Saturday, July 4th at 7:45p.m., at 112 E. Wacker Drive. Prices start at $74. For tickets, visit www.firstlady.com
Art on the Mart
Celebrate Independence Day on the Riverwalk with Art on the Mart’s red, white, and blue special display and soundtrack of classic American jazz, and marches. The display airs Thursday, July 2nd through Sunday, July 5th at 9p.m. Visit www.artonthemart.com
