While many of our favorite Independence Day celebrations are canceled again in 2021, there are still a few making a comeback. Some of these in-person events have been adjusted to help make Fourth of July celebrations a safe option for families. Read some our Fourth of July picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar.
Virtual
Friday Citywide Story Time: Fourth of July
July 2, 2021
- Hosted by: Chicago Public Library
- Cost: Free
Join Ms. Zena from the Blackstone Branch as she shares a story time all about the 4th of July. This event takes place on Zoom.
Activating Freedom with Liberty and Justice for All
July 4, 2021
- Hosted by: Chicago History Museum
- Cost: Free (Donations appreciated)
Join Chicago History Museum for a virtual event filled with conversations, a show-and-tell of early items from the museum’s archives, Hands-On History activities, sounds and songs, connecting America’s past and present freedom movements, and hopes for the future!
In Person
Hinsdale Fourth of July Parade and Celebration
July 3, 2021
- Address: 6th and Garfield, Hinsdale
- Cost: Free
The parade begins at 6th and Garfield, travels north to first street, continues west to Grant Street, and south on Grant, ending at 6th and Grant. 2021 celebrations will not include the festival in Burlington Park this year.
4th on 53rd
July 4, 2021
- Address: Nichols Park, 1355 E. 53rd St., Chicago
- Cost: Free
While the Hyde Park parade is canceled this year, you can find family fun in Nichols Park. Enjoy traditional lawn games, bike decorating and magician John Measner will perform throughout the afternoon.
Lake Forest Festival and Fireworks
July 4, 2021
- Address: Deerpath and Hastings Road, Lake Forest
- Cost: $20, $15 residents, free for kids ages 5 and under
Event features food, a beer garden, live music, activities for kids and fireworks display. The festival will follow CDC and local government recommendations for face masks and social distancing.
Glenview Fourth of July
July 4, 2021
- Address: Gallery Park, 2001 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, and Community Park West, 1001 Zenith Drive, Glenview
- Cost: Free (Registration required for Reverse Parade)
For Fourth of July celebrations, will be hosting a “reverse” parade at Community Park West starting at noon on July 4. Residents are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and drive through the park to see the floats and become part of the parade. Later at Gallery Park, enjoy a DJ Dance Party at 5:30-9 p.m. and Twilight Fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m.
Tinley Park Fourth of July Celebration
July 4, 2021
- Address: McCarthy Park, 16801 S. 80th Ave., Tinley Park
- Cost: Free admission
At 6 p.m., McCarthy Park will host an opening ceremony with the national anthem. From there, enjoy music by Libido Funk Circus from 6:30-9 p.m. Fireworks follow the celebration at 9:30 p.m.
Glen Ellyn 4th of July Parade & Festival
July 4, 2021
- Address: Downtown Glen Ellyn and Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn
- Cost: Free
Downtown Glen Ellyn will host their 4th of July Parade at noon with music, floats and American pride. Later in the evening, head to Lake Ellyn Park to see their fireworks display at dusk.
Aurora Fourth of July Celebration
July 4, 2021
- Address: Downtown Aurora
- Cost: Free
The parade route will begin at Benton and River, head east on Benton, north on Broadway, west on Galena, south on Stolp and west on Downer ending at River Street. (Note: Fireworks will take place on July 2, 2021. Details on the website.)
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