Amazing July 4th Events In Illinois You Want To See

Finding the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day isn’t always easy, but there are plenty of fun July 4th Events In Illinois to choose from! From parades and festivals to fireworks displays across different towns, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below is a short list of activities happening throughout the state to help you plan your holiday. If you know of other events I haven’t mentioned, feel free to share them in the comments!

Batavia

In Batavia, the Fourth of July Sky Concert kicks off at 9:30 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at 1200 W. Wilson. Guests can find parking in the high school lot located off Wilson and Main Street.

Bensenville

Bensenville LibertyFest Taste of the Towns 2011 takes place July 1–4 at Redmond Park, proudly sponsored by the villages of Bensenville, Addison, Elmhurst, and Wood Dale. The festival features fun for all ages, including games, delicious food, carnival rides, magic shows, pony rides, and even ice skating.

Berkeley

The Kiddie Parade is back, and we’re ready to celebrate! Families will gather at the St. Domitilla School parking lot, just off the Prairie Path, before heading west to the Berkeley Park picnic shelter. There, everyone can enjoy a classic old-fashioned hot dog BBQ, along with plenty of surprises and giveaways. Don’t miss this annual tradition—it’s the perfect way to kick off your 4th of July celebration!

Berwyn

In Berwyn, the VFW Flag Ceremony begins at 6 a.m. on Monday, July 4. The procession will start at Morton West High School, 2400 S. Holmes Ave., and conclude at American Legion Post 256, 6919 Roosevelt Road.

Bolingbrook

Bolingbrook’s 2011 Fourth of July event, “All American Celebration ,” will feature a DJ, activities for children, prizes, bands and a fireworks display, and more.  Refreshments will be available at the food pavillion and an all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet will be available, both at various costs.  3 p.m. Monday, July 4, Bolingbrook Golf Club, 2001 Rodeo Drive.  Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Bolingbrook’s 2011 Fourth of July “All American Celebration” kicks off at 3 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at the Bolingbrook Golf Club, 2001 Rodeo Drive. The event will feature live bands, a DJ, kids’ activities, prizes, and more, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at 9:15 p.m. Guests can enjoy refreshments at the food pavilion or indulge in an all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet, both available for purchase.

Brookfield

The July 4th parade kicks off at 10:00 a.m. at Grand and Garfield, traveling south on Grant Boulevard to Brookfield Avenue and ending at Kiwanis Park.

After the parade, join the celebration at Kiwanis Park with live entertainment throughout the afternoon. The Neverly Brothers will perform from 12:30 to 2:15 p.m., followed by Kharma from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. At 5:00 p.m., the Village will showcase the Battle of the Bands winners. Parade awards will also be presented at the park.

Food, beverages, and ice cream will be available for purchase from the Brookfield Jaycees, Brookfield Kiwanis Club, and Brookfield Recreation Department. In the afternoon, the Military Order of the Purple Heart will present a moving mobile display honoring Illinois soldiers who lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Carol Stream

In Carol Stream, the Independence Day Parade steps off at 10 a.m. on July 4, running between County Farm Road and Fountain Drive.

Countryside

July 4th Car Show – Celebrate Independence Day with an amazing lineup of cars, trucks, and bikes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at 6240 Joliet Road in Countryside. Guests can enjoy delicious food, air-conditioned indoor seating and facilities, as well as a festive beer garden. With more than 350 vehicles showcased last year, this year’s event is set to be the biggest and best yet!

Darien

In Darien, the Fourth of July Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, July 4. The parade steps off from the Hinsdale South and Indian Prairie parking lots, traveling along Clarendon Hills Road from 75th Street to Plainfield Road. This annual celebration is proudly sponsored by the Darien Lions Club.

Downers Grove

Fourth of July Parade – The parade steps off at 12:45 p.m. on Monday, July 4, beginning at Main and Warren and continuing toward Downers Grove North High School. That evening, enjoy a dazzling fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. at 75th Street and Lemont Road.

Bike & Buggy Parade – On Sunday, July 10, at 1 p.m., families can join the fun as the parade kicks off on Burlington between Forest and Main Street, then heads south on Main Street to Fishel Park.

Elmhurst

4 on the 4th Independence Day Run 7:15 a.m. Monday, July 4, starting at Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave.

In Elmhurst, the 4 on the 4th Independence Day Run begins at 7:15 a.m. on Monday, July 4, starting from Elmhurst College at 190 Prospect Ave.

Geneva

Geneva Stone Creek Miniature Golf – Celebrate Red, White, and Blue Day on July 4! Wear patriotic colors and receive $1 off admission.

Glen Ellyn

July 4: Freedom Four® Four-Mile Run – Join the biggest event of the running season! The star-spangled run starts off from behind the Glenbard West football field at 8am “sharp” on Monday, July 4. Awards are presented to the top two male and female finishers in each division at 9am on the football field.

Afternoon Festivities at Lake Ellyn – This event is the perfect family activity after watching the Fourth of July Parade. Participants may purchase a $2.00 wristband to enjoy all of the action, supported by generous donations from Rotary Club of Glen Ellyn and the Glen Ellyn Jaycees! Be sure to bring your family for a couple hours of fun at the lake! 2011 festivities will include:

• Moonwalks
• Inflatable Obstacle Course
• Penny carnival games with tickets redeemable for lots of prizes
• Live music and dancing
• Concessions
• Face Painting

July 4: Freedom Four® Four-Mile Run – Kick off Independence Day with one of the area’s biggest running events! The star-spangled race begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. behind the Glenbard West football field. Awards will be presented at 9:00 a.m. on the field to the top two male and female finishers in each division.

Afternoon Festivities at Lake Ellyn – After enjoying the Fourth of July Parade, head to Lake Ellyn for a family-friendly celebration. With a $2 wristband, guests can take part in exciting activities, thanks to the support of the Rotary Club of Glen Ellyn and the Glen Ellyn Jaycees. Festivities include:

• Moonwalks
• Inflatable obstacle course
• Penny carnival games with prizes
• Live music and dancing
• Concessions
• Face painting

Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at the lake!

Hinsdale

Parade and festival 10 a.m. Monday, July 4, 6th and Washington streets, followed by events at Burlington Park, 19 E. Chicago Ave. Arts and craft fair, family festival, turtle races, face painting and music by West Suburban Concert Band.

In Hinsdale, the Independence Day Parade and festival begins at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 4, starting at 6th and Washington Streets. After the parade, the celebration continues at Burlington Park, 19 E. Chicago Ave., with an arts and crafts fair, family festival, turtle races, face painting, and live music by the West Suburban Concert Band.

Hoffman Estates

The 2011 Fourth of July Parade will be on Monday, July 4, at 9 a.m., down Hassell Road. This year’s theme is “United We Stand.” Other events that day:

• Children’s bike parade assembly – 8:45 a.m.
• Fourth of July Parade on Hassell Road – 9 a.m.
• Carnival and Festival – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Diaper derby (sponsored by buybuy BABY) – 1 p.m.
• Pony rides (sponsored by Schaumburg Township District Library) – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.Bingo with cash prizes – 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Face painting – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Water balloon toss contest – 4 p.m.
• Bags tournament (sponsored by America’s Bar and Grill) – 3 p.m.
• Jonathan Devin & New Country – 6:30 p.m.
• CoverGürl – 8 p.m.
• Fireworks Display – 9:30 p.m.

2011 Fourth of July Parade & Festival

Celebrate Independence Day on Monday, July 4, starting with the parade at 9 a.m. along Hassell Road. This year’s theme is “United We Stand.” A full day of fun follows with activities, entertainment, and fireworks for the whole family.

Schedule of Events:

• Children’s Bike Parade Assembly – 8:45 a.m.
• Fourth of July Parade on Hassell Road – 9 a.m.
• Carnival & Festival – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Diaper Derby (sponsored by buybuy BABY) – 1 p.m.
• Pony Rides (sponsored by Schaumburg Township District Library) – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Bingo with Cash Prizes – 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Face Painting – 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Bags Tournament (sponsored by America’s Bar and Grill) – 3 p.m.
• Water Balloon Toss Contest – 4 p.m.
• Jonathan Devin & New Country – 6:30 p.m.
• CoverGürl – 8 p.m.
• Fireworks Display – 9:30 p.m.

Itasca

Fireworks Display at Hamilton Lakes – Celebrate Independence Day with the Chicago area’s largest fireworks show at 9:45 p.m. on Monday, July 4, in Itasca. The evening kicks off with live music from Vertigo at 6 p.m., followed by World Class Noise at 8 p.m. The U.S. Army will present a military display along with interactive exhibits, and vendors will be on-site offering food, drinks, and adult beverages. On-site parking is available for $20.

Lombard

Taste of Lombard– Enjoy five days of food, music, and family fun at Madison Meadow Park. The festival runs from 5 to 11 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from noon to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, June 30 through July 4.

Naperville

Ribfest – Savor four days of food and fun at Knoch Park (off West Street) from Friday, July 1, through Monday, July 4, running daily from 12 to 10 p.m. The festival features nationwide ribbers, live music, delicious food, and a carnival for all ages. Admission is $12 for adults, while children 11 and under are free. Discounted tickets ($9) are available in advance at select Jewel-Osco stores. Each night wraps up with a spectacular fireworks show around 9:30 p.m.

Oakbrook Terrace

Fourth of July Celebration Picnic, 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 4, Terrace View Park, concert at 8 p.m. Tickets required for picnic only, not for concert. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Oak Lawn – See Oak Lawn 4th Of July Events.

Fourth of July Celebration – Join the fun from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at Terrace View Park. Enjoy a community picnic (tickets required), followed by a free concert at 8 p.m. The evening wraps up with a spectacular fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

Oak Lawn – For more details, see the full list of Oak Lawn 4th of July events.

Riverside

Independence Day 5K Run  – Start the holiday with a community run through the streets of Riverside at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, July 4.

Fourth of July Parade – The parade steps off at 8:45 a.m. from Longcommon and Delaplaine Roads, followed by festivities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Guthrie Park.

Roselle

In Roselle, the Independence Day Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at Lake Park High School West Campus, 500 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue.

South Elgin

In South Elgin, the Fourth of July Parade begins at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 4, starting at the corner of Spring Street and Wedgewood Drive.

St. Charles

In St. Charles, the Fourth of July Celebration begins at 4 p.m. with music and entertainment lasting until dusk, followed by a free fireworks show after dark.

Villa Park

In Villa Park, the Fourth of July Parade steps off at 12:00 p.m. The route travels west on Central to Harvard, south on Harvard to Madison, east on Madison to Summit, then north to the park, concluding past the gazebo grandstand.

Warrenville

In Warrenville, the Firecracker 5K walk/run kicks off at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 4, at the Recreation Center, 3S260 Warren Ave. From noon to 9:15 p.m., enjoy a full day of festivities, including a children’s parade, games, contests, and family fun. The celebration concludes with fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

West Chicago

In West Chicago, Turtle Splash Water Park will host Military Appreciation Day on July 4. Guests who show a valid military ID will receive free admission.

Westchester

In Westchester, the Fourth of July Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, July 4. The route starts at Mayfair Avenue and Dorchester Street, continues through Canterbury Street, Newcastle Avenue, and Bond Street, and concludes at Westchester Boulevard.

Westmont

In Westmont, the Independence Day Celebration takes place on Monday, July 4, at Ty Warner Park, featuring a full day of family fun, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks finale.

Schedule of Events:

• 3:00–9:00 p.m. – Food Vendors Open
• 4:00–5:30 p.m. – Kids Krafts
• 4:00–7:30 p.m. – Petting Zoo
• 4:30–5:45 p.m. – Westmont Community Band
• 5:00–8:00 p.m. – Face Painting (nominal fee)
• 5:30–6:30 p.m. – Kids’ Action Games & Relays (ages 4–12)
• 5:30–6:15 p.m. – Barnyard Bingo
• 5:30–7:30 p.m. – Balloon Sculptors
• 5:45 p.m. – Cake (while supplies last)
• 6:15 p.m. – Little Mr. & Miss Firecracker Award, Newest Newborn Award, Uncle Sam’s Family Award (Free with registration)
• 6:45 p.m. – Decorated Stroller & Wagon Contest
• 7:00 p.m. – Watermelon Eating Contest
• 7:30–9:15 p.m. – Grand Ave Big Band (Traditional Big Band Music)
• 9:30 p.m. – Fireworks Spectacular

Wheaton

Independence Day Celebration  – Celebrate from noon to 4 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Enjoy historical reenactments, children’s activities, a magic show, and a live concert by the Illinois Brass Band.

Woodridge

44th annual picnic 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, July 4, Castaldo Park.  Sponsored by the Woodridge Special Events Committee.  Fireworks at dusk on July 4 at 75th Street, by the golf course.

44th Annual Independence Day Picnic – Join the fun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, July 4, at Castaldo Park. Sponsored by the Woodridge Special Events Committee, the celebration continues with a dazzling fireworks show at dusk near the golf course on 75th Street.

No matter where you are in Illinois, there’s no shortage of 4th of July Events in Illinois to help you celebrate Independence Day. From lively parades and family festivals to concerts, car shows, and dazzling fireworks displays, these community gatherings bring friends, families, and neighbors together in the true spirit of the holiday. So put on your red, white, and blue, make lasting memories, and enjoy a safe, festive Fourth of July!