Independence Day is the annual federal holiday marking the birth of the United States.
This Fourth of July also commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Events for America’s semiquincentennial include a concert in Lincolnwood, Morton Grove Days, a parade in Niles, a celebration in Norridge and fireworks in Park Ridge.
Lincolnwood
The village of Lincolnwood hosts the 26th annual Lincolnwood Youth Strings concert, directed by Carol Janossy, at 10 a.m. July 4 at Proesel Park, 6915 N. Kostner Ave., Lincolnwood.
More information about the 4th of July event is with recreation supervisor Kandice Newton at knewton@lwd.org.
Morton Grove
The village of Morton Grove, the Morton Grove Park District, the Morton Grove Days Commission and the Morton Grove Chamber of Commerce host the annual Morton Grove Days from July 2 to 5 at Harrer Park, 6250 Dempster Street, Morton Grove, and the American Legion Memorial Civic Center, 6140 Dempster Street, Morton Grove.
“This year is especially meaningful as we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary,” Morton Grove Mayor Janine Witko said in the Summer 2026 edition of The Exchange resident newsletter.
July 2 includes carnival and food court from 4 to 11 p.m., entertainment and beer garden ($5 entrance fee) from 5 to 10:45 p.m., festival opening ceremonies at 5:30 p.m. and live performances by Natalie Landini from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m., Buckle from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and Hi Infidelity from 9 to 11 p.m.
July 3 includes carnival and food court from 4 to 11 p.m., children’s activities and entertainment from 2 to 4 p.m., entertainment and beer garden ($5 entrance fee) from 5 to 10:45 p.m. and live performances by Joey Acopiado Band from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m., Face the Music from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press from 9 to 10:45 p.m.
July 4 includes carnival and food court from 1 to 11 p.m.; Morton Grove Days parade starting at Dempster and Central Avenue at 2:30 p.m. and proceeding to Dempster Street and Ferris Avenue; entertainment and beer garden ($10 entrance fee) from 5 to 9:15 p.m.; live performances by Sealed With a Kiss from 5 to 6:45 p.m. and Semple Band from 7:15 to 9:15 p.m.; and 4th of July fireworks display at dark/9:30 p.m.
July 5 includes carnival and food court from 1 to 9 p.m.
“We are proud to join in the celebration by recognizing the values that unite us and creating memorable experiences for residents of all ages,” Witko said in the newsletter.
More information is at 847-663-3018 or mortongrovedays.org.
Niles
The 4th of July parade begins at 8:45 a.m. July 4 from Notre Dame College Prep, 7655 W. Dempster Street, Niles, and is billed as a tribute to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, celebrating the nation’s progress and fostering community unity.
“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we are especially proud that Niles is recognized as an All-America City,” Niles Mayor George D. Alpogianis and the Niles Village Board said in the Summer 2026 edition of the Focus on Niles village newsletter.
Niles Park District presents the July 4th Post Parade Celebration, including entertainment, food, games and raffle from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grennan Heights Park, 8255 N. Oketo Avenue, Niles. The band Greenlight, led by its drummer Neal Wehman, performs at 10:30 a.m.
“While we may come from different backgrounds and cultures, we come together as Americans and as friends and neighbors who care deeply about our community and country,” Alpogianis and the Board said in the newsletter.
More information is with the village at 847-588-8000 or vniles.com or the park district at 847-967-6633 or niles-parks.org.
Norridge
The villages of Norridge and Harwood Heights collaborate for a 250 Years of America celebration from Aug. 20 to 23 at Montrose and Ozanam avenues in Norridge.
The event includes beer, bingo, carnival rides, face painters, fireworks, a food tent, live music and a parade.
More information is at 708-453-0800 or villageofnorridge.com.
Park Ridge
Fireworks Celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. July 3 at Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster Street, Park Ridge, includes the Park Ridge Park District’s party staff and Hot Shot Sports offering games and an interactive dance party from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Live music starts at 8 p.m.
“Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary under the glow of a fantastic fireworks display,” officials said in the Summer 2026 edition of the Programs & Events park district brochure.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic. No alcoholic beverages or grills are allowed. Also, consumer fireworks are not permitted at the show by order of the Park Ridge Fire Department and only service animals are allowed at the event.
“Enjoy the evening catching up with friends and family,” officials said in the brochure.
More information is at 847-692-5127 or prparks.org.
Jessi Virtusio is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
