When/Where: July 1 to 4, centered at Harrer Park, 6200 W. Dempster, Morton Grove. Fireworks are at 9:45 p.m. on Monday, July 4.
Why Go: It's a traditional carnival--can you stomach eating cotton candy and riding the Tilt-a-Whirl? There's also a festival with food, bands, a beer garden and more. Plus the fireworks.
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Pricing: Free admission to carnival, fireworks.
Find out what's happening in Niles-Morton Grovewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
When/Where: 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Sunday July 3, Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster, Park Ridge.
Why Go: Kids' entertainment starts at 6:30; the Brian Patti Big Band plays at 8 p.m.
Pricing: Free
When/Where: Parade begins at noon at Oakton Community College, on Lincoln east of Niles Center; a concert begins at 6 p.m. and fireworks begin at dusk at Niles West High School, 5701 W. Oakton, Skokie.
Why Go: Skokie has 3-D fireworks and will distribute 3-D glasses to the first 10,000 visitors.
Pricing: Free
Fourth of July Festivities and Fireworks
When/Where: 7 a.m. – dusk, downtown Northbrook
Why Go: Fill your belly for a day full of fun with and live music by the Dooley Brothers, who perform from the gazebo on the . At 10 a.m., cheer on local police and firefighters in their , also on the Village Green. Go home and get out of the sun for a bit, then set up a lawn chair to enjoy , which steps off from Cherry Lane and Western Avenue at 2:30 p.m. Last but not least, begin at dusk.
When/Where: Village Green in Winnetka, Saturday, July 2 at 8 a.m.
Why Go: Celebrate freedom with a light jog around town. Plus, there are awards for top runners.
Price: Pre-register with the Winnetka Parks District for $20, or at the door for $25
When/Where: Intersection of Thacker and Center Streets in Des Plaines, Monday, July 4, 10 a.m.
Why Go: This year’s parade marshal will be from Schimka Auto Wreckers, Inc., a Des Plaines business celebrating its 75th anniversary. Various awards will be presented for decorated units and homes reflecting the parade theme, including: Best Religious Entry, Best Musical Entry, Best Youth Service Organization Entry, Best Sport Related Entry, Best Uniformed Personnel Entry, Best Political Entry and more.
Pricing: Free
Independence Day Fun & Fireworks
When/Where: Sunday July 3 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Gillson Park, Wilmette, IL
Why Go: Come celebrate the 4th of July with an array of activities including a 3K run/walk, Tastefest, a musical concert and a theatrical performance. Wilmette Park District is topping off the evening with a blow-out fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
Pricing: Free Admission
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.