Important tip: If you have a dog and are planning to take your pet to a fireworks show, please make sure your dog has all its tags on it and is secured to leash. Dogs can be terried of the booming sounds of the fireworks and get run off. Dog shelters say their busiest day is July 5 from all the dogs running away during the fireworks.
Firworks at Navy Pier in Chicago: Enjoy a show of pyrotechnics with fireworks along the downtown lakefront at Navy Pier. Beginning at 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4, 15-minute displays will light up the sky, with a mix of patriotic music in the background. Navy Pier fireworks will also take place on Saturday, June 30, and Saturday, July 7, at 10:15 p.m. (Find out what else is happening this Fourth of July in Chicago with our July 4 2012 Guide.)
Plainfield Patriotic Picnic and Fireworks: Enjoy the fireworks July 3 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at Planfield Central High School in Plainfield, IL.
Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks: This Independence Day event at Deerpath Park in Lake Forest, IL includes food, a beer garden, live music, activities for kids, and fireworks display and will take place July 4 from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Fourth of July Parade in Barrington: This annual parade in Barrington, IL will take place at 10 a.m. on July 4 along Main Street.
Fourth Fest: This event in Highland Park, IL features carnival games, inflatables, train and pony rides, petting zoo, food, and live entertainment and will take place July 4 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Suggested reading: Fourth of July Dessert Ideas l Fourth of July Cocktails l Fourth of July Decoration Ideas)
Glen Ellyn 4th of July Fireworks: Enjoy a fireworks display at Lake Ellyn Park in Glen Ellyn, IL starting at dusk on July 4th.
Aurora Independence Day Parade: The town of Aurora, IL is hosting a special Fourth of July parade starting at 9:15 a.m. on July 4.
Downers Grove Independence Day Parade: This annual parade will start on Main Street in Downers Grove and will begin at 12:45 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks will be at 7:30 p.m.
