Fireworks at Navy Pier (FREE): 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. (Also check out our Guide to July 4 Parades and Fireworks Happening Throughout the Chicagoland Area.
Grant Park Music Festival - Independence Day Celebration in Millennium Park (FREE): The Grant Park Music Festival’s annual Independence Day celebration concert conducted by Christopher Bell will feature beloved favorites (and a few surprises) by Gershwin, Copland, Bernstein, Sousa, and others. Wednesday, July 4, at 6:30 p.m.
Chicago History Museum - Happy Fourth of July Annual Event (FREE): Celebrate the nation’s independence at the Museum’s 53rd annual celebration with patriotic musical performances, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a children’s costume parade led by the World’s Tallest Uncle Sam. Admission is free to this outdoor event on Uihlein Plaza. Wednesday, July 4, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Shoreline Sightseeing - Architecture Fireworks Cruise: This nighttime cruise takes riders down all three branches of the historic Chicago River for a glittering view of the city’s iconic skyscrapers. The evening ends with a front-row seat for Navy Pier’s fireworks display from the mouth of the Chicago River. Wednesday, July 4, at 8:30 p.m. Visit the Shoreline Sightseeing Web site for the most up-to-date ticket prices.
Seadog - Lakefront Fireworks Cruise: Every seat on the Seadog fireworks cruise has open panoramic views of the Chicago skyline, which are paired with a narrated tour and extended speedboat cruise on this 60-minute ride. Wednesday, July 4, at 9 p.m.Visit the Seadog Web site for the most up-to-date ticket prices.
Wendella Boats – July 4th Fireworks Cruise: Experience the fireworks display while enjoying traditional American music on this two-hour boat tour that takes riders on a trip through the Chicago Lock to see the city from the lake, along with a mini river tour. Wednesday, July 4, at 7:30 p.m. Visit the Wendella Boats Web site for the most up-to-date ticket prices.
Entertainment Cruises – Independence Day Fireworks Dinner Cruises: Take part in America's birthday with your choice of festive dining cruises. See the fireworks display from the the Odyssey, which features live music and creative cuisine during a three-course meal; or enjoy interactive DJ entertainment on multiple dance floors and dinner selections aboard the Spirit of Chicago or Mystic Blue. Wednesday, July 4, at 7 p.m. (Price information coming soon.)
Navy Pier Fireworks Kayak Paddles: Kayak through the city on guided twilight tours and see the fireworks display from the water. Choose from a 45-minute paddle with Urban Kayak, a 90-minute paddle from Wateriders, or a three-hour paddle offered by Kayak Chicago. (Price information coming soon.)
Millennium Park (FREE): Discover Millennium Park’s innovative music series, mixing new music with electronica on Thursdays throughout the summer concert season. Third Coast Percussion will play on July 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Grant Park Music Festival – Millennium Park (FREE): Celebrate the Festival’s 78th season with 30 performances featuring the acclaimed Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus. Highlights include a world premiere by Sebastian Currier on July 6 at 6:30 p.m. and July 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Chicago White Sox Baseball: On July 3 - 5, the Chicago White Sox take on the Texas Rangers and kick off a baseball filled week at U.S. Cellular Field on Chicago’s South Side. After taking on the Rangers, the Chicago White Sox welcome the Toronto Blue Jays July 6 - 8. The family friendly stadium is easily accessible off of the CTA Red Line train’s 35th/Sox stop.
