Find Out Where to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks in the Chicago Area and How to Celebrate Safely in the Backyard
When it’s time to celebrate Independence Day, almost everyone—young and old alike—start thinking about fireworks lighting up the sky. If you’re ready to start celebrating for July Fourth weekend, here’s a rundown of some local fireworks displays and a little information about how to celebrate safely with your family.
Fourth of July Fireworks Events in the Chicago Area
The Fourth is a highly anticipated holiday here in Chicago, and you can expect local celebrations across the metro area. Here’s some information about just a few of the many festivals featuring fireworks displays this year:
- Chicago. Whether you join the crowds on the dock or watch from a hotel or rooftop bar, find a spot to catch the display of fireworks and music at the Navy Pier, which will start at 9:30 p.m. on July 4.
- Deerfield. The Deerfield Family Days celebration promises live music, a pancake breakfast, a bike parade, a dog show, and so much more over Independence Day weekend. Enjoy the fireworks display scheduled for Friday, July 3, at 9:15 p.m., and then come back on Saturday to take part in more events.
- Glenview. Start by watching the parade at 11:15 a.m. on July 4, which will proceed from Harlem Avenue to Central Road. After a day of fun, head down to Gallery Park at 7:00 p.m. to catch patriotic music from the North Shore Concert Band and the twilight fireworks display.
- Lake Forest. Starting at 6:00 p.m., the Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks will feature live music and activities for the kids at Deerpath Park. The fireworks display is free and scheduled to begin around 9:40 p.m.
- Oak Park. Celebrate the Fourth by watching the Independence Day Parade at 10:00 a.m. and the fireworks at dusk. The fireworks display will be held at the Oak Park and River Forest High School football stadium.
If you don’t see your local fireworks display listed here, there are tons of other options for celebrating the holiday. Most of the cities and towns in the surrounding area have displays and festivals scheduled for July Fourth weekend, so don’t forget to check your hometown’s website and newspaper for a schedule of events.
Enjoying Fireworks Safely at Backyard Displays and Family Gatherings
Do you prefer to avoid the crowds and celebrate with family in the backyard? Most fireworks are banned in Illinois, and some cities have additional laws that further limit the kinds of ignitable entertainment that are allowed. In some areas, it may even be illegal to light up a few sparklers. Before you make plans or purchase fireworks over the border in Indiana, be aware of federal, state, and local laws that apply to you.
However, if you’re traveling out of town to enjoy a backyard display with family and friends or just picking up some snake pellets and novelties for the kids to enjoy, here are some tips for avoiding tragedy from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
- Children should always be supervised by an adult when watching or using fireworks and related novelties. Never allow young children to play with fireworks.
- Never use any kind of fireworks indoors, and always follow safety instructions on the packaging.
- Make sure the outdoor area you choose is away from people, pets, buildings, cars, and flammable materials.
- Don’t keep fireworks in your pocket, shoot them off from your hand, or fire them into metal or glass containers.
- Always keep a bucket of water nearby, and make sure you have access to a hose or fire extinguisher.
- Light only one firework at a time, and move away quickly.
- Don’t attempt to relight a “dud.” Keep an eye on it for 20 minutes, and then submerge it in water. You should also soak any spent fireworks before disposing of them in a metal trash can.
- Don’t be tempted to light up fireworks when you’re intoxicated—and remember not to get behind the wheel on the way home if you plan to celebrate with alcohol.
How does your family stay safe while enjoying Fourth of July festivities? Leave us a comment below, or connect with Lane Brown on Facebook today to share your stories with our readers.
