(Photo Courtesy PBS)
From patriotic and pop music to spectacular fireworks, this weekend’s July 4th events are opportunities for every age group to salute the United States of America with joy.
Many Chicago area towns have fireworks but if looking for something downtown Chicago or a way to celebrate from home, check out the following suggestions:
July 2
Fireworks at Navy Pier hosted by Hilton
Watch the sky over Navy Pier Saturday night as Hilton which now has a hotel on the Pier, hosts an incredible fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m. Watchers can receive “diffraction glasses,” courtesy of Hilton (while supplies last so get there early. The glasses add even more visual interest to the fireworks. accompanied by holiday-themed music, is just one of the many free programs celebrating the Fourth of July.
“Nothing says summer in Chicago like fireworks at Navy Pier. We’re grateful to Hilton for helping Chicago’s favorite destination light up the sky by presenting our spectacular July 2 fireworks display,” said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner. “Navy Pier is known as the People’s Pier for a reason. We hope that all of our neighbors come out to enjoy the free programs planned for the holiday weekend and throughout the year, ” said Gardner.
While waiting for the fireworks, stopt at the Navy Pier Beer Garden to hear Manny Torres followed by a Creedence tribute band and then the alternative rock Pino Farina Band.
The Pier has numerous dining choices including the very casual Billy Goat’s Tavern, mid-casual Harry Caray’s Tavern and the more elaborate cuisine of the Offshore Rooftop. Visit Navy Pier | Navy Pier for food and drink options.
Independence Day Salute: Grant Park Music Festival
Get a ticketed seat ($26-$80) in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or sprawl for free on the Great Lawn to hear the Grant Park Music Festival Orchestra. The program includes such popular and patriotic music as John Williams’ “Liberty Fanfare, George Gershwin and Armed forces medleys and a Sousa march from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. The Pavilion is in Millennium Park at Randolph St and Michigan Ave. (Don’t bring alcoholic beverages. There will be beer and wine)
July 4
, the annual PBS 4th of July salute from Washing DC 7 pm CT. host country Music star Mickey Guyton. Program featuring pop, T&B, classical, country and Broadway stars led by pops conductor Jack Everly.
Along with Guyton, performers include Chita Rivera, Darren Criss, Cynthia Erivo, Yolanda Adams Gloria Gaynor and several more entertainers.
The fireworks start a couple of hours after the entertainment (when it gets dark in DC.) They are among the best in the country.
Have a happy, safe Fourth of July weekend!
Jodie Jacobs