Fourth of July Events: Fireworks, Art And Parades

If you need help finding something to do over the long weekend, take a look at some of the fun events happening around Lake County.

1. Village of Libertyville July Fourth Fireworks

• When/where: Butler Lake Park, Lake Street, Libertyville; Village Band begins at 7:30 p.m., fireworks at dusk, or 9:30 p.m.; Monday, July 4.
• Why Go? Libertyville will present its own fireworks display to celebrate our nation’s independence. Before the show, visitors can enjoy the sounds of the Village Band playing from the Butler Park band shell. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, and enjoy the show.
• Pricing: Free.

2. First Friday and Out to Lunch

• When/where: First Friday, downtown Libertyville; 6 to 9 p.m.; Friday, July 1; Out to Lunch, Cook Park, Libertyville; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday, July 1.
• Why Go? While these are recurring events, holiday weekends give us more time to take advantage of them. The First Friday events feature live music, food, and in-store specials. Out to Lunch features food vendors and live music. It’s a great way to kick off the weekend.
• Pricing: Free to attend. Food vendor pricing varies.

3. Grayslake Family Picnic and Fireworks

• When/where: Central Park, North Lake Street and Hillside Avenue, Grayslake, Ill.; 3-10 p.m.; Saturday, July 2.
• Why Go? This family friendly event will include live music, food vendors, kids rides and activities, and fireworks at dusk.
• Pricing: Free.

4. Mundelein Community Days

• When/where: Mundelein, Ill.; check schedule for locations of specific attractions; Friday, July 1 through Monday, July 4.
• Why Go? Mundelein Community Days, similar to Libertyville Days, is a full weekend of attractions for all ages. Friday, children’s pageants will be held at Mundelein High School. Saturday’s attractions include a pet parade, arts and crafts fair, a car show, carnival, pony rides, food, live music, and more. On Sunday, visitors can participate in a health and wellness expo, see the parade, and visit the ongoing carnival, food vendors, and live bands. The 15th annual Red, White, and Blue Benefit Walk will be held Monday, as well as many new and ongoing entertainment attractions, including fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
• Pricing: Admission is free. Attraction pricing varies.

5. Lake Bluff Fourth of July Celebration

• When/where: Lake Bluff, Ill.; Friday, July 1 through Monday, July 4.
• Why Go? The Lake Bluff Fourth of July committee works throughout the year to put together this celebration, now in its 100th year. Friday will feature Taste of Lake Bluff, games, live music, and shopping. An ice cream social takes place on Saturday, and the 36th annual Firemen’s Ball will be held Sunday. The Fourth of July parade will be held Monday, as will a pancake breakfast and family fair.
• Pricing: Admission is free. Attraction pricing varies.

6. Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival

• When/where: The Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Ill.; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, July 1 through Sunday, July 3.
• Why Go? This exclusive juried art fair will feature the work of 80 artists who incorporate a botanic theme or material. Art demos and daily drawings will take place throughout the weekend as will kids’ activities.
• Pricing: Parking is $20 per car. Free for Chicago Botanic Garden members. Admission to the gardens is free.