This week, the Chicago suburbs are bustling with family-fun activities—and it’s the perfect way to experience these popular towns in their true suburban glory.
Fourth of July isn’t a day—it’s an entire week (weekend included!) of fun family events and activities. It’s also the perfect time to get out and explore the Chicago suburbs.
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Evanston
Independence Day in Evanston is all about fun in the sun! The town’s free day-long festival kicks off at 9a, and includes games at many city playgrounds, a fun run, parade, lakefront concert and, of course, fireworks at night.
Naperville
Calling all BBQ lovers! RibFest is Wednesday through Saturday in Naperville, featuring daily concerts starring Billy Idol, Flo Rida, dozens of rib vendors and fireworks at 9:30pm on the 4th.
Glen Ellyn
Families love Glen Ellyn’s 4th of July Parade and Festival, which begins with a four-mile run, a parade at noon and a festival filled with inflatables, face painting and carnival games before a fireworks finale at dusk. The event is free; festival admission is $3.
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Arlington Heights
Busy on the 4th? No problem—Arlington Heights is hosting a spectacular Independence Day celebration on Friday, July 5th. Come out early to enjoy live music, games, face painting and other activities. Fireworks are at dusk; adult tickets are $22.
Hinsdale
Families looking for a fun way to celebrate the 4th of July early in the day should head to Hinsdale! The fun starts with a parade at 10am followed by a free Family Festival from 11am-4pm.
Deerfield
One of Deerfield BEST events for families takes place on Wednesday and Thursday. Come out for Family Fun Days, featuring live entertainment and fireworks on the 3rd and a pancake breakfast, craft fair, bike parade, petting zoo and huge parade on the 4th.
Wilmette
Wilmette’s 4th of July festivities start Wednesday at 4pm. Enjoy live music, face painting, performances, games, rides, a cash-only food festival and fireworks. The Wilmette Harbor Club is also hosting fireworks on Wednesday, July 3 at 9pm.
Highland Park
Highland Park is known for its small town, family-friendly persona, and Independence Day is a great chance to see it firsthand. The day starts with a bike parade at 9:30am, then main parade at 10am, followed by a festival from 11am-2pm and a concert and fireworks from 4pm-9:30 pm.
Lake Forest
Deerpath Community Park is putting on a free concert including kids games and food vendors from 5pm-10pm. The evening ends with a spectacular fireworks display.
Northbrook
Northbrook’s community cookout is Thursday from 12:30pm-2:30pm at 1300 Shermer Road. Come out for free hot dogs, water, live music and a parade!
Glenview
Families are the star of the show at Glenview’s 4th of July Celebration. The festivities start with a bike parade at 10:30am, a main parade at 11:20am and a twilight fireworks display and concert starting at 7pm.
There are hundreds of towns to choose from. How do you figure it all out? You simply don’t, without getting a Suburban Jungle Strategist to help you through it all. Schedule here for your strategy session with our innovative suburbs strategy team. All services are completely free.