2024 Lake County Fourth of July Guide
By: Stephanie Wylie 06/21/2024
Lake County is the perfect place to celebrate the 4th of July, offering a variety of exciting activities for all ages. From dazzling fireworks displays to festive parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Families can partake in community picnics, while thrill-seekers can head to the local amusement parks for a day of fun. Don't miss out on the live music performances and food festivals that add to the holiday spirit. Join us as we explore the best ways to celebrate Independence Day in Lake County!
Fourth of July Fireworks Displays, Programs and Parades
- Wauconda Big Bang (July 3) INFO»
- Red, White & Boom! 4th of July Celebration in Lincolnshire (July 3) INFO»
- 4th of July Celebration in Lake Zurich (July 4) INFO»
- 4th of July Fireworks on the Waukegan Lakefront (July 4) INFO»
- Vernon Hills July 4th (July 4) INFO»
- July 4th Fireworks at Six Flags Great America (July 4-6) INFO»
- Deerfield Fireworks Show (July 3) INFO»
- Anitoch Fireworks (July 4) INFO»
- Fox Lake Fireworks (June 29) INFO»
- Grayslake Fireworks (June 29) INFO»
- Libertyville Independence Day Fireworks (July 4) INFO»
- Mundelein Parade and Fireworks (July 4) INFO»
- Zion Fireworks with Concert in the Park Series: Mellencougar (July 4) INFO»
Fourth of July Festivals and Events
Join the 28th Annual Antioch Run For Freedom on Thursday, July 4, this popular 5k walk/run has become a beloved holiday tradition in Antioch, drawing over 1,200 participants each year. The event caters to both competitive runners and casual walkers, featuring a challenging course that winds through the scenic streets of Antioch. The race starts at the Antioch Scout House. Register online by July 3.
The Antioch 4th of July Parade will take place on Thursday, July 4, starting at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Antioch. Traditionally, the parade travels from Antioch Community High School to Poplar Avenue via Route 83 (Main St.), though this year some route modifications may be necessary due to construction at ACHS. The parade's theme is "Faithful and True to the Red, White and Blue." Following the parade, join friends and neighbors for the Party in the Park at Williams Park, starting at 4 p.m. The festivities include food trucks, a beer garden, and music, with a DJ from 4-7 p.m. and a performance by Keith James Magneen..
Celebrate Fox Lake will take place on Saturday, June 29, starting at 11 a.m. at Lakefront Park. The event features a parade beginning at 10 a.m. at Grant High School and ending at Millennium Park, where a classic car show will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. with awards at 1:30 p.m. The festivities continue from 5-10 p.m. at Lakefront Park, including live music, food and kids' activities, culminating in a fireworks display at dusk over Nippersink Lake.
The 61st Annual Deerfield Family Days will take place on July 3-4, at Jewett and Shepard Parks in Deerfield. On July 3, enjoy live music, food vendors, inflatables, carnival games and a fireworks show at Shepard Middle School. On July 4, activities at Jewett Park include a 5K race, breakfast, arts and crafts market, bike parade, dog show, live music, a parade, food vendors and various amusement rides and games.
The Taste of Grayslake Family Picnic and Fireworks will be held on Saturday, June 29, from 3-10 p.m. at Central Park. The event features a variety of food, live entertainment, carnival rides, local businesses and more. Wild Daisy, known for their energetic, dynamic female-fronted country performances, will play from 5-7 p.m., followed by GOOROOS from 7:30-9:30 p.m. This family-friendly event promises high-quality music, interactive entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show to conclude the evening.
The Independence Day Parade in Highland Park will take place on Thursday, July 4, from 1:00-4:30 p.m. The theme "Sweet Home Highland Park" invites residents, community organizations and businesses to showcase their love for the city with creatively designed floats and festive decor. The parade will feature neighborhood collaborations, a children’s bike and pet parade and awards for the best entries in the categories of neighborhood, community groups and businesses. Following the parade, 4th Fest will be held at Sunset Woods Park from 1:30-4:30 p.m., offering entertainment, rides, carnival games, a petting zoo and food trucks, with a performance by the band Radio Gaga.
The Red, White & BOOM! 4th of July Celebration is the largest event of the year, spanning two days of festivities. On July 3, from 4-9:30 p.m., North Park will host a variety of attractions, entertainment, food and beverages. The celebration continues on July 4 at Spring Lake Park, featuring a 5K race, parade and the exciting cardboard boat regatta throughout the day. The festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display in the evening. Join the community for a fun-filled celebration of Independence Day!
Celebrate America the Beautiful at Brothers’ Field and Buffalo Creek Brewery from July 5-7. Enjoy patriotic-themed drinks and live music at the Tiki Bar on July 5, followed by a day of Mini Marathon, Old Fashioned Baseball and live bands on July 6. Wind down on July 7 with American cocktails and relaxed vibes at the Tiki Bar.
Celebrate the best of Mundelein at Mundelein Community Days 2024, happening from July 4-7. This beloved festival features a wide array of attractions including a carnival, fireworks, parade, food vendors, live music, games, contests, demonstrations, displays and numerous kids' activities. Drawing thousands of attendees each year, this family-oriented event has established itself as a highlight of the summer in Lake County.
Join the excitement at the 45th Freedom Classic 5K "Do It for the Donut" on Thursday, July 4, from 8-10 a.m. at the Mundelein Community Center. Participants are encouraged to dress in red, white and blue for this scenic run through Loch Lomond and Keith Mione Community Park, featuring a professionally chip-timed course. After crossing the finish line on Recreation Drive, cool down in sprinklers and enjoy patriotic donuts and refreshments.
Celebrate Independence Day in style at the Waukegan Park District’s American Independence Parade on Sunday, June 30. Starting at 1:00 p.m., featuring State Senator Adriane Johnson as the Grand Marshal. Join the community for this festive event along Sheridan Rd. in Waukegan. Admission is free, so bring your family and friends for a patriotic celebration!
Experience the Illinois Beach Hotel Beach Bash on Saturday, June 29. This early 4th of July celebration promises a day filled with delicious food including hot dogs, hamburgers and more, alongside refreshing drinks. Children can enjoy unlimited access to a bouncy house and face painting for $10 each. Groove to the beats of DJs UNFRGVN and GIZMO as they spin lively tunes all day. Bring your family and friends, beach blankets or chairs, sunscreen and hats for a memorable day on the beach!
Celebrate July 4th at Six Flags Great America’s July 4th Fest, presented by Coca-Cola, from July 4-6. This festive event features thrilling rides, spectacular music and dazzling fireworks. Enjoy ice-cold Coca-Cola while you say happy birthday to America in the most exhilarating way. Join the fun and make unforgettable memories with family and friends at Six Flags Great America!
Other Lake County Fourth of July Happenings
- Beach Fest in Round Lake Beach (July 6) INFO»
- Lake Forest Festival and Fireworks (July 4)
- 4th of July Picnic in Lake Villa (July 4)
- Fourth of July Parade in Lake Bluff (July 4)
- 4th of July Fireworks in Barrington (July 4)
- 4th of July Fireworks in Hawthorn Woods (July 4)
For more to do Fourth of July weekend, continue here. To learn about summer festival season in the land of lakes, click here.
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