Independence Day Celebrations Right Around the Corner
Des Plaines celebrates Independence Day with two signature community traditions, a fireworks display and a parade, held on separate days.
Ready, Set, Glow! Community Fireworks Set for June 28 at Oakton College
A star-spangled summer tradition returns to Des Plaines on Sunday, June 28. The Community Fireworks at Oakton College (1600 East Golf Road) will feature a little extra sparkle in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, enjoy yard games and a live DJ, and cap off the evening with a spectacular fireworks display featuring an extended finale to mark the occasion.
We will have eight food trucks to purchase dinner and dessert from. Those include Cousins Maine Lobster, Culinary Gangster, El Zorro Tacos, Hello Boba, Kona Ice, My Funnel Truck, Rita's Ice, and Tievoli Pizza.
Gates open at 7 p.m. and the fireworks show begins at dusk (approximately 9:15 p.m.). Please note that entry to Oakton College will be off Golf Road only.
For more information on parking and any other questions, visit our website at desplainesil.gov/communityfireworks
|
|
 |
Independence Day Parade Marches Through Des Plaines on July 4
Get ready for a red, white and blue celebration as the City of Des Plaines’ annual Independence Day Parade makes its way through the city on Saturday, July 4. Uncle Sam and Betsy Ross will once again be part of the festivities as this longtime tradition brings patriotic flair to downtown streets.
This year's parade them is "250 Years: Celebrating America's Past, Present, & Future." Floats, live music and strolling entertainment will line the route as neighbors gather to celebrate the holiday together. It’s a festive, family-friendly tradition and a summer highlight in Des Plaines.
The parade steps off at 10 a.m. at Center Street and Wicke Avenue.
Please note that nearby roads will be closed to accommodate parade traffic. Center Street will be closed from Wicke Avenue to Prairie Avenue, and Prairie Avenue will be closed from Center Street to Pearson Street for the duration of the parade. We appreciate your patience and look forward to seeing you along the route.
For more information, please visit our website at desplainesil.gov/independencedayparade
|
|
 |
Des Plaines History Center
Independence Day Celebration
Following the Parade on July 4, the Des Plaines History Center (781 Pearson Street) invites residents to continue the celebration with a community birthday party honoring the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Guests can enjoy historic yard games, ice cream, self-guided tours of the Kinder House, and other family-friendly activities highlighting life in early America. Join friends, neighbors, and fellow community members in commemorating this historic milestone.
City Offices Closed on July 3 for
Independence Day
In observance of Independence Day, all City of Des Plaines government offices will be closed on Friday, July 3.
Essential services such as police and fire will remain fully operational. There will be no impact on refuse collection.
Step Back in Time at the GENCenter
Sock Hop on July 12
The GENCenter (52 East Northwest Highway) and the Des Plaines Youth Commission invite residents to an old-fashioned sock hop on Sunday, July 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the GENCenter.
This family-friendly event brings together multiple generations for an afternoon of dancing and community fun. A DJ will play hits from the 1950s, and light refreshments will be served. Families are encouraged to attend together and enjoy a shared experience that grandparents, parents, and children can all take part in.
Residents are asked to RSVP by July 9 by calling the GENCenter at 847-768-5944.
Rand Red Hots Wins Chicagoland’s Best Hot Dog Tournament
Rand Red Hots (1441 Rand Road) has been named the winner of WGN Radio’s Chicagoland’s Best Hot Dog tournament.
This recognition highlights a longtime local favorite and one of the many small businesses that contribute to the character and vitality of our community. The City congratulates Rand Red Hots on this well-deserved honor.
ICYMI: Taste of Des Plaines
The City extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this year’s Taste of Des Plaines a success.
Residents and visitors filled downtown Des Plaines to enjoy local vendors, live entertainment, and a weekend that showcased the best of our community. Thank you to all who attended, supported our businesses, and contributed to the energy and success of the event.
Special recognition is extended to Main Stage sponsor, Rivers Gives, and World Stage sponsor, Town and Country Distributors.
Additional sponsors include Bath Planet, Le Village, TVG-Medulla LLC/Chiro One Wellness, Oakton College, Renewal by Andersen, Semper Solr, Sunrun, Sysco, Ozinga, Journal & Topics, and Village Bank & Trust.
A short recap video is available below highlighting the weekend’s festivities.
|
