As the 4th of July in Chicago approaches, it’s time to start planning how to celebrate this year. Festivities will include dazzling fireworks, barbecues, rooftop pools, park picnics, and decorations in red, white, and blue.
The 4th of July is a time to come together and celebrate with friends and family. Here are the best things to do on the 4th of July in Chicago.
4th of July events in Chicago
Watch a fireworks show
Navy Pier continues to host its spectacular 4th of July fireworks display, which will occur on July 5 this year, starting at 10 PM on Saturdays.
Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
Attend the NASCAR Street Race
On the 4th of July weekend this year, experience the thrill of a high-speed street race through the bustling city of Chicago. The adrenaline-pumping race will wind through a 2.2-mile course with a series of 12 turns.
Prepare to witness the spectacle as drivers navigate their way through Lake Shore Drive, Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive, and other surrounding streets.
Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL
Head to a family-friendly parade in Hyde Park
Head to Hyde Park for a classic 4th of July parade! This annual parade promises to be a fun-filled time with floats, decked-out bikes, and more. Bring your favorite picnic blanket for a traditional picnic in the park after the parade.
Address: 1355 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL
Grab ice cream for the 4th of July in Chicago
The 4th of July in Chicago is destined to be hot, which means there’s one thing you must always have: ice cream. Everything from La Michoacana’s refreshing paletas to Black Dog Gelato’s outrageously cool flavors, there are so many splendid spots to get ice cream in Chicago.
Celebrate at the Godfrey Hotel
Beginning at 3 p.m., the Godfrey Hotel rooftop will come alive with amazing DJs, handcrafted cocktails, and high-energy holiday vibes. As night falls and fireworks light up the skyline, guests can take in the views and toast to summer in style.
Guests can also celebrate with the Red, White, and Blue Sangria, available from July 1 through July 6.
Tickets: The event is 21+, tickets are $23.65, and can be purchased here.
A 4th of July at Bandit
Bandit invites guests to enjoy the festive atmosphere all week long in celebration of the Fourth of July. The fun kicks off on Wednesday, July 2, with doors opening at 4 p.m. and continues through the weekend. On Thursday, July 3, Bandit will serve its all-day menu beginning at 11:30 a.m., with service and entertainment lasting until 2 a.m.
The celebration carries on Friday, July 4, with a lively bottomless brunch starting at 10:30 a.m. The brunch will feature signature dishes, brunch cocktails, and continued fun through 2 a.m.
Shuffle for the 4th of July in Chicago
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Electric Shuffle with a festive mix of games, drinks, and bites.
On July 4, the venue is offering $5 shuffleboard, beers, and seltzers, plus $10 margaritas and sliders, perfect for toasting to freedom with friends. Gusts can also enjoy Frozen Aperol Spritz, available through July and August.
Reservations: 21+ Walk-ins welcome, reservations can be made here.
A weekend getaway at the Abbey Resort
The Abbey Resort, just a short drive from Chicago, will host a full day of free family-friendly festivities on July 4. From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., activities at the resort’s West Shore Pavilion will include inflatables, lawn games, face painting, temporary tattoos, live magic shows, a scavenger hunt, and a bonfire with s’mores.
Beginning at 7 p.m., guests are invited to gather on the resort’s Harbor Lawn for a lakeside view of the Fontana fireworks.