Ask Joyce

Hello Joyce,

My daughter and I will be coming to Chicago within the next 3 months. She will be enrolling at the Illinois Institute of Art. We would like to arrange our visit during the 4th of July holiday. But I understand that not all city’s celebrate on the 4th. Can you please tell me when you will be having your fireworks and celebration?

Best Regards, Alice Borrego

Hello Alice – Everything is open and busy during Independence Day weekend. The City of Chicago celebrates Independence Day on July 3rd. Fireworks will commence at about 930pm from the lakefront at Grant Park. One of the nation’s largest food festival’s, Taste of Chicago, will take place from June 27-July 6. Sample some of Chicago’s famous food items during the day; sit back and relax at a spot along the lake to watch the fireworks. The hotel concierge can help you navigate the festival and fireworks.

Many of the boat tours will be operating that weekend with fireworks cruises. A few of my favorites – Shoreline, Wendella, Mercury and Chicagoline Cruises. If you are interested in a dining cruise, have your concierge make a reservation on the Odyssey or the Spirit of Chicago.

If you miss out on the fireworks on July 3rd, do not fear. Navy Pier has a fireworks display twice a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day each summer. Expect to see the sky lit with color on July 4th and 5th from a barge close to Navy Pier.

Have a great summer!!

Joyce Fong, Ask Joyce