Evanston's 4th Of July Fireworks 2021 Canceled

EVANSTON, IL — Though coronavirus cases continue to drop across the country and the number of those who are fully vaccinated continues to rise, many Independence Day celebrations have once again been canceled, modified or shifted to a remote format due to the pandemic.

Earlier this year, the Evanston Fourth of July Association voted to cancel its traditional July 4 lakefront fireworks, parade, concert and fun run.

Instead, the association has announced plans for a photo contest and treasure hunt game, as well as a "virtual parade celebration" video.

While several North Shore communities have postponed their 2021 firework plans until Labor Day — or, like Evanston, canceled them altogether — July 4 fireworks are scheduled to take place at Gillson Park in Wilmette and Deerpath Community Park in Lake Forest.

The Evanston Fourth of July Association's photo contest is open until July 9, with categories celebrating the most festive family, food, storefront and lawn chair, as well as the "most patriotic pet." Winners will receive gift cards to local business and be announced on July 19.

The association also invited residents to download mobile geocaching software to take part in "I Love a Parade," a family-friendly historical tour of Central Street that heads along the parade route. It requires the free Adventure Lab app.

Due to the pandemic, counties or cities may adjust or cancel events at the last minute, so double-check with organizers. Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Evanston Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.