Palos Heights Independence Day Celebration, Fireworks And Parade

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL -- Let’s hear it for the red, white and blue at Palos Heights’ old-fashioned Independence Day Celebration on Wednesday, July 3, at Memorial Park, 7607 W College Drive. The celebration runs from 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

The Independence Day Celebration features pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatable attractions for all ages, including a mini train, face painting and balloon twisters, DJ, food vendors and beer tent. Soda hits the stage from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. and, of course, a great fireworks show.

Advance tickets for attractions are on sale now for $15 at the Palos Heights Community Center, 6601 W 127th St.; and $20 the day of the event

Lake Katherine Nature Center is hosting a bash coinciding with the Palos Heights celebration on July 3. Fireworks begin at dusk and there is free entry for all. Optional tickets for $25 are available for a gathering in the clubhouse starting at 7 p.m., including drinks and light snacks. The nature center is located at 7402 W. Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights.

On Thursday, July 4, that Palos Heights Fourth of July Parade steps off at noon. The parade begins at Harris Bank, 12534 S Harlem Ave, and travels north down Harlem Avenue to 119th Place.

The “sensory friendly” block also returns to the parade for a second year courtesy of the Palos Heights Recreation Department and SWSRA (Southwest Special Recreation Association). The "sensory friendly block" is designed to provide a less stimulating environment to individuals with sensitivities to sensory input. There will be no lights, sirens or music located at Harlem and 120th Street to Harlem and Route 83.