4th Of July Fireworks 2021 Near Wilmette

WILMETTE, IL — Coronavirus cases continue to drop across the country while the number of those who are fully vaccinated continues to rise, which means there is even more reason to celebrate this Independence Day. July 4 is almost here, so it's time to find out what Fourth of July fireworks and festivities are going on near you.

In Wilmette, the annual Independence Day celebration returns to Gillson Park on July 3 for a slightly modified schedule.

The Yankee Doodle Dash offers in-person and virtual options for the 5K race through the streets of Wilmette. There will be no food trucks, beer or children's race this year.

Festivities at Gillson Park will begin at 4 p.m. July 3 with food vendors and live music all evening.

Two bands are scheduled to perform, one starting at 4:30 p.m. and one at 7 p.m., with fireworks to begin at 9:30 p.m.

This year, there will be no children's games or rides, with entertainment limited to music and fireworks, district officials announced.

Organizers expect heavy traffic in the area due to the scrapping of Pace bus shuttle service, so attendees were asked to plan ahead for potential delays.

Earlier on Independence Day, the Northfield Park District plans to hold a celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Willow Park with family-friendly events, a bike decorating contest, a food and beer tent, games and more.

As for other North Shore communities, organizers in Evanston, Skokie and Highland Park have canceled their fireworks displays, while officials in Winnetka and Glencoe have postponed their village's fireworks until Labor Day weekend. The city of Lake Forest is holding a downtown fireworks and concert event.

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 Wilmette-Kenilworth Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.