Large gatherings and firework displays that are usually among the highlights of Fourth of July weekend in Chicago have been canceled this year, but the city is still providing ways for residents to celebrate. This morning, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events announced a slate of virtual events that will take place on July 4, providing a variety of opportunities to listen to music and dance before the inevitable amateur firework shows take over the skies in neighborhoods throughout the city.
Here's the current lineup of online Independence Day events organized by the city:
- Virtual Chosen Few Picnic & House Music Festival: The Jackson Park festival moves online, with the Chosen Few DJs (Wayne Williams, Jesse Saunders, Tony Hatchett, Alan King, Andre Hatchett, Terry Hunter and Mike Dunn) spinning sets throughout the afternoon, with appearances from guest performers Byron Stingily, Carla Prather and DJ Deon Cole. July 4 from noon to 9pm, chosenfewdjs.com
- SummerDance in Place The at-home version of Chicago SummerDance hosts a special Independence Day broadcast, inviting viewers to gather with friends and take in a 30-minute salsa dancing lesson by Latin Street, followed by a 60-minute performance by Afinca’o that allows you to test out your new moves. July 4 from 5 to 6:30pm, youtube.com/chicagodcase
- Festival Remixed: Independence Day Salute The Grant Park Music Festival's annual Millennium Park concert goes virtual, as the Grant Park Orchestra and conductor Christopher Bell stream renditions of patriotic compositions like "American Flute Salute," "God Bless America" (with baritone John Orduña), "Fanfare for the Common Man," "America the Beautiful" and "1812 Overture." July 4 from 6:30 to 7:30pm, gpmf.org
In addition to these virtual events, the city also announced that Navy Pier will be open with limited capacity from 10am to midnight on the Fourth of July. The lakefront attraction won't be launching any fireworks, but guests will be able to enjoy outdoor dining, cruises on the lake and a variety of live performances throughout the day. Check out the Navy Pier website for additional details.
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