With the Fourth of July falling on a Wednesday this year, making Independence Day plans isn't as easy as usual—you'll have to pack an entire weekend worth of celebration into a single day (before you go back to work on Thursday). If you're looking for a place to watch colorful aerial displays, we've got a comprehensive guide to fireworks in and around Chicago. To flesh out the rest of your mid-week holiday, take a look at even more things to do in the city on the Fourth of July.
Fourth of July Celebration at the Chicago History Museum
Get up early on the Fourth of July to hear patriotic tunes from the Americana Concert Band and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. The free festivities begin at 10am; admission to the museum is free for Illinois residents.
Independence Day Salute at Millennium Park
Head to Chicago's front lawn for this annual Fourth of July celebration, headlined by conductor Christopher Bell and the Grant Park Orchestra. You'll hear Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever and a special performance from 16-year-old Rockford pianist Emily Bear.
July 4th Fest at Six Flags Great America
Spend America's birthday riding roller coasters at this amusement park bash, which features a food festival, fireworks at 9:45pm and foam dance party. Buy a ticket and bring a Coca-Cola product to gain early access to the party between 9:30 and 10:30am.
Red, White & Brew Cruise at Shoreline Sightseeing
Shoreline Sightseeing and Revolution Brewing team up to present a festive holiday cruise, complete a well-stocked cooler of Rev beers. Throughout the 2.5-hour cruise, you'll enjoy samples of Freedom of Speach, Rev Pils and Fist City (not to mention some great views of the fireworks). Tickets are $119, and the boat departs from the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge. The party lasts from 8 to 10:30pm.
The Big Whoop-De-Doo! at Theater on the Lake
Cut a rug with the Golden Horse Ranch Band and a square dance caller Annie Coleman at this throwback celebration, where you can sashay, swing and do-si-do before watching the fireworks. The party starts at 6pm, and tickets are $25 (or $12.50 in advance).
4th of July Jazzin' at the Shedd at Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd's weekly outdoor music series isn't taking the week off for the Fourth—instead, it's welcoming R&B, soul, jazz and funk bands Gray Matters and Tenor Madness for an evening of music. Stick around after the show to watch the Navy Pier fireworks from one of the best vantage points in the city. The show begins at 5pm, and tickets are $25.
Patio Party at City Winery
City Winery takes the party outside for Independence Day, hosting a patio concert featuring roots rockers Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band as well as local acts Devil in a Woodpile and Al Scorch. The music starts at 3pm, and tickets are $15.
Fourth of July Late Night at the Owl
Want to keep the patriotic festivities going well into the 5th of July? Logan Square 4am bar the Owl is hosting a late night post-fireworks party, with $5 Hopewell First Lager cans, music and dancing.