Highland Park Brings Back Fireworks for 250th Independence Day Celebration

The city's annual Fourth of July festivities will include a parade, pool party, and fireworks display for the first time since 2022.

Mar. 1, 2026 at 5:39pm

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The City of Highland Park, Illinois has announced its plans for the 2026 Independence Day celebrations, which will include the return of a fireworks display for the first time since the deadly shooting at the 2022 parade. The day's events will also feature an Independence Fest, a parade, and a star-spangled pool party to commemorate 250 years of American independence.

Why it matters

Highland Park's decision to bring back fireworks for its 2026 Fourth of July celebrations marks an important milestone in the community's recovery following the tragic events of 2022. The festivities aim to bring the city together and restore a sense of unity and patriotism after a difficult period.

The details

The 2026 Independence Day celebrations in Highland Park will include an Independence Fest on July 3rd featuring food, games, attractions, and a live ABBA tribute band. On July 4th, the city will host a parade showcasing residents' American stories and a star-spangled pool party at Hidden Creek AquaPark. Notably, this year's festivities will include the return of a fireworks display, which the city has not had since the deadly shooting at the 2022 parade.

  • The Independence Fest will take place on July 3, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
  • The Independence Day Parade will be held on July 4, 2026 at 10:30 a.m.
  • The Star-Spangled Pool Party will occur on July 4, 2026 after the parade at Hidden Creek AquaPark

The players

Park District of Highland Park

The local parks and recreation department that is co-hosting the Independence Fest celebration.

Terry Grossberg

The President of the Park District of Highland Park Board.

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What they’re saying

“Last July 3rd, the Park District launched Independence Fest as a new holiday kick-off celebration, which was a fabulous success. Hundreds of families and neighbors came together at The Preserve of Highland Park to enjoy entertainment, food, activities, and a strong sense of community. We are thrilled to bring Independence Fest back this year with the addition of the City's fireworks display, making the festivities even more memorable as we celebrate our country's 250th birthday.”

— Terry Grossberg, Park District of Highland Park Board President

What’s next

The city is accepting applications from residents interested in participating in the Independence Day parade.

The takeaway

Highland Park's decision to bring back fireworks and other celebratory events for its 2026 Fourth of July festivities represents an important step in the community's healing and recovery following the tragic events of 2022. The celebrations aim to unite residents and commemorate 250 years of American independence.