17 Ways To Celebrate 4th of July in Chicago

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Independence Day is just around the corner. From curated patio and rooftop dining to dazzling fireworks at the beach, Chicago is filled with activities for a memorable 4th of July. With happenings all across Chicago, take advantage of the thriving city life and enjoy a fantastic 4th of July holiday week with an endless array of things to do. 

Navy Pier Fireworks 

Chicago’s most spectacular fireworks display will take place during Independence Day week on Wednesday July 3 at 9 p.m. The Navy Pier Fireworks light up the night in a dazzling array of colors every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer. The best part — the firework show is absolutely free! 

Flyover

Check out Navy Pier’s firework show from Flyover, and enjoy the unique perspective of weaving in and out of the display! Flyover’s signature flying experience, “Believe Chicago,” will take riders on a journey through the skies of Chicago, showcasing the city from a whole new view.  This immersive experience highlights the city’s vibrant tapestry and community’s power. As one of Chicago’s hottest attractions this summer, it’s the perfect way to beat the heat and celebrate the Fourth of July! Purchase tickets here

Sail on Lake Michigan 

With sunny skies expected, take advantage of the stunning Lake Michigan and charter a boat for the day. Cruising on Lake Michigan offers unparalleled views of the city skyline alongside calm waters and good vibes. Check out 1st Class Charters for the best deals to charter boats for the afternoon with options that include a captain! There is truly nothing like a cruise along the lakeshore. 

Rooftop Cinema Club 

Fulton Market’s Rooftop Cinema Club at the Emily Hotel takes movie night to a whole new level. Catch flicks like The Sandlot and Anyone But You on the Fourth of July and enjoy popcorn and drinks with a stunning view of the city surrounding the screen. Tickets start at just $12.  And why not spend the night at the fabulous Emily Hotel and make it a staycation to remember!

NASCAR Street Race

NASCAR is coming to Chicago for a thrilling street race weekend (July 6-7). Watch the action take place as NASCAR takes over Chicago’s scenic lakefront and sweeping city views. Alongside the race, enjoy live music from The Chainsmokers, Keith Urban, The Black Keys and more. 

Spend Your Day in The Sand

With the recent heat wave, Lake Michigan has warmed up to just the right temperature for a dip. Spend your Fourth of July at one of Chicago’s many beaches with stunning city views, sandy shores, and temperate waters. This is the perfect activity for visitors of any age! Our favorite beaches are Oak Street Beach downtown and Loyola Beach in Rogers Park. 

The Robey Hotel: A Fireworks Spectacle with a View

For those looking for a 360-degree view of the fireworks, Wicker Park’s boutique hotel, The Robey, offers not one but two stunning selections. The hotel’s sleek and sexy indoor/outdoor 13th-floor lounge, The Up Room, provides a first-class seat to watch the fireworks burst over the sweeping Chicago skyline. Additionally, The Robey hosts the 6th-floor Mediterranean-inspired all-day oasis, Cabana Club, featuring an outdoor pool and frozen drinks. Guests can soak up the summer sun while enjoying their 4th of July special: a red, white, and blue Bomb Pop!

Wrigley Field

The Chicago Cubs will be playing at home July 3-7 against the Phillies and the Angels. The Cubs will be doing giveaways all weekend including a Cubs grilling apron, a Red, White, and Cubbie Blue Hawaiian shirt and a beach tote. Head out to the historic Wrigley Field to grab a Chicago Dog and a cold beer while cheering on the Cubs. 

4th of July Fireworks & Events in Illinois

Communities across Illinois are celebrating the 4th of July with fireworks, parades, live music, carnivals, food vendors and more. Why not venture out of the city for the holiday? Check out the full list of holiday events on the Enjoy Illinois website!

Kayak on The River 

See the city in a way like never before while kayaking down the river. Kayak tours, classes, and rentals are available through companies like Kayak Chicago and Urban Kayak. Spend your day admiring the city and enjoying good company while paddling down the river. 

Patio Pooch Party at Lottie’s

Nothing screams summer in Chicago quite like a Patio Pooch Party! Head over to Lottie’s Pub on Thursday, July 4th, for an unforgettable happy hour from 12-4 pm. Savor $3 Chicago hot dogs while enjoying $5 Sam Summer pints, $5 Twisted Tea, $6 Tito’s drinks, and $10 The Lot-Tea’s. Don’t miss the special Sam Adams sampling and your chance to win a Sam Adams cooler! Join the fun and make this Fourth of July one to remember at Lottie’s Pub!

Red, White and Bayou Brunch at Ina Mae

Make your way to Ina Mae Tavern for the Red, White & Bayou Brunch on Thursday, July 4th, from 12-6 pm. Enjoy live music from 1-4 pm while indulging in $25 Shrimp Boil plates and $10 frozen, boozy cocktails. Don’t miss out on the festivities and experience a taste of the Bayou in the heart of Chicago!

Jaleo by Jose Andres 

Jaleo by Jose Andres is kicking off the Fourth of July weekend with their “Summer of Sangria,” drink specials. Throughout the month of July seasonal sangrias will be available by the glass and pitcher utilizing summer flavors like watermelon and peach. Chefs have prepared three summer inspired speciality tapas to enjoy with the sangrias. Enjoy the taste of summer in every sip and bite!

Patio Dining at River Roast 

This Independence Day Holiday, from July 3-7 head to the stunning River Roast patio along the Chicago River for a dining special by Executive Chef Jason Qureshi. For just $65, enjoy the phenomenal All-American Platter with succulent smoked St. Louis style ribs paired with creamy mac and cheese and potato salad. To enhance your experience, your meal with a “Summer in the City,” cocktail. Our favorite is the “Green Line,” which features Irish Whiskey and Honeydew Syrup.

City Cruises

City Cruises Chicago features three Independence Day Dinner Cruises: the Signature Dinner Cruise, the Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan, and the Premier Plus Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River. Passengers will revel in the best views of Chicago’s fireworks display and famed landmarks against the water with premier dining and dancing under the stars. In addition, sightseeing and dining cruises will be available throughout the long holiday weekend, including another opportunity to enjoy a fireworks cruise on July 6.

LG’s Bar & Kitchen 

In the spirit of the 4th of July, LG’s Bar & Kitchen located in Old Town will celebrate with cocktail specials, including $4 select Tallboys, $20 Busch Light pitchers, $10 Bomb Pop Slushies, and $3 Jello Shots. These offers will be available each day from July 4th to 7th before 10 pm.

Sheraton Grand Riverwalk

Chicago Burger Company at Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is firing up the grill this Fourth of July with a special grilled-to-order menu. If you’re craving classic homestyle Fourth of July barbeque this special curated menu featuring an All-American Burger and Maxwell Street Polish Combo is the perfect fit for you. Alongside your meal, you can beat the heat with refreshing drink specials including a frozen pina colada or a White Claw bucket to share with friends. 

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