The nation's 250th birthday falls on a Saturday this year, and Downers Grove and Woodridge residents have three free events lined up to mark the semiquincentennial: a downtown parade, a neighborhood picnic, and a joint fireworks show.
Here's how to plan the day.
Downers Grove Independence Day Parade — 1 p.m.
The parade steps off at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at Main Street and Grant Street, just south of Ogden Avenue. Marchers travel south on Main for about a mile, ending at Warren Avenue before the railroad tracks.
The Village of Downers Grove says the parade is open to all residents and organizations at no fee. Expect civic groups, sports teams, marching bands, dancers, and local businesses.
Woodridge Fourth of July Picnic — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Before the parade, the Woodridge Special Events Committee hosts its annual picnic at Castaldo Park, 3024 71st St., Woodridge, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 4.
The tradition dates to 1968, when it launched as part of Illinois' sesquicentennial. This year marks the 58th picnic. Bring chairs, blankets, and lawn games. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The picnic includes live vocal performances and DJ sets.
Fireworks — Dusk (approximately 9:30 p.m.)
The Villages of Downers Grove and Woodridge jointly present their fireworks display at 75th Street and Lemont Road, beginning at dusk, approximately 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4.
The Village of Downers Grove notes that spectators can park and view the show from several parking lots in the area surrounding the launch site.
Why This Year Is Different
July 4, 2026, is the semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence. Nationally, the congressionally chartered America 250 organization is staging "America's Block Party," a coast-to-coast celebration, and burying a time capsule in Philadelphia containing artifacts from all three branches of government and submissions from every state and territory. Locally, the Village of Downers Grove is billing its parade as the "Independence Day Parade for America 250."
At a Glance
- Saturday, July 4 — Woodridge picnic, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Castaldo Park; Downers Grove parade, 1 p.m., Main & Grant; fireworks, dusk, 75th & Lemont
