Applications Taken To March In 2023 Evergreen Park Independence Parade

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — Evergreen Park, which distinguishes itself from surrounding communities by holding its “Fourth of July Parade” a day or two before the big day, is accepting applications for the village’s upcoming Independence Day Parade.

The parade steps off at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 30. Fireworks will go off at 9 p.m. at Duffy Park, 92nd & Ridgeway.

This year marks Evergreen Park’s 53rd patriotic promenade. OSF Little Company of Mary Medical Center will be doing the grand marshal hours. Veterans, active military and their families are also invited to lead the parade in a salute to Evergreen Park’s hometown heroes.

>>> Veterans, Active Military Invited To Lead EP Independence Day Parade

Multiple sponsorships of this year’s parade are still available. If interested, businesses can email Evergreen Park Chamber Vice President Laura Shallow at lshallow@worlddatasystems.com.

The parade lines up at 95th Street and Springfield Avenue, before heading east on 95th Street to Richmond Avenue, and north on Richmond to 91st Street, where the parade disbands.

Thousands flock to Evergreen Park's Independence Day Parade, which is considered one of the best in the southwest suburbs. This is an opportunity for businesses and organizations to get their names out there. Make an amateur float, dress up your dog as Uncle Sam or Betsy Ross, gather your scouts or youth team, form a marching group, decorate your bike or just wear a costume. Kids and adults are encouraged to participate and add to the festivities.

Participants who want their entries announced when it passes the reviewing stand, enclose a 3X5 index card along with your application and a description of your entry. This information will be used during the Comcast/Xfinity broadcast. Once the parade line up is set, the village will notify participants with their parade number the day before the parade.

Awards will also be handed out to the best entries. To be judged, someone in the unit must carry a sign with the entry number on the outer right side.

Judges will be stationed at various locations along the parade route. There will be no stopping in front of the reviewing stand for special routines. Performances and special routines will be judged along the way. Trophies will be presented at a future Evergreen Park Village Board meeting. Winners will be notified.

Nothing – absolutely nothing – is to be thrown from floats. Parade participants may hand candy out along the sidelines.

Plan now to participate in the parade so that you get a good slot. Applications must be submitted by June 29. Registration fees are $25 for individuals, families, non-profit organizations, service clubs and places of worship; $50 for businesses; and $150 for political candidates, elected officials and political organizations.