Plans Set For Evergreen Park Independence Day Parade, Marchers Wanted

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. Try to get applications in by June 21.

The parade steps off at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 28. Fireworks blast off at 9 p.m. at Duffy Park, 92nd and Ridgeway. This year marks Evergreen Park’s 54th patriotic promenade down 95th Street.
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.

Christmas Without Cancer will be the 2024 parade grand marshall. Founded in 2003 by an Evergreen Park oncological nurse, the organization provides gifts and necessities to families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

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; $75 for businesses; and $150 for political candidates, elected officials and political organizations.

Send checks made payable to:

Village of Evergreen Park
Evergreen Park Recreation Department
3450 W. 97th St.
Evergreen Park, IL 60805