Highland Park Sets July 3 Fireworks, July 4 America250 Parade

The city and park district announced a July 3 festival and fireworks, followed by a July 4 parade and pool party.

By Rachel Barnes, Patch Staff

Jun 3, 2026 2:58 pm CDT

The City of Highland Park and the Park District of Highland Park said the celebration will include Independence Fest, the return of the city’s fireworks display, an America250-themed parade in downtown Highland Park and a post-parade pool party. (Patch Graphics)

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The City of Highland Park's plans for its 2026 Independence Day events include fireworks, a parade and a pool party.

The July 3 events are scheduled at The Preserve of Highland Park, 1207 Park Ave. W. Independence Fest will run from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., followed by the fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. The Independence Day parade is set to step off at 10:30 a.m. July 4 in downtown Highland Park, and the Star-Spangled Pool Party will follow at Hidden Creek AquaPark.

“We are so excited to join communities across the country in celebrating the semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting our community’s deeply-held welcoming and affirming values as a key part of our nation’s story,” said Mayor Nancy Rotering. “We’re also looking forward to the return of our spectacular fireworks display, and are grateful to everyone who shared their feedback last year as we considered the best approach for an evening display.”

The two-day schedule of events includes:

Independence Fest on July 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Preserve of Highland Park

This year's celebration will commemorate 250 years of American independence, launching a weekend of activities. The fest will feature food, games, attractions and live music from ABBA tribute band Dancing Queen.

Independence Day Parade on July 4 at 10:30 a.m. in Downtown Highland Park

Residents of Highland Park will spotlight their American stories in this year's parade, with floats that celebrate history and illustrate what America means to them. Applications for the Independence Day parade are available at cityhpil.com/independenceday.

Star-Spangled Pool Party on July 4 after the parade at Hidden Creek Aqua Park

Community members are invited to a special pool party at Hidden Creek AquaPark, which will feature a DJ and patriotic poolside games. Parade participants will get free admission to the water park.