Lake Forest To Mark America's 250th Anniversary With Months-Long Celebration

LAKE FOREST, IL — Lake Forest will join communities across the United States in celebrating America's 250th anniversary in 2026, offering patriotic, American-themed events and celebrations throughout town.

This anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the history, unity, and spirit of the United States. The city aims to honor this milestone by inviting the community to consider its past and future.

Several community events are already planned for Independence Day Weekend. On Thursday, July 2, there will be a Concert in the Square and "Bites on Bank." An Elawa Farm Dinner is scheduled for Friday, July 3. Saturday, July 4, will feature a 4th of July Festival and Fireworks at Deerpath Community Park. An Ice Cream Social with the American Legion at Forest Park Beach will take place on Sunday, July 5.

Starting in April, residents will start to notice Independence Day-themed events and celebrations happening throughout town. A full list of events from April through August will be available on the America 250 events page.

To enhance the anniversary, the city is partnering with local organizations to create programs and events.

Participating organizations include;

• American Legion McKinlock Post 264
• Citadel Theater
• CROYA
• Dickinson Hall Senior Center
• Elawa Farm
• Gorton Center
• History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff
• Lake Forest College
• Lake Forest Day Foundation
• Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Chamber of Commerce
• Lake Forest Library
• Lake Forest Open Lands
• Lake Forest Preservation Foundation
• Lake Forest School District 67 and 115
• Ragdale.

Businesses or organizations interested in participating can contact Dana Olson, Director of Communications and Community Engagement.