Applications Being Taken To March in Oak Lawn's Fourth of July Parade

OAK LAWN, IL -- The Oak Lawn Special Events Committee is busy planning the Fourth of July Parade. Organizations, scouts, veterans, businesses, civic groups, youth sports teams, dance troupes, schools and places of worship have until June 26 to complete an application to march in the parade.

The Fourth of July parade will step off at 10 a.m., July 4. The route will proceed west on 95th Street from 51st Avenue to 55th Court. Special highlights including Chicago’s sports team mascots Benny the Bull, Tommy Hawk, Southpaw and Staley the Bear. Unfortunately, due to a pre-scheduled ball game, Clark, the Chicago Cubs mascot, is unable to participate.

Uncle Sam the stilt walker and Uncle Sam the unicycle rider will also be thrilling the curbside crowds. Dignitaries includ local officials, including the mayor, village manager, village trustees and Congressman Lipinski. The Richards High School and Oak Lawn Community High School marching bands will be setting the beat for Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops and local church organizations.

New this year, parade participants are being asked NOT TO THROW CANDY from cars or floats. Participants will be able to hand candy out to spectators along the parade line. The village asks that participants ABIDE BY THIS NEW RULE. It’s much SAFER for children watching the parade.

Decorations are mandatory for all vehicles. There is no application fee. Download the application and mail or drop it off at the Oak Lawn Municipal Center, 9446 S. Raymond Ave., Oak Lawn, IL 60453, to the attention of Deanne Adasiak, or shoot her an email at dadasiak@oaklawn-il.gov