ORLAND PARK, IL — The Village of Orland Park invites residents and visitors to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with two days of family-friendly activities, live entertainment and patriotic festivities beginning July 3 and culminating with a spectacular fireworks display on July 4 at Centennial Park West (15609 Park Station Blvd.).
"I would like to extend a personal invitation to the residents of Orland Park and their families to join us as we celebrate our nation's independence and America's 250th birthday," said Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge. "This historic semiquincentennial is a once-in-a-generation occasion to come together as a community, enjoy fantastic entertainment, great food and a spectacular fireworks display."
The celebration begins on Friday, July 3, with the annual Veterans Liberty Run & Walk at 7 p.m. Participants can sprint, jog or walk a one-or two-mile course through scenic Centennial Park, beginning at the 153rd Street Metra Station.
Each participant will receive a race t-shirt, USA hand flag, post-race refreshments, entry into a prize raffle and a pass for one free admission to the Centennial Park Aquatic Center, valid on July 5, 6, 7 or 8. Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three male and female finishers in each age group from 9U through 70+.
Race packet pick-up will take place through July 3 at Human Race (15148 S. LaGrange Rd.). On-site registration and packet pick-up for participants who have not yet picked up their materials begins at 5:30 p.m. on race day. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local veterans’ organizations.
Following the race, families are encouraged to stay for the free Kids Run for Fun at approximately 7:30 p.m. This 50-yard dash is open to children of all ages, with medals awarded to every participant. No pre-registration is required for the Kids Run for Fun.
The festivities continue Saturday, July 4, during the annual Independence Day Celebration presented by Comcast at Centennial Park West.
The event will feature live music, children's activities, bounce houses, food and beverage vendors and a fireworks display fit for the 250th celebration. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks and beverages to enjoy the evening. Admission and parking are free. Concessions, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.
Gates open at 5 p.m. The concert begins at 5:30 p.m. with country band Tim Gleason and the Whiskey Disco, followed by headliner The HITS: A Musical Tribute to the Spirit of America, celebrating the music and memories that have defined generations of Americans.
Before the fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., guests are invited to join in the Presentation of Colors and the singing of the National Anthem by the Village of Orland Park Children’s Theater Troupe to honor the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.
For more information, visit orlandpark.org/events or follow the Village of Orland Park on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X.
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