It's that time of year when the night skies light up with more than just stars. If you're trying to find the best Fourth of July fireworks displays, look no further than this list.
Unless stated otherwise, these events take place on July 4, 2018. From county-wide events to nationally acclaimed shows, you'll find all the best below. Check them out:
1. Fireworks at Navy Pier
If you find yourself in Chicago, the best fireworks are definitely downtown. Between May 26 and September 1, 2018, these amazing light displays go off every Wednesday and Saturday, including the Fourth of July. Wednesday night shows begin at 9:30 p.m. and Saturday shows start at 10:15 p.m.
2. Coca-Cola July 4th Fest
This popular fireworks show takes place at Six Flags Great America June 30 through July 4, 2018. To see these epic displays, you must buy a ticket to be admitted to the park, the cost of which is about $55 ahead of time and $75 at the door. Six Flags is located at 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL 60031.
3. Capital City Celebration 2018
Taking place June 30, 2018, these fireworks take place in our state's capital. It is free to attend and starts at 9:30. Live music and other entertainment start at 4:30 p.m. and continue through midnight. It takes place out front of the Capitol Building, which is located at 401 S. 2nd St. Springfield, IL 62707.
4. Kirkland Lions Club Fourth of July Celebration
Known as the largest of all fireworks displays in Northern Illinois, this show is the culminating event of a four-day celebration. Other activities taking place July 1-4, 2018 are bags tournaments, a car show, and a parade. Fireworks start after dusk and take place at Franklin Township Park, which is located at 201-299 3rd St., Kirkland, IL 60146.
5. Naval Station Great Lakes July 4th Celebration
This two-night event takes place July 3-4, 2018 and includes fireworks both nights. There will also be live music, food vendors, a kids' zone, and much more. On Tuesday, fireworks start at 10:45 p.m. while the ones on Wednesday begin at 9:30 p.m.
6. Champaign County Freedom Celebration
This festival includes a parade and a 5K run in addition to an immaculate display of fireworks. Starting around 9:15 p.m., they can be enjoyed from the E-14 lot of the State Farm Center located at 1800 S 1st St., Champaign, IL 61820.
7. Chillicothe 4th of July
This free event includes musical entertainment and is one of the most exciting things that takes place in the small town of Chillicothe. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and head out to Three Sisters Park, which is located at 17189 IL-29, Chillicothe, IL 61523. The excitement will start around 9:15 p.m.
8. Skyconcert Fireworks Spectacular
Beginning at 9:30 in downtown Rockford, this is certainly one of the most popular fireworks displays in the state. It features 5,000 shells that are shot off over the river in Davis Park, which is located at 320 S Wyman St., Rockford, IL 61101.
9. Stockton 4th of July Celebration
Beginning at 9 p.m., this long-standing fireworks display is something locals look forward to each and every year. Thousands attend each year, and for good reason. It takes place at Memorial Park at 600 N Pearl St., Stockton, IL 61085.
10. Huntley's Independence Day Fireworks Show
Visible from several areas around town, this little-known event is downright one of the best fireworks displays in the Land of Lincoln. This annual show begins at 9:30 p.m. and can be viewed from Deicke Park or Betsey Warrington Park located around 11419 IL-47, Huntley, IL 60142.
For more summer fun, check out 8 unique adventures you can only take in Illinois.
Which of these fireworks displays are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts with us below in the comments.
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