
Navy Pier fireworks (Photo courtesy of Navy Pier by Nick Ulivieri)
Celebrate America's birthday in style at Navy Pier's Independence Week festivities, running from July 2 to July 6. This iconic Chicago destination is pulling out all the stops with an array of family-friendly events, live music, dazzling fireworks and so much more!
NASCAR Family Fest: Start Your Engines!
When: Wednesday, July 2, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Polk Bros Park
Kick off the week with the NASCAR Chicago Family Fest, back for its second year. Families can snap photos with an official NASCAR pace car, race friends on a replica course at the kids' remote control car station, and even meet a NASCAR driver. Free giveaways will be handed out throughout the event.
Budweiser Clydesdales: A Majestic March
When: Wednesday, July 2, 12:00 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier
Don't miss the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales as they trot into Navy Pier as part of their cross-country tour supporting Folds of Honor. Guests can take photos with these legendary horses and learn about the organization's mission to provide scholarships for military families.

Bring the family to Navy Pier for Independence Week- so much to see and do! (Photo courtesy of Navy Pier by Kathleen Hinkel)
Fireworks Galore: Light Up the Sky
When:
- Wednesday, July 2, 9:00 – 9:10 p.m.
- Saturday, July 5, 10:00 – 10:15 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier
Experience Navy Pier's award-winning fireworks displays, set to patriotic music. Please note, there will be no fireworks on July 4th this year. The grand finale on July 5 promises an extended 15-minute show in partnership with Choose Chicago and the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. choosechicago.comnavypier.org
Live on the Lake!: Music by the Water
When:
- Friday, July 4, 4:30 – 9:45 p.m.
- Saturday, July 5, 2:00 – 9:45 p.m.
- Sunday, July 6, 3:00 – 8:15 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier Beer Garden
Enjoy a diverse lineup of live music performances against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. From rock and blues to reggae, there's something for everyone.

NYE Fireworks at Navy Pier (Photo courtesy of Navy Pier by Nick Ulivieri)
Skyline Sessions & Wave Wall Wax: Beats and Vibes
Skyline Sessions
When: Thursday, July 3, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Where: Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage
Catch local artists Marcus Bailey and The Shades as they deliver pop and rock tunes to get you grooving.
Wave Wall Wax
When: Saturday, July 5, 5:30 – 10:00 p.m.
Where: Ferrara Candy Wave Wall Stage
Dance the night away with Chicago's top DJs, including Steve Miggedy Maestro, Mondai, and Ctrlzora, spinning house and dance music.
Trivia on the Lake: Test Your Knowledge
When: Thursday, July 3, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier Beer Garden
Join Chicago's brightest minds for a fun-filled evening of trivia. Compete for bragging rights and fantastic prizes in partnership with Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia.
July 4th Summer Bash at Offshore Rooftop
When: Friday, July 4, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Offshore Rooftop
Celebrate Independence Day atop the world's largest rooftop bar. For $20, enjoy high-energy music, red, white, and blue cocktail specials, and panoramic views of the city. Tickets are available for purchase.
Lakeside Activities: Explore Lake Michigan
Throughout Independence Week, Navy Pier's all-transient marina welcomes boaters to dock and enjoy the festivities. For those looking to relax on the water, cruises and boat rides are available from City Cruises, Shoreline Sightseeing, and Tall Ship Windy.
Note: Be prepared for varying weather conditions throughout the week, including potential thunderstorms. Check the forecast and plan accordingly to make the most of your visit.
For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit Navy Pier's official website.navypier.org
You may also like this related story about things to do for the holiday weekend.
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