The many dimensions of Oak Park will be on display when the 11th annual July 4th parade steps off at 10 a.m., Mon., July 4 from Longfellow Park at Ridgeland Avenue and Adams Street.
Parade participants march north on Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Street and disperse at Whittier School. The route will offer many viewing opportunities along the way. Residents typically bring chairs and blankets to sit on the parkways and curbs as they enjoy the old-fashioned, small-town display that suggests simpler times in the nation’s history.
More than 75 groups participated in the parade last year, including social and special interest groups, community groups, athletic teams, politicians, businesses, service organizations, children’s groups, animal lovers with their pets and musical groups.
This year’s event is expected to be even bigger. Some participants will bring floats and drive vintage cars. Others will play music, carry banners, ride decorated bicycles and skate. Most will dress up in all manner of red, white and blue to commemorate the nation’s birthday and to celebrate Oak Park’s rich diversity. Of course, the Police and Fire Departments will be part of the parade, too, with vehicle lights flashing and sirens blaring.
A fireworks display organized by the local nonprofit Great American Light Show Association (GALA) typically begins at dusk in the football stadium of Oak Park and River Forest High School, near East Avenue and Lake Street. Check www.oak-park.us/calendar for any schedule changes.
The parade is organized by the citizen volunteers of the Community Relations Commission. For more information or to volunteer to help out at the parade, call 708.358.5407 or email community@oak-park.us.