Lake County Gazette

The City of Highland Park and the Park District of Highland Park have announced plans for Independence Day 2025 events, introducing new festivities beginning on July 3 with a festival organized by the Park District. The City’s “Dream Team”-themed parade will take place in Downtown Highland Park at 11:00 AM on July 4, accompanied by entertainment coordinated by the Park District.

Mayor Nancy Rotering said, “Highland Park’s Independence Day events reflect the community’s patriotic spirit and steadfast commitment to supporting and celebrating each other. ” She added that this year’s parade theme emphasizes teamwork and resilience.

Cal Bernstein, president of the Park District of Highland Park Board of Commissioners, remarked, “Celebrating this national holiday with our loved ones is crucial to our community’s identity. It is an opportunity to come together to share special moments with our neighbors and friends while we celebrate our nation. ”

This year, there will be no drone or fireworks show organized by the City. Recognizing various community needs related to trauma, sustainability concerns, and pet needs, the City Council has decided to pause evening events pending further discussion. Community engagement and feedback will be sought later this year as plans for 2026 are developed.

Over the past two years, Independence Day events have evolved with a trauma- informed approach guided by the Department of Justice Office of Victims of Crime and mental health clinicians. This approach aims to build community resiliency while providing compassionate support.

The schedule for Independence Day events includes:

- **Community Festival (July 3, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM)**

The festival will kick off at The Preserve of Highland Park (1207 Park Ave. W) (1207 Park Ave. W), featuring inclusive activities continuing through July4th and throughout the weekend. Attendees can enjoy dinner, music,games, attractions, and food trucks.

- **Remembrance (July4,9:00 AM)**

A remembrance event will honor those whose lives were lost and showsolidarity with survivors. Details will be shared when available.

- **Dream Team: Independence Day Parade (July4,11 AM)**

The parade celebrates themes that bring people together such as family,friends,sports,dance,faith,or neighborhood communities. Participants are encouraged to wear teamjerseys and apparel.

There will not be any evening events sponsored by the City or Park District onIndependence Day.

Further information regarding July4,2025 activities will be provided asplanning continues. Updates from the City can be found atwww.cityhpil.com,and updates from the Park District are available atwww.pdhp.org. Individuals may share their feedback via email tocityhp@cityhpil.com.