Looking for Independence Day fireworks outside of Chicago, but not too far away? Check out Crystal Lake Fireworks and Concert in the Windy City's northwest suburb, McHenry County, less than an hour's drive. The Main Beach festivities and picnics get started at 9 am. Live performances are typically scheduled between 7 pm and 9:30 pm. The concert features the Crystal Lake Community Band and Voices in Harmony. Picnic tables are also available. Lastly, the much-anticipated fireworks come to action at dusk.
Admission
If you come before 2:30 pm, you'll have to buy a regular resident or non-resident admission to the beach. The price for adults is $1 and $12, correspondingly. With this kind of admission, you receive an ID bracelet, allowing you to leave and reenter the venue throughout the day and also see the fireworks. Yet, if you're only interested in the evening program, then you can opt for a $5 fireworks bracelet, but please note that you will be able to enter only after 2:30 pm. Admission bracelets can be purchased in advance to avoid lines.
For more details about the program of events, admission rates, and generally latest announcements, please go to the official website or Facebook of the Crystal Lake Park District. Find the links in the External Resources below. Also, feel free to book your stay nearby from the map suggesting the best available options.
Other Fireworks in the Greater Chicago Area
Navy Pier boasts one of the best 4th of July celebrations in Chicago. Live on the Lake! features a free concert series from 2 pm through 9 pm. Navy Pier fireworks are the most popular part of the holiday. Watch the show from the Navy Pier or book a lake cruise. Waukegan Lakefront offers another wonderful alternative. The one-hour Waukegan fireworks show lights up the sky above the Yacht Club, 199 N. Harbor Plac, between 9:30 pm and 10:30 pm on July 4.
