THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating America’s Birthday!

One of the best times to be in Chicago is the Fourth of July when we celebrate America’s birthday! However, don’t expect any large gatherings this year. Still, the city is adjusting its Fourth of July Celebrations with safe and fun activities for this weekend. Here are a few other ideas as well!

What better way to keep the little ones occupied than with Patriotic Crafts. Afterward, deck out your home in red, white, and blue for the holiday. You may even want to get crafty with the kids yourself while celebrating American freedom inspired by these crafts!

If you’re planning on staying at home to celebrate or couldn’t secure a table for in-house dining now available, why not support our local restaurants by purchasing one of their July 4th Takeout Options. Some kits include BBQ meals, ready-to-grill meats, and more!

Turn your backyard barbecue or indoor gathering with family into a star-studded occasion with some easy and delicious Fourth of July Red, White, and Blue Desserts. And, with the arrival of hot summer temps, there are even a few no-bake dessert options, so you’re not baking yourself over the oven. Have a few family members bake something as well and turn it into a bake-off contest! After all, you can’t celebrate America’s birthday without some red, white, and blue desserts!!

A Fourth of July tradition here in Chicago is the Grant Park Music Festival’s Independence Day Salute featuring the Grant Park Orchestra and conductor Christopher Bell. Since they can’t perform live this year, they will be broadcasting a virtual evening of all-American favorites such as the 1812 Overture, America the Beautiful, Stars and Stripes Forever, and more classics from 7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Just tune in on YouTube at 6:00 p.m. on July 4th!

Since our Fourth of July fireworks at Navy Pier have been canceled, why not end your holiday evening with a Backyard Movie Night. Just set-up a screen TV with some cozy seating and pick-out an All-American movie! And don’t forget the popcorn!!

Finally, while it’s best to leave the fireworks to the professionals, which isn’t happening this year, here are a few Fireworks Safety Tips for the consumer fireworks so we can all be safe and injury-free while celebrating the Fourth of July with a bang!

Reminder for those who will be out and about: All individuals must wear masks/face coverings over nose and mouth (exceptions can be made for people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering). Physical distancing is encouraged. Check with tour or attraction for additional health and safety guidelines.

Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July, Everyone! I Know I Will!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago