Of course it's Fourth of July weekend this weekend and here are some ideas of things you can do in Chicago to celebrate!
Cocktails, a cruise and maybe fireworks: Chicago’s famous Navy Pier fireworks are off this year, the city announced there would be a substitute show to celebrate Independence Day but with no further dates or details as of press time. Chicago Fireboat Tours will sail anyway. Grab a drink and hopefully watch the sky light up. “Sunset Fireworks Cruise” from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 4 at Chicago Fireboat Tours, 111 N. Lake Shore Drive; $45. Tickets available at fireboattours.com
Pregame for the Fourth in River North: Celebrate the Fourth of July a little early with live music and dueling pianos. Two nights of drink specials and $5 bomb pop shots. “Red, White & Brew Party” from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. July 2-3 at Howl at the Moon, 26 W. Hubbard St. howlatthemoon.com
Nothing like live music in the park: Returning for 2021, The Grant Park Music Festival plans a patriotic-inspired show in honor of the Fourth of July. In the program this year are the “1812 Overture,” Florence Price’s “Dances in the Canebrakes,” the “Armed Forces Salute” and Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” “Independence Day Salute” from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. July 2-3 at Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St.; free lawn seating, reserved seats $25-$50; full program lineup at grantparkmusicfestival.com
Free fun for everyone. The traditional fireworks might be canceled this year, but Navy Pier is bringing in some heavy hitters for live music on the 4th. One of the most sought-after tribute bands, Creedence Revived, performs Sunday night with opening performances by Oston and The Shades. “Live on the Lake!” from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. July 4 at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave; free, full performance schedule at navypier.org