Of the five great Fourth of July Celebrations in the entire United States, Evanston was ranked number three by Country Home Magazine in their August 2001 edition.

They wrote: "Evanston, Illinois. Off the beaten path from the perennial Taste of Chicago festival in Grant Park, locals stake their spots early along Central Street for a classic parade filled with marching bands."

Leading the list was the Celebration in Washington D.C. followed by Boston. The article cited the National Symphony in Washington performing on the West Lawn and the Boston Pops' performance at the Esplanade.

"We are very excited and truly delighted that Country Home recognized Evanston with such distinction" said David Sniader, President of the Evanston Fourth of July Association. "Being ranked in the top three in the nation with the massive National Celebration in Washington and the legendary Boston Fourth Party surrounds us with great company" he said. 

There is one important fact that separates Evanston's Celebration from almost all others including the top two mentioned in the magazine. It is planned and executed entirely by volunteers and supported through individual donations and corporate gifts. "It is only through these efforts and support and our great relationship with the City that we can produce such a quality experience for all Evanstonians. We know in our hearts that the character of our City and the efforts I just described make us number one," Sniader said.

Evanston's 82nd Independence Day Celebration promises a full day of activities for all. 

The Redmoon Theater won the 2001 Judge's Award.

On Independence Day, Thursday, July 4, Evanston's festivities will include playground games, tennis, a large parade, lakefront performances and fireworks extravaganza. The full day of activities will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude with the fireworks show, which begins at 9:15 p.m. Each year, the Evanston Fourth of July Association plans family-oriented activities to entertain the city's residents. 

This year's theme America's Heroes - Evanston's Heroes was chosen to remember our Heroes that died on September 11th and to honor those that continue to risk their lives every day. We also salute some of the most important heroes: The parents of each child at home. More...

The Evanston Fourth of July Association is inviting all active duty members, reservists and veterans of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and personnel from the Police and Fire Service to march in the parade down Central St. on July 4th, 2002. The theme this year is "America's Heroes - Evanston's Heroes". In honor of your service you would be a Grand Marshal in the parade along with others including personnel from the Evanston Police and Fire departments. "We want to honor all of our local heroes that have served in the military, police and fire services. This will be a great way for all that can participate to do so. People really want to say "Thank You" as well as remember those that have died" said Dave Sniader, Association President. For more information on how to participate, please register by filling out our online Grand Marshal information form. You will receive an email just prior to the parade with instructions. Register Now.