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Fun & Fireworks

Icon ionic-ios-time 5:00 pm
location Gillson Park

Fun & Fireworks

Enjoy an evening packed with Independence Day Celebration at Gillson Park! We’ll have food vendors, live music, performers and a fireworks show to kick off your 4th a day early. In honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, the Wilmette Park District and presenting sponsor North Shore Community Bank have enhanced the fireworks program to light up your celebration even brighter!

Visit on our Independence Day Celebration page to learn more about all the July 3rd fun!

Special thanks to our Fun & Fireworks Sponsor North Shore Community Bank for supporting this fabulous celebration!

Event Details

  • Date: July 3
  • Time: 5-10 pm
  • Location: Gillson Park
  • Fee: FREE Family Event

Main Stage Entertainment:

  • Central High at 4:45 pm
  • Men on the Moon at 6:00 pm
  • Antler Chandelier at 7:30 pm

Wallace Bowl Showcase:

  • Superhero Training at 5:00 pm
  • Miss Jamie’s Farm at 5:30 pm
  • Jesse White Tumblers at 6:30 pm
  • Footloose Preview Performance at 7:00 pm
  • Barefoot Hawaiian Dance Troupe at 7:15 pm

Local Food Vendors:

  • Lefty’s Pizza Kitchen
  • La Cocinita
  • Mustard’s Last Stand
  • Hecky’s Barbecue
  • & more!

Activity & Entertainment Vendors:

  • Total T Magic
  • Airbrush Tattoos
  • Face Painting
  • Superhero Photobooth

View the Event Map:

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More Details

PACE Shuttle & Transportation

To help improve access and reduce traffic congestion, the Park District is expanding its partnership with PACE this year by offering two shuttle routes serving Gillson Park during Fun & Fireworks.

  • Route 1 will operate from Loyola Academy, with buses beginning service at 4:00 pm.
    • Riders may park at Loyola Academy and travel directly to Gillson Park.
    • Buses on this route will also stop at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2727 Lake Avenue, where additional parking will be available.
  • Route 2 will provide shuttle service from the Wilmette Metra Station at 12th Street.

Both routes will drop passengers on Sheridan Road adjacent to Gillson Park. At the conclusion of the event, designated shuttle pick-up zones will be located along Sheridan Road, with separate boarding areas for each route to ensure riders return to their original parking locations. PACE representatives, Park District staff, additional lighting, and directional signage will be available to assist guests throughout the evening.

Additional Details:

  • Shuttle service begins at 4:00 pm on July 3.
  • Round-trip fare is $4.50 per rider.
  • Cash, credit cards and electronic payments will be accepted.
  • Return transportation requires proof of purchase from the outbound trip.
  • Return-only fares will not be available.
  • All PACE buses are fully accessible.
  • Shuttle service will continue throughout the evening and after the fireworks until all ticked riders have been transported or until shuttle service stops at 11:00 pm.
  • Capacity is limited, attendees are encouraged to arrive early and plan accordingly.

Event Reminders

  • Bags are subject to search.
  • No sparklers allowed.
  • No alcohol allowed.
  • Parking at Gillson Main Beach is reserved for Season Parking Pass holders only.
  • Daily parking passes will not be sold on July 3 and July 4.
  • The Dog Beach will be closed on July 3 and July 4.
  • Gillson Main Beach will require a season or daily pass all day & evening on July 3.
  • South Beach will open to general public starting at 8 pm for visitors to enjoy the Fireworks show.
  • This event takes place outdoors. Check our Current Weather Conditions page for updates & cancellations.
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