No fireworks July 4: Why Navy Pier Isn’t Holding a 4th of July Fireworks Show!

If you’re used to seeing Chicago’s skyline explode in color on the Fourth of July, this year might come as a surprise. Navy Pier, one of the city’s most iconic spots for summer celebrations, will not be hosting fireworks on July 4, 2025. But it’s not a mistake, and it’s not because something went wrong—this is part of a long-standing plan.

Each summer, Navy Pier holds free fireworks shows twice a week: every Wednesday at 9 p.m. and every Saturday at 10 p.m. These shows run from May 24 to August 30 and are well-known for drawing crowds along Lake Michigan. However, since July 4 falls on a Friday this year, it doesn’t match up with the usual fireworks schedule. That’s the main reason there won’t be a show on Independence Day itself.

But don’t pack away your lawn chairs just yet—fireworks are still happening around the holiday. On Wednesday, July 2, the regular 10-minute show will light up the sky at 9 p.m. Then, on Saturday, July 5, Navy Pier is hosting an extended celebration show that will last 15 minutes. That special Saturday event is a collaboration between Navy Pier, Choose Chicago, the Chicago Sports Commission, and the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. It’s being marketed as an “Independence Celebration,” with patriotic music to match the longer firework display.

Even though there won’t be fireworks on the Fourth, Navy Pier will stay open on both July 3 and July 4. Visitors can still enjoy live music, performances, and other family-friendly activities on the pier throughout the holiday.

This isn’t a sudden change. Chicago actually hasn’t hosted an official downtown fireworks show on July 4 for several years. The city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events confirmed that the large downtown fireworks displays were stopped due to logistical problems and budget issues. Instead, Navy Pier has taken on the role of keeping the tradition alive—just on their own schedule.

Interestingly, Navy Pier isn’t the only place skipping fireworks this year. One of Illinois’ largest fireworks shows, held annually in suburban Itasca, has also been canceled. The decision came after a village board meeting earlier this year where several issues were raised. These included growing crowd sizes, less available space due to nearby construction, and a steep 43% increase in the overall cost of hosting the event.

A memo from the board said the fireworks show, which usually takes place at Hamilton Lakes Business Park, had become more difficult to manage. Hotels nearby were often sold out, and with all the changes and budget pressures, officials didn’t feel confident moving forward with the show. “This was an extremely difficult decision to make,” said Village Administrator Carie Anne Ergo. “Our first priority is always the safety and security of Itasca residents, businesses, and visitors.” She added that they’ll review whether hosting fireworks in future years will be possible.

For a decade, Itasca’s show had been considered the “largest in Illinois” in terms of money spent on fireworks in a single event. Canceling it wasn’t easy, but leaders felt it was the right call given the challenges they faced this year.

Still, if you’re craving fireworks on the Fourth, many Chicago suburbs have got your back. Places like Evanston, Skokie, Mount Prospect, Tinley Park, and Oak Lawn are planning their own celebrations. These often include more than just fireworks—think live music, remembrance ceremonies, and even petting zoos.

And for those who want to skip the noise entirely, Lincoln Square is hosting the “Winnemac Fourth for All”—a firework-free event designed for families, kids, pets, and anyone who prefers a quieter Independence Day.

So while there won’t be fireworks bursting over Navy Pier this July 4, the weekend still promises celebration. Whether you choose to wait an extra day for the big show or head out to a nearby suburb, the spirit of the holiday is still going strong—just without the traditional booms on the dot.