4th of July 2009 in Chicago

4th of July Fireworks at Navy Pier

Navy Pier - 600 E. Grand Ave. - Streeterville

Patriotic music accompanies the annual 15-minute display over Lake Michigan.

4th of July Fireworks Cruise

Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises - Illinois Street and Streeter Drive (adjacent to Navy Pier) - Chicago

Watch the Navy Pier fireworks during an hourlong lake cruise. Cash bar.

Architecture-Fireworks Cruise

Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises - Illinois Street and Streeter Drive (adjacent to Navy Pier) - Chicago

A 75-minute narrated river tour features views of the night skyline and fireworks displays on July 3 and 4.

Sunset Fireworks Cruise

Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises - Illinois Street and Streeter Drive (adjacent to Navy Pier) - Chicago

Take in views of the Chicago skyline and Independence Day fireworks during a two-hour cruise. Includes appetizers and a cash bar.

Evanston Fireworks

Dawes Park - 1700 Sheridan Rd. - Evanston

A lakefront concert features patriotic music from The Palatine Concert Band from 7:30-9 p.m.; fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m. Daytime activities include a 2 p.m. parade along Central Street, from Central Park Avenue east to Ashland Avenue.

Forest Park Fireworks

Before the fireworks display (9:15 p.m.), take a dip in the pool (open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.) and play games, watch performances by the dancers of Panda Studios and Green 13 and buy food from vendors.

Naperville Fireworks

Knoch Park - 700 S. West St. - Naperville

Annual display presented as part of the Naperville Ribfest.

Oakbrook Terrace Fireworks

A noon parade kicks off this community celebration, which also features carnival rides and food from Uncle Bub's BBQ (1-4 p.m.; buy food tickets for $5 at City Hall prior to the event). Live music by The Moods (8 p.m.) precedes the fireworks display (9:30 p.m.).