7/3-7/4: Independence Day Celebration
July 3, 2026 - July 4, 2026
Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate all week long!
Wheaton will commemorate America’s 250th anniversary by honoring our rich history, celebrating the individuals in our community who have helped shape it, and looking ahead to the generations that will carry it forward.
JULY 3 | Fireworks, Drone Show & Festivities
Graf Park | 5:30P
Fireworks and Drone Show will begin around 9P; until then family fun and festivities
JULY 4 | Parade | Parade Route (PDF)
Downtown Wheaton | 10A
Celebrate alongside neighbors, family and friends, or design a float to honor the essence of the Fourth of July.
Any delays or cancellations due to inclement weather will be posted here, the Wheaton Park District Facebook page, and RainoutLine.
JULY 3 | Fireworks, Drone Show & Festivities | Graf Park | 5:30P
Gather your crew, show your pride, and come enjoy a family-friendly evening full of laughter, lights, and local flavor! Join us for kids games, music, giveaways, and more.
Food Vendors:
Interested in becoming a food vendor? Contact [email protected] for more information.
Park Policies:
The use of sparklers, smoke bombs or any other type of fireworks is prohibited. Individuals will be held responsible for any damage caused.
NO PETS allowed in the park. Service animals are permitted.
Outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
No firearms are permitted to be taken into Wheaton Park District buildings or onto Wheaton Park District grounds. The Wheaton Park District is a government agency and pursuant to Illinois’ Concealed Carry Law restrictions.
No weapons (including pocket knives) of any kind are allowed on the property.
All tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars and vaping are not allowed. Smoking of any kind is prohibited in Graf Park, including marijuana.
JULY 4 | Parade | Downtown Wheaton | 10A
Join Wheaton’s 2026 Independence Day Parade!
As part of our celebration for America 250, we are happy to extend NEW lower rates for community & neighborhood groups.
Neighborhood Groups: $25
Community Group: $50
Business: $175
Political Candidate: $175
Award Categories:
Carlson’s Best of Show | Overall best entry/float
Best Musical | Best entry performing music
Bart Loiacono Most Creative | A creative idea brought to fruition
Mayor’s Best Use of Theme – America 250 | Demonstrates best use of current parade theme
Most Patriotic | Symbolizes America and the Fourth of July
Neighborhood Star Award | Best neighborhood entry
Award winners will receive a Wheaton Park District gift card and free entry in the 2027 Parade!
Note: Honorariums are not eligible for awards.
2026 Parade Marshal: Trevor Orsinger
Trevor Orsinger is the founder of Orsinger Law Group, P.C., a Wheaton-based law firm. A native of Wheaton and long-time resident, Trevor spent a significant portion of his career dedicated to military service and national defense. After beginning his legal career with the Cook County Public Defender’s Office in 2003, Trevor joined the United States Air Force JAG Corps in 2006, where he prosecuted complex federal matters and deployed to Baghdad, Iraq in support of efforts to rebuild the Iraqi judicial and law enforcement systems. He continues to serve as a Colonel and Chief Legal Advisor to the Wisconsin Air National Guard, advising senior military leadership on operational, fiscal, personnel, and regulatory matters. Trevor has also served in legal and leadership roles with the U.S. Department of Defense, CME Group, and Fermi National Laboratory. With over twenty years of service to this country, Trevor has deployed all over the world in support of legal operations and military partnerships, while continuing his commitment to public service, leadership, and the rule of law.
More Information
Contact Us:
Please email [email protected] for more information or questions about the July 3 & 4 festivities.
