America 250: A CELEBRATION OF PATRIOTIC PROPORTIONS Celebrating America’s big 2-5-0!!

Our country is still a baby compared to other countries around the globe, but its hitting a big milestone birthday - and we are here for it! It’s our semiquincentennial and all around the Chicago Southland will be displays of red, white & blue, musical tributes, parades and other monumental festivities. Some businesses will be jumping on the bandwagon with $17.76 or $2.50 specials ~ or other incorporation of special numbers.

Celebrate the county’s independence in style with special events planned in many of our Chicago Southland communities. Here is a sampling of how this big birthday is going down:

CHICAGO RIDGE/WORTH 

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series will take place on June 4, June 18, July 16, August 6, and August 20 at Freedom Park. These free community concerts will showcase a vibrant mix of American music, from timeless classics to modern favorites.

Chicago Ridge businesses and attractions are getting on board with some special deals as part of the 250th celebrations. Memorial Day through Labor Day, May 25-September 7, Lily Pad Splash Pad and Ball Fore Miniature Golf and Batting Cages will offer special ice cream sundaes that come in a color-changing reusable bowl for $2.50. January 1-December 31, Fitness Memberships at Frontier Fieldhouse will be $17.76 for a 2-month trial membership. July 1-31, Ball Fore Miniature Golf and Batting Cages is offering rounds of miniature golf for $2.50 per golfer.

GLENWOOD

The Village of Glenwood will be dedicating their 4th of July Parade and following Taste of Glenwood event to the 250th birthday of the U.S.A.

HICKORY HILLS

Follow along with the America 250 theme at Hickory Hills’ Annual Street Fair on June 28. This American-style gathering will offer food vendors, live entertainment, a beer garden, bingo and more.

ILLINOIS PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

JOLIET

NASCAR is making a return to Chicagoland for the first time in years on July 3-5. After years of anticipation, NASCAR is bringing back full-throttle action, packed grandstands and nonstop excitement. And it all takes place during “America’s Weekend” as the country celebrates 250 years during the Independence Day Holiday.

MATTESON

Get ready for one of the greatest summer events in the south suburbs of Chicago in 2026. The Village of Matteson will celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial with Concert at the Hall in Matteson on July 3 at Village Hall. It’s a feast for the ears and the taste buds. Enjoy phenomenal musical performances and delicious offerings from a variety of food vendors.

The merriment of America250 continues on July 4 with a dazzling fireworks display, perfectly suited to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

MOKENA

The annual Mokena Chamber of Commerce 4th of July Parade will have an America 250 theme, stepping off at 10 a.m. on July 4.

ORLAND PARK

The patriotic events in Orland Park begin with the Orland Park Memorial Day Parade & Fest on May 23 at Centennial Park West and the Liberty Run on July 3 at Centennial Park. Don your most colorful flag-themed apparel and hit the course.

On July 4, you can take in the spectacular celebration of America’s birthday with a concert, presentation of colors and fireworks display. There will be a 250th Veteran Tribute at the Taste of Orland Park on August 1 (the event runs from July 31-August 2) at the Village Lawn. The Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce is also partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition to encourage middle school students to engage in civics and contribute to their communities on May 2. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their knowledge at the National Civics Bee for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Location to be determined.