While summer in Chicago has been officially underway for a while, many view the upcoming holiday weekend as our city’s big kick-off for the season. The 4th of July weekend in Chicago is one of the busiest, right up there with Lollapalooza and Taste of Chicago.

The fantastic fireworks displays are always a highlight of the holiday, so we’ve put together a few of the best places to watch a show:

• The Fireworks At Navy Pier – 600 E. Grand Ave @ 9:30 p.m.
  • Reserve a spot at Freedom Fest and enjoy the DJ, BBQ, and cash bar for a wonderful view of the fireworks at Navy Pier
• Fireworks And Music In Evanston’s Dawes Park – Church Street & Clark Street, roughly @ 9:15 p.m.
• 3D Fireworks In Skokie – 5701 Oakton St., Skokie @ Dusk
• Unsanctioned Fireworks At Winnemac Park – 5101 N. Leavitt St. @ Sundown

If you’re planning on visiting Navy Pier, make sure to come early and be prepared for crowds. The Pier opens at 10 a.m. and officials expect to close the gates in the late afternoon, or whenever the space reaches capacity. Navy Pier has many new attractions to keep visitors busy, from the Centennial Wheel to new restaurants in the food court, like DMK Burger and Fish Bar’s latest location. Or get off land for the fireworks show and buy a ticket for a water cruise, many of which will allow access to Navy Pier even once the gates are closed.

There are plenty of other fun events this weekend, with many local restaurants offering patriotic specials. Be sure to check out:

• The Publican – Make your way to the west loop for the Publican’s barbecue from 10-2. Enjoy oysters, tri-tip, french toast, and soft shell crab. They are located in Fulton Market.
• Lottie’s – Lottie’s will be hosting a fundraiser for 1Fur1 Foundation to help service dogs. The different specials include $4 for two Chicago-style hot dogs, $4 Fireball shots and Sam Adams Summertime pints. Bring your dog for a special fro-yo treat they’ll love!
• Pinstripes – The Streeterville restaurant (435 E. Illinois) is taking reservations for a four-course dinner overlooking the Chicago River. The meal is $49 per person.

The Luxury Living Chicago team wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday weekend!

Check out events for the rest of the summer! 

*Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in June 2016 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.