Fireworks over the Fox River in Aurora, Illinois
City of Aurora fireworks display in downtown Aurora, Illinois

Looking for the perfect place to celebrate Independence Day with your family and friends? The Aurora area is buzzing with excitement, offering a full lineup of festive events, dazzling fireworks, and classic summer fun—all just a short drive from Chicago!

Fireworks Display 2019
Fireworks over the Fox River in North Aurora, Illinois

Thursday, July 3: Kick Off the Celebration with Fireworks!

  • Aurora’s Fireworks Spectacular:
    Head to downtown Aurora on Thursday evening for a breathtaking fireworks display! The best spots to watch are at the Aurora Transportation Center and McCullough Park. Enjoy food trucks, live DJs, and a lively atmosphere as you wait for the show to light up the sky.

  • North Aurora’s Independence Day Celebration:
    At North Aurora Riverfront Park, join the community for a laid-back picnic-style event starting at 5:00 pm. Bring your own blankets, chairs, food, and drinks—everything you need for a cozy night out. From 7:00 to 9:00 pm, groove to live music by Hillbilly Rockstarz. Fireworks blast off at 9:30 pm—perfect for relaxing under the stars with loved ones.

City of Aurora - 4th of July Parade - Float
City of Aurora 4th of July Parade

Friday, July 4: Parades, Community Fun, and More Fireworks!

  • Aurora’s Annual 4th of July Parade:
    Start your morning in downtown Aurora with the city’s beloved parade! It begins at 10:00 am at Benton St. and Broadway St., winding its way to Downer Pl. and Middle Ave. For the best view, grab a spot near the David L. Pierce Art and History Center at 20 East Downer Place.

  • Yorkville’s Patriotic Parade & Fireworks:
    Travel to Yorkville for a morning parade starting at 9:00 am at Yorkville High School, ending at Town Square Park. Enjoy colorful floats, marching bands, and community spirit—all free to attend! Food and drinks are available for purchase, and the fireworks show at dusk near Route 47 and Countryside Parkway is a must-see.

  • Oswego’s Fireworks:
    The Village of Oswego will host its annual Independence Day fireworks from about 8-10 p.m. at Prairie Point Park. Guests can also use the nearby parking lots at Oswego High School, Prairie Point Elementary School, Traughber Junior High School, and Eastview Academy to view the show.

  • Batavia’s Fireworks Extravaganza:
    In Batavia, bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a classic suburban fireworks experience. Food vendors will be open from 5:00 to 9:25 pm (cash recommended), and the Batavia Community Band will perform before the fireworks light up the sky at 9:30 pm.

Plan Your Trip to the Aurora Area!

With so much to see and do, the Aurora area is the place to be for Independence Day. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly parades, live music, delicious food, or spectacular fireworks, we’ve got it all—rain or shine!

Come celebrate with us and make memories that will last a lifetime!