Arlington Park will charge for fireworks this year

Independence Day fireworks at Arlington Park on July 3 will carry a small admission charge this year- and the box office closes at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets will cost $5 at the gate; $3 if bought in online in advance at arlingtonpark.com. Both prices are discounted from regular racing days.

In previous years the fireworks followed a day of racing that started earlier in the afternoon, and people could enter the park in the evening without paying admission.

David Zenner, senior manager of communications, said while there wasn't much going on between the racing and the fireworks previously, this year the racing will start at 4 p.m. and Four Man Band will perform throughout.

Another band, B.O.T.T. will take over at about 8:30 p.m., followed by the fireworks at dusk.

"This is a continuous event this year, racing, music and fireworks," Zenner said.

"We strongly encourage people to buy their tickets online in advance and to get there well before fireworks and bring a picnic if they wish."

The village of Arlington Heights considers the July 3 fireworks at Arlington Park to be its fireworks -- the village does not sponsor its own show.

Meanwhile, children under 18 are free with paid admission, and free parking is available. Upgrades on seating and dining reservations are available online, as is information on what types of food and drinks can be brought into the park.