Elgin plans for Independence Day parade, but no fireworks again

Elgin leaders are adding a few new wrinkles to the city's Independence Day parade, which will be held on Saturday, July 3.

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Slade and Douglas Avenues under the theme of "Summer in the City!"

Organizers will have two new honors: a 175th Anniversary Award for the float that best tells the city's history and an "Eco-Elgin" award for floats that use environmentally friendly processes and materials.

Jason Pawlowski, the Downtown Neighborhood Association's promotions coordinator, said this year marks the 175th anniversary of when the Gifford family settled along the banks of the Fox River.

People and groups that enter the parade are encouraged by the DNA to hit the themes of the city's rich history, exciting present, and prosperous future.

Last year, more than 130 floats were entered.

"We're very excited about it being another big event," Pawlowski said. "We usually attract 16,000 or more to the parade."

However, for the second straight year, the city will not have a fireworks display because of budget cutbacks.

City spokeswoman Sue Olafson said the city could bring back pyrotechnics in 2011 if the budget and economy improve.

"That's always a possibility. We have to review revenues and see where we're at," she said.

Last year, the DNA had several grand marshals representing various neighborhood groups.

In 2008, the city invited Tammy Duckworth, who lost both legs in 2004 in Iraq when the helicopter she was piloting came under rocket-propelled grenade fire, to serve as grand marshal.

Pawlowski said a DNA committee will meet next week to discuss who will be grand marshal this year.

For details about volunteering for or participating in the parade, call (847) 488-1456, visit downtownelgin.org or email jpawlowski@elginil.org.

The deadline for float applications is May 28. The cost is $100 for businesses and political groups but free for not-for-profit organizations.