Mike Alft to be grand marshal of Elgin's 4th of July Parade
This year's city of Elgin and Downtown Neighborhood Association's Fourth of July Parade will begin with an All-American Pooch Parade at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, July 4, at the intersection of Ann and Douglas avenues. For more information or to register your dog, contact Kountry Pet Resort & Training Center.
At 9 a.m., the Independence Day Parade will step off at 9 a.m. at Slade and Douglas avenues, with the theme, "American Pastimes."
Longtime Elgin historian Mike Alft will be the grand marshal. Alft is not only celebrating his 90th birthday this year, but he is a past councilman and mayor for the City of Elgin. We are truly proud to have Mike Alft, Elgin's favorite historian, as grand marshal. Alft will be escorted by the Gail Borden Public Library's "Reflections - Flowing Through Time" and the popular Gail Borden Drill Team.
Enjoy the large trucks, creative floats, music, dancing, BMX bike stunts, cheerleaders, tumblers and all the other entertaining acts and floats.
Downtown Elgin is open for business! Many of the shops and restaurants are open to welcome the community!
After the parade stop by Soulful Sparrow, Elgin Antiques & Uniques, and the many other shops downtown, or make your way to Side Street Studio Arts for their second annual American Jubilee, which will feature a pie-eating contest, dunk tank, pinewood derby and many other fun family-friendly activities.
From there, take a stroll along Elgin's Riverside Drive Promenade, along the scenic Fox River, and then make your way to Festival Park, where the Grand Victoria Casino will host Herman's Hermits with Peter Noone, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap and Gary Lewis & the Playboys! The shows begin at 5:30 p.m., with gates opening at 4:30 p.m. Tickets selling fast for this incredible lineup! Tickets are $5 for lawn seats, $29.50 for "King," and $39.50 for "Ace," plus applicable service fees.
At dusk, enjoy the GVC Fireworks display along the Fox River in downtown Elgin.
For details, visit www.downtownelgin.com.