Elgin’s Fourth of July celebration to include a pet parade this year

Plans are underway for Elgin's Fourth of July Parade.

The parade will be held Thursday, July 4, near downtown Elgin. The route runs on Douglas Avenue from Slade Avenue to city hall, 150 Dexter Court. Gail Borden Public Library will be this year's grand marshal.

Parade registration is open at www.cityofelgin.org/1740/Fourth-of-July until Thursday, June 6 or until capacity is reached.

“Last year's parade saw a record number of participants as well as spectators. It's one of our favorite events that bring people to Elgin,” said Amanda Harris, director of cultural arts & special events.

New this year is the Pet Parade. Pet owners are invited to apply to walk a shortened route along the parade route with their pets just before the official parade kickoff. All house pets welcome.

The Pet Parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the intersection of Ann Street and Douglas Avenue and end at city hall. Visit the website to learn more and sign up to participate.

At 9 a.m., there will be the Fourth of July kickoff event with parade to follow.

The Fourth of July celebration will continue later in the day at Festival Park with music, food trucks and drinks, children's activities, and a spectacular fireworks display. It begins at 5 p.m. at the park, 132 S. Grove Ave. The fireworks show will be at 9:20 p.m.

More information about the Fourth of July celebration, including the band and vendor lineup, will be announced soon.

If interested in volunteering, contact the Special Events team at specialevents@cityofelgin.org or visit the website to learn more and apply online today.

For more information, contact Edell Fiedler, director of communications and engagement, at fiedler_e@cityofelgin.org. or (847) 931-5609.