Wheaton celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with Field of Honor, Independence Day events, and community events
Wheaton will celebrate the United State's 250th anniversary and Independence Day with a series of community events throughout the summer, highlighted by the return of the Wheaton Field of Honor, a fireworks and drone show at Graf Park, and the annual Independence Day Parade among others.
The Wheaton Field of Honor returns to Seven Gables Park, 1750 S. Naperville Road., from June 29 through July 4. Now in its fifth year, the display will feature approximately 2,000 American flags honoring veterans, active-duty military personnel, first responders, and hometown heroes.
The Wheaton Field of Honor is hosted by the Wheaton Park District and Wheaton United Soccer Club. Visitors are encouraged to attend the opening ceremony on Tuesday, June 30, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The Independence Day celebration continues on Friday, July 3, at Graf Park, 1855 Manchester Road. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., families can enjoy children's activities, concessions, giveaways and DJ entertainment leading up to the fireworks and drone show at dusk.
This year's drone show will be the largest yet, featuring more than 300 drones synchronized with the fireworks display. For parking information and other details visit the Wheaton Park District's website, wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/july4/.
The annual Independence Day Parade steps off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, in downtown Wheaton, with the reviewing stand located on Front Street. Community members are encouraged to remain at or behind the curb while viewing the parade to help ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
Leading this year's parade as grand marshal is Wheaton resident Trevor Orsinger, founder of Orsinger Law Group, P.C. A lifelong Wheaton resident, Orsinger has dedicated much of his career to military service and national defense while remaining actively involved in the local community.
Additional events commemorating America's 250th anniversary will take place throughout the summer.
The Stars & Pars Putt-Putt Tournament will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, at Clocktower Mini Golf. It is open to participants ages 8 to 14 with a minimal cost to register of $10 for Wheaton residents and $13 for non-Wheaton residents.
The DuPage County Historical Museum's 250th Anniversary Exhibit opens Wednesday, July 15. See the exhibit during regular museum hours. The museum also will host DIY Creative Crafting: Stars & Stripes from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15.
Families can also attend Stars and Stripes Family Fun Night on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The free event will feature activities, music and sweet treats while encouraging guests to show off their red, white and blue spirit.
Throughout July, Arrowhead Golf Club will offer a free Bomb Pop with the purchase of a children's meal.
For more information on Independence Day events and the community's America 250 celebrations, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.