Two fireworks shows to light up Mount Prospect Lions Club’s Fourth of July festival

For those who love fireworks, the Mount Prospect Lions Club’s annual Fourth of July festival is a natural choice.

The fest offers two nights of fireworks — on Wednesday, July 1, and Saturday, July 4. The shows start between 9 and 9:30 p.m.

The celebration, which also includes a carnival, a raffle, a beer garden and food vendors, takes place over five days; hours are 6-11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, July 1-2; 4-11 p.m. Friday, July 3; and 1-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 4-5, in Melas Park, 1500 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect.

Admission is free, and organizers say they’re trying to keep it affordable for families.

“Despite increasing costs, festival prices will remain the same as last year, ensuring that everyone can continue to enjoy the rides, food, entertainment, and activities without additional financial burden,” said co-chair Mike Fahey.

For information on carnival ride pricing, and to purchase wristbands in advance, visit mplions.org/events/wristband-pre-sale.

Festivalgoers can look forward to a range of entertainment throughout the five-day celebration, according to Fahey.

“In addition to a variety of live music and performances, we are especially excited to feature a day dedicated to vibrant Latin bands,” he said. Thursday, July 2, will feature Latin bands Tempo at 6 p.m., Rico at 7:30 p.m. and Sin Anestesia at 9:15 p.m.

Daily headliners include Journey 2 Jovi at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 1; Icons of Country at 9 p.m. Friday, July 3; No Turn on Red at 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4; and 7th heaven at 9 p.m. Sunday, July 5.

On Saturday, the day kicks off with the annual pancake breakfast and bake sale from 7-11 a.m. in the big tent. It’s $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 4-12, and free for ages 3 and younger.

The Fourth of July parade, hosted by the village, will step off at 1 p.m. Saturday from the corner of Emerson Street and Prospect Avenue. It will proceed down Central Road and end at Melas Park.

The festival offers free parking and a complimentary shuttle bus.

For more information on the fest, visit mplions.org.