A source for local celebrations of a special Independence Day

OK, so semiquincentennial doesn’t roll off the tongue or fit on a holiday placard quite as naturally as its preceding observances — think, particularly, of centennial or even bicentennial — but there’s no disputing that, whatever the word for it, 250 years is a significant milestone. It is, of course, the one we celebrate this Saturday to honor the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

On a national scope, a broad series of events and programs have been organized to mark the occasion, with, sigh, the intervention of competing America250 and Freedom 250 initiatives offering a striking example of the political overtones that seem to settle over everything these days. But locally, thankfully, the celebrations will be less affected by the taint of politics, if not void of it entirely, so, by and large, we’ll all be free to enjoy our community events and fireworks displays without inferring any political statement beyond a shared appreciation for the spirit of freedom that Independence Day represents.

To that end, we have worked hard to keep you informed about — and occasionally inspired by — events making this July 4 particularly special.

Consider, to begin, two stories this week that vividly emphasize the powerful cohesion that defines the spirit of our neighborhoods and our towns. On Tuesday, staff writer Rick West provided photos and reporting on the efforts of 80 volunteers working in stifling heat to install the 2,026 American flags that form a moving focal point for Wheaton’s July 4 celebration. Today, Dave Oberhelman tells the uplifting story of how the people of Glen Ellyn have recognized the unique role that Jonathan Charbonneau has played in honoring America. Charbonneau, who has autism, has become known for the Superman costume he wears and his participation in the community’s Independence Day Parade route every year since 1992. In this special year, instead of some local politician, business leader or other notable, it was Charbonneau who was chosen to be the parade’s Grand Marshal.

And there will be more to come. Watch for stories ahead on graves in the suburbs recognizing Revolutionary War heroes and sites throughout Illinois that have connections to the revolution.

Fireworks displays form the centerpiece of celebrations throughout the suburbs, and our staff takes pains to ensure that you can find the details of local fireworks shows when you need them — both online at www.dailyherald.com and in print. Luke Zurawski and Chris Gerke play a commanding role in collecting items and producing lists of local celebrations, with Kay Long designing the Salute to America special section that printed Wednesday and Caroline Linden and Kim Becker providing editing and page design for listings running in our Neighbor sections as well as in Friday’s Time out! section and on the back page of Saturday’s front section.

And, certainly throughout the weekend we will provide ongoing stories and photographs of diverse celebratory events.

Yes, there’s a lot to unpack in the titles we give these observances, and one might find semiquincentennial an uncomfortable mouthful. But whatever you want to call it, a 250th anniversary deserves special notice. We’re proud at the Daily Herald to provide a foundation to help you and your family feel the excitement and pride of the experience of Independence Day 2026.

• Jim Slusher, jslusher@dailyherald.com, is managing editor for opinion at the Daily Herald. Follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jim.slusher1 and on X at @JimSlusher. His book “To Nudge The World: Conversations, community and the role of the local newspaper” is available at eckhartzpress.com.