Glenview's plans for July 4 celebration underway
The Glenview 4th of July Committee met last week to discuss Independence Day planning for 2021. The committee, comprising community volunteers supported by Glenview Park District and Village of Glenview staff, typically manages fundraising, including soliciting local sponsors, to help support the celebration's direct costs.
The Glenview Park Board, in collaboration with the Village of Glenview, is responsible for determining whether or not the parade and fireworks will be held this year.
In response to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the Glenview Park District held a "reverse" parade. Residents obtained timed tickets to drive through Community Park West to see stationary "floats" set up by community groups from the safety of their cars. In lieu of fireworks, local churches and residents shared a communitywide bell ringing in honor of the holiday at 8 p.m.
The Glenview Park Board and Village of Glenview have approved plans to hold a "reverse" parade again in 2021. No decision has been made at this time related to the fireworks. The Glenview 4th of July Committee has decided they will not be fundraising due to the uncertainty related to July 4th events.
"As mitigations and safety protocols related to the COVID-19 pandemic are constantly evolving and changing, it's challenging to know what our July 4th will look like this year," said Amy Watson, the Glenview Park District's Director of Recreation, who oversees the logistics and management of the event.
"We know our 4th of July celebrations are a cherished tradition, and we are committed to finding a way to safely celebrate again this year. We proved last year that a reverse parade was a great way for community members to be able to decorate their cars and be a part of the parade, and we look forward to repeating that success again this year," Michael McCarty, Glenview Park District Executive Director, stated.
It will be at least June before any decisions related to the fireworks or alternative celebratory options are finalized and, if appropriate, publicized, and they will be contingent on current health and safety guidelines.
"Glenview's parade and fireworks have long been favorite ways for friends and neighbors to celebrate this most patriotic of American holidays," Glenview Village Manager Matt Formica stated. "While we look forward to returning to these traditions, our community's health and safety must be foremost in any plans."