Celebrate the Fourth of July with a close-up view of fireworks bursting over Chicago’s iconic skyline. The city’s most beloved Independence Day tradition is watching the fireworks at Navy Pier on July 1, 2023.
This annual waterfront fireworks show will dazzle crowds for 15 minutes on Saturday, July 1, at 9:30 pm. You can catch the free show with holiday-themed music all over the city but the best spots are on Navy Pier (arrive early) North Avenue and Oak Street Beaches, Chicago Riverwalk and Millennium Park. There will also be a fireworks display on Wednesday, July 5, at 9:30 pm.
There are no fireworks at the pier on Tuesday, July 4.
For a front-row seat on the water, book a boat cruise to grab all the fireworks action. Navy Pier’s summer fireworks displays will continue every Wednesday at 9 pm and every Saturday at 10 pm through Labor Day.
Other Free Navy Pier Fourth of July Events:
Live on the Lake!
Listen to free music at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. The concerts will feature The King of Mars (2- 4:30 pm ), The Sweet Lilies( 4:30-7 pm) and Southern Accents (5:30-8 PM) on Tuesday, July 4. On Saturday, July 1, Phillip Michael Scales (2-4:30 pm) Sheryl Youngblood(5:30-8 pm) and Rod Tuffcurls & The Benchpress 9-11 pm).
Bitter Jester Music Festival Satellite Series at Harry Careys
From 6:30-9 pm, listen to a line-up of lively performers at Harry Careys Tavern on July 4.
Navy Pier Fourth of July Weekend Fireworks
Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave.
July 1, 2023, at dusk
Free