Hilton Fireworks kick off Navy Pier’s Independence Day weekend

Navy Pier will begin Independence Day weekend with a dazzling Hilton Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 2.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to claim a good viewing spot along the Pier.

Guests will receive “diffraction glasses,” courtesy of Hilton to add to the visual experience.

Hilton Fireworks at Navy Pier, accompanied by holiday-themed music, is just one of the many free programs celebrating the Fourth of July.

“Nothing says summer in Chicago like fireworks at Navy Pier, and we’re grateful to Hilton for helping Chicago’s favorite destination light up,” said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner.

“Hilton is thrilled to be presenting the fireworks display,” said Aligi Gardenghi, Vice President Americas Marketing at Hilton.

“We’re elated to partner with the People’s Pier and welcome everyone to enjoy the light and warmth of hospitality.”

On Saturday, July 2, Navy Pier’s free music series Live on the Lake! at the Navy Pier Beer Garden features performances by Manny Torres – former top 14 American Idol finalist. Creedence Revived – a tribute band to Creedence Clearwater Revival – is bringing out their southern rock roots. Pino Farina Band will close out the night with adult-alternative rock music.

The free outdoor dance performance series Wave Wall Moves makes a splash with an exciting production by Shubuki – a classical Japanese style dance group – starting at 3 p.m. Then at 5 p.m., Chicago DJ Mo Mami mixes house, dance, and popular music for Wave Wall Wax.

Guests can also explore the free Art & Agency: Exploring the African American Quilting Tradition – open during normal Pier operating hours. The exhibition is in recognition of Juneteenth and the global black quilt art aesthetic. Guests can visit the exhibit at Festival Hall A, Terrace Level 1 to learn the historical meaning behind the fragments of fabric.

Ticketed events that guests can enjoy include Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s “It Came from Outer Space, the new musical comedy adapted from the 1950’s cult classic sci-fi film; Pixar Putt, an 18-hole miniature golf course based on characters and scenes from Pixar’s classic films; the cruise ships docked at Navy Pier, including Tall Ship Windy, which is offering a fireworks viewing party; and Pier Park, featuring the 200-foot tall Centennial Wheel.

On Independence Day, July 4, Navy Pier’s free music series Live on the Lake! at the Navy Pier Beer Garden features performances by two-time Grammy-nominated blues artist John Primer. The Chicago native is the former bandleader and guitarist for Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon and Magic Slim and The Teardrops. Following Primer’s performance, Trippin’ Billies – a Dave Matthews tribute band – will grace the stage with jazz fusion of DMB’s top hits.

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