Where to Celebrate Fourth of July 2007 in Chicago

The Windy City offers plenty of entertainment and live events throughout the summer, but Fourth of July celebrations are always a weeklong affair. From food shows to fireworks displays, Michigan Avenue and the Navy Pier light up for a grand festival that attracts thousands of visitors from around the country. While downtown Chicago fills up with craft shows, The Taste of Chicago, and costume galas, the lakefront and suburbs light up the night with unique fireworks displays, community-wide picnics, and other Independence Day celebrations. If you'll be in Chicago over Fourth of July weekend this year, be sure to make a stop at any of these top spots for your celebration!

The Taste of Chicago is a 10-day test of gastronomy; admission is free, and food tickets are bought in bulk so you can sample away in the Gourmet Pavilion. You'll find colorful tents and lively kitchens from over 65 Chicago-based restaurants. The Taste of Chicago attracts over 3.5 million visitors every year, and evolved from a simple tourist attraction back in 1980. The Taste starts on June 28, 2007 and runs through July 8. Fourth of July menu items to enjoy include flag-shaped cookies and patriotic cupcakes!

The Lions Club International Parade is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Fourth of July. The parade will start at Ft. Dearborn Dr, and trek on through 31^st Street North to McCormick Place. The 90^th Annual Lions Club International Convention takes place from July 2-6, so expect to see many community volunteers celebrating throughout the downtown area.