Chicago History Museum special events educate, inspire, and surprise.

Fourth of July Celebration

Saturday, July 4

Join us for an extraordinary Fourth of July celebration. This Independence Day marks the Museum’s 50th annual festivities and commemorates the 100th anniversary of Daniel Burnham’s Plan of Chicago.

Morning Program on the Plaza

10:00 a.m.–12:00 noon

The morning's activities begin with music by the Chicago Pops Concert Band; appearances by historic figures Daniel Burnham and Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln; as well as juggling, patriotic face painting, and crafts. At 10:45 a.m. the world’s tallest Uncle Sam will lead a children’s costume parade.

The program at 11:00 a.m. will begin with a welcome by Museum President Gary T. Johnson. The keynote oration will feature members of the Burnham and Bennett families in honor of the 1909 Plan of Chicago. Other patriotic highlights include the posting of the colors, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and the firing of muskets.

Cost:
Free; no reservation required.

Location:
Uihlein Plaza, behind the Museum

Afternoon Program in the Auditorium

1:00 p.m.

Want more history? Head inside and hear city planner Daniel Burnham (as portrayed by Living History Theatre’s R. J. Lindsey) narrate a slide show about key moments in Chicago’s history: the Great Chicago Fire, the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, and, of course, his Plan of Chicago.

Cost:
Free admission until 1:00 p.m.

Location:
Rubloff Auditorium

Refund Policy:
Refunds for a tour will be given in the form of tour credit which can be applied to another tour. Credit will be given with a minimum of two weeks notice prior to the day of the tour. No exceptions.

Sign Language Interpretation:
The Chicago History Museum is happy to offer sign language interpretation at any of its public programs. Please contact the Public Programs Manager, at least 48 hours prior to the day of the event in order to accommodate this request 312.642.4600