The Chicago History Museum collaborates with local community leaders, artists, and youth to set the stage every summer for Civic Season in partnership with Made By Us. Instead of a single commemorative event on Independence Day, our programming starts Juneteenth and continues with Civic Saturdays all leading toward our final program on Independence Day.

Included with general admission, which is FREE for Illinois residents on this day.

10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – Arts and Crafts for Social Change

Chicago has a long history of protest and civic action. Come contribute to this history by making your own art to let the public know what matters to you. There will be button making, protest sign making, and even a chance to write letters to local, state, and even federal elected officials! 2nd floor, Elizabeth Morse Genius Room

Then, show off your patriotic spirit and come get your face painted by Party Picasso and Face Painting by Valery with Independence Day-themed designs!

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Fun in the Sun Outdoor Activities

Join us for family-friendly games to kick the day off right! Great for young children and adults alike. Outdoor plaza, east side of Museum

10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – Reopening of Facing Freedom

As part of our US at 250 celebrations this year, we’ve updated our longstanding exhibition Facing Freedom! Come explore this powerful exhibition that explores Chicago’s and the nation’s past, asking the question: What can we do for freedom? 1st floor, Facing Freedom

While you explore the gallery, join our museum educators for fun activities helping you consider the ways you can fight for freedom in your own lives and communities.

10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – Our 250th Wish Wall

What is your wish for the nation’s future? Across the nation, hundreds of communities in partnership with Made by Us are hosting Wish Walls to invite visions for our nation’s future. Let others know your wish by leaving a message on CHM’s digital Wish Wall. 1st floor, Guild Gallery

11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. – Art as Civic Action | Arts Making with Chava Mancera

Want to have your voice heard through art? What would you like political leaders to know your wishes for the nation’s birthday? Join Chava Mancera to create artistic responses celebrate the holiday and advocate for an even better future! 1st floor, Holleb Learning Center

11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Freedom Song Sing Along with Lenny Marsh and Friends

Music has long been used to unite people. Connect with your fellow Chicagoans through songs of freedom led by Lenny Marsh and Friends! 2nd floor, Morse Genius Chicago Room

12:00–2:00 p.m. – Poems While You Wait

Come get your own, unique poem typed in 10–15 minutes typed by a professional poet on a typewriter right in before your eyes! All poems are free and can be of any topic, especially those related to civic engagement, independence, and justice for all. 2nd floor, Jo Baskin Minow Balcony Gallery

Poems While You Wait supports Rose Metal Press, a 501(c)3 non-profit independent publisher of literary hybrid genres specializing in flash fiction and nonfiction; prose poetry; novels-in-verse or book-length linked poems; and more!

1:00–2:00 p.m. – US at 250 Trivia

What do you know about the nation’s history? Test your knowledge with trivia celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Individuals or small groups are welcome, and there will be prizes for the top winners! 1st floor, Robert R. McCormick Theater