The Evanston Fourth of July Association this morning announced that its board has voted to cancel this year’s Fun Run, Parade, Palatine Concert Band performance and Lakefront Fireworks show.
In a statement, the board said the decision was based on concern for public health due to the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact and vaccination rates, and was made in cooperation with local officials.
But the statement added, “We are committed and already working toward an Independence Day celebration that will be safe, creative and build community.”
If guidelines allow, the association plans to conduct the traditional morning games and activities in the parks and schools.
The Celebration Team is considering mini concerts, roving entertainment, neighborhood art and decoration projects to provide the community with a day to remember.
The association is encouraging residents to express their celebration preferences by responding to an online questionnaire.
The statement says the group is looking ahead to 2022 for a bigger and better celebration in what will be the event’s centennial year.