Independence Day Celebration

Three ways to celebrate on Friday, July 3, 2026 —

  • The Yankee Doodle Dash 5K
  • The Star Spangled Splash
  • Fun & Fireworks over Lake Michigan
When? Fri, July 3, 2026
2 venues Gillson & Centennial Parks
Family Activities Free
2026 Yankee Doodle Dash 5K
Date: Friday, July 3
Race start: 8 AM
Start/Finish: Gillson Park
Fees: $40 per participant
Parking: 5K parking in the South Lot

Registration closes 11:59 pm on 6/30. Space is limited and we anticipate a sell-out — register ahead of time. There is no on-site registration.

Registration opens May 1 Register Here View More Details
Event map

Special Appreciation

Star Spangled Splash!
Date: Friday, July 3
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Location: Centennial Park
Fees: FREE - Family activities in the park
Public swim: 2:00 – 6:00 pm. FREE for residents / daily fee for non-residents
More info coming in spring! View More Details
Fun & Fireworks
Date: Friday, July 3
Race start: 5:00 – 10:00 pm
Location: Gillson Park
Fees: FREE - for everyone
Fireworks: Launched over Lake Michigan
Event map

Sponsorship Opportunities

Partner with us

Sponsorship event photo

Independence Day is one of Wilmette’s most-loved traditions — a full day of free, family-friendly fun from the morning 5K to fireworks over the lake. Sponsorship puts your business at the heart of the whole celebration, and helps keep the day free for the community.
Presenting and day-wide packages are available — or choose a single event below.

Yankee Doodle Dash 5K

Put your brand on race shirts, medals, the finish line and the course. High-visibility, active-family reach.

Star Spangled Splash

Sponsor family activity stations and the public swim at Centennial Park. Friendly, all-ages exposure.

Fun & Fireworks

The day's biggest crowd. Stage, viewing-area and main-event recognition as the sky lights up over the lake.