Evanston 4th Of July 2020 Fireworks Canceled, Celebrations Online
EVANSTON, IL — Interactive online festivities are set to replace traditional Fourth of July events in Evanston, which have been canceled for 2020 due to the coronavirus. The Evanston Fourth of July Association announced plans for daytime and nighttime broadcasts as part of a "virtual celebration" with the theme, "Community United Cannot Be Divided."
Residents have until June 30 to submit their entries for the 4th of July photo contest for a chance to win gift cards from local businesses. During the evening program, winners will be announced in the categories of "Most Patriotic Pet," "Best Decorated Yard" and "Best Red, White and Blue Family," according to the all-volunteer nonprofit association.
The 2020 Evanston Fourth of July Association's online celebration begins at 11 a.m. with behind-the-scenes footage from the festivities livestreamed on the association's Facebook page and website.
At 2 p.m., the virtual parade begins with broadcasts on 95.9FM, WCGO, and on the association's YouTube, Facebook and web pages. It will feature a video presentation of parade highlights, as well as photo and video submissions from the public.
At 8 p.m., a virtual band concert and fireworks show is scheduled to begin. Winners of the photo contest will be announced during the livestream, which will be available on the Evanston Fourth of July Association Facebook page and website.
"The theme for our 2020 celebration is COMMUNITY UNITED CANNOT BE DIVIDED," the association said in a statement earlier this month. "It is a socially responsible theme and what we believe in. It was selected before COVID-19 and the current social unrest started. Our goal is to bridge divides and heal wounds through uniting our community together in celebration of liberty and justice for all."
Earlier: Evanston 2020 Independence Day Parade, Fireworks Canceled
Residents were also asked to take part in the annual tradition of setting up lawn chairs ahead of July 4 — but this time they will be on their own front yards.
"Every chair should be decorated to help liven up the mood of the times," according to a statement from the association. "Theme suggestions include 4th of July, sports, art, music... get creative. Lawn chairs will also be displayed on Central Street."
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Due to the pandemic, counties or cities may adjust or cancel events at the last minute. Check your event before you go.
Check out this roundup of everything from barbecue essentials to patriotic table decor to be sure your July 4 is the best in the USA.
This article originally appeared on the Evanston Patch
