History of the Evanston 4th of July Association

In 1921, after a child was injured while setting off fireworks, the North End Mother's Club formed the North Evanston 4th of July association to provide a full fay of safe, supervised, constructive activities forchildren each year.

In 1980, the Association changed its name to the "Evanston Fourth of July Association," expanding its scope to include all of Evanston.

The Association's mission has since expanded to include sponsoring and supporting holiday, family-oriented entertainment events throughout the summer, such as Evanston Starlight Concerts series - free concerts held at Dawes and James park.

Unlike most Independence Day celebrations in other cities, the festivities in Evanston are produced entirely by the all-volunteer, privately funded Evanston Fourth of July Association. No tax dollars are used for the actual production of the sports activities, parade, twilight band concert or fireworks.

We are able to provide a top rated program every year through individual donations and support from our generous local businesses and foundations.