CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – In true Midwest fashion, Champaign-Urbana and the surrounding community are going big this July, with fireworks lighting up the skies nearly every night leading up to — and even after — Independence Day 2025. With the Fourth falling on a Friday this year, families across Central Illinois have the unique chance to celebrate all week long with fireworks.

The area’s love for fireworks is demonstrated in Arthur’s Freedom Celebration (June 28) and the Champaign County Freedom Celebration on July 4, which will feature a parade at 4:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:15 p.m. at Lot E-14 on the University of Illinois campus.

Here are some other must-see shows:

• July 3: Fisher, Monticello, Rantoul, Bayles Lake, Champaign Country Club

• July 4: Bement, Bellflower, Farmer City, Homer, Oakwood, Paxton, Seymour, Sibley

• July 5: Tuscola, Clinton

• July 19: Gifford Sesquicentennial

• July 20: Philo Sesquicentennial

• August 9: St. Joseph Community Festival

All listed events are free, unless otherwise noted. Families are encouraged to check with organizers in case of postponements due to weather or air quality concerns.