Independence Day Parade and Activities July 3, 2009

The City of Aurora’s annual Independence Day Celebration kicks off with Activities & Fireworks on Friday, July 3rd, and the Independence Day parade on July 4.

The parade steps off at 10 am, Saturday, July 4th at the corner of River Street and Benton Street to Broadway, Galena Boulevard, Stolp Avenue, Downer Place, and ends at Middle Avenue. The parade program begins at 9:15 am in front of the Paramount Theatre.

The Independence Day Celebration and fireworks will take place on Friday, July 3rd at Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy and Aurora Central Catholic High School grounds located between Edgelawn Dr., Randall Rd., Sullivan Rd. and Indian Trail Rd.

The schedule of events is as follows:

* 6:00 - 9:00 pm - Food vendors, Moonwalks and Clowns
* 6:00 - 6:45 pm - Circus Boy, Comedy and Juggling
* 7:00 - 8:00 pm - DBL-Shot Band
* 8:30 - 9:30 pm - Aurora Summer Concert Band
* 9:30 pm - Fireworks
* 10 pm - Family video, Loony Tunes, The Golden Collection

To make it easier to get to and from the fireworks, the City of Aurora will be providing free park and ride shuttle service.

Fireworks Shuttles:
Free shuttle buses will run continuously from 7 to 9:30 p.m. and resume after the fireworks until all passengers are returned to parking lots, with the latest departure at approximately 11:15 p.m. Residents may bring lawn chairs and small handheld coolers. Large coolers, alcohol and smoking will be prohibited on buses.
Park and Ride Locations

1. Home Depot, 1250 North Orchard Road
2. Lowe's, 2372 West Indian Trail Road
3. West Aurora Plaza, West Galena Boulevard at Edgelawn Drive
4. West Aurora High School, 1201 West New York Street
5. Cermak Fresh Markets, Lake Street at Indian Trail Road
6. Provena Mercy Outpatient Lot, 1325 North Highland Avenue

Free Fireworks Parking:
Parking near the site is limited. Residents are advised to arrive early or use the free shuttle bus service. Edgelawn Drive will be closed from Birch Street to Sullivan Road for the evening’s activities. Police will be directing traffic and may limit vehicle turns on Edgelawn Drive, Randall Road, Sullivan Road and Indian Trail Road. Handicapped parking will be reserved at Illinois Math and Science Academy (P1) and Aurora Central Catholic High School (P2).

Park and Walk Locations
* P1. Illinois Math and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road
* P2. Aurora Central Catholic High School, 1255 North Edgelawn Drive
* P3. Hyundai, 1705 Sequoia Drive
* P4. Milgard Windows and Doors, 1785 North Edgelawn Drive
* P5. Kraft/Excel, 1700 North Edgelawn Drive
* P6. Vaughan Athletic Center, 2121 West Indian Trail Road
* P7. Rosary High School, 901 North Edgelawn Drive

Official Website: http://www.aurora-il.org/specialevents/events/independence_day.php