CHICAGO, June 26, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Navy Pier, Chicago’s mission-driven cultural district, will host its annual Independence Day celebration, complete with the Pier’s signature Fourth of July Fireworks Show, presented by Miller Lite, at 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. As the city’s only lakefront fireworks show, Navy Pier will be at the center of Chicago’s Independence Day celebration, with a special 15-minute fireworks display synchronized to a patriotic soundtrack.
Navy Pier will open to the public at 10 a.m., offering guests the opportunity to jump start their holiday festivities along the lakefront. Guests can take advantage of the many different offerings on the Pier throughout the day – from the new, Chicago-based dining options, to the Centennial Wheel and other rides in Pier Park. At 6:30 p.m., the 4th Annual Freedom Fest will kick off on Navy Pier’s rooftop, featuring a delicious barbecue, full bar and music provided by a live DJ – all set to the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan and the Chicago Skyline. Tickets to this family-friendly celebration are available for purchase at www.chitownevents.com.
As in the past, large crowds are expected on July 4 and the Saturday prior to the holiday (July 1). Navy Pier anticipates on closing its gates on Independence Day upon reaching capacity. Guests are encouraged to plan their visit accordingly and arrive early. Those with tickets to Freedom Fest, boat cruises, performances and/or other ticketed events should plan to arrive hours ahead of event start time to ensure timely access.
Navy Pier’s on-site parking garages are also expected to reach capacity early on July 1 and 4. In addition, Uber and Lyft services will be disabled upon Pier closure as no pedestrian or vehicular traffic will be permitted on the North Dock. Guests using ride share services will be required to walk west on Grand Avenue of Illinois Street for pick up. It is strongly encouraged to take public transportation or to park at one of the Pier’s three partner parking garages at a discounted rate of $15, with validation from Navy Pier’s information booth:
- Grand Plaza Self Park (540 N. State Street)
- Ogden Plaza Self Park (300 E. North Water Street)
- Millennium Lakeside Garage (5 S. Columbus Street)
The safety and security of Navy Pier guests, partners and staff is always a top priority. During major events and all throughout the year, the Pier exhibits an abundance of caution and enforces heightened security measures for the safety, welfare and comfort of all who visit. The Pier provides multiple and visible layers of security that cover the entire property, including the parking facilities. In addition to Navy Pier security assigned by Allied Universal Security, the Pier will have presence from the Chicago Police Department, K9 officers, off-duty officers and private security. Pier-wide surveillance is also administered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, Navy Pier will enforce the following policies and procedures on Independence Day:
- Security check points will be established at all entrances, exits and other locations throughout the Pier. All guests are subject to security wanding upon entering the premises.
- All bags and vehicles are subject to inspection. Large bags and backpacks are strongly discouraged.
- As always, coolers, bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and skate shoes are not allowed at Navy Pier.
- Outside alcohol is prohibited.
- No pets or animals will be permitted, with the exception of service animals.
- Upon closure, re-entry is not permitted. If guests leave Navy Pier after gates are closed, they are not guaranteed access back to the Pier. It is recommended that all parties remain together.
- No parking, stopping or loitering will be permitted along the streets adjacent to Navy Pier, including Streeter Drive, Grand Avenue and Illinois Street.
- Navy Pier’s standard youth escort policy will be in effect from Friday, June 30 through Tuesday, July 1. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian is responsible for the safety and conduct of minor guests in their party. Guests 18 years and older may be asked to present a valid driver’s license, state ID or military ID upon entering Pier grounds.
As always, Navy Pier asks that guests be vigilant of their surroundings. Remember: If You See Something, Say Something. To report a concern, contact Navy Pier security by finding the nearest security officer and/or calling (312) 595-5060. In the event of an emergency, immediately contact Chicago authorities by dialing 911.
For more information and updates regarding parking garage or Pier closure throughout the Fourth of July celebration, please visit the Navy Pier website or follow on Twitter (@NavyPier) for instant updates.
Navy Pier is committed to its organizational mission to welcome guests of all backgrounds and offer dynamic and eclectic experiences through partnerships and programs that inspire discovery and wonder. As the Fifth Third Bank Centennial Celebration continues in 2017, the Pier looks forward to introducing more exciting and innovative year-round programming for guests to experience and enjoy for free. For more information, visit www.navypier.com.
Navy Pier Mission Statement
Navy Pier is the People’s Pier, Chicago’s lakefront treasure, welcoming all and offering dynamic and eclectic experiences through partnerships and programs that inspire discovery and wonder.
About Navy Pier
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is one of the top-attended nonprofit cultural destinations in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming more than nine million guests annually. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases more than 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities and more. In 2017, Navy Pier continues to celebrate its centennial with a series of special events and programming, year-round rides on the Centennial Wheel and ongoing pier-wide redevelopment efforts as part of the Centennial Vision. Navy Pier, as a nonprofit organization, maintains and manages the 50-acre pier that is being redeveloped as a contemporary, environmentally responsible urban space. More information is available at www.navypier.com.
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