BOOM! Champaign-Urbana loves fireworks, especially around the Fourth of July. That’s why we’ve created this list of Champaign-Urbana area fireworks displays around July 4. Fireworks for days and days!
Spectacular fireworks displays go up all around the Champaign-Urbana area. Some of our favorite shows to watch include Arthur’s Independence Day Freedom Celebration (the Saturday before the Fourth) and the Champaign County Freedom Celebration (actually on the Fourth).
The Fourth of July is on a Friday in 2025 and many more options exist in the surrounding days; your family could watch fireworks all week long.
However, the weather (or poor air quality) may affect scheduled shows — be sure to confirm with the organizers before heading out to any fireworks show, in case of postponement/cancellation.
If you are looking for a more extensive resource of Fourth of July events all over the Champaign-Urbana area including parades, festivals, and more, check out our Fourth of July events. We also have a list of what is open and closed on the Fourth of July holiday, coming soon.
Thanks to CU Dentists, Ltd. for presenting this list.
Happy Birthday America! CU Dentists is a proud sponsor of Chambanamoms in celebration of this awesome family week of summer. CU Dentists is a General Dentistry practice that believes in providing quality care while maintaining a happy-friendly environment. They serve patients of all ages and take pride in going the extra mile to make sure their patients are comfortable and satisfied with treatment. Dr. Scott, Dr. Schorsch, and their entire dental team love America, love their patients, and love teeth! Best wishes for a safe and happy 4th of July! Visit CU Dentists on their website, Facebook or Instagram.
Seeking more summer fun, including pools and more? Check out everything related to summer in Champaign-Urbana here.
All 2025 fireworks displays are free unless otherwise noted.
June 27:
Villa Grove Freedom Celebration: Fire department touch-a-truck, a patriotic bike parade and fireworks at dusk. The splash pad will be open, too!
June 28:
Arthur’s Freedom Celebration and Fireworks: One of the biggest fireworks displays in central Illinois. In years past, there has been live music and fireworks to follow. The fireworks can be viewed from many areas around Arthur for free. Be prepared for heavy traffic before and after the show.
Danville Boat Club Thunder Over Lake Vermilion: Fireworks celebration on the lake! Doors open at 5 p.m., music begins later. Fireworks at dusk. $5 per person admission (children 10 and under free).
Tolono Fun Day: Fireworks at dusk.
June 29:
Arcola Fourth of July Fireworks Display: Drive-in style fireworks display at dusk.
July 3:
Fisher Fireworks and Food Trucks: There will be food trucks from 5-8 p.m. with fireworks at dusk. Live music from 6-8 p.m. Held at the Fisher Fairgrounds.
Monticello Freedom Fest: Annual fireworks, food and fun festival at Lodge Park. Wrap up the evening with this annual spectacular fireworks show. There are also options to take the train or take a shuttle to the fireworks that evening.
Rantoul Freedom Celebration: Fun activities for families that end with fireworks at dusk.
Champaign Country Club Independence Day Fireworks – Spectators Not Allowed on Club Property: The Champaign Country Club requires that spectators view the show from north of the split rail fence along Armory or from public spaces in surrounding neighborhoods. Fireworks at dusk.
Bayles Lake Fireworks: The show will start at 9:00 p.m. The launch site will again be from Skyline Drive / Newell Dam at Bayles Lake. The view from both lakes is amazing.
July 4:
Champaign County Freedom Celebration: Fireworks will be happening around 9:15 p.m this year, at the University of Illinois lot E-14. They will be visible from many locations around campus. New this year, the parade has been moved to 4:30 p.m. Come early for the parade, stay for the evening’s fun!
Bement Fourth of July: Parade at 2 p.m., games, fun and activities at Forest Preserve Park to follow. Fireworks at dusk.
Bellflower: Parade and events all day, with fireworks at dusk.
Farmer City Raceway: Fan Appreciation Night. Includes full show and fireworks. General admission is $5.
Homer Freedom & Music Festival: Full day of activities and entertainment, with fireworks to end the celebration this year.
Oakwood Fourth of July Celebration: Fun all day and fireworks at dusk.
Paxton’s July 4th Celebration: 5K in the morning, activities throughout the day and fireworks at dusk.
Sibley Area 4th of July: Enjoy activities all day long and wrap up the celebration with fireworks over Lake Sibley.
July 5:
Tuscola Sparks in the Park: Annual fireworks display at Ervin Park wraps up the Tuscola Fourth of July celebration.
Celebrate Clinton Association: Annual fireworks display in the vicinity of Rt. 51 & Kleeman Drive in Clinton.
July 19:
Gifford Sesquicentennial Celebration: Two-day celebration culminates with fireworks at dusk on Saturday, July 19.
July 20:
Philo Sesquicentennial: Fireworks at dusk to close out another local Sesquicentennial summer celebration.
August 9:
St. Joseph Community Festival: St. Joseph holds their fireworks display in conjunction with this late-summer festival. One last chance to catch 2025 summer fireworks!
Did we miss your favorite fireworks displays? Let us know by submitting them here.
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