Chicago-area 4th of July events kick off with Festival of Life, American Music Festival
CHICAGO (WLS) -- It may not be the actual holiday, but for many, Monday was a day to celebrate.
In Plainfield, as people settled into their lawn chairs at Bott Park for a dusk fireworks display, the park's parking lot was transformed into a food truck festival.
"It's really fun, I like how they have everything like the activities are fun everybody is dancing," said Gianna Thompson.
"It's close to home, it's good food, good music the kids are having fun so it's always a good," said Cybrian Thompson.
In Naperville, a special Fourth of July celebration and salute to the nation's heroes was held at Rotary Hill, featuring a live band and family entertainment.
"It's an opportunity for us to celebrate our independence and honor our veterans and those that are currently serving as well as our first responders," said Michele Clemen of the Naperville Salute Charitable Organization.
Proceeds from the four-day celebration will go to Naperville Responds for Veterans. Last year they raised $50,000 to help with home repairs, renovations and construction.
In Chicago, many were off work, outdoors and catching a break from the rain.
"It's amazing this is what we live for in Chicago. A perfect day, perfect time, and it's a complete contrast to yesterday," said Denise Loyd.
The African Caribbean International Festival of Life in Washington Park celebrated the uniqueness of Caribbean cultures and commonality of humanity with food, music and arts.
"I've been coming here since I was a kid. Washington park area, born and raised, Chicago. What's more summertime in Chicago than being in Washington Park?" said Trevor Thompson.
Thompson's attire was direct from Kingston, Jamaica.
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Ephraim Martin, originally from Jamaica, started the festival 30 years ago.
"Love, it's about peace and happiness. Understand where we are coming from, and who we are. That's what the Festival of Life is all about. It's a grand celebration of people coming together," Martin said.
In Berwyn, it is the 40th anniversary of the American Music Festival at FitzGerald's.
"Traditional New Orleans blues, country Americana, just an incredible collection of American roots music," said FitzGerald's co-owner Will Duncan.
The opening act on the last of this four-day festival, there's an all-female Chicago Bluegrass band, the Fox Crossing String Band.
"It's an incredible day here," said Cassie Wright with the Fox Crossing String Band. "The whole team and staff here put together a good show. It's really, really awesome."
A fan of the band, and perhaps the most festive dress, goes to Chicagoan Suzy Jackson.
"It feels like the clouds are parting, and the blue sky is shining through, and it's time to celebrate music and America," Jackson said.
