DeKalb, IL—Celebrate Independence Day with one of DeKalb’s most treasured traditions! The annual Fourth of July Celebration at Hopkins Park (1403 Sycamore Road) is more than a fireworks show—it’s a full day of fun, entertainment, and community spirit. Families and friends have gathered for decades to enjoy live music, food, games, and the grand fireworks display, co-sponsored by the City of DeKalb and the DeKalb Park District.
Independence Day Run/Walk Kicks Off the Holiday
Start your Fourth of July with the annual Independence Day Run/Walk, a chip-timed race beginning and ending at Hopkins Park. Participants can choose between a 5K or 10K route. All runners receive a race bag with a bib, finisher medal, and commemorative “Red, White, & BOOM!” t-shirt (while supplies last).
Registration Details:
Early Bird (through June 25): $30 for 5K | $40 for 10K
Day-of Registration (July 4 only; Registration will not be accepted from June 26 to July 3): $50 per person
On-site registration/check-in: 7:00 – 8:00 am (Cash is preferred for on-site registration).
Race start time: 8:30 am sharp!
Participants are encouraged to dress in red, white, and blue to add to the festive atmosphere.
Full Day of Family-Friendly Fun
After the race, visitors are invited to relax and enjoy a wide variety of activities throughout the park. Pack a picnic or grab a bite from one of the food vendors (Big D’s Hot Dogs, Tako Sushi, The Cream King, Lovely Lemon, The Press Box, and Sweet Butts Cotton Candy), and enjoy the following entertainment:
Event Schedule at Hopkins Park:
Animal Show (Hopkins Park Shelter): 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Free games, relay races, and strolling entertainers: 4:00 – 8:00 pm
Food vendors open at 4:00 pm and run through the fireworks
Live music by Final Say at the Bandshell: 4:00 – 5:30 pm
DJ Behind the Beats: 5:30 – 7:15 pm
DeKalb Municipal Band Concert at the Bandshell: 7:30 – 9:00 pm
The Fireworks Show, the highlight of the Celebration, begins approximately 30 minutes after sunset and will last about 25 minutes. A limited supply of glowsticks will be available for purchase (cash only) at $5 each or two for $8.
Safety Reminder
To ensure the safety of all attendees, dogs are not permitted in Hopkins Park after noon on July 4. Fireworks and sparklers are not allowed at any time.
For more information about the Independence Day Run/Walk or the Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Show, visit dekalbparkdistrict.com or call (815) 758-6663.
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