If you’re looking to celebrate the Fourth of July the Forest Park way, the Park District of Forest Park is throwing a party that ends with old-fashioned fireworks.
Larry Piekarz, director of the park district, said he expects about 2,000 locals to attend the party, which he said costs about $25,000 to put on. The majority of the money — $20,000—is spent on the fireworks, he said. The village of Forest Park and the local fire and police departments help work the event.
“It’s going to be a great show,” Piekarz said.
The pool at 7501 Harrison St. is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for those wanting to take a dip. The food and beer tents open at 4 p.m., operated by the Kiwanis Club of Forest Park.
Music also starts at 4 p.m., and local superstars The Redmonds will take the stage at 6:30 p.m.
“We’re especially happy that The Redmonds are playing because they’re Forest Park’s own band,” Piekarz said. “They’re very popular, they do a great job. We’re trying to keep it a local event, not a regional event.”
The one exception is from 5 to 8 p.m. when face painting will be offered by Ginger Gypsy, a Chicago-based artist who is known for transforming average children into princesses, pirates and more. Kids can also enjoy an egg toss, art projects and a magician.
Then stake out your spot for the 9 p.m. fireworks show, which lasts around 25 minutes.
“It might be my last year of actually working it,” said Piekarz, who is stepping down from his post in October after 29 years with the park district. “But it doesn’t mean that’s my last year coming to it. I’m looking forward to years of watching other people run around working.”
Nona Tepper
This article has been updated to reflect that Ginger Gypsy is based in Chicago.
