4th of July Organizers Need Community Support

Submitted by jeffpsmith on Sat, 05/23/2026 - 14:33

The Evanston Fourth of July Association (EFJA) is inviting residents and businesses to participate in the 2026 celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and to support Evanston's festivities. This year's theme is “Home of the Brave Since 1776.” The Association needs sponsors, advertisers, family supporters, donations, and volunteers.


Many Evanstonians don't realize that, almost uniquely among Chicago area municipalities, Evanston's nationally recognized parade, and other 4th of July activities -- a fun run, morning games, concert band, and of course the spectacular fireworks show -- receive no public funding! A parade doesn't run itself by magic. For more than 100 years, every Evanston 4th of July, which now has an annual budget of more than $160,000, has been organized and funded entirely by EFJA through volunteer effort, donations, and community support. Tens of thousands of Evanstonians and vistors are entertained and celebrate our country's birthday free of charge.

Due to declining corporate and large individual donations, EFJA is facing what they term a financial crisis, that puts the future of a beloved community celebration at risk. EFJA is asking local businesses and residents to help out now by becoming a 2026 sponsor ($1,000-$7,500) and/or placing an advertisement ($500-$1,250) in their 4th of July Events Program. Thousands of the programs are distributed at the parade and at the beach on the evening of fireworks.

As a special inducement this year, not just businesses but families can place pictures or creative ads in the program book ($250) to create a memorable keepsake. Whether personal or for business, placing a photo or ad in the 4th of July Events Program is a meaningful way to: show support for Evanston’s oldest and largest annual community event, and make a statement that will reach thousands of families, residents, and visitors, while showing civic pride, patriotism, and support for local tradition. Those who would like to help out but don't necessarily want to be listed in the program can simply also make a donation here. EFJA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and donations are deductible.

The deadline for submitting a photo or ad is Tuesday, May 26.
EFJA also seeks volunteers to work as parade marshals or help with organizing games and other tasks. Sign up here.

CSNA has participated in every Evanston 4th of July parade held since our organization's founding in 2007 and considers it an important Evanston tradition. iI's also part of what makes Central Street special. We hope that CSNA members and other neighbors will strongly consider helping out here locally:

Using the forms downloadable above is probably the best and quickest way, but for questions for EFJA or to become a sponsor or reserve advertising space, a voicemail can be left at 847-637-5236 or email at celebration@evanston4th.org.