Celebrate the July 4th weekend in Southwest Illinois

Communities mark Independence Day with fireworks

Independence Day 2020 will look slightly different from previous years as only a handful of local communities are moving ahead with fireworks celebrations. Light shows will still take place in Edwardsville, Jerseyville, Grafton and Shipman although some social distancing measures have been put into place.

Fireworks will glow over the Mississippi River in Grafton on Thursday, July 2, following a concert by The Owlz that begins at 7 p.m. in The Grove Memorial Park, part of the weekly Music in the Park concert series. The fireworks celebration can be seen from most locations along Main Street. There is no charge to view the fireworks.

Admire the Edwardsville fireworks in the comfort of your own car. Scheduled for Friday, July 3 at 9:15 p.m. at the Edwardsville High School track. 6161 Center Grove Road, Edwardsville, the light show is a local tradition. The location has been moved this year to help encourage social distancing during the fireworks. Admissions to the fireworks is free.

The community of Shipman is also having its annual fireworks Friday, July 3, on Shipman Lake. The light show begins at dusk. The lake offers plenty of space to stretch out and see the brilliant light show. There is no charge to view the fireworks

Another spot for July 4 fireworks is the annual Independence Day fireworks hosted by the city of Jerseyville. Come see the fireworks ignite on Saturday, July 4, at the Jersey County Fairgrounds. 100 W. Fairground Ave, Jerseyville. Those who are watching are asked to stay in their cars or around their cars with proper face coverings. Admission is free.

Communities which have decided to cancel fireworks this year include:

Troy
Litchfield
Bethalto
Alton
Godfrey
Hillsboro
Brighton
Greenfield
For more information on area Independence Day activities go to https://www.riversandroutes.com/ or call (618) 465-6676.

Photo courtesy Rivers & Routes