American Independence Parade

The Waukegan Park District is accepting online applications for the 2025 American Independence Parade, which will be held on Sunday, June 29, 2025 stepping off at 1pm and traveling north on Sheridan Road from Franklin Street to Jack Benny Drive. The parade theme is “Family, Friends & the Fourth” and the Grand Marshal will be Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County.

Founded in 2000, Special Recreation Services of Northern Lake County is an intergovernmental cooperative entity that provides community recreation to persons with disabilities at the Waukegan Park District and the Zion Park District. Their mission is to educate citizens to become responsible, productive, and contributing members of society by preparing them through recreation in a dynamic and caring environment, promoting enthusiasm, and inviting their participation. Tuesday, July 1, 2025 will mark their twenty-fifth anniversary.

With thousands of spectators expected along Sheridan Road, businesses and organizations are invited to participate in this long-standing community tradition with a parade entry. To participate in the parade, a completed application must be submitted online by Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 11:59pm. Businesses and non-political organizations can participate for free. Political organizations must pay a $100 fee to participate.

There are several sponsorship and volunteer opportunities. For more information, email parade@waukeganparks.org.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Local businesses and organizations can become sponsors of the parade. For more information, contact Josue Pasillas at jpasillas@waukeganparks.org or (847) 360-4789.

Presenting Partner

Help bring the community together by ensuring that this event is generously supported. You or your business will be recognized in partnership with the Waukegan Park District as a Presenting Partner in making the American Independence Parade a wonderful experience for thousands of Waukegan families and friends. 
$10,000

Founders

Founder recognition includes: If marching, early placement in parade line-up, VIP parking at Bowen Park, VIP parade seating by Review Stand, special verbal recognition from the Review Stand, recognized in news releases listed on a 24”x 36” sponsor board, prominent event day recognition, printed event program, seasonal invitation to recognition dinner. 
$1,000

Patriots

Patriot recognition includes: Verbal recognition from the Review Stand, recognized in news release, listed on a 24”x 36” sponsor board, prominent event day recognition, printed event program, seasonal brochure, invitation to recognition dinner. 
$500

Revolutionaries

Revolutionaries recognition includes: Prominent event day recognition, printed event program, invitation to recognition dinner. 
$250

Continentals

Continental recognition includes: General event day recognition, printed event program, and invitation to recognition dinner. 
$100

Minutemen

Minuteman recognition includes: printed event program, and invitation to recognition dinner. 
Under $100