Illegal fireworks return to Chicago neighborhoods for July 4
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The Fourth of July in Chicago means celebrations, cookouts, and, of course, illegal fireworks.
The big picture: While Chicago and its suburbs host professional fireworks shows, neighborhood parks become hotspots for illegal displays that fill the night with booming explosions, whistling rockets and thick smoke.
- These displays happen all around the city, including in Independence Park, Humboldt Park and Ravenswood's Winnemac Park.
State of play: Fireworks are banned statewide in Illinois, but not in neighboring Indiana.
- State legislators tried to lift the ban on fireworks in 2023, but it never gained traction.
- In years past, Ald. Andre Vasquez tried to stop the display at Winnemac Park but ultimately compromised to make it smaller.
What they're saying: Mayor Brandon Johnson urged residents to celebrate safely. "When you live on a block and you hear it going off and it's close to you, it is nerve-racking," Johnson said at a Tuesday press conference.
- "Our first responders are aware of the dangers of these fireworks, and we do everything in our power to enforce the law."
Zoom in: The Chicago Fire Department reminds residents that all consumer fireworks — including sparklers and bottle rockets — are illegal in Chicago.
- The department says it's prepared to respond to emergencies.
- "Leave the fireworks to the professionals," the CFD said in a release.
Context: Police and emergency responders spend the holiday responding to higher-priority emergencies, meaning fireworks complaints often go unenforced.
Yes, but: Not every community is taking the same approach. In suburban Carpentersville, the police are changing the enforcement policy.
- No more warnings: If you are caught lighting fireworks, you will face a fine. Police also identified hotspots to monitor.
By the numbers: Illinois reported 152 fireworks-related injuries last July.
The bottom line: Despite annual complaints, illegal fireworks have become an unofficial part of Chicago's Fourth of July tradition.
- "Unfortunately, this is something that we've seen in this city for — I mean, I'm 50, right?" Johnson added.