Good morning, Elgin.

Elgin will host its annual Fourth of July celebration on Friday, July 4 with a parade starting at 9 a.m. from the intersection of Slade and Douglas avenues and a pet parade beginning at the NENA Butterfly Garden, both finishing near City Hall before festivities continue at Festival Park with live music, food trucks, children’s activities and a fireworks show beginning around 9:20 p.m.—VIP tickets offering reserved seating and bar access are available.

Yesterday, 12-year-old cancer survivor Valentina Robles from Chicago fulfilled her wish to pet and ride a unicorn at Perfecto Farm in Elgin after Make-A-Wish and her medical team arranged the experience.

She said the ride inspired her as she continues to recover—marking a memorable step in her battle against cancer.

Kaneland senior Freddy Hassan was named Kane County Chronicle 2024-25 Boys Track and Field Athlete of the Year after he cleared 2.02 meters and finished second in the Class 3A high jump at the state meet—he stayed focused all season and earned All-State honors three times, joining only one other athlete to do so.

Open House at Honey Bee Acres

4-7 p.m. — 41W072 Bowes Road — $1,200,000 — Explore this horse lover's paradise complete with custom home and equestrian facilities.

CSB Baseball Illinois College Showcase

9 AM – 2 PM — Judson University — $175 per player — An opportunity for high school athletes to showcase their skills to college coaches and receive recruiting assistance.

Trivia Thursday at Village Pizza & Pub

6-8 p.m. — Village Pizza and Pub Elgin — Free to play — Compete for prizes in a fun trivia night with friends over great food and drinks.

Breastfeeding Support Group

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Advocate Sherman Hospital — Free entry — Connect with fellow moms and share your breastfeeding experiences in a supportive environment.

Breathing Techniques for Labor

6-8 p.m. — Advocate Sherman Hospital — Free entry — Learn breathing and relaxation techniques to enhance comfort during labor and delivery.

Elgin's Fourth of July Parade & Celebration

5-10 p.m. — Festival Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with lively music, delicious food, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Beyond Baby Blues Support Group

12 AM - 1 PM — Advocate Sherman Hospital — Free — Connect with fellow moms to share experiences and support mental health.

Birthing Center Tour

5:15-6:15 p.m. — Advocate Sherman Hospital — Free entry — Explore the Family Birthing Center and get all your questions answered in a welcoming environment.

Cruise Night

6-8 p.m. — Panton Mill Park — Free entry — Check out classic cars and enjoy summer vibes in the park.

Childbirth and Newborn Care: 1-Day Express

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Advocate Sherman Hospital — Cost information not provided — Comprehensive class covering all aspects of labor, delivery, and newborn care.