Hamilton Lakes Adds More Fireworks to 4th of July Celebration

By Ann Piccininni
Daily Herald Correspondent

A more spectacular fireworks show than ever will streak across the night sky Tuesday, July 4, when Itasca presents its Fourth of July event at Hamilton Lakes Business Park.

“We’ve added to the fireworks show. We’ve enhanced it. Now it’s larger,” said Richard Staback, senior asset manager with Hamilton Partners. “It’s one of the largest in the state in terms of budget.”

Staback said the village and Hamilton have worked together for about 20 years to bring the Independence Day celebration to the community. The village provides police and fire services, funding and infrastructure services, while Hamilton Partners secures sponsorships, provides the business park venue and books the entertainment, he said.

Staback said some $77,000 in fireworks have been stockpiled in anticipation of Tuesday’s exhibition.

The finale alone, he said, will encompass more fiery pyrotechnics than most municipalities feature in an entire fireworks show. “It’s also choreographed to the music. The fireworks are synchronized to the music,” he said. The first half of the fireworks will feature popular tunes, while the second half will shift to patriotic anthems.

“It’s a show to be seen,” said Dan Kompanowski, the village’s special events coordinator. He said between 30,000 and 50,000 people are expected to attend. The event is a joint presentation by the village of Itasca and Hamilton Partners. “It’s a public/private partnership,” Staback said. “It’s worked very well.”

This year’s entertainment bill mirrors last year’s, Staback said. Singer and guitarist Pat McKillen will take the stage at 7 p.m. Headliner Maggie Speaks, a popular Chicago-area cover band, will play at 8 p.m.

Kapinowski said kids’ entertainment will include a clown, a balloon artist and face painting. Picnic-style food will be for sale from several vendors, and the Itasca Brewing Company will host a beer tent. “We allow people to bring in their own food and drinks,” Staback said. “A lot of people bring their own coolers.”

Alcohol is permitted, but grilling is not allowed. Visitors are asked to leave pets at home. Admission is free, but there is a $25 per vehicle fee for parking. Staback said revelers should plan to arrive early to get a parking space and stake their claim to a spot on the lawn. “It’s a great family night,” he said.