Plainfield Patriotic Picnic, Fireworks Scheduled for July 3

Last summer, hot, dry weather forced the Plainfield Park District to cancel its fireworks display — but the pyrotechnics are back this year for the July 3 Patriotic Picnic.

The free event will kick off at 5 p.m., ending with a fireworks display at dusk at Plainfield Central High School, 24120 W. Fort Beggs Dr.

This year, the Patriotic Picnic will feature an inflatable obstacle course, "Chalk It Up" sidewalk art, face-painting, crafts, contests, family games, bean bag toss and Play Zone Activities. As part of touch-a-truck activities, kids can also check out military, police, fire and village vehicles. Operation Support Our Troops, an organization that sends care packages and well-wishes to troops overseas, will also be part of the event. A DJ will provide music throughout the evening, and the Plainfield Park District's dance classes will perform at 7 p.m.

A new feature this year is the kids' Patriotic Parade. Children are invited to decorate their bikes, Big Wheels, (non-motorized) scooters or wagons with red, white and blue decorations. Decorating will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the parade at 6 p.m. The parade route will go once around the event grounds. A limited supply of decorations will be available, and pets are not allowed.

Guests are invited to bring blankets, picnic baskets, chairs and coolers for the all-ages event. Concessions will be available from the Plainfield Central High School Athletic Boosters Club. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on school or park district property.

Park district asks for help funding fireworks