In honor of the 250th year of American Independence, the City of Macomb is set to celebrate this national milestone at Vince Grady Field. On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the City, in partnership with Western Illinois University, will be hosting its Independence Day Celebration, including an enhanced fireworks show, live music, food trucks, and a t-shirt giveaway.
The community is invited to take part in these patriotic festivities starting at 7:00 pm on the 4th of July. Visitors may park in the University Q-Lot and walk to Vince Grady Field to participate in the evening’s festivities.
Food truck vendors, including Paddy’s Patties and What’s Shakin’, will be set up on University Drive from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Beginning at 8:00 pm, the Macomb Municipal Band will be playing a patriotic lineup directed by Dr. Mike Fansler on Vince Grady Field. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. The fireworks display will begin at approximately 9:00 pm and can be viewed from Vince Grady Field or the University Q-Lot.
To commemorate this event, 250 free shirts will be given away at the event. Adult and youth sizes will be available while supplies last. Shirts can be picked up starting at 7:00 pm at Vince Grady Field thanks to our supporting sponsors: Clock Tower Community Bank, Collins Excavating Inc., Community News and Market - Community News Brief, FlamInk, Hicks Electric & Home Repair, J&M Displays, Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce, Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation, Macomb Assembly, Macomb Public Library, McDonough District Hospital, R.P. Lumber, The Salvation Army, The Shack, and Western Illinois University.
In the event of inclement weather, the Independence Day Celebration will be postponed to Sunday, July 5, 2026.