Unforgettable Forgottonia's Independence Day Celebration is held annually on July 4 and 2026's will be very special as we celebrate America 250 - our nation's semiquincentennial and McDonough County's bicentennial!!

9:00am-11:00am -
Looking For Lincoln Self-Guided Tour
- Featuring the nations only Living Topiary Monument
- Macomb's Courthouse Historic Square and beyond

11:00am-11:30am -
Abraham Lincoln Statue Dedication/Unveiling
- This year's all-day event will include the unveiling of a new life-sized statue of Abraham Lincoln on the historic McDonough County Courthouse grounds on which he spoke in 1858. An Abraham Lincoln interpreter will be joining the festivities to meet and greet visitors. At the McDonough County Courthouse.

That day, visitors, history seekers and travelers alike are also encouraged to stroll Macomb's historic downtown using Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia's new and innovative Unforgettable Adventures, Experiences & Trails Interactive Map which features among many other fascinating attractions the Abraham National Heritage Area's Looking For Lincoln Self-Guide Tour - showcasing the country’s only Living Lincoln Topiary Monument.

11:30am-1:00pm -
Macomb Murals Self-Guided Tour
- Experience Macomb's historic Murals Tour and view a unique and informative collection of murals spotlighting Macomb's very own Rev. Dr.  C.T. Vivian, "Big" Al Sears, Lizzie Magie, the Underground Railroad and more.

1:00pm-4:00pm -
Museum Celebration
A reception following the unveiling along with an America 250 program featuring a reading of the Declaration of Independence will be held at the Western Illinois Museum.
- As well as America 250-County Bicentennial interactive Community Comment Wall
- Pie Walk with Homemade Pie Tastings
- Live Music

4:00pm-8:00pm
Macombopoly
- And our unforgettable, one-of-a-kind signature attraction - Lizzie’s Magie’s Macombopoly: The World’s Largest Interactive Monopoly Experience!

7:00pm-10:00pm -
Annual Fireworks Display
- Hosted by the City of Macomb in conjunction with Western Illinois University.
- Food Trucks, Live Music, & Fireworks

NOTE: Those attending the Fireworks Display may park in WIU's Q-lot, bring lawn chairs, snacks and refreshments and enjoy the fireworks outside their vehicle near the west of Western Hall.