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!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Plus the Annual Fireworks Display hosted by the City of Macomb in conjunction with Western Illinois University.

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.