The Waukegan Park District presents the 2023 American Independence Parade on Sunday, July 2, 2023 beginning at 1pm, and traveling north on Sheridan Road from Franklin Street to Jack Benny Drive. The parade theme is “Star Spangled Celebration” and the Grand Marshal will be Senator Adriane Johnson. 

In the Illinois State Senate, Senator Johnson represents the 30th District, which includes Waukegan. As a former President of the Buffalo Grove Park District Board of Commissioners, and former Chair of the Illinois Association of Park Districts Board of Trustees, Senator Johnson has been a devoted advocate for parks and recreation.

Vista Health System, a parade sponsor, will provide free drinking water for parade participants to refresh themselves halfway through the parade route at the corner of Sheridan Road and Glen Flora Avenue. Waukegan Public Schools will distribute hot dogs and water in front of the Lincoln Center for Educational Services, located at 1201 N. Sheridan Road.

Jeremiah Johnson, President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners, stated, “I am excited that our community has the opportunity to experience the American Independence Parade. With months of planning, this year’s parade will be an outstanding celebration of patriotism.”

Jay Lerner, Executive Director of the Waukegan Park District, stated, “The Waukegan Park District’s American Independence Parade is a community tradition featuring many creative entries from local businesses, organizations, and performance groups. We hope the community enjoys the “Star Spangled Celebration” on Sheridan Road.”