Mokena’s traditional 4th of July celebration has long included a morning parade and a nighttime burst of fireworks, but this year’s expanded celebration can keep revelers busy all day.
The Village Board, Park Board, Chamber of Commerce and Lions Club together have produced a full schedule of events, including an ethnic festival in the park and a patriotic stage show beforethe fireworks.
Fiorella Jennings, who is organizing the Ethnic Fest for the Mokena Park District, said the festival was rescheduled to become part of the Independence Day events “to try to offer something to the community, a nice, big celebration.”
With the 4th falling on a Tuesday, more people are likely to stay in town to enjoy the activities, Jennings said.
The party begins with a parade sponsored by the Mokena Chamber of Commerce.
The parade steps off at 10 a.m. from Wolf Road and Granite Street and proceeds to Mokena Main Park at 10925 W. LaPorte Road.
The Mokena Park District’s third annual Ethnic Fest begins at 11 a.m.
The celebration of the nation’s international roots includes crafts, games, exhibits, ethnic food and a bingo tent.
A lineup of international entertainment takes the stage at noon, including performances by a Scottish bagpiper, Polish, West Indian and Russian folk dancers and a mariachi band.
An ethnic-costume contest for children also is on the agenda.