Dozens of patriotic Oak Lawn residents and others came out Saturday to enjoy an early Fourth of July celebration of lively community paraders.
Many said they wanted to show pride in their country and village, as well as enjoy the festivities.
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“I think it’s important because it’s a tradition,” said Meagan Schmit, who attended with family and friends. “Oak Lawn really shows they have pride in their country and we want to be part of it.”
Her children shared those sentiments, though said they also enjoyed the paraders who threw candy.
“I love my country and I want candy,” said Ava Schmit, 10.
“I also wanted candy and it’s a nice day,” said 12-year-old Charlotte Giffey. “We always come every year.”
Local military organizations were there, too.
“It’s part of our fabric as servicemen,” said Arthur Schlosser, ritual team captain of the Johnson Phelps VFW Post 5220 and Auxiliary, who was there with Post Cmdr. Tony Smertene and Junior Vice Cmdr. Michael Heavrin. “It’s our commitment and responsibility to be here … to the country and also our organization.”
The Oak Lawn Police Department, Fire Department and Park District, village officials and businesses, such as Midnight Terror Haunted House, and the dancing mascot Tommy Hawk of the Chicago Blackhawks were in the parade.
The Oak Lawn Community High School football team marched along with other school groups.
“Our coach brought us out here,” said sophomore Zaid Said of Coach Ryan Pattison . “He wants the community to know us and know who is going to win conference.”
Many in the audience simply wanted to enjoy the nice weather and sense of community.
“It’s a nice day out to be around people,” said Sandra Novak, who came with her son Richard Shaughnessy and her dog, Chani. “It’s nice to be in the community and I’m just happy they’re doing this parade.”
Irma and Jose Laboy, daughter Natalie and granddaughter Lillith, who moved to Oak Lawn in November 2024, enjoyed the parade for the first time.
“I love it and my granddaughter has a lot of fun,” said Irma Laboy.
“It’s very nice … we’re very excited,” said Natalie, adding they feel the same way about Oak lawn.
Cathy Patterson, who came with her husband, Lowell, said she remembered when her granddaughter, a former Girl Scout, was in the parade and this time her grandson was one of the Midnight Terror Haunted House participants.
“Just being here for the Fourth of July, getting in the spirit of it and seeing the kids,” said Cathy Patterson. “They enjoy it so much.”
The Fire Department helped everyone cool off by spraying them with water. Then it was on to a post-parade celebration with live music, food vendors and other fun at the Village Green Gazebo.
Janice Neumann is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.