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Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
Preparations for Northbrook’s Independence Day festivities are underway — so mark your calendars to join in the fun and start the day with the 17th annual Liberty Loop & Lap.
The annual family friendly event is open to runners of all ages and levels, and takes place at the Northbrook Park District’s scenic Techny Prairie Park and Fields.
The event on July 4 features a certified Liberty Loop 5K Run/Walk and a 1-mile Liberty Lap Fun Run. This year’s edition is presented by Northbrook Bank & Trust opens in new tab.
“The Liberty Loop & Lap is a great way to celebrate community, fitness, and fun before the holiday festivities begin,” Northbrook Park District Recreation Supervisor Isaac Urow said. “You’ll be surrounded by friends, neighbors, and local families cheering each other on through a morning full of energy, music, and good vibes.”
This year’s event will feature a few new touches, including new T-shirts and a DJ to keep the energy high from start to finish, Urow said. The top runners in each age category will receive medals, and the top overall male and female finishers will be awarded a plaque and a gift card.
“Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just enjoying a stroll with loved ones, there’s something for everyone — kids, parents and grandparents,” he said. “We want everyone to leave feeling like a winner.”
Liberty Loop & Lap Schedule
7:30am • Liberty Loop 5K Run/Walk
Enjoy an annual holiday tradition with a scenic run or walk on a certified 5K course through Techny Prairie Park and Fields and Meadowhill Park. Winners receive medals, and pre-registered participants receive a dry-fit T-shirt and gift bag.
8:30am • Liberty Lap Fun Run
This one-mile modified Liberty Loop course welcomes junior joggers. The course starts and finishes at the same location as the 5K and winds along the Trail Through Time. Young runners receive a T-shirt, gift bag and a miniature American flag at the finish line.
Additional 4th of July Festivities
4pm • Bike Parade
The Bike Parade will kick off at 4 p.m. on Cherry Lane at Westmoor School. Registration will be accepted in advance online and at the Bike Parade tent on July 4 in the staging area.
4pm • Northbrook 4th of July Parade
The Northbrook 4th of July Parade will step off immediately following the Bike Parade. The route will start just west of Westmoor School (2500 Cherry Lane) and end at Village Hall (1225 Cedar Lane).
7pm • Entertainment
The Northbrook community is invited to gather at the Ed Rudolph Velodrome at Meadowhill Park (1479 Maple Avenue) for some pre-fireworks DJ entertainment at the Ed Rudolph Velodrome with a visit from the Kona Ice truck and family activities led by the Rotary Club of Northbrook.
Dusk • Fireworks
Finish your 4th of July celebration with a boom at the spectacular fireworks display at dusk, which can be viewed from Meadowhill Park (1479 Maple Avenue) and Techny Prairie Park and Fields (1750 Techny Road).