Highland Park announces plans for second July 4th parade since 2022 mass shooting
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The city of Highland Park will host a 4th of July parade this year, the second Independence Day celebration since a gunman killed seven people at the annual parade in 2022.
Before the parade kicks off at 11 a.m. on July 4, Highland Park will host a remembrance ceremony at 9 a.m. for the people who were killed three years ago.
The city also is planning a community festival on July 3 at The Preserve of Highland Park, featuring an evening of dinner, music, games, and other attractions.
Highland Park canceled its July 4th parade in 2023, holding only a memorial procession for the victims of the shooting.
Mayor Nancy Rotering said the goal of this year's festivities is "to continue to bring back the celebration of the holiday to our community."
"So many of our kids were involved with the parade when the mass shooting occurred, and in the immediate aftermath they asked if they would ever be able to celebrate the 4th of July again, which just broke my heart," she said. "When we talked to people who have grown up in Highland Park, for the vast majority their favorite memory is being part of that parade; either bringing their bicycle, or their dog. So, to me, it's important as we continue on our journey together to try to heal, move forward, that we continue to bring these special times for our community to come together."
Rotering said the city doesn't want the 2022 mass shooting to define Highland Park.
"Who we are are neighbors who care about one another; people who will hug each other on the street corner if they can sense something's just not quite all together. And so we will continue to lean into that compassion and that strength," she said.
Rotering said she hopes young people in Highland Park, in particular, are moving past the shooting.
A memorial in the Rose Garden across from Highland Park City Hall remains open to the public.
Parade participation sign-up begins on March 3. Information will be posted at cityhpil.com/independenceday when available.
