Five ways to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Springfield
Looking for something exciting to do this Fourth of July weekend?
Whether or not plans are already set up, you’ve probably heard of Knight’s Action Park Fireworks extravaganza on the red, white and blue holiday at 10:30 p.m., or Rock the Dock, Springfield’s largest fireworks display right down at the Lake Springfield Marina on July 5.
More: Rock the Dock: Everything you need to know about Springfield's Fourth of July party
While fireworks displays and music festivals will rock the night away, here are a few alternative options on spending this holiday weekend.
From painting polar plunges, here are five things to do around Springfield this weekend.
Edwards Place Servants Tour
What: What was it like to work for the Edwards family in the 19th century? The Springfield Art Association is answering that question with a special tour, to show guests what a working day in the historic Edwards Place would look like. Meet several actors playing people who worked for the Edwards family while they prepare for a special event. This tour goes up to the second floor and the newly restored attic space meaning these areas are only reachable by stairs for some patrons to the tour.
When: 1 p.m. Saturday
Where: Edwards Place at 700 N 4th St.
More: Tickets are $15 for nonmembers, and $10 for members of the SAA on edwardsplace.org.
More: Fireworks, parades and more: Fourth of July celebrations ramp up in Springfield area
Mr. Blue Sky: An Electric Lights Orchestra tribute
What: This night at the Danenberger Family Vineyards is made for classic rock and flashing lights. NTL Productions has partnered with the beautiful vineyard and bar to present an Electric Lights Orchestra tribute night. With a focus on the band’s hits from the '70s, '80s and latest records, Mr. Blue Sky will play the nostalgia you crave.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday
Where: Daneberger Family Vineyards, 12341 Irish Road, New Berlin
More: Tickets are $15 for the event and can be purchased online from the vineyard’s Facebook.
Alzheimer’s Painting Fundraiser
What: Paint with artist Ashley Blake for a good cause with each stroke of the paint brush. This one-night event is geared toward creative people with any level of experience to express themselves through guided painting, with no stress. Each painter will be provided a large canvas and be walked through the painting process step-by-step by Blake, who organized the event. Proceeds from the painting night will go toward the Alzheimer’s Association, a nonprofit driving research to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday
Where: Trustwell Living of Springfield, 2451 West White Oaks Drive
More: Tickets are $35 for the event and go toward charity; complimentary wine will be handed out to adults at the painting party. Tickets can be purchased on Paint with Ashley Blake’s Facebook.
2000s Decade Event
What: If you’re looking for a massive party, this may be up your alley, featuring three DJs, selfie booths with professional photographers on-site, open mic and multiple contests to participate in. See how fly you are in the “Best Dressed Competition” with cash prizes and bragging rights on the line.
When: Doors open at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday
Where: The Crown Plaza, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield
More: Tickets are $68 ahead of time, and $85 at the door. A general admission ticket includes one free alcoholic drink, a printed photo and keepsake holder, a glowstick, access to photo booths and souvenirs.
Fire & Ice social
What: Meet new friends and sweat off the stress of an exciting week by dialing it back and relaxing in the sauna with new friends. Hosted by Peace, Love and Sweat spa therapy, this one-hour session takes guests into the infrared sauna for half an hour to relax… and then dipping into the cold plunge pool to wake up and feel alive. While basking in the sauna, wellness shots and different refreshments will be provided for an all-around peaceful and maybe eventful afternoon.
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: 3450 Liberty Drive, Springfield.
More: There are 3 sessions at 11 a.m., 12 a.m., and 1 p.m., each session is $30 entry per person. Tickets can be purchased online at the Peace, Love and Sweat website. For more information, call 217-670-2452.
Claire Grant writes about business, growth and development and other news topics for The State Journal-Register. She can be reached at [email protected]; and on X (Formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Five ways to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Springfield, Illinois