Navy Pier’s annual Independence Day celebration is one of the Chicago area’s most well-attended Fourth of July attractions.
That means navigating a big crowd to watch the fireworks.
Last year, Navy Pier reached capacity of more than 100,000 people about an hour ahead of its annual fireworks display.
Gates closed at the Pier just before 8:30 p.m., and its parking lots filled earlier in the afternoon.
So when is the best time to arrive?
Navy Pier representative Payal Patel told NBC 5 she recommends getting to the gate early. In order to reserve a spot, visitors should arrive before 5 p.m. due to the large crowds.
Freedom Fest begins at 10 a.m. and will go until the fireworks end at 10 p.m. The fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. and can be viewed from Navy Pier at 600 East Grand Avenue.
This is the tourist attraction's biggest night of the year.
