The Village of Orland Park will host a number of events to celebrate America’s birthday.

“Orland Park coming together as a community to celebrate America’s birthday is a longstanding part of the village’s history,” said Mayor Keith Pekau. “Those of us who grew up here remember everyone sitting on the backs of their cars and watching fireworks where Orland Square currently sits.”

Orland Park’s celebration begins with the annual Liberty Family Run/Walk at Centennial Park on Friday, June 30 at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is currently underway at Recreation Administration, 14600 Ravinia Avenue, and at the village’s Sportsplex, 11351 West 159^th Street. Day of registration at the event opens at 5:30 p.m. at the 153^rd Street Train Station.

The Liberty Family Run/Walk is a two mile, chip timed race or a one mile walk through Centennial Park. All participants will receive race t-shirts, free admission to Centennial Pool for July 1, 2, 3, or 4 and entry into the post-race raffle drawings. Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female finishers overall and in each age group. The Kids’ Run for Fun 50 Yard Dash, for children ages four to eight, will be held at 7:30 p.m.

“The July 4^th weekend in Orland Park is always a highlight of summer in the village,” said Trustee Pat Gira, chair of the village’s Recreation and Parks Committee. “We offer something for everyone from music to sports to swimming to more music with fireworks.”

Also on Friday, June 30, the village’s Centennial Park Aquatic Center will host its Flick-N-Float at dusk showing “Sing,” sponsored by Central Credit Union of Illinois. Normal admission fees apply.

The festivities continue on Sunday, July 2 with the free outdoor concert featuring The City Lights Orchestra at Centennial Park West from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas and picnics to Centennial Park West at Park Station Boulevard and Jillian Road in the Colette Highlands Subdivision near 159th Street and 107th Avenue. Free parking is available at the adjacent Metra train station accessible via Jillian Road from 108th Avenue.

“Orland Park’s events are a great way to enjoy the holiday without leaving town,” Pekau said. “It promises to be a wonderful weekend celebrating our great nation.”

The holiday weekend comes full circle on Tuesday, July 4 with more festivities at the village’s Centennial Park, 15600 West Avenue. Live music will be provided by Run Forrest Run from 7:15 p.m. until 9:15 p.m. followed by the presentation of colors and the village’s annual fireworks show.

Residents are reminded that village offices and the Secretary of State Office at the Village Hall will be closed on Tuesday, July 4. Garbage pick-up in the village will be one day later beginning Tuesday, July 4.

Questions about the Village of Orland Park’s July 4th Weekend festivities should be directed to the Recreation Department at 708/403-7275.