Admission is free for IL residents on this date. Please register an online account at the top right of the page before ticket selection to apply Illinois resident discount.
Members, Remember to sign-in to your account at the upper right or register for an account if you haven't already done so. After logging in please select the number of desired tickets and click Add To Cart. You will then see your member discount applied at the basket.
General Admission to the museum includes all permanent and temporary exhibitions.
July 4th Program Schedule:
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – Arts and Crafts for Social Change
Chicago has a long history of protest and civic action. Come contribute to this history by making your own art to let the public know what matters to you. There will be button making, protest sign making, and even a chance to write letters to local, state, and even federal elected officials! 2nd floor, Elizabeth Morse Genius Room
Then, show off your patriotic spirit and come get your face painted by Party Picasso and Face Painting by Valery with Independence Day-themed designs!
10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Fun in the Sun Outdoor Activities
Join us for family-friendly games to kick the day off right! Great for young children and adults alike. Outdoor plaza, east side of Museum
10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – Reopening of Facing Freedom
As part of our US at 250 celebrations this year, we’ve updated our longstanding exhibition Facing Freedom! Come explore this powerful exhibition that explores Chicago’s and the nation’s past, asking the question: What can we do for freedom? 1st floor, Facing Freedom
While you explore the gallery, join our museum educators for fun activities helping you consider the ways you can fight for freedom in your own lives and communities.
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – Our 250th Wish Wall
What is your wish for the nation’s future? Across the nation, hundreds of communities in partnership with Made by Us are hosting Wish Walls to invite visions for our nation’s future. Let others know your wish by leaving a message on CHM’s digital Wish Wall. 1st floor, Guild Gallery
11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. – Art as Civic Action | Arts Making with Chava Mancera
Want to have your voice heard through art? What would you like political leaders to know your wishes for the nation’s birthday? Join Chava Mancera to create artistic responses celebrate the holiday and advocate for an even better future! 1st floor, Holleb Learning Center
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Freedom Song Sing Along with Lenny Marsh and Friends
Music has long been used to unite people. Connect with your fellow Chicagoans through songs of freedom led by Lenny Marsh and Friends! 2nd floor, Morse Genius Chicago Room
12:00–2:00 p.m. – Poems While You Wait
Come get your own, unique poem typed in 10–15 minutes typed by a professional poet on a typewriter right in before your eyes! All poems are free and can be of any topic, especially those related to civic engagement, independence, and justice for all. 2nd floor, Jo Baskin Minow Balcony Gallery
Poems While You Wait supports Rose Metal Press, a 501(c)3 non-profit independent publisher of literary hybrid genres specializing in flash fiction and nonfiction; prose poetry; novels-in-verse or book-length linked poems; and more!
1:00–2:00 p.m. – US at 250 Trivia
What do you know about the nation’s history? Test your knowledge with trivia celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Individuals or small groups are welcome, and there will be prizes for the top winners! 1st floor, Robert R. McCormick Theater