America 250 Celebration
Live Music. Community. Fireworks.
Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Viking Park
4374 Old Grand Avenue
Gurnee, IL 60031
The Lake County Symphony Orchestra is proud to participate in Gurnee’s community-wide America 250 Celebration, honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Presented in collaboration with community partners across the region, this free outdoor celebration will feature live music, local food trucks, family-friendly activities, and an evening fireworks spectacular.
The LCSO will perform from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM as part of the afternoon and evening festivities at Viking Park.
This special community event celebrates music, civic pride, and the shared spirit of gathering together through the arts.
🎟 This is a free outdoor community event.
Event Schedule:
Community Celebration: 3:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Lake County Symphony Orchestra Performance: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Additional event activities and information will be announced by event organizers.
Meet our guest conductor
Lieutenant Patrick J. Hill
Lieutenant Patrick J. Hill is a native of the Chicago area and a distinguished Limited Duty Officer (LDO) Bandmaster. He currently serves as the Director of Navy Band Great Lakes, the premier musical representative for the midwestern United States.
Lt. Hill’s distinguished naval career began when he enlisted in the Navy Reserve in 1994. Honing his craft as a musician and leader, he achieved the rank of Chief Musician before earning his commission as a Bandmaster in 2012. Since then, he has directed Navy bands across the country, building strong community ties, performing for military ceremonies at Recruit Training Command, and overseeing various performance groups including the popular music ensemble Horizon.
Throughout his career, Lt. Hill has passionately dedicated himself to musical education, public outreach, and the high standard of excellence expected from U.S. Navy musicians. Under his baton, Navy Band Great Lakes continues its historic tradition of providing musical support for pass-in-review ceremonies, fleet outreach, and civic events throughout the Midwest.