Despite foggy conditions, fireworks could be seen throughout Chicago as residents celebrated America’s 250th birthday. Parents watched as kids set off fireworks in North Center on Chicago’s Northwest Side.

In Pilsen, neighbors blocked off streets to host block parties filled with music, food, and fireworks. This year’s Fourth of July celebration was milder than in years past, according to neighbor Jessica Arizaga.

Community Comes Together

Arizaga’s family and their neighbors had a plethora of fireworks to set off. By 11:30 p.m., all surrounding streets were reopened, firework remnants were cleaned up, and the music was turned off.

Some of the loudest fireworks in the area were found further south in Chinatown, where dozens of teenagers watched from an alley. Steven Chen and his friends ignited several at a time, creating consecutive explosions that could be felt from multiple blocks away.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.