07/02/2026
July 4th info - be safe and have fun!
🇺🇸 Holiday Schedule & Fourth of July Weekend Information
As our community prepares to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, here are a few important updates to help you plan ahead.
🏛️ City Hall & Non-Emergency Offices
City Hall and all non-emergency City offices will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. Offices will reopen at 8:00 AM CT on Monday, July 6.
🚌 Michigan City Transit
- Friday, July 3: Regular bus service will operate as scheduled.
- Saturday, July 4: No transit service.
🗑️ Refuse Department
The Refuse Department will be operating under their normal schedule, unaffected by the holiday.
🏖️ Washington Park Beach
Lifeguards will be on duty at Washington Park Beach for extended hours this weekend:
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
👀 Lifeguards will be monitoring thousands of swimmers and their attention is valuable. Please seek non-water related assistance from other park staff or law-enforcement whenever possible.
🌊 Lake Safety
Lake Michigan conditions can change quickly and challenge even the best swimmers. Always obey warning flags, supervise children closely, and never swim alone or after consuming alcohol. If you see someone in distress, call 911 immediately and alert the lifeguards. Always respect the lake.
🎆 Michigan City Fireworks Spectacular
Join us at Washington Park on Saturday, July 4, for the annual fireworks display beginning at dusk along Washington Park Beach.
🎵 Tune your radio to WEFM 95.9 FM to enjoy the official synchronized fireworks soundtrack during the show.
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect heavy traffic throughout the lakefront and surrounding area. Washington Park lots are expected to reach capacity early in the day.
Parking is available at:
- Washington Park (parking rates apply)
- City Hall
- Other City government parking lots
- Legal on-street parking downtown where permitted
You risk tow or citation when you:
- Block fire hydrants
- Block driveways or alley entrances
- Impede traffic
- Park near stop signs or intersections
- Park in private lots or on private property without the owner's permission
🚔 Public Safety
Expect an increased law enforcement presence throughout neighborhoods and the lakefront to keep celebrations safe.
🎇 Fireworks Reminder
Personal fireworks may only be discharged by individuals 18 years of age or older during the following times:
- June 29 – July 3: 5:00 PM until two hours after sunset
- July 4: 10:00 AM until midnight
- July 5 – July 9: 5:00 PM until two hours after sunset
Fireworks discharged outside these permitted times are subject to enforcement. Violations may result in fines.
🎉 Whether you're spending the weekend in the sand, grilling with family and friends, or enjoying the fireworks over stunning Lake Michigan, The City of Michigan City wishes you a fantastic Fourth of July.
Please celebrate responsibly, be kind to your neighbors, look out for each other, and enjoy our 250th year of freedom. 🇺🇸
