EAST CHICAGO | Holiday festivities will get a head start celebrating Independence Day on Thursday, July 2 at the East Chicago Marina, located at 3301 Aldis Avenue.

This free event -- sponsored by Mayor George Pabey and the City of East Chicago --- will include different types of foods, drinks and music, featuring ABRAXAS at the Marina Boardwalk from 7 to 11p.m and of course a firework display by the Mad Bomber For more information visit: www.eastchicago.com.

HAMMOND | Mayor Thomas McDermott, Jr., and the Hammond Parks & Recreation are planning the city's annual Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, July 4 in Harrison Park located at Hohman Avenue & Waltham Street.

The all-day event features vendors and the music of Bill Porter's Orchestra begining at 2 pm.

The library will also host a patriotic music concert in the band shell starting 5:15 pm, and continues to play during the fireworks display by BaDaBoom at dusk. Free admission; for more information, call 219-853-6378or visit www.gohammond.com.