Will County Gazette

The City of Joliet has announced plans to expand arts, culture, and community programming at Bicentennial Park in 2026. The initiative will include increased partnerships with local arts and cultural organizations, aiming to showcase Joliet’s diversity through a variety of performances, exhibitions, and educational activities. The park will continue to serve as an affordable venue for community events.

Signature events such as Concerts on the Hill and the Independence Eve Fireworks are scheduled to return. In addition, new celebrations are planned to commemorate the Centennial of Route 66 and the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

“Bicentennial Park is one of Joliet’s most cherished cultural and recreational spaces,” said City Manager Beth Beatty. “We remain focused on supporting the park’s continued success through consistent programming, community partnerships and professional operations that ensure long-term sustainability.”

The 2025 schedule at Bicentennial Park will conclude with several community and school-based performances. The theater will feature Providence Catholic High School’s production of May we All from November 6 to 9, and Joliet Catholic Academy’s performances of The 39 Steps from November 20 to 22. The year will end with the Festival of the Gnomes in December, an event known for celebrating creativity and holiday spirit.

The Joliet Drama Guild will become the official Theater in Residence at Bicentennial Park. It will produce three mainstage shows, lead youth programs such as Summertime on Stage, and introduce a new Winter Drama Camp. The Guild will also start Shakespeare on Tour, a program providing free performances at Bicentennial Park and other community locations.

“We know how much this park means to our residents,” Beatty added. “Our goal is to strengthen what’s already great about Bicentennial Park while working with local organizations to do even more for the community.”

Joliet is located in Will and Kendall counties in Illinois, about 30 miles southwest of Chicago. It is the county seat of Will County and had a population of over 150,000 according to the 2020 census. More information about the city can be found at https://www.joliet.gov.