The Fourth of July: a hallmark for barbecue enthusiasts, a whimsical evening of colorful explosions for young and old, and the only day Chicago White Sox fans decorate themselves in red, white and blue.  With Independence Day just around the corner, Lake County residents will be planning block parties, exchanging pasta salad recipes and scouting out optimum candy catching spots on the curbs along parade routes.
Lake County towns are preparing for the celebration as well, promising live music, food stands, activities and fireworks minutes from home. Here’s what some Lake County towns have planned. Events and parade days and times vary. 
 
Antioch
Beginning at 8 a.m., on July 4,  State Bank of the Lakes will host its fourth annual 5K run.  Following the race, families can check out the annual parade.
 This year, Save-A-Pet, The Lake County Heritage Farm Foundation, various Lake County queens and other organizations will participate in the parade.  The lin up begins at Antioch Community High School, and will end at Williams Street.