Illinois Bicentennial Celebration

When Illinois turned 100 years old in 1919, Chicago built the tower Illinois Centennial Monument in Logan Square. For the state's 200th birthday, the city is throwing a party on Navy Pier, inviting residents and celebrities to the lakefront for a celebration of Illinois people, places and things. The evening will feature a joint appearance by Governor Bruce Rauner and Governor-elect JB Pritzker, a jam session with Buddy Guy, a 1,000-pound birthday cake from Eli’s Cheesecake and more.