Evanston residents attend Fourth of July celebration virtually The Evanston Fourth of July Association’s virtual activities allowed members of the community to celebrate Independence Day from the comfort of their own homes this year. This year’s virtual ceremonial video included the parade and a behind-the-scenes look into preparing for the celebration, according to Kathleen Schmidt, the secretary of the Evanston Fourth of July Association’s board of trustees. Schmidt said the board has received emails from Evanston residents thanking them for making the festivities virtual rather than cancelling the event altogether. “We have gotten emails from people saying you know we understand why you didn’t do it this year, thank you for giving us a virtual parade,” Schmidt said.