The Illinois Lottery Lights up the Illinois Sky

CHICAGO, July 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of its 4^th of July Millionaire Raffle instant ticket and to ensure the tradition of July 4th fireworks continue throughout the state, the Illinois Lottery is sponsoring fireworks shows in Batavia, Champaign, Chicago, Harvey, Rockford and Roselle – proving Anything's Possible with the Illinois Lottery.

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"The 4th of July is a quintessential American holiday and Illinoisans deserve to experience a spectacular fireworks show that reflects their patriotism," said Illinois Lottery Superintendent Michael Jones. "The Illinois Lottery is pleased to help Illinois residents celebrate American independence."

Last summer many communities in Illinois had to forego the annual 4th of July fireworks tradition due to dry, arid conditions.  For some communities, like the City of Harvey, it wasn't the drought that kept the skies dark on July 4th; for years this Cook County suburb has gone without a fireworks show due to a lack of funds.  That will change this year, because the Illinois Lottery--proving again that anything is possible--stepped in to sponsor Harvey's fireworks show at Thornton Township High School on July 4th.

The city of Roselle experienced budget constraints as well, which forced them to cancel their show last year. Now supported by residents, sponsors, including the Illinois Lottery, the town will be able to bring the fun tradition back for all to enjoy this week. Roselle's fireworks show will take place July 5 on the grounds of Lake Park High School West campus with the fireworks show starting after 9 p.m.

As for Batavia, Champaign, Chicago and Rockford– the Lottery is providing funds to make these shows even more remarkable. Batavia residents can view the Batavia "Sky Concert" at 9:30 p.m. on July 4^th at Engstrom Park.  At Navy Pier in Chicago, the Lottery will sponsor the entire Fireworks show on the 4^th. The Champaign County Freedom Celebration will be held this year at the University of Illinois parking lot E14. Residents of Rockford will be able to view their fireworks celebration at 9:30 p.m. at Davis Park.

The Illinois Lottery added a new prize to the raffle in honor of the Blackhawks winning the Stanley Cup, now in addition to cash prizes, Blackhawks home-style jersey (500 prizes, all jerseys size XL) have now been added to the July 5^th raffle drawing.  Raffle tickets are available at the Lottery's 8,100 retailers. Winning raffle numbers will be posted on the Illinois Lottery's website after each drawing. Raffle players can also stay on top of weekly winning numbers and get reminders and results notifications delivered to their cellular phone by texting "Raffles" to 4-6-7-8-6 (Mobile carrier fee may apply).    

About Illinois Lottery
Founded in 1974, the Illinois Lottery has contributed more than $17.5 billion to the state's Common School Fund to assist K-12 public schools, as well as millions to the Capital Projects Fund. The Lottery encourages responsible play. All players must be at least 18 years old.

Contact: Chanele Newton (312) 368-5814

SOURCE Illinois Lottery