Navy Pier plans 100th birthday festivities
CHICAGO (AP) - Chicago's Navy Pier turns 100 later this week and the date will be marked with cake, Shakespeare and fireworks.
The landmark on Lake Michigan reaches the 100th anniversary of its opening on Friday. That day, a family-friendly party starts at 10 a.m. with free slices of cheesecake and activities for children. Chicago Shakespeare Theater gives a free performance of "Twelfth Night" on an outdoor stage at 6:30 p.m. A fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m.
Navy Pier was known as Municipal Pier when it opened July 15, 1916. It was part of city planner Daniel Burnham's master plan for Chicago. The U.S. Navy used it as a training site during World War II.
Now a tourist attraction, the pier houses shops, restaurants and rides including a giant Ferris wheel.