So, if you're working on today's Mini on Friday, July 4, 2025, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

Twice weekly, Navy Pier holds free, 10-minute fireworks shows over the summer, running from May 24 to Aug. 30. Those shows take place at 9 p.m. Wednesdays, and at 10 p.m. Saturdays, organizers said. Since the third of July falls on a Thursday and the fourth falls on a Friday, the holiday won’t fall on a regularly scheduled fireworks night.