Your local guide to what’s happening in Boston — with a flair for the avant-garde.
Celebrate July 4th the Boston Way
There’s nothing quite like celebrating the Fourth of July in Boston — the history, the crowds, the pride, the music, and oh, did we mention the food? Get in on the fun with these five local events.
Boston Pops Firework Spectacular
The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is about as Boston as you can get when visiting the city on the fourth. And rightfully so! The Pops Orchestra puts on jaw-dropping show on the esplanade, combining classical and contemporary pieces alike, with an intermission to gaze up at fireworks shooting from the Charles. This year’s lineup includes Grammy-award winning artists MacArthur Grant, the lead singer, violinist, banjo player, and a founding member of the acclaimed country, blues, and old-time music band Carolina Chocolate Drops, and folk music American duo Amy Ray and Emily Saliers.
Boston Harborfest
Take part in a historic celebration at Boston Harborfest — the country’s largest Fourth of July festival! Running from Thursday, June 28th, to Thursday, July 5th, Harborfest hosts hundreds of Boston-centric activities, including the annual opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, historical reenactments, boat tours, live entertainment, walking tours, and more! Check out their map and schedule for a complete list of events.
Top of the Hub
Watch fireworks and indulge in a five-course gourmet dinner from 52 floors up at the Prudential Center’s Top of the Hub Restaurant. The decadent menu includes chilled heirloom tomato soup, jumbo lump crab cocktail, sweet corn agnolotti, surf & turf, and strawberry shortcake for dessert! A top-shelf open bar is also included with admission.
Charles River Boat Cruise
Here’s your chance to witness history: The USS Constitution will soar the Boston Harbor the morning of the fourth! And what better way to take part than soar alongside in a sister vessel hosted by The Charles Riverboat Company? Jump aboard The Lexington, a two-level, 75-foot paddle boat at 10:00am to pregame before the fireworks.
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Footloose on the Freedom Trail
Pay homage to Boston’s rich history with a Fourth of July trek down the Freedom Trail. Non-profit Boston By Foot will be providing a three-hour guided walking tour along the Trail, the Boston Common, and the State House the morning of the Fourth. Log 2.5-miles as you take in 16 historic sights!
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