Boston, Massachusetts boasts the nation’s largest patriotic celebrations every Independence Day. Approximately 2.5 million people descend on Boston to celebrate the 4th of July through many of the couple hundred of events going on in and around the city.
Boston Harborfest
This year the Boston Harborfest kicks off events with their Opening Ceremony on July 1st in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Also known as Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall has been an important part of downtown Boston life for over 250 years. After the ceremony take a complimentary guided tour of the State House, a guided walking tour of the famous battlefield of Bunker Hill or splurge on a sailing trip aboard the Liberty Clipper, reenact the Boston Tea Party or take a tour of historic pubs.
With over 200 events planned for the week of the 4th, the Boston Harborfest will play a key roll in celebrating Independence Day in Boston this year. The Harborfest ends with the famous Chowderfest on Sunday – a 2,000 gallon event that has been a crowd pleaser for 27 years.
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Nationally broadcasted on the CBS network, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a not-to-be-missed event. Nestled along the Charles River the concert takes place at the Edward A. Hatch Memorial Shell and the lawn directly in front of it. This annual tradition of free summer concerts has been a favorite amongst Boston residents and visitors since 1929.
Concert goers will want to arrive early on July 4th to stake out a place on the lawn for a day of picnicking. People can come as early as 9am to setup folding chairs, tarps and blankets. For information on restricted items and frequently asked questions check out the official website.
2008’s Fireworks display is sure to awe with over 20,000 pounds of explosives aboard the barge anchored in the Charles River. For the first time this year’s fireworks show will include ten-inch diameter shells that can reach 1,500 feet altitude over the river, shadowing Boston’s tallest building, the Hancock Tower.
Community Boating Sailabrates the 4th of July
Boston’s Community Boating center holds its annual summer cookout at 4pm on the docks of the boathouse. This popular event gives attendees a clear view of the fireworks right on the waterfront with a smaller crowd. A DJ will entertain picnickers until the Boston Pops concert begins which is broadcasted to the dock.
Where to Stay
The Boston Harbor Hotel, located at 70 Rowes Wharf, is offering a Stars and Stripes package this year for 4th of July visitors. The Omni Parker House hotel is offering the Boston Pops Package – a special rate with complimentary Boston Pops CD, two American flags and a full breakfast buffet. The 153 year old hotel has recently undergone a $30 million dollar renovation and restoration project. The official hotel of the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is the Fairmont Copley Plaza, home of Catie Copley, the hotel’s black Labrador retriever known as the Canine Ambassador. Guests can schedule walks or runs with Catie around the city.
A visit to the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau website will help visitors find lodging accommodations and information on the city’s many features including shopping, museums, attractions, tours and more.
Getting Around
Boston is a very walkable city but when the feet need a rest the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), offers residents and visitors an easy way to get around the city through the public subway. A Tourist’s Guide to Boston, can provide helpful tips for getting around this historic city.
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