Few cities in America have the historic importance that Boston does, and on the Fourth of July that history and nationalistic spirit are expressed to the fullest with Harborfest—a massive celebration of our country’s birth befitting the epicenter of the nation’s struggle for independence. Here’s a few of the Harborfest highlights that patriotic partiers throughout the Hub will want to make sure they don’t miss leading up to the Fourth of July.
FOR THE KIDDIES
Once summer arrives, kids have one thing on
their minds: Fun. Luckily, Harborfest is
jam-packed full of opportunities for
participating pipsqueaks to have fun and
actually learn something, too. (Shhhhh!
Don’t let on.)
The New England Aquarium (refer to wildlife listing) brings its popular harbor seals to the forefront July 2–4 at 9:45 a.m., with a free show called “Whiskers, Fur and Flippers.” Or, if your tykes are hooked on Jack Sparrow, bring them to the Samuel Adams statue at Faneuil Hall, where local tour company Boston By Foot (refer to tours and trails listing) sends groups on Captain Kidd’s Treasure Hunt, complete with real pirate map.
And on July 2, the whole day is devoted to the young, as Harborfest hosts their 13th annual Children’s Day at City Hall Plaza, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Organizations from around the city will be on hand to provide entertaining and educational programs, and there’ll be live entertainment from jugglers Fly By Night and musicians The Wayne Potash Band.
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BEYOND BOSTON Harborfest may be the main show, but it’s not the only 4th of July party around. Consider these alternatives to extend your celebration or bypass the crowds on the Esplanade. Quincy: The Adams National Historical Park hosts a dramatization of the passage of the Declaration of Independence and the relationship between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Refer to sightseeing listing. Gloucester: This fishing town on the North Shore celebrates July 3 by merging patriotism and odd costumes for the Fishtown Horribles Parade at 6 p.m, followed by fireworks over Gloucester Harbor at 10 p.m. Call 978-283-0800 for more information. Sturbridge: Old Sturbridge Village boasts a July 4 reading of the Declaration of Independence by costumed interpreters and an old-fashioned muster parade. Refer to excursion listing. Provincetown: Hop on one of Boston’s high-speed ferries and take in July 4 festivities—including a parade and fireworks—in this town at the tip of Cape Cod. Refer to excursion listing. |
ON THE WATER
With so much of America’s fight for freedom
having happened around historic Boston
Harbor, it’s hardly surprising that many of
the activities on Independence Day involve
getting out on the water in one way or
another. Check out these ways to embrace
your inner sea dog.
Both Massachusetts Bay Lines and the New England Aquarium (refer to cruise listing and whale watch listing) are hosting Whale Watch Cruises July 2–4 at 8:30 a.m., taking whale-lovers out into nearby Stellwagen Bank to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants.
On July 2 & 3, Liberty Fleet (refer to cruise listing) welcomes guests aboard the Liberty Clipper for Tall Ship Sails, beginning at noon, departing from Central Wharf. Rabblerousers-in-training can also hop on the Clipper daily at 3 p.m. (July 2–4) to partake in a re-enactment of the Boston Tea Party, throwing overpriced tea into the harbor and firing off cannons.
And on July 4, Boston’s favorite ship—the USS Constitution—springs into action, as “Old Ironsides” honors the nation with an 11 a.m. Turn-Around Cruise through Boston Harbor, complete with 21-gun salute. Call 617-242-5671 for more information.
THE MAIN EVENT
Of course, many visitors to the Hub
looking to celebrate Independence Day cram
in all their Harborfest activities by July
3—because they plan to spend the big day
itself picnicking on the Charles River
Esplanade and staking a claim for the best
possible spot to watch the
Boston Pops perform their
July 4 spectacular at
the Hatch Shell, a tradition that dates back
to 1924. The event traditionally draws close
to a half-million spectators, and this year,
the Pops are joined by true-blue American
rock ’n’ roller John Mellencamp for a
spirited and patriotic display of classical
bombast.
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