For the 40th time, Boston Harborfest—one of the nation’s biggest Independence Day celebrations—takes over sites at Boston’s Inner Harbor, Downtown and the North End, offering a free red-white-and-blue spectacular to dazzle the entire family. Patriotic happenings abound from July 1–4, including daily highlights like musical performances, kids’ entertainment and more. One-of-a-kind happenings also take place, like a classic car show and Chowderfest at Downtown Crossing on July 2; a concert at Christopher Columbus Park and fireworks over the harbor that same day; and, on July 4 itself, a parade from City Hall Plaza to Downtown Crossing, a reading of the Declaration of Independence from the Old State House balcony, the annual turnaround cruise of the U.S.S. Constitution, and a recitation of Frederick Douglass’ speech What, to the Slave, Is the Fourth of July? and an ice cream social at Downtown Crossing. There’s even an all-day arts and crafts market on July 1 & 2. It all starts Downtown on July 1 at noon with roving re-enactors, sailors from the U.S.S. Constitution and the 215th Army Band to kick off what is sure to be a memorable four days full of pomp and pageantry.