4th of July in Boston
LIVE MUSIC, CHOWDERFEST, POOCH PARADE, FIREWORKS & MORE!
Immerse yourself by celebrating America’s independence in the historic city of Boston on this Fourth of July! As the birthplace of the American Revolution and a city rich in history, Boston is the perfect destination to celebrate the Fourth. This year, there are plenty of festivities celebrating the country’s independence, the two most famous being the Boston Harborfest and the Boston Pops Spectacular. Whether you are a local or visiting Boston just for the holiday, rest assured as Boston offers an unforgettable Fourth of July experience for locals and visitors alike.
Boston Harborfest
Day 1
Friday, June 30th kicks off Harborfest with DTX Arts Market at Summer Street Plaza from 11am – 5:30pm where local artisans offer their creations for sale. Boston officials will commence the 5-day festival with a short welcome speech from 12pm – 1pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with historical actors and crew members from the USS Constitution, while the Massachusetts 215th Army Band will begin an afternoon of musical performances in Downtown Crossing.
Day 2
Experience an unforgettable day in Downtown Crossing on Saturday, July 1st from 11am – 7pm, enjoy local musicians performing different musical genres at The Steps while engaging with costumed reenactors. Catch captivating puppet shows from 12pm – 2pm, a Macy’s Fashion Show from 1pm – 4pm, and a pre-fireworks concert at Christopher Columbus Park from 6pm – 9pm. Then, brace yourself for the breathtaking Harborfest Fireworks launching from Long Wharf at 9:15pm. Don’t miss this extraordinary event!
Day 3
On Sunday, July 2nd head to the Waterfront Concert and Artisan Market for an afternoon of diverse live music from 1pm – 5pm or relax to smooth sounds of jazz performed by musicians from Berklee College of Music and Beantown Sessions on Spectacle Islands from 2pm – 5pm.
Day 4
Taste delicious New England chowder from some of the best local restaurants at Chowderfest on Washington Street, between Winter and Bromfield Street on Monday, July 3rd from 2pm – 4pm. Continue on Washington Street and listen to Boston Brass perform live featuring classical arrangements from 4:30pm – 6:30pm.
Day 5
The last day of the festival will be on Tuesday, July 4th from 9am – 10am, where there will be a short ceremonial parade from the City Hall through Downtown Crossing to the Old State House. Visitors can see the parade along the route! The reading of Declaration of Independence will be read in historic locations such as Faneuil Hall or the Old State House from 10am – 10:15pm.
Boston Harborfest
BRIGHT, BOLD & BEAMING ABOVE THE HARBOR
Prepare to be dazzled this Fourth of July with a guide to the best spots for witnessing the spectacular 2023 2023 Boston Harborfest fireworks. On Saturday, July 1st, at 9:15pm, Boston Harborfest will illuminate the inner harbor with a breathtaking fireworks display. For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, where you can savor a delectable Lobster Roll while marveling at the vibrant colors painting the sky. If you’re exploring the city, make your way to Deck 12 in the Seaport District, where you can sip on a refreshing drink at their rooftop bar while enjoying the festivities.
On Tuesday, July 4th, the iconic Boston Pops Firework Spectacular with The Boston Symphony Orchestra returns to the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade from 8pm to 11pm. See award-winning R&B group, En Vogue at this year’s Fourth of July celebration as well Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez, LOCASH, and Broadway trio, Alton Fitzgerald White, Elizabeth Standley, and Andrea Jones-Sojola take to stage!
