How to Celebrate the 4th of July in Boston

The Hatch Shell

Celebrating the Fourth of July is always fun, but celebrating America's birthday in a history making city can be a day to remember. Boston is a historical city responsible in part for America's freedom and the Fourth of July is a big affair. Festivities start the day before and if you plan ahead, taking part is easy and fun.

Instructions

1. Get to Boston. Make any travel and hotel arrangements you need to get into Boston for a couple of days. Public transportation is more accessible and reliable during the holiday with the subway--know as the T--offering free rides and adding extra cars. If you are close to the Boston area, use the T and the commuter rail to get into Boston instead of driving.

2. Choose what you want to see and do. With so many different events around the city, it can be overwhelming and difficult to see everything. The big event for the Fourth of July is the Boston Pops performance at the Hatch Shell and the fireworks ceremony. Unfortunately, you will have to pick between these events; if you see the Pops at the Hatch Shell, you won't be able to see the fireworks along the Charles River. However, the dress rehearsal for the Pops is open to the public the night before. It is the exact same performance, but less crowded and will allow you to see the fireworks the next night.

3. The Boston fireworks are world class and with speakers set up along the Charles River; the Pops time perfectly to the explosions. However, you should plan to get to the bank of the Charles River early and spend some time there. The banks of the Charles (accessible by T at the Copley, Arlington and Hynes Convention Center stops on the green line) are prepared and many vendors line the river with drink and food stands. Many people bring a picnic and outdoor games to keep themselves entertained. During the afternoon, there will be a citizenship ceremony and music for your enjoyment. If you are planning to go to the Pops on the Fourth of July, get there early because it fills up fast.

4. Other notable events include the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House (Government Center T stop). The reading occurs at 10 a.m. and a parade follows. There is also a reenactment of the Boston Tea Party at the Long Wharf along the water. There are celebrations geared toward children and parades throughout the day.

5. Most of the events, especially those of a historical nature, are free and open to the public. However, if you don't want to take part in any specific event, it is still enjoyable to walk around Boston, especially on Beacon Hill, and soak in the history.

Tips & Warnings

• Storrow Drive is closed on the July 3 and 4, so find an alternate route if you are driving in.

• The T is free after the fireworks ceremony.

• Pack a lunch and some sidewalk chalk to hang out by the Esplanade.

• It can be crowded everywhere.

Resources

• Fourth of July Headquarters