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CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:MA250
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://massachusetts250.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for MA250
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260701T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260726T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260615T142845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260615T142845Z
UID:10013607-1782898200-1785085200@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Songs of Liberty
DESCRIPTION:A 25-minute live performance explores how music carried revolutionary ideas through taverns\, homes\, and meetinghouses across New England—often faster and with greater impact than the written word. A cast of musicians\, joined by a Massachusetts Minuteman storyteller\, will perform songs from the Revolutionary era with a contemporary folk-rock twist\, highlighting enduring themes of liberty\, resistance\, and unity. The Songs of Liberty is produced in partnership with ClockJack Productions.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/songs-of-liberty/
LOCATION:Old Sturbridge Village\, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road\, Sturbridge\, MA\, 01566\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Event,July 4th,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/songs-of-liberty-2-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Old Sturbridge Village":MAILTO:kmorrill@osv.org
GEO:42.1040101;-72.0930962
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Old Sturbridge Village 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge MA 01566 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1 Old Sturbridge Village Road:geo:-72.0930962,42.1040101
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260701T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260726T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260618T204418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260618T204418Z
UID:10013602-1782898200-1785085200@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Voices of a Revolution
DESCRIPTION:Visitors will step into a rural Massachusetts community and meet six Revolutionary-era residents—a printer\, housemaid\, lawyer\, shopkeeper\, tavern keeper\, and farmer’s wife—each navigating the growing conflict in their own way. To make the experience even more immersive\, guests will have an opportunity to learn about a specific person and build their own character\, allowing them to move through the Village as active participants in the unfolding story and decide whether it is in their best interest to fight for independence or remain loyal to The British Crown. Voices of a Revolution is produced in partnership with ClockJack Productions.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/voices-of-a-revolution/
LOCATION:Old Sturbridge Village\, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road\, Sturbridge\, MA\, 01566\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Celebration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/54752284746_3dfbd936b4_o-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Old Sturbridge Village":MAILTO:kmorrill@osv.org
GEO:42.1040101;-72.0930962
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Old Sturbridge Village 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge MA 01566 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1 Old Sturbridge Village Road:geo:-72.0930962,42.1040101
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T110000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260421T205204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T205204Z
UID:10008440-1783155600-1783162800@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Fairhaven’s Revolutionary Fourth of July Parade & Ceremony
DESCRIPTION:This isn’t just any Fourth of July—2026 marks 250 years since the American Revolution ignited… and Fairhaven is marching straight into history. \nJoin us for a truly historic celebration as we honor America’s birthday and Fairhaven’s Revolutionary legacy with our annual Fourth of July Parade & Cannon Ceremony\, part of the statewide MA250 commemoration. \nPARADE DETAILS:\n⏰ Step-Off: 9:00 AM sharp\n📍 Route: March begins at Washington & Green Street and continues down Green Street to Fort Phoenix—the site of the first naval battle of the American Revolution.\n📍 Independence Day Ceremony: ~10:00 AM at Fort Phoenix\, complete with real cannon fire by the Fairhaven Village Militia.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/fairhavens-revolutionary-fourth-of-july-parade-ceremony/
LOCATION:Fort Phoenix\, Fairhaven\, Fort Street 3\, Fairhaven\, Massachusetts\, 02719\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,July 4th,Outdoors,Parades
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Promo_4thofJuly.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Fairhaven Village Militia":MAILTO:Wayne.Oliveira@Comcast.net
GEO:41.6253121;-70.9003654
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Fort Phoenix Fairhaven Fort Street 3 Fairhaven Massachusetts 02719 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Fort Street 3:geo:-70.9003654,41.6253121
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T220000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260608T211939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T211939Z
UID:10013594-1783155600-1783202400@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Freedom Rocks! Williamstown Fourth of July Celebration
DESCRIPTION:This year Williamstown celebrates on Friday AND Saturday (July 3 and 4). The fun kicks off Friday at Williamstown Historical Museum with family activities\, food\, exhibits\, and performances featuring Barrington Stage Company\, Green Mountain Boys family-friendly demos\, Berkshire Fife & Drum Corp\, Flatbed Jazz Band\, special tours\, and more. Continue across the road at Waubeeka Golf links for a Freedom Rocks! music concert with headliner Albert Cummings and special guest James Montgomery\, plus Karl Mullen & The Dublin Castle Express\, Wanda Houston\, and Latin GRAMMY–winning children’s artists and authors MISTER G and MISSUS G. \nSaturday’s events take place in downtown Williamstown and include morning yoga\, family activities\, the annual Hometown Parade and Free Community Hotdog Cookout\, Brass-O-Mania\, swimming\, the Founding Documents\, film\, and more. Celebrations conclude with glorious fireworks viewed from the Taconic golf course.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/freedom-rocks-williamstown-fourth-of-july-celebration/2026-07-04/
LOCATION:Williamstown\, MA\, Williamstown\, Massachusetts\, 01267\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Parades,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/July-4-golf-course.png
GEO:42.6852841;-73.2529464
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T230000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260616T211423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T211423Z
UID:10014092-1783155600-1783206000@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:250 Years of Freedom & Beyond–4th of July Parade\, Concert & Fireworks (Plymouth)
DESCRIPTION:Plymouth’s Annual 4th of July parade’s theme for 2026 is 250 Years & Beyond to celebrate our country’s birth. The day begins with the parade starting from Mayflower Business Park in North Plymouth to Plymouth Rock\, with an Patriotic evening concert with the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra and finishing with fireworks over Plymouth harbor at dusk. \n9am: Parade begins from Mayflower Business Park – 428 Court Street\, continuing along Court St and Main St to Water Street.\n7:30pm: Plymouth Philharmonic Concert at DCR Pilgrim Memorial State Park – Plan to arrive at least 1 hour before the concert begins in order to find a parking spot and walk to the state park.\n9:15: Fireworks begin at Dusk. There are several viewing spots available throughout town in addition to DCR Pilgrim Memorial State Park\, including Burial Hill and Nelson Park.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/250-years-of-freedom-fireworks-plymouth/
LOCATION:Plymouth MA Downtown Waterfront Area\, Court Street\, Plymouth\, MA\, 02360\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Celebration,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Parades
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Plymouth-MA-4th-of-July-Parade-Concert-Fireworks-2026-1544x600-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="July 4 Plymouth%2C Inc.":MAILTO:july4plymouth1620@gmail.com
GEO:41.9696016;-70.6799684
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Plymouth MA Downtown Waterfront Area Court Street Plymouth MA 02360 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Court Street:geo:-70.6799684,41.9696016
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T090500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T091500
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260629T155435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T155435Z
UID:10014507-1783155900-1783156500@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Reading of the Declaration of Independence
DESCRIPTION:Did you know the Declaration of Independence was read aloud in Boston for the first time by a Boston Tea Party Participant?\nJoin interpreters of the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum for a daily reading of the sacred founding document.\nWednesday\, July\, 1st through Sunday\, July\, 5th at 9:05am.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/reading-of-the-declaration-of-independence-2/2026-07-04/
LOCATION:Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum\, Congress Street 306\, Boston\, Massachusetts\, 02210\, United States
CATEGORIES:Commemoration,Drama,Event,July 4th,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Declaration1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Boston Tea Party Ships &amp%3B Museum":MAILTO:jgeorge@bostonteapartyships.com
GEO:42.3516509;-71.050212
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Congress Street 306 Boston Massachusetts 02210 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Congress Street 306:geo:-71.050212,42.3516509
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260617T182042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T182042Z
UID:10013721-1783157400-1783184400@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Independence Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us in celebration of Independence Day! Experience fife and drum music\, cannon demonstrations (weather permitting)\, performances\, and a parade. Make a tri-corner hat\, hear special readings of poetry and the Declaration of Independence\, play games\, marvel at the work of our skilled artisans and tradespeople\, and more! Also\, be sure to visit the Richardson House\, where our costumed historians are reproducing a unique thirteen-star flag based on a c. 1820 artifact in the OSV Museum Collection. Check back closer to the event for a schedule of activities. \nDuring Independence Celebration\, the Village will host a Citizen Naturalization Ceremony. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will present candidates to the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts\, and they will pledge their Oath of Allegiance to the United States for the very first time.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/independence-celebration/
LOCATION:Old Sturbridge Village\, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road\, Sturbridge\, MA\, 01566\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Parades,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/independence-celebration-15x6-2-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Old Sturbridge Village":MAILTO:kmorrill@osv.org
GEO:42.1040101;-72.0930962
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Old Sturbridge Village 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge MA 01566 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1 Old Sturbridge Village Road:geo:-72.0930962,42.1040101
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T180000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260623T140657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260623T140657Z
UID:10014465-1783159200-1783188000@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:July 4th Celebration at Old North Church
DESCRIPTION:If you will be in the Boston area for July 4\, we hope you’ll join us for our annual Independence Day celebration! Throughout the day\, there will be dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence in the sanctuary\, complete with booing and hissing at the mention of the king. \nIn our courtyard\, the delightful musical duo Tripp and Toddy will entertain visitors with period music and stage a “duel to the death.” We will also offer guided tours of Old North’s crypt\, where 1\,100 people were laid to rest\, and bell ringing chamber\, where Paul Revere rang bells as a teenager.  \nSchedule of Events \nReadings of the Declaration of Independence: 11:00am\, 1:30pm\, 3:00pm \nMusic and Fun with Tripp and Toddy: 12:00pm\, 2:30pm\, 4:30pm \nCrypt Tours: 10:30am\, 11:00am\, 11:30am\, 12:00pm\, 1:00pm\, 1:30pm\, 2:00pm\, 2:30pm\, 3:00pm\, 3:30pm\, 4:00pm\, 4:30pm\, 5:00pm\, 5:30pm \nBell Chamber Tours: 10:30am\, 11:30am\, 1:30pm\, 2:30pm\, 3:30pm\, 4:30pm\, 5:30pm \nInstead of our regular ticket options\, we are offering a July 4th Pass that includes a self-guided tour of our beautiful sanctuary\, our award-winning history exhibit\, our fun family scavenger hunt\, dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence\, and performances by Tripp and Toddy. The July 4th Pass is available online now. \nAdd-on tours of the crypt and bell chamber will be available for purchase on site on Independence Day.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/july-4th-celebration-at-old-north-church/
LOCATION:Old North Church\, Salem Street 193\, Boston\, MA\, 02113\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Celebration,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/c8dd469c-d308-3c92-13d4-ca5639513f16.jpg
GEO:42.366387;-71.0545858
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Old North Church Salem Street 193 Boston MA 02113 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Salem Street 193:geo:-71.0545858,42.366387
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T230000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260701T152349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T152349Z
UID:10014524-1783159200-1783206000@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:LIVE: July 4th Reading of the Declaration of Independence
DESCRIPTION:The public is invited to join the Freemasons of West Boylston\, MA as we commemorate the  250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4\, 2026\, America’s 250th birthday and  the beginning of our nation’s Semiquincentennial celebrations.  \nBring your family to this outdoor event before your other celebrations (Rain or Shine) to hear a live reading of the  Declaration of Independence on the steps of Boylston Lodge\, portrayed by patriotic gentlemen\,  recalling the spirit of 1776. See an authentic United States flag that once flew over George  Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and learn about its place in our early national story.   \nBe part of history as we gather for group photos (and take your own) that will be sealed in Boylston  Lodge’s 150th Anniversary Time Capsule\, to be opened during our Lodge’s 200th Anniversary  ceremony in July 2076—America’s 300th birthday.   \nCome celebrate faith\, family\, fraternity\, and freedom with West Boylston Freemasons as we honor the  timeless words that launched a nation. A wonderful free family educational experience!   \nWe will start promptly at 10 AM you should schedule 30-40 minutes for the entire event.  Free parking on-site in our lot or nearby street. \nLocation:  Outdoors: Masonic Lodge 12 Church Street\, West Boylston\, MA 01505
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/live-july-4th-reading-of-the-declaration-of-independence/
LOCATION:12 Church Street\, West Boylston\, MA 01505\, Church Street 12\, West Boylston\, MA\, 01583\, United States
CATEGORIES:Commemoration,July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Lodge1776pictureV4.jpg
GEO:42.3635945;-71.783013
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=12 Church Street West Boylston MA 01505 Church Street 12 West Boylston MA 01583 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Church Street 12:geo:-71.783013,42.3635945
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T121500
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260624T144414Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T144414Z
UID:10014472-1783161000-1783167300@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence (Danvers)
DESCRIPTION:All are welcome to read a part in this year’s Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence\, the document that led to the formation of these United States. Please arrive at the Rotary Pavilion at the Peabody Institute Library of Danvers by 10:30 if you wish to participate. Reading begins at 11:00 a.m.  Sponsored by Danvers 250 Committee.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/public-reading-of-the-declaration-of-independence-danvers/
LOCATION:Peabody Institute Library of Danvers\, Rotary Pavilion\, Sylvan Street 15\, Middleton\, MA\, 01949\, United States
CATEGORIES:July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/danvers-dec-reading-1.jpg
GEO:42.5616255;-70.9409616
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Peabody Institute Library of Danvers Rotary Pavilion Sylvan Street 15 Middleton MA 01949 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Sylvan Street 15:geo:-70.9409616,42.5616255
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T113000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260622T152238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T152238Z
UID:10014456-1783162800-1783164600@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Independence 250: Readings of the Declaration of Independence (Peace field Grounds)
DESCRIPTION:Lend your voice to these live public readings of the Declaration of Independence 250 years after it was adopted. The 11 a.m. reading will be under the tent on the Peace field grounds. The 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. readings will be held at the Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill\, the Adamses’ home during the American Revolution. \nGet the details on this special program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at https://www.nps.gov/adam/planyourvisit/250-anniversary.htm.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/independence-250-readings-of-the-declaration-of-independence-peace-field-grounds/
LOCATION:Adams National Historical Park: Old House at Peace field\, 135 Adams St\, Quincy\, 02169\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event,July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I250-schedule-8.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Adams National Historical Park":MAILTO:ADAM_Visitor_Center@nps.gov
GEO:42.2561259;-71.0108834
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Adams National Historical Park: Old House at Peace field 135 Adams St Quincy 02169 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=135 Adams St:geo:-71.0108834,42.2561259
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T150000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260505T143657Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260505T143657Z
UID:10010312-1783162800-1783177200@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:United States Semiquincentennial Observance & Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime event as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. \n• Community picnic – BYOB (Bring Your Own Basket)\n• Reading of the Declaration of Independence\n• Archeological dig at the Thomas Smith House\n• Dedication of time capsule\n• Bell ringing at 2 pm – BYOB (Bring Your Own Bell)\n• Encampment\, musket drills\, and living history  demonstrations of eighteenth century home and work life by 25th Continental Regiment and Green Valley Homestead   \nThe c. 1757 Thomas Smith House and 1920 Delmore Hawthorne Garage will also be open for tours.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/united-states-semiquincentennial-observance-celebration/
LOCATION:Thomas Smith House\, North West Street 251\, Agawam\, Massachusetts\, 01030\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Celebration,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Fourth-of-July-banner-1544x600-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Agawam Historical Association":MAILTO:1855@agawamhistory.org
GEO:42.0744086;-72.6946647
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Thomas Smith House North West Street 251 Agawam Massachusetts 01030 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=North West Street 251:geo:-72.6946647,42.0744086
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T123000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260701T152316Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T152316Z
UID:10014519-1783166400-1783168200@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence
DESCRIPTION:The Amherst Historical Society will be presenting a communal reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon on Saturday\, July 4th from the steps of the Amherst Town Hall.  The event will be marked by the ringing of church bells throughout the town at noon\, followed by a summoning of the community to Town Hall by the blowing of a conch shell.  Historically\, a conch shell was used to call the residents of Amherst to gather to conduct town business.  The Historical Society has several examples of conchs used by town officials over the years\, including the original dating back to the 18th century.  The conch to be used was purchased for the event and is not historic.    \nMembers of the Town Council will present a proclamation and after that\, Representative Mindy Domb will begin the reading with the Preamble.  The public is invited to join in following the opening statements\, particularly with the section that begins\, “We hold these truths…”   Individual readers from the community will be reading in turn the rest of the document.  The event will conclude with a non-denominational benediction from Father Valentine Nworah of the Newman Center and close with a musical offering.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/community-reading-of-the-declaration-of-independence/
LOCATION:Amherst Town Hall\, 4 Boltwood Avenue\, Amherst\, MA\, 01002\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,July 4th,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/July-4-general-info.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Amherst Historical Society":MAILTO:info@amhersthistory.org
GEO:42.3754681;-72.5187218
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Amherst Town Hall 4 Boltwood Avenue Amherst MA 01002 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=4 Boltwood Avenue:geo:-72.5187218,42.3754681
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T210000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260701T152241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T152241Z
UID:10014522-1783166400-1783198800@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:City of Quincy Maritime Festival
DESCRIPTION:Mayor Tom Koch & the City of Quincy proudly invite residents and visitors alike to celebrate Quincy’s rich maritime heritage in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Held along the Marina Bay Boardwalk\, the Quincy Maritime Festival returns as a free\, family-friendly Independence Day weekend celebration showcasing the City’s deep connection to the sea\, shipbuilding\, and coastal traditions. The three-day festival will feature live entertainment\, historic reenactments\, children’s parades\, maritime activities\, and waterfront attractions for all ages.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/city-of-quincy-maritime-festival/2026-07-04/
LOCATION:marina bay\, 333 Victory Rd\, Quincy\, 02171\, United States
CATEGORIES:July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Maritime-Festival-2026_Flyer-3.jpg
GEO:42.2996438;-71.0279771
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=marina bay 333 Victory Rd Quincy 02171 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=333 Victory Rd:geo:-71.0279771,42.2996438
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T133000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260622T151458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T151458Z
UID:10014457-1783170000-1783171800@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Independence 250: Readings of the Declaration of Independence (Adams Farm at Penn's Hill)
DESCRIPTION:Lend your voice to these live public readings of the Declaration of Independence 250 years after it was adopted. The 11 a.m. reading will be under the tent on the Peace field grounds. The 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. readings will be held at the Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill\, the Adamses’ home during the American Revolution. \nGet the details on this special program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at https://www.nps.gov/adam/planyourvisit/250-anniversary.htm.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/independence-250-readings-of-the-declaration-of-independence-adams-farm-at-penns-hill/2026-07-04/1/
LOCATION:Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill\, 141 Franklin St\, Quincy\, MA\, 02169\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I250-schedule-9.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Adams National Historical Park":MAILTO:ADAM_Visitor_Center@nps.gov
GEO:42.2392957;-71.0034947
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill 141 Franklin St Quincy MA 02169 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=141 Franklin St:geo:-71.0034947,42.2392957
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T153000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260622T151458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T151458Z
UID:10014458-1783177200-1783179000@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Independence 250: Readings of the Declaration of Independence (Adams Farm at Penn's Hill)
DESCRIPTION:Lend your voice to these live public readings of the Declaration of Independence 250 years after it was adopted. The 11 a.m. reading will be under the tent on the Peace field grounds. The 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. readings will be held at the Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill\, the Adamses’ home during the American Revolution. \nGet the details on this special program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at https://www.nps.gov/adam/planyourvisit/250-anniversary.htm.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/independence-250-readings-of-the-declaration-of-independence-adams-farm-at-penns-hill/2026-07-04/2/
LOCATION:Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill\, 141 Franklin St\, Quincy\, MA\, 02169\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Commemoration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Reenactment
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I250-schedule-9.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Adams National Historical Park":MAILTO:ADAM_Visitor_Center@nps.gov
GEO:42.2392957;-71.0034947
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill 141 Franklin St Quincy MA 02169 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=141 Franklin St:geo:-71.0034947,42.2392957
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T170000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260529T165852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T165852Z
UID:10010923-1783179000-1783184400@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Boston: Harbor History Waterfront Walking Tour
DESCRIPTION:Boston Harbor has undergone significant transformation over four centuries. Experience Boston’s rich maritime heritage and contemporary vibrancy on a 1.5-hour stroll along the Boston Harborwalk\, led by an expert local guide. The tour begins at the Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway—site of the “Big Dig”—and concludes at Fan Pier in the dynamic Seaport district\, offering exceptional views throughout. \nThis small group walking tour explores the evolution of Boston’s waterfront\, from its origins as a colonial port in the British Empire; through its development as a major center for shipping\, fishing\, and global trade; to its rebirth as a hub for modern commerce\, tourism\, and recreation. As you venture through the heart of the Boston Harborwalk\, gain insight into the city’s significant efforts to expand and revitalize its waterfront infrastructure\, greenspace\, and public access. \nHub Town Tours delivers a compelling introduction to Boston’s identity as America’s “city by the sea.” Hear engaging stories as you pass historic landmarks and architectural highlights\, illustrating the remarkable shoreline transformation from an industrial area and “dirty water” dumping ground to a vibrant public space beside one of the cleanest harbors in the United States.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/boston-harbor-history-waterfront-walking-tour/2026-07-04/
LOCATION:Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center\, Atlantic Avenue 191 W\, Boston\, MA\, 02110\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors,Tours
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/1-Waterfront-Branding-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Hub Town Tours":MAILTO:help@hubtowntours.com
GEO:42.360126;-71.0523586
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center Atlantic Avenue 191 W Boston MA 02110 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Atlantic Avenue 191 W:geo:-71.0523586,42.360126
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T203000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260630T144934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260630T165109Z
UID:10014516-1783191600-1783197000@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Declaring Independence Then & Now
DESCRIPTION:This dramatic presentation\, created by Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area\, aims to find out how our local towns read and reacted to the Declaration of Independence. Across the colonies\, and particularly in Massachusetts\, towns debated what freedom meant to them\, and grappled with the grievances aired in the official Declaration. What did the words in the final document mean to them? Costumed re-enactors will bring life to the words of the past\, with narration by former State Representative Jay Kaufman. Rounding out our evening will be a performance by the Lexington Historical Society Colonial Singers. Some of our favorite tunes from the 18th century were highly political\, and many of them were also taken from popular English military music!  \nWe hope you join us for this all-ages introduction to our founding document and its legacy.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/declaring-independence-then-now-2/
LOCATION:Lexington Depot\, 13 Depot Square\, Lexington\, 02420\, United States
CATEGORIES:Event,July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Declaring-Independence-Then-Now.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Lexington History Museums":MAILTO:marketing@lexingtonhistory.org
GEO:42.4485967;-71.227977
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Lexington Depot 13 Depot Square Lexington 02420 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=13 Depot Square:geo:-71.227977,42.4485967
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T220000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260211T175100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T000303Z
UID:10004429-1783191600-1783202400@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:Boston Pops Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate July 4th with the Boston Pops and maestro Keith Lockhart and special guest stars. 2026 marks the 51st year of the Fireworks Spectacular and Lockhart’s 30th anniversary as Pops conductor. This event is free and open to the public.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/boston-pops-fourth-of-july-fireworks/
LOCATION:DCR Hatch Shell\, Charles River Esplanade\, 47 David G Mugar Way\, Boston\, MA\, 02114\, United States
CATEGORIES:Anniversary,Celebration,Event,July 4th,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/54338076400_79a8748510_k.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Boston Symphony Orchestra":MAILTO:jdevereux@bso.org
GEO:42.3573189;-71.07368
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=DCR Hatch Shell Charles River Esplanade 47 David G Mugar Way Boston MA 02114 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=47 David G Mugar Way:geo:-71.07368,42.3573189
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260704T220000
DTSTAMP:20260728T145741
CREATED:20260629T194449Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T194449Z
UID:10014501-1783191600-1783202400@massachusetts250.org
SUMMARY:4th of July Firework Viewing at Battleship Cove
DESCRIPTION:See the City of Fall River\, MA fireworks display in honor of the 4th of July from the deck of the USS Massachusetts (BB-59). Tickets are $15.00 per child ages 4-12 and $18.00 per adult ages 13+ (price does not include Fare Harbor processing fees). \nGates open at 7:00 PM. All guests will need to go through a security checkpoint prior to entry\, and all bags will be checked for restricted items. There is no smoking anywhere on the property. The fireworks are put on by the City of Fall River\, at 9:00 PM\, and the museum is not responsible for delays or cancellations. Refreshments will be available for sale at the Battleship Snack Shack. \nFor more information and a full schedule of events\, visit www.battleshipcove.org\, or call 508-678-1100.
URL:https://massachusetts250.org/event/4th-of-july-firework-viewing-at-battleship-cove/
LOCATION:Battleship Cove\, Water Street 5\, Fall River\, Massachusetts\, 02721\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Event,July 4th
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://massachusetts250.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FourthofJulyPost-scaled.jpg
GEO:41.704971;-71.1617793
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Battleship Cove Water Street 5 Fall River Massachusetts 02721 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Water Street 5:geo:-71.1617793,41.704971
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR