Across the State of Massachusetts, communities and institutions are celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution with events, exhibits, special tours, programs, festivals, performances, and much more. Bookmark this page to join events and celebrations statewide.
Swampscott Historical Commission will read the Declaration of Independence on Town Hall lawn on July 8 at 6:00 p.m.
Leyden residents, families and friends will gather at the Leyden Town Hall and participate in a multigenerational reading the Declaration of Independence. Paul Kaplan and Annie Patterson will lead the group in folk songs and a community potluck featuring red, white and blue desserts will follow.
Easton's Special Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence and Kickoff to Summer Concert Series Wednesday, July 8 6:30 PM Steps of historic Oakes Ames Memorial Hall, 3 Barrows Street, Easton Join the Town of Easton and the Easton Shovel Town Cultural District for a special community reading of the Declaration of Independence immediately before […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
School lessons about the American Revolution often focus on the Boston Tea Party—but far fewer people learn about the importance of salt. Cod fishing, Cape Cod's biggest industry, relied on salt for preserving fish for export. British blockades, designed to cripple coastal communities, were preventing salt being imported. In response, colonists relied on the sun […]
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 […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Witness a maritime spectacle that draws visitors from around the world as the Tall Ships return to Boston Harbor for Sail Boston 2026, part of Massachusetts’ 250th celebration. As night falls, fireworks illuminate the waterfront, adding to the festive atmosphere throughout the city. This Moment includes a two-night suite stay at Boston Marriott Long Wharf, […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
We are proud to introduce our most ambitious exhibit ever, titled “Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State,” made possible by a grant from Massachusetts 250 and the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT). Through rare artifacts, photographs, and documents, this exhibit will tell the story of Massachusetts brewers from the Pilgrims to […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
Meet historian Norah Van Riper in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, for Independence on Foot, a spirited walking tour exploring Martha’s Vineyard’s revolutionary past. Beginning at the Vincent House Museum, this 90-minute walking tour connects Edgartown sites, stories, and civic ideals - bringing the Island’s role in the American Revolution and its independent spirit to life. Participating […]
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 […]
Unplug for the evening and join us for an evening back in 1776 after Marshfield citizens learned of "the shot heard 'round the world". Try out 18th-century games and enjoy appetizers inspired by tavern menus of their time. Joshua Winslow will be visiting the “General John” Tavern to rally the local community in support of […]
Staged at Historic Deerfield, A Stake in the Ground: 1774 is a series of three site-specific plays, set in Deerfield, MA, on the eve of the American Revolution. Each performance includes all three plays and will end with a post-show conversation. In the summer of 1774, seeds of revolution begin to germinate in Deerfield when […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
The Grand Parade of Sail will highlight the day’s activities as vessels parade in flotillas from Broad Sound into the main channel of Boston Harbor turning at Charlestown, before proceeding to their assigned berthing areas. Public viewing of the parade will be spectacular from Castle Island, the Seaport District, the Boston Waterfront, East Boston, the […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
FREE outdoor and indoor activities for kids all summer long Building on the success of the Road to Revolution partnership programs, each Saturday from now until the end of September, the museum will host children’s outdoor and indoor programming. The hugely successful Discovery Center experience will extend out onto the lawn with 15 new activity […]
Join us to honor the 250th anniversary of the country's revolution with George and Martha Washington. Get a hands-on demonstration of a colonial printing press and explore its critical role in rallying support for the revolutionary cause. Explore the history of the time period with colonial hands-on-history maker activities and reflect on how you may […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
Boston’s newest official Freedom Trail Tour! The Foundation’s Rainbow Revolutionaries Tours illuminate the lives, loves, and fights for liberty of Boston’s LGBTQ+ community, and explore how queer individuals have been making history for centuries. Uncover the history of Boston Marriages, political milestones for LGBTQ+ rights, and the storied romances of some of Boston’s most famous […]
Discover how the ideals of liberty and justice played out in complex ways within this 18th-century homestead on a thought-provoking guided tour. This wasn’t just the home of prominent patriot John Ashley and his family, but also of the people they enslaved here. One of them, Elizabeth ‘Mum Bett’ Freeman, has long been lauded for […]
We are proud to introduce our most ambitious exhibit ever, titled “Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State,” made possible by a grant from Massachusetts 250 and the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT). Through rare artifacts, photographs, and documents, this exhibit will tell the story of Massachusetts brewers from the Pilgrims to […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
On Monday, July 13, 2026, a Crew and Cadet Parade will take place to welcome sailors from around the world to Boston. Marching bands and cadets from the visiting ships will parade along Seaport Boulevard starting at the Leader Bank Pavilion, at 290 Northern Avenue, and concluding at Christopher Columbus Park, in the North End […]
Join us in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, at The Carnegie Heritage Center for a free, family-friendly interactive program introducing children to presidential history with Presidents For Kids founder, Dan Scudder. Presidents For Kids publishes fun and educational activity books for kids ages 5-10, with series topics including Presidents, First Ladies, National Parks, and more. Drop by […]
This special tour looks at the years leading up to and during the American Revolution through the eyes and words of the women of the Quincy family. Through their letters and diaries, learn how the war affected the day-to-day lives of the family of Josiah and Ann Quincy, including their daughters Hannah, Betsy, and Nancy, […]
Pianist D.J. Cleavinger performs a program of all-American classical music with works from Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, "Blind Tom" Wiggins. Featuring the UNPUBLISHED Piano Sonata of Aaron Copland!
Pianist D.J. Cleavinger performs a piano recital of all-American classical music, ranging from Bach to Gershwin to MacDowell. He will also feature the UNPUBLISHED Piano Sonata by Aaron Copland.
Meet historian Norah Van Riper in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, for Independence on Foot, a spirited walking tour exploring Martha’s Vineyard’s revolutionary past. Beginning at the Vincent House Museum, this 90-minute walking tour connects Edgartown sites, stories, and civic ideals - bringing the Island’s role in the American Revolution and its independent spirit to life. Participating […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
Founded in 1970, this chamber-music series takes advantage of the acoustically excellent sanctuary of the Charlemont Federated Church and celebrates music old and new. This year in honor of the nation's birthday, each concert will feature at least one piece by an American composer.
Launched in 1970, Mohawk Trail Concerts has concerts every Saturday evening in the acoustically excellent Charlemont Federated Church. This year to celebrate our nation's birthday, each concert will feature at least one piece by an American composer.
Staged at Historic Deerfield, A Stake in the Ground: 1774 is a series of three site-specific plays, set in Deerfield, MA, on the eve of the American Revolution. Each performance includes all three plays and will end with a post-show conversation. In the summer of 1774, seeds of revolution begin to germinate in Deerfield when […]
The Sons and Daughters of Liberty come out for Sail Boston in an evening of history, games, merriment, and all things “Boston Tea Party”! Costumed museum interpreters will engage and educate through interaction and activities, including Knot Tying, Portrait Drawing, Tea Leaf Readings, Face Painting, Photo Booth, and colonial games such as Bean Bag Toss, […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
Fireworks will illuminate Boston Harbor and the Tall Ships below twice during Sail Boston. The fireworks will launch from a barge located off of Boston’s Fan Pier.
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a special nature walk highlighting the landscapes, stories, and living heritage that have shaped our nation since its founding. As we explore the trails, we’ll connect the natural world around us to 250 years of American history, discovering the plants, wildlife, and ecosystems that have witnessed generations of change.
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Boston’s newest official Freedom Trail Tour! The Foundation’s Rainbow Revolutionaries Tours illuminate the lives, loves, and fights for liberty of Boston’s LGBTQ+ community, and explore how queer individuals have been making history for centuries. Uncover the history of Boston Marriages, political milestones for LGBTQ+ rights, and the storied romances of some of Boston’s most famous […]
We are proud to introduce our most ambitious exhibit ever, titled “Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State,” made possible by a grant from Massachusetts 250 and the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT). Through rare artifacts, photographs, and documents, this exhibit will tell the story of Massachusetts brewers from the Pilgrims to […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
Staged at Historic Deerfield, A Stake in the Ground: 1774 is a series of three site-specific plays, set in Deerfield, MA, on the eve of the American Revolution. Each performance includes all three plays and will end with a post-show conversation. In the summer of 1774, seeds of revolution begin to germinate in Deerfield when […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
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 […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
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 […]
Set sail for an evening of local discovery as the Renaissance Boston Seaport District invites you to explore the stories behind Boston’s historic harbor. On Monday, July 13 from 5–7 PM, gather in Capiz, where a local historian will bring Boston’s maritime past to life—timed with the excitement of Tall Ships arriving in the city. […]
Join the Agawam Public Library for an evening of digging for your roots as Genealogist Dave Robison shows us how research our Revolutionary War relatives. In this semiquincentennial year of our country, learn where to look for records and how to interpret historical documents. Get started on your genealogy journey and connect with your family […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
In honor of the FIFA Wold Cup being played at Boston Stadium, the Navy Tall Ship Crew and Cadets will play in a competitive 5 versus 5 Soccer Tournament in East Boston.
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
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 […]
Presented by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum and the Vineyard Preservation Trust, join acclaimed historian and bestselling author Nathaniel Philbrick for an evening at the Old Whaling Church. Known for works such as Bunker Hill, Valiant Ambition, and In the Heart of the Sea, Philbrick brings fresh perspective to the American Revolution 250 years on. With […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
History & Art Series: This summer when America is celebrating its 250th anniversary, join us for this historical and civic education program to learn how the Berkshires played a pivotal role in the founding of our nation. "American Stories: Rebels and Revolutionaries of the Berkshires" examines the history of the American Revolution and its reverberating […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
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 […]
Join us at the Carnegie Heritage Center, Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, for A Revolution Worn. From revolutionary-era liberty caps to modern protest fashion, this illustrated talk with live models explores how clothing and etiquette have expressed cultural change across 250 years of American history. Presented by protocol expert Sharon-Frances “Shances” Moore, the program reveals how what […]
In 1781, an enslaved woman named Elizabeth Freeman heard the words “all men are created equal” read aloud from the Declaration of Independence and resolved to claim that promise for herself and other enslaved people. Known as Mum Bett, Freeman had been enslaved in Sheffield, Massachusetts. She sought the help of Stockbridge attorney Theodore Sedgwick, […]
Visit Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club this summer for History Uncorked — a series of four evening lectures held inside the historic Nickerson Mansion in Brewster, Cape Cod, in celebration of America's 250th anniversary. Led by Ocean Edge's resident historian Renee Dee and Cape Cod historian David Martin, Ph.D., each talk explores a different […]
Free Admission! Time Travel Theatrical Presents My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams written by Peter Manos Based on actual letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail Produced/Directed by Laura J. Bilodeau Featuring: Katie Broach and Jim Hunt Carla Perrotta and Peter Cavicchio Produced by Special Arrangement with the Dramatic […]
Fireworks will illuminate Boston Harbor and the Tall Ships below twice during Sail Boston. The fireworks will launch from a barge located off of Boston’s Fan Pier.
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
School lessons about the American Revolution often focus on the Boston Tea Party—but far fewer people learn about the importance of salt. Cod fishing, Cape Cod's biggest industry, relied on salt for preserving fish for export. British blockades, designed to cripple coastal communities, were preventing salt being imported. In response, colonists relied on the sun […]
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 […]
Cape Cod and Islands in the Revolution –A new illustrated book about the events of the Revolutionary War on Cape Cod and the Islands provides an overview of key events for our region between 1761 and 1783, eventually leading to national Independence. An overview of highlights from the book will be presented as part of […]
As part of the Topsfield Library's Rev 250 programming marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and with tall ships visiting Boston for Sail Boston 2026 , we are excited to host author James L. Nelson to discuss his book George Washington's Secret Navy. ABOUT THE BOOK: In 1775, General George […]
The Agawam Public Library is pleased to welcome back Jon and Li Waterman for an evening of live music and military history. In their program, “Popular Music and Veterans”, Jon and Li Waterman supplement their well-received "Roots of American Popular Music" program with an exploration through songs of some of the experiences and sacrifices of […]
Join us on July 16th for a fascinating evening lecture on Sudbury and the Massachusetts Militia on the eve of Lexington and Concord! In October 1774, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress ordered towns across the Colony to prepare for war with England. In response, the Colony entered a wartime phase that included creating minute companies, stockpiling […]
Celebrate the Museum’s special exhibition, Revolutionary Legacies, with a special guided tour following a festive happy hour of wine, beer, and light refreshments in the Museum’s courtyard. Reflect on the nation’s founding principles, their continuous reinterpretation over the past 250 years, and consider what they mean today through textiles, ceramics, and relics from the 19th […]
The Concord Band, directed by James O’Dell, will be performing at 51 Walden Performing Arts Center in Concord on Thursday, July 16 at 7:15pm. The theme of this concert is “Boston Liberties” and will feature pieces commissioned by the Band, as well as spirited works by John Philip Sousa, Clare Grundman, and Jay Chattaway. The […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
The Andover revolutionaries understood that creating a truly free society would take many generations. Their records and artifacts, preserved at the North Andover Historical Society, are here to remind us that history matters. They depict stories of battles won, hardships endured, hometown and battleground heroes, and the start of a long fight for liberty, equality […]
Featuring manuscripts, artifacts, and rarely seen treasures, this exhibition captures a monumental moment in American history. In 1776, people grappled with ideas of liberty, loyalty, and the role of government in society. Private letters, intimate diaries, and newspaper accounts reveal how the Declaration of Independence grew from draft to founding document. 1776: Declaring Independence spotlights handwritten […]
Join Ghlee Woodworth for a walking tour focused on the memorials of Newburyport’s Black community and Revolutionary privateers. Wander through Newburyport’s historic Highland Cemetery with a special guide - noted author and historian Ghlee Woodworth, a 12th generation Newburyport native. During this special event, Woodworth will focus on the memorials of Newburyport’s once-thriving Black community, […]
Explore major Massachusetts events in the first year of the American Revolution at the Old State House, where protest turned into action and the momentum for independence accelerated. Created through a partnership between Revolutionary Spaces and the Massachusetts Historical Society, The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement invites visitors to step into 1775 […]
A walk-about tour around the Common of the Church of the Transfiguration, Rock Harbor, Orleans June 22 to July 12, Mon–Sat (except Wed.) 10am–5pm, and Sunday 11am–12 noon; Free Admission. Take an outdoor stroll to revisit our history—culture, science, faith, politics, commerce, and constitutional rights—and meet many heroes, known and unknown, along the way who made […]
Patriots of Color, a new exhibit in the Family Heritage Experience at American Ancestors, sheds light on the overlooked histories of Black, Native, and multiracial men and women who fought, labored, and led in the struggle for American independence across all thirteen colonies. Through documents, personal narratives, and digital interactives, the exhibition uncovers the courage […]
We are proud to introduce our most ambitious exhibit ever, titled “Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State,” made possible by a grant from Massachusetts 250 and the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism (MOTT). Through rare artifacts, photographs, and documents, this exhibit will tell the story of Massachusetts brewers from the Pilgrims to […]
In Stoneham, the shadows of colonial fires and twentieth-century neon flicker side by side. Few realize how many secrets linger behind these iconic facades. This self-guided audio tour leads straight through the city’s untold stories. Encounter corners and chapters that even locals walk past, and let carefully crafted tales reveal what hides beneath the ordinary. […]
Meet historian Norah Van Riper in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, for Independence on Foot, a spirited walking tour exploring Martha’s Vineyard’s revolutionary past. Beginning at the Vincent House Museum, this 90-minute walking tour connects Edgartown sites, stories, and civic ideals - bringing the Island’s role in the American Revolution and its independent spirit to life. Participating […]
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 […]
Staged at Historic Deerfield, A Stake in the Ground: 1774 is a series of three site-specific plays, set in Deerfield, MA, on the eve of the American Revolution. Each performance includes all three plays and will end with a post-show conversation. In the summer of 1774, seeds of revolution begin to germinate in Deerfield when […]
Learn about the revolutionary ideas and historical legacy of Mary Baker Eddy (1821-1910) — one of the only women to found a worldwide religion — in a temporary exhibit this spring and summer at the Christian Science Plaza celebrating MA250: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy. This free exhibit is part of the interactive […]
