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.
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
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 […]
Join the National Park Service at Adams National Historical Park for special programming commemorating the bicentennial of the deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson and the end of the Revolutionary Era 50 years after American Independence. 10:30 a.m. - John Adams and Thomas Jefferson: Parallel Lives, Parallel Deaths outdoor ranger talk 11 a.m. - […]
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.
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 […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
Join the National Park Service at Adams National Historical Park for special programming commemorating the bicentennial of the deaths of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson and the end of the Revolutionary Era 50 years after American Independence. 10:30 a.m. - John Adams and Thomas Jefferson: Parallel Lives, Parallel Deaths outdoor ranger talk 11 a.m. - […]
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. […]
Please join us for a free A250-themed musical performance from the Plymouth Fife and Drums Corps hailing from Plymouth Michigan!
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
CHOOSE from 11 am or 5:30 pm sessions Every Wednesday in July; A Berkshire History Course 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 […]
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 […]
Darlene Wigton, director of the Lexington History Museums Colonial Dancers, will give a brief talk on the history of social dance in the American Colonies. We will be treated to a demonstration of 17th and 18th century English Country Dance, followed by instructions for anyone who would like to join in. On Sunday afternoon we […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Planned in conjunction with Norman Rockwell Museum’s American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell, this three-part musical salon series will explore how artists and songwriters have shaped the American imagination over the last 250 years. Featuring acclaimed Berkshire performers Ron Ramsay and Samantha Talora, each thematic salon blends storytelling, history and a wide range of musical genres […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
Join Russell Lord, Chief of Curator Affairs, for a tour of American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell. This thematic exhibition explores how artists over the last 250 years have represented America’s evolving story. Lord will discuss how select works on view reflect and shape American identity. The tour will also touch on the role illustration has […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
Join Mark Wilson, Director of Historic Collections, for a special curator’s tour focused on life in Revolutionary Stockbridge and uncover a powerful chapter in the history of The Mission House. Explore historic spaces, artifacts, and stories drawn from the site’s rich history, and discover how global events reverberated through this Berkshire community. Learn about Dr. […]
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. […]
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 […]
Pianist Lara Downes presents a poignant and probing concert that marks America’s 250th anniversary by celebrating the power of music to express the core essence of our founding promise featuring Theo Bleckmann, 9 Horses (Joseph Brent, Sara Caswell, and Andrew Ryan), and Vuyo Sotashe. With this nuanced exploration through the American musical landscape, Downes captures […]
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 […]
When you imagine a museum, you might picture cases of artifacts. But the objects on display at the Harvard Museum of Natural History are a tiny percentage of the total collections. Behind the scenes, experts care for 26 million specimens. These objects form the basis for studying life on Earth. They are records of the […]
Step back into the 18th century and put your detective skills to the test! Pop Quiz: 1776 takes you on a four-museum adventure to uncover surprising ways that life at Harvard was both similar to and—or different from —today. Would Harvard students in 1776 have known about the things we see and do today? Take […]
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 […]
Follow Newburyport's road to revolution through merchant mansions, taverns, privateering, shipmasters, and Market Square. Join noted author and historian Ghlee Woodworth for a walk from the 1808 Cushing House down State Street into the commercial and maritime heart of Newburyport. Hear how taverns, merchant mansions, privateering fortunes, shipmasters, and public spaces helped shape the city […]
Follow Newburyport's road to revolution through merchant mansions, taverns, privateering, shipmasters, and Market Square. Join noted author and historian Ghlee Woodworth for a walk from the 1808 Cushing House down State Street into the commercial and maritime heart of Newburyport. Hear how taverns, merchant mansions, privateering fortunes, shipmasters, and public spaces helped shape the city […]
Led by historian Rory Browne (D.Phil), this tour will uncover connections between the Zoo’s animals, landscapes and America’s past, from the colonial era and the founding of the nation to westward expansion, scientific discovery and the dawn of the modern age.
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 as we celebrate the birth of our country with our community at the beautiful Greylock Glen Center, situated at the base of Mount Greylock, the tallest mountain in all of southern New England. Join other attendees while dressed in colonial era clothing. Commemorate and celebrate the birth of our country with our community […]
In celebration of America 250, the Stoneham Historical Society and Museum in partnership with the Stoneham Historical Commission invites you to "Picnic on the Common" on Saturday July 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. So pack a picnic basket or pick up something to go from your favorite local Stoneham eatery, grab a […]
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 […]
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 […]
