MA250

The Aspirations of Ordinary People - Stories of the American Revolution from a local perspective
2026-07-09 08:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-10 08:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-11 08:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | North Andover Historical Society, 800 Massachusetts Ave., North Andover, 01845, United States
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 and justice. Their ideals and aspirations are the standards by which we measure our progress today.
Come discover the amazing stories brought to life at the North Andover Historical Society (NAHS) through REV250, a series of programs and exhibits dedicated to the American Revolution.
The exhibit will be open every week, Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm Please check the website for more information.

Collecting Wonders: Tomorrow’s Discoveries
2026-07-09 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-10 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-11 09:00 - 17:00 | Harvard Museum of Natural History, Oxford Street 26, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, United States
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 planet from different times and places. Objects span billions of years and come from every continent, ocean, and beyond. They are stone and bone, plant and animal, feather and fossil.
Since the early days of Harvard University, collections have been central to teaching and research. People continue to study these collections and uncover knowledge. Come explore some treasures of the collection!
Explore historic specimens presented to mark the 250th Anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence on June 27.

1776: Declaring Independence
2026-07-09 09:30 - 16:00, 2026-07-10 09:30 - 16:00, 2026-07-11 09:30 - 16:00 | Massachusetts Historical Society, Boylston Street 1154, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States
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 copies of the Declaration by John Adams and Thomas Jefferson as well as multiple early printings, including a rare Dunlap broadside. On and off the page, we explore how it echoed across the commonwealth and around the world, reshaping the colonists’ chances of launching a new nation. How did the Declaration change Americans’ quest for liberty, then and now? We invite visitors to trace the Declaration’s complex legacy as a national beacon for celebration and protest.
Check here for closures and more admission information: https://www.masshist.org/visit/hours-and-admission

The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement
2026-07-09 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-10 10:00 - 17:00 | Old State House, 206 Washington St, Boston, MA, 02109, United States
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 and 1776—a moment defined by uncertainty, debate, and decisions that would reshape the world.

Patriots of Color Exhibition
2026-07-09 10:00 - 18:00, 2026-07-10 10:00 - 18:00 | Family Heritage Experience, Newbury Street 97, Boston, Massachusetts, 02116, United States
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 and resilience of those whose contributions helped shape a new nation, even as they continued to confront inequality and enslavement.
Bridging past and present, Patriots of Color highlights the voices of descendants who are reclaiming these stories today—connecting revolutionary ideals of freedom and justice to the ongoing pursuit of equality in America.
Entrance to the exhibit is included in admission to the Family Heritage Experience and can be purchased either in person or online.

AudaTours Stoneham Audio Tour: Timeless Tales of Historic Pride and Heritage
2026-07-09 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-07-10 12:00 - 14:00 | Nobility Hill Historic District, Stoneham, Massachusetts, 02180, United States
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.
Why did a quiet night at the Bernard Cogan House erupt into controversy that changed a neighborhood? Who vanished beneath the glowing beacon of Stoneham’s eerily beautiful gas station? What explains the perfectly preserved pencil marks under the Warren Sweetser House staircase?
Move between centuries as you cross storied main streets and hidden lanes. Each step peels back another layer of rebellion, ambition, and intrigue, letting Stoneham rise up around you as never before.
Tap play and see how deep Stoneham’s shadows can stretch. The secrets are waiting.

Salt and Survival: The Untold Story of the Revolution
2026-07-09 13:00 - 2026-08-29 16:00 | Jericho Historical Center, Old Main Street 90, Dennis, Massachusetts, 02670, United States
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 and their ingenuity. Captain John Sears of Dennis designed the first saltworks, using solar evaporation to produce the salt essential for preserving fish and eliminating the dependance on imported goods.
At the Jericho Historical Center discover the history of the first saltworks, explore a detailed model, see a demonstration of solar evaporation, and view photographs and early artifacts.
In addition, tour an historic full cape house built in 1801, and occupied by the Baker family until 1955, containing 19th century furnishings, textiles, paintings and keepsakes. In the barn, tools and equipment from the 1800s are displayed, as well as a carriage that raced at Riverside Trotting Park. The General Store is a reminder of the important role such gathering places played in the community’s economic and social life. Of special interest is the cranberry exhibit which tells the 200-year-old story of cranberry cultivation; an industry that began in Dennis in 1816!

Boston: Harbor History Waterfront Walking Tour
2026-07-09 15:30 - 17:00, 2026-07-10 15:30 - 17:00 | Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center, Atlantic Avenue 191 W, Boston, MA, 02110, United States
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.
This 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.
Hub 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.

Special Exhibit: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy
2026-07-10, 2026-07-11 | How Do You See the World? experience, Massachusetts Avenue 210, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
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 How Do You See the World?® experience, exploring the world through a lens of hope, progress, and generosity. Walk through the three-story, stained glass Mapparium® globe (ticketed) that shows the world as it was in 1935 — from the inside of the world, looking out. You can then explore “Our World: Mapping Progress,” an exhibit featuring stories from The Christian Science Monitor, the Pulitzer Prize-winning international news source headquartered in the building. Learn more about Eddy’s remarkable life and the global church she founded in “Christian Science and Mary Baker Eddy.”
This special exhibit will be open through spring and summer 2026 as part of the statewide MA250 celebrations. Tickets for the Mapparium® globe are free for youth under 18, $6 for adults. All other exhibits, including this special exhibit, are free.
Hours of operation:
Monday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
The How Do You See the World?® experience is located at 210 Massachusetts Ave. in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay.
For additional information and to buy tickets to the Mapparium® globe, please visit christianscience.com/howdoyouseetheworld

Sail Boston 2026 Harbor Spectacular + Suite Stay at Boston Marriott Long Wharf
2026-07-10 08:00 - 2026-07-12 17:00 | boston marriott long wharf, State Street 296, Boston, Massachusetts, 02109, United States
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, a Tall Ships viewing cruise with Boston Harbor City Cruises, including convenient boarding just steps from the hotel at Long Wharf, a dinner featuring iconic New England flavors, and daily breakfast at Waterline.
Perfectly positioned along the waterfront, Boston Marriott Long Wharf places you at the heart of the festivities, with a harbor-view suite offering a front-row perspective of the Tall Ships activity throughout the weekend. The hotel blends luxury accommodations with unparalleled access to one of Boston’s most celebrated maritime events.
Your stay is enhanced with thoughtful touches throughout: daily breakfast for two, complimentary parking, a special welcome amenity, and no destination fee. This is a rare opportunity to experience the Tall Ships in true Marriott Bonvoy® style.
Experience Includes:
Two-night stay in a Panoramic View Suite at Boston Marriott Long Wharf, checking in Friday 10 July and checking out Sunday 12 July
Friday 10 July
Check in to your harbor-view suite at the hotel
Specially curated dinner for two (2) at Waterline, featuring classic New England flavors and sweeping views of the harbor
Saturday 11 July
Breakfast for two (2) at Waterline
90-minute Tall Ships viewing cruise for two (2) with Boston Harbor City Cruises, offering an unforgettable up-close perspective of the maritime spectacle
Sail Boston fireworks at Boston Harbor after dusk
Sunday 12 July
Farewell breakfast for two (2) at Waterline
Check out of the hotel

Pop Quiz: 1776
2026-07-10 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-11 09:00 - 17:00 | Harvard Museum of Natural History, Oxford Street 26, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, United States
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 a guess, then search for specific objects across our four museums—the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, the Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East, and the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments—to check your answers.
Pro tip: join us any Sunday–Friday 11:00 am–4:00 pm to access all four museums!
Check museum’s website for closure dates.

Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State
2026-07-10 11:30 - 16:30 | Indian House Memorial, Old Main Street 107, Deerfield, MA, 01342, United States
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 the present. This exhibit will be held in a rebuilt Revolutionary era tavern and tickets will be $5. Come see it starting May 30th at 107 Old Main Street in Deerfield at the Indian House Memorial.
No state has been more impacted by brewing than Massachusetts. But this story hasn’t been told in one place, until now. “Brewing Massachusetts” will be open during the 250th anniversary of 1776, a landmark nationwide event that will shine a spotlight on American history. We want to incorporate the entire state in our celebration of the History of Brewing, and what better way than to include all of Massachusetts.

Vineyard Preservation Trust Walking Tour: Independence on Foot
2026-07-10 14:00 - 2026-09-26 15:30 | Vincent House, Main Street 99, Edgartown, Massachusetts, 02539, United States
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 families receive a President’s for Kids activity book.

18th Century Tavern Night at The Historic Winslow House
2026-07-10 18:00 - 21:00 | 1699 Isaac Winslow House, 634 Careswell St, Marshfield, 02050, United States
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 the crown. Families welcome!
Ales, cider, mulled wine, as well as non-alcoholic tonics from our cash bar will be available

A Stake in the Ground: 1774
2026-07-10 18:30 - 20:30 | historic deerfield, 84B Old Main Street, Deerfield, Massachusetts, 01342, United States
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 a Liberty Pole is brought to town. The characters in three new one-act plays explore the political divisions, tangled family relations, and the complexities of enslavement from all sides. Join this vibrant, immersive examination of the historical split that will define America.
Produced by Plays in Place, written by Talya Kingston, Valyn Lyric Turner, and Patrick Gabridge, and directed by Brianna Sloane, “A Stake In The Ground: 1774” will be performed outdoors at the locations* near where the characters lived in the past, including outside the Ashley House, the Allen House, and the Stebbins House.
Location & Logistics: The production is performed outdoors at the locations near where the characters lived in 1774, including the Ashley House, the Allen House, and the Stebbins House. *
Weather Policy: Shows take place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, the production will move indoors to the Deerfield Community Center.
Accessibility: Most performances (except for the weekend of July 31–August 2) are held outside. The audience will walk to each location along paved, municipally-owned sidewalks and will be seated on folding chairs on grassy surfaces.
Join us for this vibrant and immersive exploration of the seeds of revolution!

My Dearest Friend: A Play About John and Abigail Adams
2026-07-10 19:30 - 21:30 | Colonial Chorus Players (Reading), Main Street 1149, Reading, Massachusetts, 01867, United States
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 Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois

Sail Boston 2026 Meet Boston Parade of Sail
2026-07-11 09:00 - 16:00 | Boston Harbor, Long Wharf 66, Boston, Massachusetts, 02110, United States
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 North End, and Charlestown.

Calling All Kids, Patriots And Sailors: Revolutionary Summer Saturdays
2026-07-11 10:00 - 13:00 | Custom House Maritime Museum, Water Street 25, Newburyport, Massachusetts, 01950, United States
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 stations. Rolling River Printmakers of New England will partner this week with an activity station to make prints. A rideable dolphin and elephant, courtesy of local sculptor Jeff Briggs, along with a bouncy castle, pirate boat with water guns, plus water, sand and craft tables await.
This free program runs from 10 am to 1 pm thanks to generous sponsorship from the Institution for Savings and the Local Cultural Council.
Looking ahead, in September, the museum is pleased to partner with Imagine Studios on a fascinating project to burn and carve out of a pine log and shape into a 20 foot long mishoon (dugout canoe) using traditional methods. Led by Imagine Studios, Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag and Jonathan Petty of the Aquinnah Wampanoag will carve over successive weekends. Sponsored by the New England Foundation for the Arts, and with in-kind support from New England Development, the goal is to launch on Indigenous Peoples Day on Oct. 11.
We hope you can join us.–James
