MA250

Calling All Kids, Patriots And Sailors: Revolutionary Summer Saturdays
2026-07-04 10:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Fourth Of July Community Day
2026-07-04 10:00 - 16:00 | Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Visitors can enjoy free admission to the Museum on the Fourth of July and enjoy special family activities and food trucks. Hear a gallery talk on with Museum staff on the Revolution and its legacy at 12pm.
Visitors will:
-See the original Paul Revere lantern and dozens of objects that witnessed the founding of our nation,
-Explore the new special exhibition, Revolutionary Legacies,
-Listen in on a gallery talk with museum staff,
-Join fun family activities and enjoy food trucks.

The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement
2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-05 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
2026-07-04 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.

July 4th Celebration at Old North Church
2026-07-04 10:00 - 18:00 | Old North Church, Salem Street 193, Boston, MA, 02113, United States
If you will be in the Boston area for July 4, we hope you’ll join us for our annual Independence Day celebration! Throughout the day, there will be dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence in the sanctuary, complete with booing and hissing at the mention of the king.
In our courtyard, the delightful musical duo Tripp and Toddy will entertain visitors with period music and stage a “duel to the death.” We will also offer guided tours of Old North’s crypt, where 1,100 people were laid to rest, and bell ringing chamber, where Paul Revere rang bells as a teenager.
Schedule of Events
Readings of the Declaration of Independence: 11:00am, 1:30pm, 3:00pm
Music and Fun with Tripp and Toddy: 12:00pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm
Crypt Tours: 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:00pm, 3:30pm, 4:00pm, 4:30pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm
Bell Chamber Tours: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm
Instead of our regular ticket options, we are offering a July 4th Pass that includes a self-guided tour of our beautiful sanctuary, our award-winning history exhibit, our fun family scavenger hunt, dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence, and performances by Tripp and Toddy. The July 4th Pass is available online now.
Add-on tours of the crypt and bell chamber will be available for purchase on site on Independence Day.

LIVE: July 4th Reading of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-04 10:00 - 23:00 | 12 Church Street, West Boylston, MA 01505, Church Street 12, West Boylston, MA, 01583, United States
The public is invited to join the Freemasons of West Boylston, MA as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, America’s 250th birthday and the beginning of our nation’s Semiquincentennial celebrations.
Bring your family to this outdoor event before your other celebrations (Rain or Shine) to hear a live reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of Boylston Lodge, portrayed by patriotic gentlemen, recalling the spirit of 1776. See an authentic United States flag that once flew over George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and learn about its place in our early national story.
Be part of history as we gather for group photos (and take your own) that will be sealed in Boylston Lodge’s 150th Anniversary Time Capsule, to be opened during our Lodge’s 200th Anniversary ceremony in July 2076—America’s 300th birthday.
Come celebrate faith, family, fraternity, and freedom with West Boylston Freemasons as we honor the timeless words that launched a nation. A wonderful free family educational experience!
We will start promptly at 10 AM you should schedule 30-40 minutes for the entire event. Free parking on-site in our lot or nearby street.
Location: Outdoors: Masonic Lodge 12 Church Street, West Boylston, MA 01505

Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence (Danvers)
2026-07-04 10:30 - 12:15 | Peabody Institute Library of Danvers, Rotary Pavilion, Sylvan Street 15, Middleton, MA, 01949, United States
All are welcome to read a part in this year’s Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence, the document that led to the formation of these United States. Please arrive at the Rotary Pavilion at the Peabody Institute Library of Danvers by 10:30 if you wish to participate. Reading begins at 11:00 a.m. Sponsored by Danvers 250 Committee.

Freedom Trail Foundation Rainbow Revolutionaries Tour
2026-07-04 10:45 - 12:15, 2026-07-05 10:45 - 12:15 | Robert Gould Shaw & 54th Regiment Monument], Tremont Street 139, Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, United States
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 individuals, from literary giants to a world-renowned actress, and even a Revolutionary war hero. Join in to bring this history to life and celebrate Pride by discovering the achievements of the people who have always been a part of and have helped shape Boston.
PLEASE NOTE: The tour features sites in Beacon Hill, where bricked sidewalks and hills can be difficult to traverse while using mobility aids.

Independence 250: Readings of the Declaration of Independence (Peace field Grounds)
2026-07-04 11:00 - 11:30 | Adams National Historical Park: Old House at Peace field, 135 Adams St, Quincy, 02169, United States
Lend your voice to these live public readings of the Declaration of Independence 250 years after it was adopted. The 11 a.m. reading will be under the tent on the Peace field grounds. The 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. readings will be held at the Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill, the Adamses’ home during the American Revolution.
Get the details on this special program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at https://www.nps.gov/adam/planyourvisit/250-anniversary.htm.

Revolution 250 Salem Tour
2026-07-04 11:00 - 12:30, 2026-07-05 11:00 - 12:30 | Salem Historical Tours, Central Street 8, Salem, Massachusetts, 01970, United States
Everyone knows Salem for the 1692 Witchcraft Trials, but did you know that Salem made significant contributions to the American Revolution? The shot heard round the world almost happened in Salem, the town was known for its Privateers (legal Pirates) who were the most successful against the British Navy and British military governor General Thomas Gage encountered some of his biggest challenges to his authority in Salem.
We always say that without Salem, the United States may not be the same United States we know today.
Come to Salem as part of the Rev250 Celebration and learn the incredible role our patriots played in the start of our country.
https://www.salemhistoricaltours.com/revolution-250-tour

United States Semiquincentennial Observance & Celebration
2026-07-04 11:00 - 15:00 | Thomas Smith House, North West Street 251, Agawam, Massachusetts, 01030, United States
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime event as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
• Community picnic – BYOB (Bring Your Own Basket)
• Reading of the Declaration of Independence
• Archeological dig at the Thomas Smith House
• Dedication of time capsule
• Bell ringing at 2 pm – BYOB (Bring Your Own Bell)
• Encampment, musket drills, and living history demonstrations of eighteenth century home and work life by 25th Continental Regiment and Green Valley Homestead
The c. 1757 Thomas Smith House and 1920 Delmore Hawthorne Garage will also be open for tours.

Brewing Massachusetts: How Beer Shaped the Bay State
2026-07-04 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.

Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-04 12:00 - 12:30 | Amherst Town Hall, 4 Boltwood Avenue, Amherst, MA, 01002, United States
The Amherst Historical Society will be presenting a communal reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon on Saturday, July 4th from the steps of the Amherst Town Hall. The event will be marked by the ringing of church bells throughout the town at noon, followed by a summoning of the community to Town Hall by the blowing of a conch shell. Historically, a conch shell was used to call the residents of Amherst to gather to conduct town business. The Historical Society has several examples of conchs used by town officials over the years, including the original dating back to the 18th century. The conch to be used was purchased for the event and is not historic.
Members of the Town Council will present a proclamation and after that, Representative Mindy Domb will begin the reading with the Preamble. The public is invited to join in following the opening statements, particularly with the section that begins, “We hold these truths…” Individual readers from the community will be reading in turn the rest of the document. The event will conclude with a non-denominational benediction from Father Valentine Nworah of the Newman Center and close with a musical offering.

AudaTours Stoneham Audio Tour: Timeless Tales of Historic Pride and Heritage
2026-07-04 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.

City of Quincy Maritime Festival
2026-07-04 12:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-05 10:00 - 13:00 | marina bay, 333 Victory Rd, Quincy, 02171, United States
Mayor Tom Koch & the City of Quincy proudly invite residents and visitors alike to celebrate Quincy’s rich maritime heritage in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Held along the Marina Bay Boardwalk, the Quincy Maritime Festival returns as a free, family-friendly Independence Day weekend celebration showcasing the City’s deep connection to the sea, shipbuilding, and coastal traditions. The three-day festival will feature live entertainment, historic reenactments, children’s parades, maritime activities, and waterfront attractions for all ages.

Independence 250: Readings of the Declaration of Independence (Adams Farm at Penn's Hill)
2026-07-04 13:00 - 13:30, 2026-07-04 15:00 - 15:30 | Adams Farm at Penn’s Hill, 141 Franklin St, Quincy, MA, 02169, United States

Boston: Harbor History Waterfront Walking Tour
2026-07-04 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.

Declaring Independence Then & Now
2026-07-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Lexington Depot, 13 Depot Square, Lexington, 02420, United States
This dramatic presentation, created by Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area, aims to find out how our local towns read and reacted to the Declaration of Independence. Across the colonies, and particularly in Massachusetts, towns debated what freedom meant to them, and grappled with the grievances aired in the official Declaration. What did the words in the final document mean to them? Costumed re-enactors will bring life to the words of the past, with narration by former State Representative Jay Kaufman. Rounding out our evening will be a performance by the Lexington Historical Society Colonial Singers. Some of our favorite tunes from the 18th century were highly political, and many of them were also taken from popular English military music!
We hope you join us for this all-ages introduction to our founding document and its legacy.

Boston Pops Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
2026-07-04 19:00 - 22:00 | DCR Hatch Shell, Charles River Esplanade, 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA, 02114, United States
Celebrate July 4th with the Boston Pops and maestro Keith Lockhart and special guest stars. 2026 marks the 51st year of the Fireworks Spectacular and Lockhart’s 30th anniversary as Pops conductor. This event is free and open to the public.

4th of July Firework Viewing at Battleship Cove
2026-07-04 19:00 - 22:00 | Battleship Cove, Water Street 5, Fall River, Massachusetts, 02721, United States
See the City of Fall River, MA fireworks display in honor of the 4th of July from the deck of the USS Massachusetts (BB-59). Tickets are $15.00 per child ages 4-12 and $18.00 per adult ages 13+ (price does not include Fare Harbor processing fees).
Gates open at 7:00 PM. All guests will need to go through a security checkpoint prior to entry, and all bags will be checked for restricted items. There is no smoking anywhere on the property. The fireworks are put on by the City of Fall River, at 9:00 PM, and the museum is not responsible for delays or cancellations. Refreshments will be available for sale at the Battleship Snack Shack.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit www.battleshipcove.org, or call 508-678-1100.

Special Exhibit: Mary Baker Eddy and Her Revolutionary Legacy
2026-07-05 | 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

Patriotic Hymn Sing!
2026-07-05 08:00 - 17:00 | Arts Empowering Life Performing Arts Center, Southern Eagle Cartway 95, Brewster, Massachusetts, 02631, United States
July 5 at 3:30 pm
Performing Arts Center, Brewster, MA
As we honor America’s 250th Birthday, let’s celebrate together in song—America the Beautiful, God of Our Fathers, Simple Gifts, and other favorites! Free for all and refreshments provided. Info: 508-240-2400 | artsempoweringlife.org Free admission for all.

Reading of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-05 09:05 - 09:15 | Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Congress Street 306, Boston, Massachusetts, 02210, United States
Did you know the Declaration of Independence was read aloud in Boston for the first time by a Boston Tea Party Participant?
Join interpreters of the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum for a daily reading of the sacred founding document.
Wednesday, July, 1st through Sunday, July, 5th at 9:05am.

Independence 250: Stories of the American Revolution
2026-07-05 10:00 - 16:00 | Adams National Historical Park: Old House at Peace field, 135 Adams St, Quincy, 02169, United States
Learn more about the many stories of the American Revolution through ranger talks and special programs.
Get the details on this special program for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at https://www.nps.gov/adam/planyourvisit/250-anniversary.htm.

Independence on Martha's Vineyard: Then, Now & Forever
2026-07-05 11:00 - 2026-09-06 14:00 | Vincent House, Main Street 99, Edgartown, Massachusetts, 02539, United States
Independence on Martha’s Vineyard: Then, Now & Forever is an immersive exhibition that explores how independence has shaped the Island over 250 years. Through historic objects and storytelling, this exhibit reveals the distinct culture of self-determination and the lasting influence of Revolutionary ideals on Vineyard life. Exhibit open Tuesdays-Saturdays, July 4-September 5: 11:00am-2:00pm.
The Vincent House, the Vineyard’s oldest home, is the stage for this exhibit, which is presented as part of the Commonwealth’s MA250 commemorations, made possible by the Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation and the MV Mass Cultural Council.
