Boston Harborfest

July 1-4, 2024

Celebrate Independence Day 

The 43-year-old Harborfest is always the best birthday party in the country! What better place to celebrate the nation’s independence than on the streets and places where it happened?

Photo courtesy of Boston Harborfest

Boston Harborfest Schedule of Events / Highlights

MONDAY, JULY 1, 2024

Public Announcement & Kick-Off

NOON @ The Summer Street Stage

With Mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu, President & CEO of Meet Boston, Martha Sheridan, roving re-enactors, staff from the USS Constitution and the Massachusetts 215th Army Band.

Re-Enactors & Entertainment

2:00- 6:00 PM @ The Steps of Downtown Crossing

Enjoy free, local performances of all musical genres.

TUESDAY, JULY 2, 2024

Christopher Columbus Park

1:00- 6:00 PM

Join us at Christopher Columbus Park on the Rose Kennedy Greenway for sponsorship activations, kids activities, and entertainment!

Chowderfest Tasting

2:00- 4:00 PM @ The Steps of Downtown Crossing

Grab a bowl and join the action at the annual Chowderfest. Sample delicious chowders from the best local restaurants. Free to all while supplies last.

Pre-Fireworks Concert

6:00- 9:00 PM @ Christopher Columbus Park

Join us for a concert featuring local talent performing a broad and diverse range of musical genres, and let the excitement grow for the evening fireworks.

Boston Harborfest Fireworks

9:00- 9:15 PM @ Boston Harbor

Visible from several vantage points along the Inner Harbor, the Harborfest Fireworks return to provide a spectacular display for all to enjoy. The fireworks will be launched from a barge at Boston’s Long Wharf.

Best vantage points include: Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park; Fan Pier; Flagship Wharf; Piers Park, East Boston; LoPresti Park, East Boston; Griffin’s Wharf

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3, 2024

21-Gun Salute! 

11:30AM @ Fort Independence, South Boston

Constitution will depart Charlestown Navy Yard, cruise through Boston Harbor, and pass Fort Independence in South Boston at 11:30 AM for a 21-gun salute! 

Christopher Columbus Park

1:00- 6:00 PM

Join us at Christopher Columbus Park on the Rose Kennedy Greenway for sponsorship activations, kids activities, and entertainment!

Macy's Great American Fashion Show

2:00- 3:00 PM @  Outside Stage @ Summer Street Plaza

The Macy's Fashion Show in Boston, MA is a highly anticipated annual event that showcases the latest trends and styles from renowned fashion designers. Held at the outside stage at Summer Street Plaza, this glamorous affair attracts fashion enthusiasts, industry professionals, and curious shoppers alike. Attendees are treated to an immersive experience, with music, lights, and a vibrant atmosphere, making the Macy's Fashion Show a must-attend extravaganza for fashion lovers in Boston.

Huzzah! Salute to Service Block Party

4:00- 8:00PM @ Charlestown Navy Yard

Welcome the ship back to the Navy Yard, and enjoy live music, lawn games, USS Constitution-themed mini-golf, special service projects to honor our military, and much more!

THURSDAY, JULY 4, 2024

USS Constitution Turnaround Sail

10:00am @ Rowes Wharf
(Ship will return around 1-2 p.m)

Prepare to witness the majestic USS Constitution sail past Long Wharf!

Reading of the Declaration of Independence

10:00am@ the Old State House

The Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Boston, MA is a cherished tradition that brings history to life. Held annually, this event gathers crowds in historic locations such as Faneuil Hall or the Old State House to witness the powerful words of the founding document being recited. With passionate speakers and a reverent atmosphere, this reading commemorates the spirit of liberty and serves as a reminder of the ideals that shaped the nation's journey towards independence.

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

8:00PM @ DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade

The Boston Pops July 4th Spectacular is slated to take place at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Esplanade starting at 8:00pm. Keith Lockhart will lead a program featuring the Boston Pops orchestra with special guests.

The concert ends at 10:30pm with a fireworks display from 10:30-11pm (subject to change).

More Boston Found podcasts are available on our podcast page or wherever you get your podcasts.

More Boston Found podcasts are available on our podcast page or wherever you get your podcasts.