Where to Celebrate the Fourth of July in Boston
U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Scott Webb salutes at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. (Photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Gary Ward)
July 4 is just around corner, and you’re probably already thinking about what you’ll do in Boston to celebrate. From fireworks to fine dining, here are a few ideas to help make your Fourth of July really pop:
Harborfest
The celebration of Independence Day doesn’t have to last just one day. Boston Harborfest offers a whole slew of things to do on July 4 and the week leading up to Independence Day. Sample delicious clam chowder at the July 1 Chowderfest or catch the parade from City Hall to Granary Burial Ground on The Fourth.
For a complete list of events go to bostonharborfest.com (prices and locations vary depending on event).
Fourth of July on the Esplanade
The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is in its 39th year celebrating America’s Independence with a free public concert on the Charles River Esplanade. Emmy Award-winning actor Michael Chiklis will host. The Pops and director Keith Lockhart will also be joined by Academy Award and GRAMMY Award winner Jennifer Hudson for an unforgettable evening.
Charles River Esplanade off Storrow Drive near the Longfellow Bridge. Free public event july4th.org.
Top of the Hub
The 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower will be celebrating July 4 in style high above the Back Bay. The restaurant’s party begins at 7 p.m. with a complimentary welcome reception followed by a dinner at 8 p.m. by executive chef Mark Porcaro. The dinner will include chilled Maine lobster, pan-seared scallops, and blueberry cheesecake with raspberry mousse. The evening ends with a can’t-beat view of the Charles River fireworks at 10:30 p.m.
Top of the Hub, 800 Boylston St., Boston. $225 for reservations call 617-536-1775 ($225). topofthehub.net.
Tall Ships
This year’s July 4 celebration coincides with the arrival of the Tall Ships at the Boston Harbor. Enjoy the majestic, historic vessels while dining on one of Entertainment Cruises’ specialty cruises and celebrating the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the writing of the Star Spangled Banner. Entertainment Cruises is also offering the opportunity to win a cruise for 30 aboard its new private luxury yacht, the Seaport Elite II, on July 2. Contest entries can be submitted here: entertainmentcruises.com.
Entertainment Cruises, 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston. $56.90-151.90 entertainmentcruises.com.
Pub Crawl
The Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl skips the picnics and crowded parks and heads straight for the bar. The crawl starts at 3 p.m. — but, hey, it’s five o’clock somewhere.
$10 registration 3-10 p.m. at Good Bar 183 State Street Boston, or online at julyfourth.com.
