What is Boston Harborfest?:
If you want to celebrate Independence Day in proper patriotic style, head for Boston. The annual Boston Harborfest is a multi-day Fourth of July celebration featuring hundreds of events throughout the historic city. Many events are free. Harborfest attracts more than 2.5 million visitors to Boston each July, making it the nation's largest patriotic celebration.
When is Boston Harborfest?:
Boston Harborfest usually begins several days before the 4th of July. For 2013, the dates for the 32nd annual Boston Harborfest are July 2-7.
What Are the Highlights of Boston Harborfest?:
Boston Harborfest features a variety of historic tours, concerts, Revolutionary era reenactments and children's activities. Highlights of the annual event include
Chowderfest (on Sunday, July 7 in 2013), a unique opportunity to sample Boston's best chowder concoctions, and the 4th of July fireworks over the Charles River, accompanied by the Boston Pops.
How Can I Learn More About Boston Harborfest?:
Visit the Boston Harborfest Web site for a
complete daily schedule of events in and around Boston this Fourth of July. You can also obtain Harborfest information by calling 617-227-1528.
A separate Web site devoted to Boston's Fourth of July Pops Concert and Fireworks at The Esplanade has helpful details on where to park, how to be among those who score a spot inside the Oval and where to find the best fireworks viewing locations. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2013, and featured performers will include Grammy-winning blues musician Susan Tedeschi, singer/songwriter Howie Day, American Idol alum Ayla Brown and versatile musician and vocalist Ellis Hall. The show will be broadcast live on CBS if you can't make it to Boston for the 4th.
How Do I Get to Boston Harborfest?:
The Boston Harborfest information booth is located at City Hall Plaza, where many of Harborfest's main events also take place, so this is a good central location from which to set out on foot or via the "T," Boston's subway, to enjoy the variety of Harborfest happenings. The Harborfest Web site has
directions and a map, which shows parking locations near City Hall Plaza.
Are There Any Getaway Packages for Boston Harborfest?:
Yes! The Lenox Hotel offers a
Festivities & Fireworks Package July 4, 2013 that includes overnight accommodations, dinner for two in City Table and a Beer/Wine/Champagne Rooftop Reception with fabulous views of the city's fireworks display.
Avoid the 4th of July crowds by booking the Liberty Hotel's Boston Pops Dress Rehearsal Package for the night of July 3: It includes an overnight stay and two reserved seats at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular exclusive dress rehearsal.
Also, book direct with Expedia and find the top 10 Boston hotel deals for July 4.
Other Helpful Resources for Boston Travelers:
