Welcome to Boston, our city where every cobblestone echoes with the triumphs of our nation’s founding and the bricks whisper with history from our founding. This year, we are immensely proud to host the Semiquincentennial—the 250th Anniversary of the United States.
Staying with us at Clarendon Square means immersing yourself in Boston’s living breathing history of our beautiful city and country. Our historic 1860s townhouse stands as a testament to Boston’s enduring architectural and cultural heritage, offering an elegant retreat in the very city that birthed the American spirit. From the tea-stained waters of our harbor to the lantern-lit steeple of the Old North Church, there is no place on earth more fitting to celebrate the enduring legacy of our country. Immerse yourself in a sophisticated and authentic celebration for the United States 250th birthday… after all Washington D.C. was not even invented then!
To mark this incredible milestone, Boston is hosting extraordinary, once-in-a-generation events. Below is your curated guide to experiencing the 250th Fourth of July celebrations.
Boston Harborfest 2026
Dates: Thursday, July 2 – Saturday, July 4, 2026
As one of the nation’s largest Independence Day festivals, Harborfest is transforming the city’s waterfront and historic downtown into a vibrant, multi-day celebration of America’s 250th year.
Thursday, July 2 at 12:00 PM: The official Kick-Off Ceremony at Downtown Crossing, featuring historical reenactors, the 215th Army Band, and city officials.
Thursday, July 2 at 9:15 PM: A spectacular pre-Independence Day fireworks display launched from a barge at Long Wharf, illuminating the inner Boston Harbor.
Saturday, July 4 at 10:00 AM: The Annual Reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House. Hearing these immortal words spoken from the very balcony where Bostonians first heard them read aloud in 1776 is a profoundly moving experience.
The MA250 Signature Event: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Location: DCR Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade
For the Semiquincentennial, the legendary Boston Pops performance has been elevated and officially designated as the Massachusetts 250 Signature Event. This is not your standard Fourth of July show; it is an expanded historical tribute featuring world-class musical talent, patriotic pageantry, and the stirring 1812 Overture accompanied by actual cannon fire from the Massachusetts National Guard.
7:00 PM: The 250th Anniversary Concert begins, led by maestro Keith Lockhart.
Visit New England
9:00 PM: A commemorative, synchronized Drone Show takes to the sky above the river.
9:15 PM: The grand MA250 Fireworks Finale erupts over the Charles River, anchoring the state’s tribute to the nation.
If you are not able to join us in Boston for the 250th celebration extravaganza we do hope that you consider this as a standing invitation to come explore, experience and add to the rich history that has shaped our country and world.
Happy 4th of July to you, to Massachusetts and to these United States of America. Where we believe in our founders promise of liberty and justice for all.
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