Boston
Fireworks explode over the Charles River with the city of Cambridge in the background during Boston Independence Day celebrations July 4, 2013. Mario Tama/Getty Images

In the city tied to the start of the American Revolution, Fourth of July celebrations are serious business. From hearing the Declaration of Independence read out loud to watching fireworks light up the sky above the waters where colonists once dumped British tea, here’s a look at fun, patriotic celebrations across Boston for the long holiday weekend.

Saturday

Boston’s Harborfest is back and going strong with plenty of events scheduled for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Take a walking history tour, attend an 18th century chocolate making demonstration and end the day with live music and fireworks on the long wharf at 9:00 p.m. EDT. Most events are free but check here to be sure.

Sunday

Enjoy Harborfest during the day and some beer in the evening. The fifth annual Samuel Adams Independence Bash starts at 9:00 p.m. EDT. Enjoy live music and some brews. Check here for all the details.

If beer isn’t your drink of choice, cap off the evening with some music at 8:30 p.m. EDT with the Boston POPS show. Gates open at 5 p.m. EDT. The orchestra will play at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. Expect the same music as Monday night minus the fireworks.

Monday

For a patriotic start to your Independence Day celebrations, watch a flag raising ceremony at City Hall Plaza followed by a parade to the Granary Burial Ground. Wreaths will be laid at the cemetery where famous Americans including Samuel Adams and John Hancock are buried. The parade keeps going to Boston’s Old State House where at 10:00 a.m. EDT the Declaration of Independence will be read aloud.

The holiday will be capped off by the Boston POPS Orchestra and fireworks show. Starting at 8:30 p.m. EDT the orchestra will play at Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. Singers Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas will headline the show. Seating is free to the public, but arrive early to get a good spot. For those of you taking it easy at home, the fireworks show will be broadcast on CBS starting at 9:00 p.m. EDT.

Check the Boston MTA’s website for its full Fourth of July schedule here. Happy Fourth of July!

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