This year marks the 250th anniversary of the "shot heard 'round the world" and the pivotal events that sparked the American Revolution. In the very towns where history was made, a series of commemorative events are planned around Patriots' Day weekend and beyond. Here’s a guide to the must-see activities happening in Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Arlington, and along the historic Battle Road.
Concord
On April 19th, Concord250 hosts a full day of celebrations featuring live music, living history demonstrations, and arts performances. The day begins with a dawn salute, followed by a parade and a block party, and concludes with Patriot Lights, a spectacular drone show. All events are free and family-friendly—full details are available on the Concord250 website.
On April 20th, the Tough Ruck Marathon honors fallen service members and first responders with a 26.2-mile route through Concord and neighboring towns.
Looking ahead, on May 17th, the Concord Museum presents Paul Revere’s Bike Ride—a recreational ride that traces the historic journey through Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Bedford, and Carlisle.
Lexington
Lexington’s festivities begin on April 19th with the iconic Battle of Lexington reenactment at the historic Battle Green at dawn. The day continues with a pancake breakfast, road race, additional reenactments, and a parade, culminating with a concert by the Lexington Bicentennial Band.
On Patriots’ Day (April 21st), enjoy a Revolutionary Scavenger Hunt and witness a reenactment of Paul Revere and William Dawes’ historic ride from Boston. Full event details can be found on the Lex250 website.
Lincoln
The Lincoln Minuteman are hosting a series of events across the Patriots Day weekend, including a demonstration on April 19th, the Lincoln Alarm Muster on April 20th and a dawn tribute and a commemorative march to Concord on April 21st. More details are available here.
Acton
On Friday April 18th at 6:30am, Acton Minutemen will begin their annual Isaac Davis March to mark the 250th anniversary. Later that day, the reenactment of Robbins’ Ride will take place around 5pm, with ceremonies and musket vollies at all four stops made by Captain Robbins 250 years ago.
Arlington
On April 20th, witness a reenactment of the Battle of Menotomy at the Jason Russell House, part of the 250th Celebration hosted by the Massachusetts Society and the New England District. The following day, April 21st, a special ceremony will mark the arrival of Paul Revere and William Dawes from Boston, with additional family-friendly activities planned.
Find more information on these events at the Mass250 website.
Boston
Also on April 18th, there will be a reenactment of the iconic lantern signal that begin events at the Paul Revere Mall in Boston’s North End, preceeded by a short play entitled “Revolution’s Edge”.
Minuteman National Historical Park
Throughout April, the Minuteman National Historical Park will host a variety of events, including reenactments and educational programs. Check the National Park Service website for a full schedule.
For more information about things to do in our local towns, read our blog for our realtors' recommendations on the best places to dine, shop and explore!