This year's Independence Day marks a historic milestone as the nation celebrates America's 250th birthday. While Boston's famous Harborfest and Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will once again draw huge crowds, many local communities are hosting their own celebrations filled with hometown charm. From parades and carnivals to concerts, family activities, and fireworks, here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in the towns north and northwest of Boston.
Acton – Independence Day Celebrations take place on Thursday, July 2 at NARA Park. The festivities include free swimming and beach access, games and a DJ, food vendors, and a welcome from the Acton Minutemen. The evening concludes with live music from The Boss Project, a Bruce Springsteen tribute band, and a laser light show in honor of America's 250th birthday.
Arlington - gather at Robbins Farm Park on 4th of July from 6pm for a free music concert from favorite oldies band The Reminisants, followed by a broadcast of the Boston Pops concert and the fireworks live on the big screen!
Chelmsford – the traditional Chelmsford Parade - one of the state’s biggest - is planned for the Fourth in the town. Warm up to the celebrations with the Chelmsford Art Festival (July 2nd – 3rd) The Lions Club Country Fair (July 3rd) on the Town Common, and the John Carson Road Race right before the parade.
Concord – Join the 49th Annual Picnic in the Park from 11am – 4pm on the Fourth at Emerson Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy the children’s parade, live music and other family fun activities. The Concord Museum is also hosting a special Community Day, with free admission and special programming on Saturday, July 4th
Harvard – The Independence Day event, hosted by Harvard Lions Club is Harvard’s hometown celebration and longest-running tradition. Join them on July 4th from 9am – 12pm to enjoy antique cars, a bike decorating contest, and of course the parade.
Lexington – the annual Lexington Lions Club 4th of July Carnival is in town from July 1st - 5th, with fireworks on evening of Thursday, July 2nd.
Lincoln – the town is hosting a day of celebration for 4th of July, including the Firecracker run, a Parade, the children’s bike parade, cook out, and a town-wide free swim at Codman Pool!
Sudbury – the Fourth of July Parade moves off from Chiswick Park at 1pm – expect floats and banners from the local community celebrating this year’s theme “We the People 01776”
Wakefield – the biggest parade in Massachusetts, the Wakefield Independence Day Parade draws thousands to celebrate on 4th of July. The parade steps off at 5pm on a 2 mile route to the center of Wakefield, followed by live music and ending with fireworks over Lake Quannapowitt.
Want to learn more about the Patriot's Trail region of Northwest Boston? Visit our Explore the Area pages or reach out to one of our local real estate advisors!