photo tagged "bostonist" by sekbaavi on Flickr
Got your foam hats, flag shirts, and star-shaped glasses ready for the festivities tomorrow? No? Neither do we. Bostonist will be staying far, far away from the Esplanade tomorrow. We’ll watch the fireworks, for sure - but we’ll pass on the crowds gathering to watch the Pops. Sorry, Neil Diamond.
In addition to grilling and hanging with friends, you can guarantee we’ll be doing something relating to Boston history. After all, there’s no better day to recognize the important role Boston has played in American history than July 4th. If you’re looking to do the same, here are a few historical things to do in and around the city.
- The Old North Church has guided tours every few hours tomorrow (they recommend buying tickets in advance), and they’re holding two events about the church’s gardens and bells. If you’re hosting out-of-towners, they’ll probably like to see this church of “one if by land, two if by sea” fame.
- If the weather holds up tomorrow, take a sightseeing harbor cruise - the Boston Harbor Islands played a major role in early Boston history. Boston Harbor Cruises has cruises with historic narration at 11:00, 1:00, and 3:00. And if you secretly like sea shanties (because, c’mon, who doesn’t?), the Jolly Rogues will be singing Revolutionary War-era songs at George’s Island in the afternoon.
- Spend the afternoon exploring Minuteman National Historical Park in Concord and Lincoln. Managed by the National Park Service, it was at this site that the opening battles of the American Revolution took place. They have a 3 ½-hour walking tour of Battle Road Trail starting at 12:30. Bring your own three-cornered hat.
- For $5, you can get a full tour of the Adams National Historical Park in Quincy. A trolley takes you around to the birthplaces of John Adams and John Quincy Adams, with guided tours in both. And at 12:00 and 3:00, there will be participatory reenactments of the Second Continental Congress and the passage of the Declaration of Independence. So you can pretend to be Samuel Adams, and then later drink his namesake beer. Or drink then delegate. Whatever works.
So - barbecue, beers, and history. We’re all over that. Even if you’re not into the big events in the city, you have to admit - Boston is a great place to celebrate Independence Day.
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