America's fight for independence began in Boston, so what better way to celebrate Independence Day than in the place where it all started? The Boston Harborfest is the city's week-long celebration of American independence, and on July 4th the festival moves to the Charles River Esplanade for a great view of fireworks and patriotic music by the Boston Pops.
Step inside the home of an original patriot at The Paul Revere House. The home dates back to the 1680s and is still outfitted as a home back then would be; 90% of the structure is original. Paul Revere lived here during the same time period as his famous “Midnight Ride,” where he warned patriots that the British were coming. Shortly after this infamous night ride, the opening shots of the American Revolution were fired.
Learn about the important contributions made to Boston and our nation by the African American community at The Museum of African American History. This institution offers insight to the struggles, the triumphs and the stories of African Americans from the Colonial Period and throughout the 19th century. Exhibits feature important African American figures like Colin Powell, Barack Obama, and Nelson Mandela, and also showcase art works and artifacts.