Boston Harborfest 2023 [07/01/23]

Boston Harborfest is a 42-year-old tradition celebrating Boston’s maritime and revolutionary history. With hundreds of activities over Independence Day weekend at Boston’s best landmarks, this family-friendly event is one of the country’s largest Fourth of July festivals. Activities include the annual opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, boat tours, live entertainment, fireworks over Boston Harbor, and much more.

Boston Harborfest is a beloved tradition celebrating Boston's harbor and history. Returning in 2023 from July 1-4. View the schedule here.

H I G H L I G H T S

Boston Harborfest Kick-Off

Public officials and hospitality leaders will help kick off Boston Harborfest 2023 with the ceremonial cake cutting and giveaway. Roving reenactors and staff from the USS Constitution will engage with visitors, while the Massachusetts 215th Army Band will begin an afternoon of performances in Downtown Crossing.

Friday, June 30 • 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

The Franklin Steps, Downtown Crossing (intersection of Franklin and Washington Streets)

Music & Live Performances

Living historians and an array of local musical acts across all genres will perform in Downtown Crossing, free and for all to enjoy. To see the full schedule of performances, please visit the Schedule page.

Friday, June 30 – Monday, July 3 • Noon – 8:00 PM (approximate)

The Franklin Steps, Downtown Crossing

Pre-Fireworks Concert

Join us in Christopher Columbus Park for a concert featuring local talent performing a broad and diverse range of musical genres, and let the excitement grow for the evening fireworks.

Saturday, July 1 • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Boston Harborfest Fireworks

Visible from several vantage points along the Inner Harbor, the Harborfest Fireworks return to provide a spectacular display for all to enjoy. The fireworks will be launched from a barge at Boston’s Long Wharf.

Saturday, July 1 • 9:15 PM

Long Wharf – Boston Inner Harbor

Waterfront Concert and Artisan Market

Enjoy an afternoon of diverse live music and children’s activities within the breezy confines of Cristopher Columbus Waterfront Park, and stroll the adjacent Greenway Artisan Market.

Performers: Java Jukebox • Kamryn Palmer • Amanda Mena • Sons of Levin

Sunday, July 2 • 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park & Rose Kennedy Greenway

Chowderfest

Grab a bowl and join the action at the annual Chowderfest. Sample delicious chowders from the best local restaurants. Free to all while supplies last.

Monday, July 3 • 2:00 PM

Washington Street (between Winter and Bromfield Streets), Downtown Crossing

The City of Boston’s Independence Day Celebration

The brief ceremonial parade steps off from City Hall to the Granary Burying Ground for a wreath laying on the graves of patriots, and continues through Downtown Crossing to the Old State House, where the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company will continue its tradition of reading of the Declaration of Independence from the historic site’s balcony. Parade viewing will be available along the route and in Downtown Crossing.

Tuesday, July 4 • 9:00 AM

City Hall Plaza to Downtown Crossing

Boston Harborfest 2023

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