The Hatch Shell was completed in 1940. In 1974 the concert expanded to include canons, bells, and fireworks, and for its bicentennial performance in 1976, the Pops drew a crowd exceeding 400,000, thus setting an all-time record for a classical music concert. The Boston Pops annual concert is free and open to the public. Other Local Festivities for the Fourth While Boston's celebration on the Esplanade takes center stage, numerous other events occur throughout the area on the days surrounding the Fourth. The Boston Harborfest, which runs along the waterfront for the first week in July, hosts more than 200 events for revelers of all ages.
Most events contain an element of education in the mix of celebratory patriotism.
Activities include walking tours, concerts, historical reenactments, food and drink events, and a special Children's Day, Chowderfest, and Fireworks SkyConcert. The East Boston Waterfront Festival pulls together a number of artistic, athletic, and cultural events for the entire family. Of course, in Boston you need not even venture to a Fourth of July festival to celebrate the importance of American independence. If you'd like to make your travel plans now, please turn to our Reservations page. To ask a question or to see other travelers' opinions, try our Travelers' Exchange .