What is Boston Harborfest?

If you want to celebrate Independence Day in proper patriotic style, head for Boston, Massachusetts. The annual Boston Harborfest is a multi-day 4th of July celebration featuring hundreds of events throughout the historic city. Many events are free. Harborfest attracts more than 2.5 million visitors to Boston each July, making it the nation's largest patriotic celebration.

When is Boston Harborfest?

Boston Harborfest usually begins several days before the 4th of July. For 2015, the dates for the 34th annual Boston Harborfest are Wednesday through Sunday, July 1-5.

What Are the Highlights of Boston Harborfest?

Boston Harborfest features a variety of historic tours, concerts, Revolutionary-era reenactments and children's activities. Highlights of the annual event include a rare chance to see the USS Constitution below the water line in dry-dock (July 1-7), Rock the Fort on Georges Island, tall ship cruises, a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old North Church on July 4 and the 4th of July fireworks over the Charles River, accompanied by the Boston Pops. The annual Chowderfest will not be held in 2015.

How Can I Learn More About Boston Harborfest?

Visit the Boston Harborfest Web site for a complete daily schedule of events in and around Boston this 4th of July. You can also obtain Harborfest information by calling toll free, 888-SEE-BOSTON.

Updates are available on Facebook and Twitter, as well.

A separate Web site devoted to Boston's Fourth of July Pops Concert and Fireworks at The Esplanade has helpful details on where to park, how to be among those who score a spot inside the Oval and even how to join in the celebration from home if you can't make it to Boston. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is celebrating its 42nd anniversary in 2015, and featured performers include singer Michael Cavanaugh and the Boston Crusaders Drum & Bugle Corps. For the third time in more than 20 years, the show will not be broadcast on national TV, although it can be tuned in locally in Boston on CBS affiliate WBZ. You can also watch a live stream of the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular during the  free Webcast of the event beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern on July 4. Want to avoid the 4th of July crowds? Attend the July 3 dress rehearsal on the Esplanade: same concert, no fireworks.

How Do I Get to Boston Harborfest?

The Boston Harborfest information booth is located at City Hall Plaza, where many of Harborfest's main events also take place, so this is a good central location from which to set out on foot or via the "T," Boston's subway, to enjoy the variety of Harborfest happenings. The Harborfest Web site has directions and a map, which shows parking locations near City Hall Plaza.

Are There Any Getaway Packages for Boston Harborfest?:

Yes! Avoid the 4th of July crowds by booking the Liberty Hotel's Boston Pops Dress Rehearsal Package for the night of July 3: It includes an overnight stay and two reserved seats at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular exclusive dress rehearsal.

You can also compare July 4 rates and reviews for Boston hotels with TripAdvisor.

Other Helpful Resources for Boston Travelers:

Boston Travel Guide

Boston Hotels

Must-See Sights in Boston

The Best Boston Discount Programs for Travelers