Boston Harborfest 2026

Join us as Boston Harborfest officially begins with a stirring waterfront tradition presented by Citizens Bank.

The Harborfest Opening Ceremony brings together civic leaders, maritime dignitaries, military representatives, and community partners for an unforgettable kickoff to Boston’s celebration of history, harbor, and independence. The program features ceremonial remarks, the posting of the colors, and patriotic music performed by the 198th Army Band from Rochester, New York.

The ceremony reaches its signature moment with the unveiling and ceremonial cutting of the Harborfest cake—performed in true maritime fashion as the Commander of USS Constitution uses a ceremonial saber to slice the first piece. Guests will witness this historic tradition before enjoying complimentary cake and fresh lemonade for all,
generously sponsored by Raising Cane’s.

Presented by Citizens Bank, this signature press event marks the official opening of Harborfest and launches days of celebration leading into America’s birthday in one of the nation’s most historic cities.

Come early, stay for the ceremony, and celebrate with us—because nothing says Boston Harborfest quite like history, music, and cake shared together.

From the “destruction of the tea” to the Declaration of Independence, witness the founding of a nation through the eyes of one of colonial America’s most iconic couples. John Adams will take part as a delegate in the First and Second Continental Congresses in Philadelphia, while his wife, Abigail, remains in Massachusetts as the American Revolution begins. Their correspondence allows a window into the conflicts, the struggles of the people, the tedious nature of the Congress, and a loving marriage.

This July, we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our nation. The letters of John and Abigail Adams reflect their lived experiences through this tumultuous time, and allow us to witness history in the making.

Refreshments and an assortment of cookies and scones available for purchase.

Run time is two hours with short intermission.

This performance takes place in Abigail's Tea Room at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum located at 306 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210. 

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the performance begins promptly at 7:00 p.m..

Led by the Mayor of Boston and including the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, the procession will leave Copley Square at 9:00 a.m., stopping to lay wreaths at Granary Burial Ground, and concluding with a reading of the Declaration of Independence at Old State House.
 

The Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Boston, MA is a cherished tradition that brings history to life. Held annually, this event gathers crowds in historic locations such as Faneuil Hall or the Old State House to witness the powerful words of the founding document being recited. With passionate speakers and a reverent atmosphere, this reading commemorates the spirit of liberty and serves as a reminder of the ideals that shaped the nation's journey towards independence.

As a beloved tradition that has occurred for more than two centuries, the Annual Oration has united generations of Bostonians during the Fourth of July. The Annual Oration began in 1771 to commemorate the anniversary of the Boston Massacre but eventually evolved into an event to celebrate independence. Two famous orators from the past include John F. Kennedy and John Hancock. 

The Boston Pops July 4th Spectacular is slated to take place at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Esplanade. The event is free and open to the public. Admittance to the event is on a first-come, first-served basis.