HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Team Hanscom personnel can attend Independence Day events happening in the surrounding area, many occurring July 1-4.
On July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies declared their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. And each year on the fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event with parades, fireworks, music, and festivals.
The following are a sampling of events taking place around the area:
Friday, June 30
Boston Harborfest Kick-Off
Ceremonial cake-cutting by public officials and live musical performances at Downtown Crossing in Boston from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Boston Harborfest includes hundreds of activities at the city’s most iconic landmarks, with historical reenactments, arts festivals, live music, fireworks, and more.
For the full schedule of events, go to https://www.bostonharborfest.com/schedule/.
Saturday, July 1
Waltham Independence Day Celebration
The City of Waltham will be conducting a fireworks display near the Moody Street Bridge and the Waltham Common beginning at dusk on Friday, July 1. For more information, go to www.city.waltham.ma.us/home/events/132586.
Tuesday, July 4
Lincoln Community Parade
The Lincoln Community Parade is being held July 4 from 10:40 to 11:30 a.m. The parade consists of marchers and decorated floats that assemble in front of the Lincoln Public Schools Administration building on Ballfield Road. The parade marches to the Lincoln Public Library and back and a panel of judges will award ribbons and a trophy for the best floats. Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary, installation command chief, along with personnel from the 319th Recruiting Squadron, will be participating.
Picnic in the Park, Concord
The 46th annual Picnic in the Park will be held on July 4 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Emerson Field in Concord. Featuring music, kid’s activities, games, food, and entertainment for all ages. For more information, go to www.concordma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1481 .
Reading of the Declaration of Independence at the North Bridge
Join park rangers and reenactors at the North Bridge in the Minute Man National Historic Park at 2:30 p.m. for a live, in-person reading of the Declaration of Independence and musket volleys in honor of American independence. For more information, go to www.nps.gov/mima/planyourvisit/special-event.htm.
BBQ at the Bedford American Legion
Anthony-Hunt-Hamilton American Legion Post 221 in Bedford is holding a BBQ on July 4 beginning at 1:00 p.m. All active-duty military are welcome to attend. For more information, call 781-275-3140.
Fireworks
The 2023 Massachusetts Fireworks Schedule lists all the towns in the state with fireworks displays and the dates, times, and locations. For information on communities close to you, go to www.masslive.com/entertainment/2023/06/2023-massachusetts-fireworks-schedule-where-to-celebrate-july-4th-in-mass.html.
Other events
The BostonCalendar.com lists dozens of free events in the Boston area. To see their listing for June 26 to July 4go to: 88 FREE things to do in Boston this week [06/26/23] (thebostoncalendar.com).