Celebrating 4th of July at Encore Boston Harbor

5 Things to Do in Boston for 4th of July

Last updated June 2024

Boston is home to America’s biggest 4th of July events and Encore Boston Harbor puts you in the spirit of freedom, fun and a good time for all with our tips on the things you must do in Boston on this very special day. From baseball to a true taste of the city and can’t miss cultural events, there’s no better time to experience the riches of the Cradle of Liberty.

Fenway Park Tour

Fenway Park gate entrance in Boston

If you’re a Red Sox fan, or a history buff, or simply drawn to legendary American sports venues, here’s something to tic all the boxes. Fenway Park, widely referred to as, “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” has been the team’s home in the heart of the city since 1912.

Ballpark tours are available daily, year-round, with a variety of options including a 60-minute guided tour exploring the historic grounds of the park complete with team, ballpark and player history. They even have a “Fenway in Fifteen” experience for fans who want to see the historic park but don’t have time for the full hour tour that includes a visit to the Nation’s Archives at the Royal Rooters Club and the Right Field Roof Deck with a stunning panoramic view of the ballpark and the Boston skyline.

Go for a Lobster Roll

Lobster roll at On Deck Encore Boston Harbor

For those who want to make it more than a one day affair, Boston Harborfest starts on Monday, July 1 and continues through Thursday, July 4 ending with the Boston Pops Fireworks. Harborfest features hundreds of activities over Independence Day at Boston’s historic landmarks. It is one of the largest events of its kind in America, including historical reenactments, an arts market, Chowderfest, where Boston restaurants and bars compete to determine who makes the best clam chowder, live musical entertainment, and more. On Tuesday, July 2, Boston Harborfest hosts its own fireworks at Long Wharf starting at 9:15 p.m.


Take the Free Water Shuttle

Free water shuttle to Encore Boston Harbor

No one wants to deal with parking or driving on a holiday, which is why the free water shuttle which runs from Long Wharf North and Lovejoy Wharf to Encore Boston Harbor might just be the ticket of the summer. Our luxury motor yachts depart day and night, and it is an experience that makes getting to the resort just as fun as being at the resort — plus, it is a great way to reach other events going on in the city during the 4th of July holiday without sitting in traffic. In addition to the Encore Premium Harbor Shuttle, local water taxis and private vessels may use the Encore Boston Harbor boat dock to drop off and pick up visitors. Reservations for short-term dockage are available through Dockwa.

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

Fireworks show in Boston

While staying at the Forbes Travel Guide® Five-Star rated Encore Boston Harbor, we recommend that guests take in the city’s rich culture offerings and during the 2024 Independence Day celebration there is no more thoroughly Boston event to attend than the legendary free Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. This takes place on the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade, with a performance by headliner and Tony-winning actress and Broadway star, Kelli O’Hara.

Joining O’Hara on the Esplanade stage are the Americana group The Mavericks, soul singer Darlene Love, and the Singing Sergeants from the United States Air Force Band. The concert begins at 8 p.m., and the half-hour fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. The spectacular finale is accompanied by Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture ending with drum rolls and cannon fire as church bells ring throughout the city. The best way to get to the Pops concert and Boston fireworks show is by public transportation and walking, as parking is very limited in the area and crowds will be dense.

Boston Harborfest

4th of July celebrations in Boston

For those who want to make it more than a one day affair, Boston Harborfest starts on Monday, July 1 and continues through Thursday, July 4 ending with the Boston Pops Fireworks. Harborfest features hundreds of activities over Independence Day at Boston’s historic landmarks. It is one of the largest events of its kind in America, including historical reenactments, an arts market, Chowderfest, where Boston restaurants and bars compete to determine who makes the best clam chowder, live musical entertainment, and more. On Tuesday, July 2, Boston Harborfest hosts its own fireworks at Long Wharf starting at 9:15 p.m.