Event Highlights
Boston Harborfest Kick-Off
A public kick-off with public officials and hospitality leaders will help kick off Boston Harborfest 2023. Roving reenactors and staff from the USS Constitution will engage with visitors, while the 215th Army Band will begin an afternoon of performances in Downtown Crossing.
Friday, June 30 • 1:00 PM
Downtown Crossing
Live Performances and Entertainment
Downtown Crossing will host a variety of musical acts that will be free and open to the public. Focusing on local groups that highlight Boston’s vibrant and diverse music scene, talented artists will take the stage to provide live entertainment throughout the weekend. To see the full schedule of performances, please visit the Schedule page.
Friday, June 30 – Sunday, July 2 • 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (approximate)
The Steps of Downtown Crossing
Pre-Fireworks Concert
Grab a harbor view and put down a blanket for an evening concert at the Harbor’s edge. Join us in Christopher Columbus Park for a concert featuring local talent performing a broad and diverse range of musical genres, and let the excitement grow for the evening fireworks.
Saturday, July 1 • 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Boston Harborfest Fireworks
Visible from nearly all of Boston Harbor, the Harborfest Fireworks return to provide a spectacular display for all to enjoy. The fireworks will be launched from a barge at Boston’s Long Wharf.
Saturday, July 1 • 9:15 PM
Long Wharf – Boston Inner Harbor
Chowderfest
Grab a bowl and join the action at the annual Chowderfest. This Harborfest favorite brings together samples from some of the area’s best restaurants and serves them up to guests from all over. Free to all while supplies last.
Monday, July 3 • 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Washington Street, Downtown Crossing
The City of Boston’s Independence Day Celebration
A short parade will step off from City Hall Plaza and pass the Granary Burial Ground, where wreaths will be laid on the graves of patriots. The parade continues through Downtown Crossing to the Old State House where the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company will continue its tradition of reading of the Declaration of Independence from the balcony. Parade viewing will be available along the route and in Downtown Crossing.
Tuesday, July 4 • 9:00 AM
City Hall Plaza to Downtown Crossing
*Schedule subject to change