Need something to do this 4th of July? Check out some of these popular Independence Day activities, handpicked by yours truly.
Spirit of Boston Dinner Cruise
Skip the congested streets of Boston and hop on the Spirit of Boston for their special Dinner Cruise. Starting at $100, this all-inclusive event offers customers a night of carefree dancing, a grande buffet and a dazzling view of Boston Harbor. Additional perks include champagne specials, cheese and fruit appetizers, and photo packages (so you can remember what a great time you had the next morning).
When: 8:00 PM- 11:30 PM
Where: Spirit of Boston dock
Price: (minimum) $100
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Kid-Friendly?: Yes
Learn about the world’s best sailboats without ever losing sight of the shore with this one-of-a-kind cruise experience. Indonesia. Brazil. Ecuador. See ships from all over the world as the Liberty Clipper takes you on an all-inclusive tour of these Tall Ships.
When: Varies
Where: 67 Long Wharf, Boston MA (docked by New England Aquarium)
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Price: $30-$50 (adults), $35-$40 (kids)
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Barbeques have nothing on this party cruise. Featuring a live DJ, plenty of alcohol and a crowd of over 900 people, the IndepenDance Party Cruise is sure to spice up your 4th of July. (Leave your kids at that barbeque you’re skipping out on, though. Stop feeling bad about it, there aren’t even fireworks on this one. They’re not missing anything. Really. Just go.)
When: 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Where: 60 Rowes Wharf, Boston MA
Price: $30
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Kid-Friendly?: No
Boston Pops Orchestra/Fireworks Spectacular
Maybe you are a fireworks fan (in which case, I apologize for bashing it earlier). If so, I suggest you check out the Boston Pops Orchestra/Fireworks Spectacular, a cherished Boston tradition that is free and fun for everyone. (Not to bribe you with the possibility of meeting a celebrity but rumor has it that Jennifer Hudson is making a guest appearance this year. Hint hint.)
When: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM (though guests are suggested to arrive around 2:00 PM)
Where: Banks of Charles River in the Oval
Price: Free
Reservations Needed?: No (but admittance is on a first come, first serve basis)
Kid-Friendly?: Yes
Waltham 4th of July Celebration
Let’s say you don’t want to get trampled by the Boston crowds or struggle with impossible transit to and from the city. This family-friendly celebration in Waltham, MA allows you to celebrate your independence without all the added chaos. Featuring pony rides, animal shows, music and plenty of food, Waltham’s 4th of July Celebration has everything you need to enjoy this holiday the old-fashioned way.
When: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Prospect Hill Park, Waltham MA
Price: Free
Reservations Needed?: No
Kid-Friendly?: Definitely yes
Take a break from the crazy, Charles river commotion and celebrate this 4th of July with Community Boating Boathouse’s “Sailabration,” complete with an unobstructed view of the POPS fireworks, gourmet burgers, face painting and more!
When: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Where: Community Boating Boathouse on the Esplanade
Price: $50-$100 (kids12 and under are free)
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Kid-Friendly?: Yes
I haven’t forgot about you, night owls. Ocean Club at Marina Bay offers monthly music events for the more adventurous crowd. This July 4th, come to this outdoor entertainment complex to dance the night away with DJ Alesso.
When: 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Where: The Ocean Club at Marina Bay
Price: $40
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Kid-Friendly?: No
Here in Boston, we take pre-gaming to the extreme. This 4th of July, join the 21+ crowds in their annual Red, White and Brew Pub Crawl in their effort to hit all the best bars in town. Starting July 3rd, participants can get discounts at selected pubs around Boston and flaunt their patriotism with pride.
When: July 3rd/4th
Where: All over Boston!
Price: $20-$80
Reservations Needed?: Yes (passes required to receive discounts)
Kid-Friendly?: No
Celebrate this 4th of July the New England way with a special Independence Day Clambake! Clam chowder, steamed lobster, mussels, potatoes, dessert and a ferry ride all for only $80? Sounds too good to be true.
When: July 1st-July4th, 6:15 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Spectacle Island (boards at Long Wharf, Boston MA)
Price: $35-$80
Reservations Needed?: Yes
Kid-Friendly?: Yes
For a more low-key option, walk over to Copley Square for a day of shopping, dining and people-watching.
When: Anytime!
Where: Copley Square, Boston MA
Price: Free!
Reservations Needed?: Nope!
Kid-Friendly?: Yes