With the official start of summer behind us and July creeping at our doorstep, it’s that time of year when we’re squeezing in as many patios, parks and Palomas as we can. For those who aren’t escaping down to the Cape, there’s plenty to see and do in Dorchester and throughout Boston this Independence Day weekend including:
Cookout
Having a backyard cookout for the Fourth? The Daily Market can help you with when it comes to the meat you’re grilling. From hot dogs and hamburgers, to side dishes, the Daily Market has everything from fresh produce to desserts to make your get-together perfect!
Comedy Night at Dorchester Brewing
Check out some stand-up comedy at Dorchester Brewing Company featuring comedian
Corey Manning and others. Friday, June 30 at 8pm.
Let’s go camping
State campgrounds open for camping season on July 1st. You can make reservations and lean more here!
Beer + wine for your July Fourth celebrations
American Provisions will make sure your July Fourth celebration has the perfect selection of wine and beer! AP Dorchester also offers meat + cheese boards and desserts
Check out the Cows
The cows are moooo-ving in! Seventy-five decorated cows have been placed around Boston for the New England Cow Parade to celebrate 75 years of The Jimmy Fund. These life-sized cows have been sprinkled throughout Boston neighborhoods at highly trafficked public landmarks such as Boston Common, City Hall Plaza, and Fan Pier Park. Each cow has been designed by a local New England Artist in celebration of the great impact the Jimmy Fund has had over the last 75 years. You can visit the cows until September 4th – check out their locations here. You don’t want to miss this legend-dairy event!
See a Play
Share your thoughts and ideas about climate change at a community event and local original play – DORCHESTER WEATHER. The play, led by Dorchester resident, Boston Artist in Residence, and theater artist Jaronzie Harris, explores how environmental issues are disproportionately affecting the community. Friday, June 30 at 6:30pm.
Caught in Chinatown
Don’t miss the Chinatown Main Street Summer Festival. The annual event features a lion
dance, Chinese folk dance, food vendors, street shops and more. Saturday, July 1 from 10am to 6pm at the Rose Kennedy Greenway.
One Last Pride Event at City Hall
Finish out PRIDE month with Boston Urban Pride events hosted by the Boston Lesbigay
Urban Foundation in collaboration with Diggity Dom. Join for Sunday’s music and arts festival spotlighting local QTBIPOC emerging artists. Downtown at City Hall Plaza on Sunday, July 2 from 12pm to 6pm.
Free Admission to Harvard Art Museum
If the weather doesn’t cooperate this weekend, spend some time indoors enjoying the now Free Admission to Harvard Art Museums. The museums are open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday, 10am to 5pm (except major holidays). Details here.
Boston Harborfest
Celebrate America’s Independence at Harborfest! From June 30th thru July 4th, enjoy family fun events like boat tours, kids activities, historical reenactment, walking tours, street markets, food, fun, and of course, fireworks! Over 200 events are happening in the city and on the harbor. Check out event updates on the Harborfest Facebook Page, and on Twitter, or follow the conversation using #BostonHarborfest.
Baby, You’re a Firework
On Saturday, July 1, head to the Seaport District to see fireworks along the water via HarborFest around 9:30 p.m. Spots to watch – the Barking Crab, Envoy’s Outlook rooftop or Cisco Brewers Pop Up. For a romantic pick – head to Mastro’s Ocean Club.
Turn it around
USS Constitution is scheduled to go underway from Charlestown Navy Yard on July 4th at 10:00 a.m in honor of Independence Day! USS Constitution’s cruise will be viewable from the Boston Harborwalk, Castle Island, and Charlestown Navy Yard. There will fire a 21-gun salute viewable from Fort Independence on Castle Island at approximately 11:30 a.m. While you’re out at Castle Island, you might as well get some lunch or ice cream at Sullivan’s! The turnaround will commemorate the 247th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
And be sure not to miss the Boston POPS Fireworks Spectacular featuring the Boston
Symphony Orchestra. This signature event returns to the Charles River Esplanade again this year on Tuesday, July 4, starting at 8 p.m. Musical guests include En Vogue, Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez + country duo LOCASH. The fireworks display over the Charles River begins at 10:30 pm but you’ll want to arrive when the event gates open at 12pm to secure a spot. Heading to the Esplanade? Read this first!
What other events are on your radar for the weekend? Share the details with us in the
comments below.
Angela Hernandez is a freelance writer and communications professional who is passionate about showcasing the fun, caring and inclusive community that is Dorchester. Imported from Detroit, she’s been getting lost in Boston since January of 2020. Sometimes a runner and always a brunch fan, you can usually find her at Carson Beach or the Harp + Bard, depending on the day. Follow her on Instagram @Ang7690
