In Greater Boston, the Fourth of July includes a number of annual traditions: music at the Hatch Shell, the presentation of the Declaration of Independence, and the reading of Frederick Douglass’s speech “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?

Boston, MA- 7/4/25- The gates opened at noon at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River, welcoming in thousands of attendees to the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on July Fourth. Attendees bring umbrellas and tents to offer shade as they wait for the concert to begin at 7pm followed by fireworks. (Heather Diehl for the Boston Globe)

Boston's Fourth of July parade highlighted the city's unique connection to American history, drawing visitors from across the country to celebrate freedom and unity.