For 250 years, Boston Harbor has been a stage for transformation—shaping the course of history, democracy, and innovation.
It was here, in these waters, that the first ripples of revolution began.
The Boston Tea Party sent a bold message of defiance across an empire. Steps from the Harbor, the Boston Massacre ignited the call for liberty. Signals from the Harbor helped set Paul Revere’s midnight ride into motion, rallying the colonies to war. The arrival of the Continental Army’s first naval fleet marked the birth of an American fighting force shaping the waterfront for centuries, while the British retreat and the destruction of Boston Light signaled a turning point in the fight for independence.
Today, the Harbor continues to evolve. It is a place of conservation and resilience, a landscape of equitable access, a living link to the past, and a source of hope for the future. In partnership with dozens of public agencies and community organizations, Boston Harbor Now is proud to present a slate of Revolution 250 programs that bring these stories to life. We invite you to explore the events that shaped a nation, to stand where history unfolded, and to see how the Harbor remains a force of inspiration, change, and strength.
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Revolutionary Harbor: Boston Harbor and the Battle of Bunker Hill
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, we invite you to join National Park Service ranger Savannah Rose as she explores how Boston Harbor helped to shape the Battle of Bunker Hill.
- Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 6:00 pm-7:30 pm | REGISTER
Revelry and Revolution: An Evacuation Day Harbor Cruise
A 2-hour excursion through the Boston Harbor that tells the real history of the British evacuation of Boston in 1776. Enjoy historical music and merriment aboard the cruise!
Saturday, March 22, 2025 | 1:00 pm-3:00 pm | REGISTER
Revolutionary Harbor: Seaweeds of Boston Harbor and Beyond
Learn about the fascinating world of seaweeds! Boston Harbor hosts a rich diversity of seaweeds, including dense kelp forests and fields of calcified red algae. What exactly are these slimy marine organisms and how important are they to the environment in our backyard?
- Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 6:00 pm-7:30 pm | REGISTER
Paul Revere’s Ride to Revolution: A Commemoration of Revere’s Legendary Departure from Boston on April 18, 1775
Honor the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride with a variety of events happening at the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, the Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum, and the Charlestown community throughout the evening. Various locations – all elements FREE.
- Friday, April 18, 2025 | 5:30 pm-8:30 pm | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
Two if By Sea, Evening Harbor Cruise from Long Wharf – Boston Harbor Now and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
Embark on a captivating one-hour cruise through Boston Harbor and witness Paul Revere’s legendary midnight crossing to Charlestown. Experience history come to life as a costumed reenactors recreate Revere’s daring journey, signaling the start of the American Revolution. Enjoy stunning waterfront views, live narration, and an immersive glimpse into this pivotal moment in history.
- Friday, April 18, 2025 | 8:00 pm-9:00 pm | Long Wharf North | REGISTER
Public View of the Crossing of Paul Revere
Step back in time and witness history come to life on Boston Harbor! Join us for a public viewing of the dramatic reenactment of Paul Revere’s legendary crossing of Boston Harbor. Experience the sights and sounds of colonial America with fife and drum music, family-friendly activities, and a dazzling display of lanterns lighting up the night. This unforgettable event celebrates the spirit of the Revolution!
- Friday, April 18, 2025 | 8:15 pm-9:00 pm | Langone Park | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
Battle of Chelsea Creek Commemoration
Honor the 250th anniversary by learning about the Battle of Chelsea Creek and its role in the Revolutionary War with a community event on Saturday in Chelsea and boat cruise in Boston Harbor on Sunday.
- Saturday–Sunday, May 24–25, 2025 | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
The 250th Commemoration of the Battle of Bunker Hill
- Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
Battle of Bunker Hill Parade
- Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
New Year’s Eve on the Waterfront
Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with the annual New Year’s Eve Waterfront Ice Sculpture Stroll themed: We the People.
- Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025 | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
250th Anniversary of Evacuation Day
Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Evacuation Day and marking the end of the Siege of Boston, when the British left Boston Harbor.
- Thursday, March 17, 2026 | Save the date! Come back soon to learn more.
Ongoing Events
Boston Lighthouse Cruises and the 250th Anniversary of Siege of Boston
Join this weekly tour to learn more about Boston Harbor’s role in the the Revolutionary War and the Siege of Boston.
- Select dates between June 28 – September 20, 2025 | REGISTER
REVOLUTIONARY HARBOR LECTURE SERIES
Join the National Parks of Boston for this special winter lecture series, which runs monthly from January through March.
- Honeybees and the Impacts of Colonialism on Insects | Thursday, January 23, 2025 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | REGISTER
- Boston Harbor and the Battle of Bunker Hill | Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 6:00pm – 7:30pm | REGISTER
- Seaweeds of Boston Harbor and Beyond | Thursday, March 27, 2025| 6:00pm – 7:30pm | REGISTER
SUPPORT OUR PROGRAMS!
Boston Harbor Now is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our programs would not be possible without the support of our generous donors. We hope you will consider joining your neighbors with a gift in support of our community programming.
