Vacations Blog

Boston Pops and Fourth of JUly

If you find yourself in Boston for the Fourth of July weekend, it is incumbent upon you to take in the spectacular yearly celebration at The Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade. Founded in 1974 by Boston-area businessman and philanthropist, David Mugar, the event was designed to breathe new life into the dying Esplanade concert series. Mugar approached famed Boston Pops conductor, Arthur Fiedler, and suggested that the Pops perform Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with “a few added extras.” Howitzer cannons, church bells and fireworks were added to the concert “so that, in Arthur Fiedler’s own words, “All hell could break loose.”"

Now in its 36th year, the performance and fireworks welcome over 500,000 visitors from around the world and another seven million+ who view an hour-long special on CBS. This year, Grammy-award winning singer, Neil Diamond will perform some of his hits with the Boston Pops and, for the third year in a row, the live broadcast will be hosted by late night television host, Craig Ferguson.

Should you decide to attend, make plans to get there early. The gates for entry to the Oval (the area in front of The Hatch Shell) open at 9 am and there’s usually a “mad dash” for prime real estate. Wristbands (which allow access in and out of the Oval) are available at the gates and only until the Oval is filled, which is usually around midday. A complete schedule is available at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular Web site as well as a list of FAQs.

For lodging, please visit Uptake’s Boston page for a wide array of options. The Charles River Esplanade and The Hatch Shell also are easy to get to via public transportation: the MBTA’s (the “T”) Red Line stop, Charles/MGH, is a short walk away. Additonally, dining choices abound if you don’t feel like picnicing with 500,000 of your closest friends. Oh, and by the way, it’s free. Doesn’t get any better than that.

If you’re planning a trip, check out Boston flights.