Where to Watch Fireworks on the Fourth
New perspectives on an old tradition
Sure, you can join the hundreds of thousands of people on the Esplanade for the 37th Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on Sunday, July 4. Or, you could look around for an alternative, one that might trade proximity to the Hatch Shell for easier access, both coming and going. Wherever you go, remember the advantages of public transportation. A list of road and bridge closures for July 3 and 4 is on the Department of Conservation and Recreation website.
Also important: water, mosquito repellent, a picnic basket, and a radio to hear the Pops play while you watch.
Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
The Esplanade, Boston
The free Pops concert starts with the National Anthem at 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 4, but spectators must arrive early in the day to get a good seat. Craig Ferguson, host of the Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson, is back this year to host the show, and country artist Toby Keith will perform. The fireworks display will feature more than 20,000 pounds of explosives.
Other places to watch the Boston fireworks
Mass Ave Bridge or Longfellow Bridge
Sitting in a boat on the Charles River may be the best way to watch the display, but the bridges across the Charles offer the same under-the-fireworks feeling. Both bridges will be closed to cars.
Along the Charles River, Cambridge
From the Cambridge side of the Charles, particularly on the MIT campus, spectators can still hear the music, and they’ll have less company. They may even have a better view of the fireworks.
Larz Anderson Park
23 Newton St., Brookline
Larz Anderson Park is a popular spot for families to watch the Boston fireworks. There’s more room for picnics and games.
Oakley Country Club
401 Belmont St., Watertown
Park at the entrance of this golf course and follow the crowds to the highest points of the course. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy the show.
West Beach, Beverly Farms
Fireworks start blasting over West Beach at 9 p.m. Click herefor more information.
Russell J. Halloran Field and Sports Complex, Newton
Albemarle Road, Newton
Newton’s “master of fireworks,” otherwise known as Tony Gentile, has been a fireworks expert for more than 30 years; he promises this year’s show, at 9 p.m. at Albemarle Field, will be the biggest yet. Click here for more information.
Lake Quannapowitt, Wakefield
Fireworks start at dusk. Call 781-246-6390 for more information.
Winthrop Harbor, Winthrop
The fireworks display over Winthrop Harbor starts at dusk on Sunday, July 4.
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