Few cities in America have the historic importance that Boston does, and on the Fourth of July that history and nationalistic spirit are expressed to the fullest with Harborfest—a massive celebration of our country’s birth befitting the epicenter of the nation’s struggle for independence. Here’s a few of the Harborfest highlights that patriotic partiers throughout the Hub will want to make sure they don’t miss leading up to the Fourth of July.

FOR THE KIDDIES
Once summer arrives, kids have one thing on their minds: Fun. Luckily, Harborfest is jam-packed full of opportunities for participating pipsqueaks to have fun and actually learn something, too. (Shhhhh! Don’t let on.)

The New England Aquarium (refer to wildlife listing) brings its popular harbor seals to the forefront July 2–4 at 9:45 a.m., with a free show called “Whiskers, Fur and Flippers.” Or, if your tykes are hooked on Jack Sparrow, bring them to the Samuel Adams statue at Faneuil Hall, where local tour company Boston By Foot (refer to tours and trails listing) sends groups on Captain Kidd’s Treasure Hunt, complete with real pirate map.

And on July 2, the whole day is devoted to the young, as Harborfest hosts their 13th annual Children’s Day at City Hall Plaza, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Organizations from around the city will be on hand to provide entertaining and educational programs, and there’ll be live entertainment from jugglers Fly By Night and musicians The Wayne Potash Band.

ON THE WATER
With so much of America’s fight for freedom having happened around historic Boston Harbor, it’s hardly surprising that many of the activities on Independence Day involve getting out on the water in one way or another. Check out these ways to embrace your inner sea dog.

Both Massachusetts Bay Lines and the New England Aquarium (refer to cruise listing and whale watch listing) are hosting Whale Watch Cruises July 2–4 at 8:30 a.m., taking whale-lovers out into nearby Stellwagen Bank to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants.

On July 2 & 3, Liberty Fleet (refer to cruise listing) welcomes guests aboard the Liberty Clipper for Tall Ship Sails, beginning at noon, departing from Central Wharf. Rabblerousers-in-training can also hop on the Clipper daily at 3 p.m. (July 2–4) to partake in a re-enactment of the Boston Tea Party, throwing overpriced tea into the harbor and firing off cannons.

And on July 4, Boston’s favorite ship—the USS Constitution—springs into action, as “Old Ironsides” honors the nation with an 11 a.m. Turn-Around Cruise through Boston Harbor, complete with 21-gun salute. Call 617-242-5671 for more information.

THE MAIN EVENT
Of course, many visitors to the Hub looking to celebrate Independence Day cram in all their Harborfest activities by July 3—because they plan to spend the big day itself picnicking on the Charles River Esplanade and staking a claim for the best possible spot to watch the Boston Pops perform their July 4 spectacular at the Hatch Shell, a tradition that dates back to 1924. The event traditionally draws close to a half-million spectators, and this year, the Pops are joined by true-blue American rock ’n’ roller John Mellencamp for a spirited and patriotic display of classical bombast.

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