What to know about Boston's July 4th fireworks celebration, Pops concert on the Esplanade (2024)

What to know about Boston's July 4th fireworks celebration, Pops concert on the Esplanade (1)

By WBZ-News Staff

/ CBS Boston

Robot dog spotted working security with Mass. State Police on Boston Esplanade

BOSTON - Boston's Fourth of July celebration is back on the Esplanade this year for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Last year, the Boston Pops performed from Tanglewood and fireworks were launched from the Common. The festivities were canceled altogether in 2020. But 2022 will mark a return to the Hatch Shell, with a "mega fireworks display" over the Charles River.

The show is set for Monday, July 4th from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.; the fireworks will launch at 10:30 p.m. It will be available to watch on Bloomberg's platforms. Unlike previous years, the public will not be able to watch a rehearsal on Sunday.

The event is free and open to the public; no advance tickets are needed. "The Oval" in front of the Hatch Shell will open at noon on Monday.

Legendary singer Chaka Khan will headline the lineup of performers, which also includes "The Voice" winner Javier Colon, Grammy recipient Heather Headley, the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, the Middlesex County Volunteers Fifes & Drums and the Honor Guard of the Massachusetts 54th Volunteer Regiment.

The Pops will be accompanying the artists for a patriotic sing-along and performances of their Independence Day classics.

"This year's performance of Tchaikovsky's1812Overture—with its universal messages of the right to freedom and self-determination that we honor as Bostonians and Americans each Independence Day—as well as the Ukrainian National Anthem, will be dedicated to the people of Ukraine and the courage and perseverance they have consistently shown in their struggle for their country's continuing independence," Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart says.

Those headed to see the celebration in person can bring folding chairs or beach chairs, and coolers that are carried by a shoulder strap or single handle (no wheels). Blankets, tarps, and tents/canopies (no sides) must be smaller than 10' x 10'.

There's a long list of prohibited items from Massachusetts State Police, including:

  • backpacks
  • firearms/weapons/sharp objects
  • fireworks
  • glass containers
  • cans
  • pre-mixed drinks
  • non-transparent plastic containers
  • plastic containers over 2 liters
  • grills/propane tanks/open flames
  • alcohol
  • coolers on wheels
  • drones

The State Police Bomb Squad will also be using two dog-like robots made by Boston Dynamics to clear suspicious packages and take video of potentially dangerous situations, authorities said.

The MBTA will be free after 9:30 p.m. on Monday, with Commuter Rail trains holding for 30 minutes after the fireworks.

Looking for fireworks outside of Boston?Click here to find a display near you.

Monday's weather will be critical, and there is a risk of some isolated afternoon storms. Click here to stay updated with the latest forecast.

WBZ-News Staff

What to know about Boston's July 4th fireworks celebration, Pops concert on the Esplanade (2)

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What to know about Boston's July 4th fireworks celebration, Pops concert on the Esplanade (2024)

FAQs

What to know about Boston's July 4th fireworks celebration, Pops concert on the Esplanade? ›

The festivities were canceled altogether in 2020. But 2022 will mark a return to the Hatch Shell

Hatch Shell
The Hatch Shell is named in memory of Edward Hatch, the descendant of a family with deep roots in colonial Massachusetts and a fortune made in foreign trade.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Hatch_Memorial_Shell
, with a "mega fireworks display" over the Charles River. The show is set for Monday, July 4th from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.; the fireworks will launch at 10:30 p.m. It will be available to watch on Bloomberg's platforms.

How long is the Boston Pops fireworks show? ›

The concert begins at 8pm, and the spectacular half-hour fireworks show starts at 10:30pm. A lineup of special guests joins the Pops for the concert, which takes place at Boston's historical Hatch Shell on the Esplanade, a lush river-side park.

Is the Boston Pops 4th of July concert televised? ›

If you're not attending the 2022 Boston Pops Spectacular, you can still watch the concert and fireworks display on TV or streaming online. You can also listen to the concert on the radio, on your smartphone, or online.

What time are the fireworks at the Esplanade in Boston? ›

Music and fireworks will once again ring out across the Charles River in Boston this Fourth of July, 2023! The concert kicks off at 8 p.m., and the 30-minute fireworks show starts at 10:30 p.m.

Where is the best place to watch the Boston fireworks? ›

The Harvard Bridge (also known as the Massachusetts Ave. Bridge), Longfellow Bridge and BU Bridge each provide breathtaking views of the fireworks. The Harvard Bridge is the best of the three. You'll need to find a spot several hours in advance, however.

Is there food at Boston Pops? ›

Dining During the Concert

The Pops Kitchen offers a varied menu of appetizers, sandwiches, desserts, and beverages, including beer, wine, and soft drinks. Expedite your order by scanning your table's QR code when you arrive, before the concert begins. Please note there is no service during a solo artist's performance.

What do you wear to see the Boston Pops? ›

Regular patrons of the symphony often wear semi-formal attire, so an elegant dress for the ladies and business attire for the gentlemen would be more than acceptable. You will often find that on special events like an opening night, formal attire will be required.

What channel can I watch the Boston Pops? ›

DISH: 203. DirecTV: 353. RCN: 325, 672.

What channel can you watch the Boston Pops 4th of July? ›

“The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular” will air on Monday, July 4 at 8 p.m. on Bloomberg TV. The event will continue to air until some time after 11 p.m.

Who sang in the Boston Pops 4th of July? ›

The list includes music icon Chaka Khan, Grammy- and Tony Award-winner Heather Headley and singer-songwriter Javier Colon.

Can you see fireworks from Esplanade? ›

Not only does the Esplanade Waterfront offer a stellar view of our fireworks during the countdown and National Day celebrations, it's a hotspot of activities that'll keep you occupied while waiting for the show-stopping midnight display.

Where can I watch fireworks from Esplanade? ›

Jubilee Bridge at Esplanade

The Jubilee Bridge is yet another hotspot where you can catch the fireworks up close, especially if you'll be walking around the area. The Jubilee Bridge connects The Esplanade to the Merlion Park—both of which are also amazing spots for firework-watching.

How much do the Boston Pops fireworks cost? ›

The "July Fourth Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" draws 500,000 spectators to view its show that cost a whopping $2.5 million in 2010. It's one of the most expensive and popular displays in the country.

Can you see the Boston fireworks from the Seaport? ›

Music and other pre-fireworks activation

Join the celebration before the fireworks showtime in one of our three recommended viewing areas at Fan Pier in the Seaport, Christopher Columbus Park and Piers Park in East Boston.

Where are Boston fireworks visible from? ›

There are no official public viewing areas on Boston Common, but the fireworks will be visible from Parade Ground (corner of Charles and Beacon), Frog Pond, and other areas with sightlines to the Boston Common.

Where do you park for Boston fireworks? ›

Parking Information:

If you choose to drive, there are several public parking garages within walking distance of the Esplanade. Advertisem*nt: The historic Motor Mart Garage, located at 201 Stuart Street, is an easy walk to the Esplanade, and you'll avoid traffic on Charles Street after the show by parking there.

How much does a member of the Boston Pops make? ›

Under the new contract, the BSO's 92 full-time musicians will earn a minimum of $120,000 in the first year , down from the previous base salary of $162,000. But principal players, such as leaders of strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion sections, can earn anywhere from two to four times the minimum union salary.

How much does the Boston Pops cost? ›

When shopping for your Boston Pops tickets you can expect to pay an average price of $182.50 a ticket. The most you can pay is $499.00, which is often for seats near the front of the stage. Many of the group's live shows have cheap Boston Pops tickets listed for $31.00 a ticket.

Can you bring water into Boston Symphony Hall? ›

Prohibited Items

Outside food and beverages (except bottled water), including leftovers and restaurant to-go bags. If food is required due to a medical condition, please see Security or another staff member for accommodations. Interchangeable lens camera, video, and/or audio recording equipment.

What does Pops mean in Boston Pops? ›

The "Promenade Concerts," as they were originally called, were soon informally known as "Popular Concerts," which eventually became shortened to "Pops," the name officially adopted in 1900. The following year the orchestra performed for the first time in its new home, Symphony Hall.

What do you wear to walk around Boston? ›

The best clothes to pack for Boston must provide flexibility. So, the best strategy for what to pack for changeable weather is to think in layers. Bring shirts, sweaters, vests, and jackets to layer according to how warm or cool you need to be. Ideally, at least one of these layers should be waterproof.

Will the Boston Pops holiday concert be televised? ›

There are no TV Airings of Happy Holidays With the Boston Pops in the next 14 days. Add Happy Holidays With the Boston Pops to your Watchlist to find out when it's coming back. Check if it is available to stream online via "Where to Watch".

Where does the Boston Pops perform? ›

Home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops, Symphony Hall has delighted audiences with world-renowned acoustics since its construction in 1900. This National Historic Landmark is also a popular event space, having hosted everything from weddings, to comedy shows, to squash tournaments.

Can you watch the Boston Pops? ›

About BSO NOW

BSO NOW programs are free for the 2022-23 season! Stream newly recorded video performances by the Boston Symphony, Boston Pops, and BSO musicians in chamber music, along with behind-the-scenes storytelling with conductors, composers, and musicians, plus much more.

Will there be a Boston Pops 4th of July? ›

The Oval opens to the public at noon on July 4.

How can I watch the Boston Harbor fireworks? ›

The two best city-side areas for unobstructed views will be along the downtown waterfront, stretching from Christopher Columbus Park at the border of the North End all the way south to Fort Point Channel, and along the South Boston Waterfront on the other side of the Channel. What is this?

What is the difference between Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops? ›

Founded in 1885 as an offshoot of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), the Boston Pops primarily consists of musicians from the BSO, although generally not all of the first-chair players. The orchestra performs a spring season of popular music and a holiday program in December.

Who is performing with Boston Pops? ›

Before the season closes with the joyful Gospel Night concert featuring the Boston Pops Gospel Choir and gospel superstar Smokie Norful, pianist Lara Downes and singer and actor Brian Stokes Mitchell join “America's Orchestra” for Duke Ellington Reimagined, an exploration of the indelible mark Duke Ellington and Billy ...

Who are the hosts of the Boston Pops? ›

Boston Pops Musicians
  • Keith Lockhart. Julian and Eunice Cohen Boston Pops Conductor, endowed in perpetuity.
  • John Williams. George and Roberta Berry Boston Pops Conductor Laureate.

What time is the entrance fireworks? ›

See the last sunset for 2022 with a New Year's Eve Celebration event at The Entrance. Live Music on the stage, theming, food trucks, roving entertainment and a spectacular fireworks at 9pm.

Can you see fireworks from the Riverwalk? ›

The Riverwalk is not a tour - you can go anytime you'd like. Fireworks are just off Navy Pier. You can see them from the east end of the Riverwalk , from Navy Pier or just about anywhere along the lake front during the summer on Wednesday nights at 9:30 and Saturday nights at 10:15.

What time is the Riverwalk firework show? ›

The City of Bakersfield will hold its annual Independence Day Celebration on Monday, July 4th, 2022, at The Park at River Walk. The event starts at 6 p.m. and the fireworks show is scheduled for 9:15 p.m. The fireworks show will also be streamed live on 23ABC's digital platforms.

Can you watch the fireworks from Seaport Village? ›

Some of the best places to view the fireworks show are Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Coronado Landing, and Seaport Village. The fireworks display starts at 9 pm and lasts for about 20 minutes.

Which fireworks can you see from Disney BoardWalk? ›

Can You See EPCOT Fireworks From BoardWalk? Yes, you can see the EPCOT fireworks from Disney's BoardWalk, but you're going to need to be mindful of your viewing location.

Can we see fireworks at East Coast? ›

East Coast Park

You should be able to see the higher blasts of pyrotechnics – the best views will be towards the Marina Barrage and Gardens by the Bay park connector.

Who paid for Boston fireworks? ›

Mugar helped fund the city's Family Fireworks show on First Night on New Year's Eve and was a major investor in its live music scene, partnering with Live Nation's Don Law to own and operate the Boston Opera House, Paradise Rock Club, and the House of Blues. For years, Mr.

Who pays for the Boston fireworks? ›

11: How many years Liberty Mutual Insurance has been the primary sponsor for the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular.

How much does the Boston Fourth of July fireworks cost? ›

More Than 40,000 Ballpark number of pyrotechnic shells used in the Macy's Fourth of July fireworks extravaganza in New York City, which is 55 times more fireworks than the average show in the U.S. The total cost of the show is not made public, but Boston's display, which is smaller, runs about $2.5 million.

Can you see fireworks from Gantry Park? ›

Gantry Plaza State Park — This 12-acre riverside park offers some of the best views of midtown Manhattan. With restored gantries, manicured gardens basketball courts and playgrounds, it makes going early on July 4 something to look forward to. Watch the fireworks up close from one of the four piers.

Can you see the Boston fireworks from Marina Bay? ›

Romantic ambiance of the marina lights, great view point of Boston's fireworks when you want to escape the crowd of the 4th of July. Music and good food from the restaurants at the Marina. It is a sure place to enjoy a wonderful Independence Day celebration.

Can you see Boston fireworks from Harvard Square? ›

No fireworks viewing from the Massachusetts Ave (Harvard) Bridge will be allowed.

Which city has America's largest fireworks display? ›

The annual Macy's 4th of July Fireworks celebration in New York City is the country's largest pyrotechnic show, with fireworks shot from multiple barges along the East River near the Brooklyn Bridge.

Can you see Boston fireworks from Charlestown? ›

3. Bunker Hill, Charlestown. Bunker Hill is a great place to watch the fireworks—and the location has the added bonus of being historically significant.

Can you see Boston fireworks from Prospect Hill? ›

Prospect Hill Monumentsits high above Somerville's Union Square and is a great place to watchthe Boston fireworks without the massive crowds.

How long is the Boston fireworks show? ›

Music and fireworks will once again ring out across the Charles River in Boston this Fourth of July, 2023! The concert kicks off at 8 p.m., and the 30-minute fireworks show starts at 10:30 p.m.

How early to get to the Boston Pops 4th of July? ›

The concert doesn't begin until 8:30 PM, but you'll want to get there by 10:00 AM at the very latest to secure a spot with a view of the Hatch Shell. The gates open at 9:00 AM, but people line up at the crack of dawn.

Where do you park for Boston Pops? ›

Boston Pops Symphony Hall
  • 220 Huntington Ave. Midtown Hotel Boston Garage. ...
  • 2 Cumberland St. The Greenhouse Garage. ...
  • 50 Dalton St. Hynes Auditorium Garage. ...
  • 8 Garrison St. 116 Huntington Ave. ...
  • 100 Huntington Ave. Copley Place Garage. ...
  • 835 Columbus Ave. Renaissance Garage @ Northeastern University. ...
  • 126 S. ...
  • 131 Dartmouth St.

How long should a firework finale be? ›

The shooters should be reminded they are there to shoot the fireworks and must pay attention to safety, and should not stand around and watch to much or there will be to much dead time in the air. One person should be in charge. A good fireworks show will last 10-20 minutes. It will seem longer.

How long are the firework shows at Disney? ›

Fireworks at Disneyland usually begin at 9:00 pm or 9:30 pm but are subject to change and most shows typically run approximately 16 minutes long.

Where can I watch fireworks in Boston Pops? ›

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will be broadcast on Bloomberg Television. If you have DISH or DirectTV, Bloomberg Television is on the same channel regardless of where you are in the Greater Boston area: DISH: 203. DirecTV: 353.

What is the longest running fireworks show in the world? ›

Niigata, Japan

The Katakai Festival kicks off every September and is one of the oldest firework festivals in the world, running for over 400 years. Katakai also holds the Guinness World Record for setting off the world's biggest firework, the Yonshakudama.

How high do fireworks in a show go? ›

But a very large fireworks show, like the one that takes place by the Statue of Liberty in New York City every year, uses fireworks with shells up to two or three feet in diameter (up to nearly a meter), and those fireworks often reach altitudes of well over 1,000 feet (300 meters).

How much does finale fireworks cost? ›

6 Finale Inventory prices and features
Finale Inventory VersionPriceStorage Containers / Magazines
Pyro Small$199/month10
Pyro Medium$349/month20
Pyro Large$449/month30
Pyro Custom$649/monthUnlimited
1 more row
May 19, 2023

How do big firework shows work? ›

In a computerised firework display, the pyrotechnics are detonated by electric matches, or e-matches. The e-match head contains a zirconium compound that ignites readily when heated, the heat coming from a coil of wire encasing the head.

How long does the Happily Ever After firework show last? ›

How Long is the Show? From start to finish, the Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular has a show length of 18 minutes and 21 seconds. That is approximately 2 minutes longer than its temporary predecessor Disney Enchantment.

How much does Disney spend a night on fireworks? ›

Disney Parks doesn't disclose the cost of all their firework shows, but just the nightly 'Disney Enchantment' fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom costs about $25,000 a night.

Does Disneyland pay a fine for fireworks? ›

Anaheim defines excessive noise as being a “continuous sound” lasting ten minutes or longer at 60 decibels or higher. Even though the Disneyland displays can last as long as 15 minutes, explosive bursts from fireworks only last a second, so they are not covered by the law.

What is the difference between Boston Symphony orchestra and Boston Pops? ›

Founded in 1885 as an offshoot of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), the Boston Pops primarily consists of musicians from the BSO, although generally not all of the first-chair players. The orchestra performs a spring season of popular music and a holiday program in December.

What city has the biggest firework show? ›

1. New York, New York: Macy's 4th of July Fireworks. Now in its 43rd year, the nation's largest fireworks display lights up the night over the East River.

What is the world's biggest firework? ›

The final shell measures 1.44 m (4 ft 8.75 in) in diameter, made of over 82.07 km (51 mi) of 5.71 cm (2.25 in) gummed paper tape, wrapped in even layers by a machine built especially for this purpose. The completed shell is at least 17.78 cm (7 in) thick, and was filled with 380 individual comet fireworks.

Who holds the record for largest firework show? ›

The world record for the largest firework display of all time is currently held by Svea Fireworks and Sør-Tre. The display was a tribute to the 200th anniversary of the Norwegian Constitution and it was held in Søgne, Norway.

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