Massachusetts 250 Events Calendar

Myth and Memory: Stories of the American Revolution

May 15, 2026 - Nov 16, 2026 1424 Canton Avenue, Milton, MA 02186

Explore the personal stories, memories, and myths behind the American Revolution in Myth and Memory: Stories of the American Revolution, a compelling exhibition from Historic New England.

Drawing from Historic New England’s extensive collection of artifacts and archival materials, the exhibit examines how the Revolution shaped the lives of everyday people across New England. Through objects connected to individuals, families, and communities, visitors gain an intimate look at the hopes, struggles, loyalties, and sacrifices experienced during the birth of a new nation.

Organized around the themes of Resistance, Loyalty, Liberty, and Memory, the exhibition invites audiences to reflect not only on the events of the Revolution itself, but also on how its stories have been remembered, interpreted, and woven into America’s collective identity over time.

By highlighting deeply personal experiences alongside broader historical narratives, Myth and Memory offers a thoughtful exploration of the Revolution’s enduring legacy and the many voices that helped shape the nation’s history.

Friday - May 15, 2026 - 11:00 am / Monday - November 16, 2026 - 5:00 pm

Calling All Kids, Patriots And Sailors: Revolutionary Summer Saturdays

Apr 4, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026 Custom House Maritime Museum, Water Street 25 Newburyport, MA 01950

Enjoy free indoor and outdoor fun for kids every Saturday through the end of September! Families can explore 15 hands-on activity stations, including crafts, water and sand tables, printmaking with Rolling River Printmakers of New England, a bouncy castle, pirate boat with water guns, and even rideable dolphin and elephant sculptures by local artist Jeff Briggs.

The museum’s popular Discovery Center experience will also expand onto the lawn, creating an exciting day of learning and play for children of all ages. This free program is made possible through the generous support of the Institution for Savings and the Local Cultural Council.

In September, the museum will also partner with Imagine Studios, Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag, and Jonathan Petty of the Aquinnah Wampanoag to create a traditional 20-foot mishoon (dugout canoe) over several weekends, with plans to launch it on Indigenous Peoples Day, October 11.

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
978-462-8681

Yarmouth in Revolution Exhibit: the Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum

Jun 25, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026 Captain Bangs Hallet House & Museum Strawberry Lane 11, Yarmouth, MA 02675

Step back into Revolutionary-era Yarmouth and discover what daily life was like for local residents during one of the most transformative periods in American history. Presented in honor of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, Yarmouth in Revolution explores how townspeople experienced the political, social, and military events of the late 18th century while continuing their everyday lives.

Featuring artifacts from the collections of the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth and private lenders, the exhibit offers a unique glimpse into Yarmouth’s role and experiences during the Revolutionary War era.

Guided tours of the Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum are available Thursday through Saturday at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.

June 25, 2026 - 11:00 am / October 30, 2026 - 3:00 pm
508-362-3021

Vineyard Preservation Trust Walking Tour: Independence on Foot

Jul 24, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026 Vincent House Main Street 99, Edgartown, MA 02539

Step into Martha's Vineyard's Revolutionary past with Independence on Foot, a 90-minute guided walking tour led by historian Norah Van Riper. Beginning at the Vincent House Museum in Edgartown, the tour explores historic landmarks, local stories, and the Island's role in the American Revolution. Families can also enjoy a President's for Kids activity book, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Friday, July 24, 2026 - 2:00 pm - Saturday, October 10, 2026 - 3:30 pm

Semi-quincentennial Celebration and Open House at Wilder Homestead

Jul 26, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 Wilder Homestead Ashfield Road 129, Buckland, MA 01370

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a memorable afternoon of history and community. Pack a picnic and experience a live reading of the Declaration of Independence as it would have been heard 250 years ago. Enjoy a refreshing ice cream treat, learn a traditional game, and become part of the celebration by signing Buckland's own Declaration. Visitors can also tour the historic Barn and Wilder Homestead House and join a guided cemetery tour at 3:00 p.m., making this a fun and meaningful event for all ages.

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

God of Our Fathers: Mighty Miracles of the American Revolution

Jul 26, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 Arts Empowering Life Performing Arts Center Southern Eagle Cartway 95, Brewster, MA 02631

Explore the early military career of George Washington during this engaging America 250 lecture. As part of a year-long series commemorating the nation's journey to independence, historian William Federer examines the pivotal Battle of the Monongahela in 1755 and its role in shaping the future first president during the French and Indian War. Held in person and livestreamed, this free presentation offers fascinating historical insights, followed by refreshments and an opportunity for discussion.

3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
508-240-2400

Rendevous with Rachel Revere

Jul 26, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 Thacher Hall Main Street 266, Yarmouth, MA 02675

Step into the American Revolution through the eyes of Rachel Revere. Set on May 2, 1775, this immersive historical program follows Rachel Revere as she struggles to reunite her family during the Siege of Boston after Paul Revere's famous Midnight Ride. As British forces occupy the city, participants help Rachel weigh the risks of several daring escape plans and discover whether she can safely bring her family together. This engaging, interactive experience offers a unique perspective on the personal sacrifices and difficult decisions faced by ordinary families during the Revolution.

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
508-744-7638

American Stories: Rebels and Revolutionaries of the Berkshires

Jul 29, 2026 - Jul 29, 2026 Norman Rockwell Museum Glendale Road 9, Stockbridge, MA 01262

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary with a captivating series exploring the people and stories that shaped the Berkshires and the nation. American Stories: Rebels and Revolutionaries of the Berkshires is a five-part History & Art Series at the Norman Rockwell Museum that examines the American Revolution through the lives of remarkable local figures—from Theodore Sedgwick and the Stockbridge Mohicans to Elizabeth Freeman, Herman Melville, and W.E.B. Du Bois. Each class begins in the museum's American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell exhibition, where featured artwork provides a compelling introduction to the day's theme. Led by historian and University of Massachusetts Amherst lecturer Justin F. Jackson, this engaging series blends history, art, and civic education to reveal the Berkshires' lasting influence on the American story.

11:00 am - 12:30 pm
413-298-4100

The American Revolution on Cape Cod & the Islands

Jul 29, 2026 - Jul 29, 2026 Arts Empowering Life Performing Arts Center Southern Eagle Cartway 95, Brewster, MA 02631

Discover the untold Revolutionary War stories of Cape Cod and the Islands during this fascinating America 250 presentation. Historian David Martin explores the people, places, and events that shaped the region's role in the American Revolution, from daring privateers and dramatic shipwrecks to divided loyalties and the contributions of African American and Native American Patriots. The lecture also celebrates a newly published, richly illustrated book featuring the work of 24 historians, bringing these overlooked local stories to life in honor of the Revolution's 250th anniversary. Admission is free, and copies of the book will be available for purchase following the presentation.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
free
508-240-2400

Untold Stories: The Battle of Menotomy, Voices of the Overlooked, & Centennial Commemorations At Arlington Historical Society

Apr 19, 2026 - Oct 31, 2026 7 Jason Street, Arlington, MA 02476

Our new “Untold Stories” exhibition explores the perspectives of often-overlooked communities involved and examines how the people of the Commonwealth commemorated, memorialized, and celebrated the important anniversaries of the first battle of the American Revolutionary War.

See website for more details.

Lost Liberties – Broken Promises

Jun 25, 2026 - Dec 10, 2026 Golden Ball Tavern Museum Boston Post Road 662, Weston, MA 02493

Explore the lesser-known stories of those who experienced the American Revolution from a different perspective in Lost Liberties – Broken Promises. This yearlong exhibit examines the lives of enslaved individuals, Indigenous peoples, displaced Loyalists, and veterans from Weston whose experiences reveal the complexities and contradictions of the nation's founding era.

Through historical interpretation and storytelling, the exhibit sheds light on the promises of liberty that were often denied to many, encouraging visitors to reflect on the diverse perspectives and lasting impacts of the Revolutionary period.

June 25, 2026 - 10:00 am / December 10, 2026 - 4:00 pm
781-897-1751

Conservation Takes Flight

Jul 28, 2026 - Jul 28, 2026 Stone Zoo Pond Street 149, Stoneham, MA 02180

Celebrate the inspiring comeback of the bald eagle at Stone Zoo. Spend an unforgettable evening learning about the remarkable recovery of this iconic American species in the Northeast through engaging presentations from guest speakers. Enjoy light refreshments and meet Grace, the zoo's resident bald eagle, for a unique opportunity to connect with one of the nation's most treasured birds while discovering the importance of wildlife conservation.

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
617-541-5466

Mapping the Past: Lincoln Witness House Project

Jul 24, 2026 - Jul 24, 2027 Lincoln, Massachusetts Lincoln, MA 01773

Step back in time and explore Lincoln's 19 historic Witness Houses, homes that stood on April 19, 1775, the first day of the American Revolution. Through the Lincoln Historical Society's interactive online map, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour featuring historic and modern photos, fascinating stories, and downloadable resources that bring each property's rich history to life. Whether you're planning a visit or exploring from home, it's a unique way to experience Lincoln's Revolutionary past.

See website for more details.

Massachusetts 250 Events Calendar

Arts & Crafts Shows

Myth and Memory: Stories of the American Revolution

Children & Families