250 years ago, on April 19th, 1775, a shot was heard ‘round the world and the Revolutionary War began. While July 4th is celebrated nationwide as Independence Day, New Englanders understand the importance of Patriots’ Day. It’s the anniversary of when the brave Minutemen of Lexington and Concord took up arms against the British Regulars. While no one knows for sure who precisely fired the first shot, it’s what started the American Revolution in earnest, changing the course of history.
Concord250: The Celebration Heard Round the World
To honor our country’s semiquincentennial, Massachusetts 250 is commemorating the many battles fought across the state throughout 2025 and 2026. Concord in particular is pulling out all the stops on April 19, 2025. Going above and beyond their usual Patriots’ Day celebrations, they invite visitors to attend a day full of ceremonies, parades, and special events.
The Concord250 celebrations start with a 6:00 am dawn salute at Minute Man National Historic Park. Following that, visitors should head to downtown Concord to watch the parade, which will begin at 8:30 am and conclude around midday. There will also be a ceremony at Old North Bridge at 9:30 am, where the Concord Minutemen crossed to confront the British Redcoats and forced them to retreat to Boston.
Once the parade and ceremonies have concluded, Concord will be full of fun events and attractions related to the town’s history in the Revolution. Another special treat is that the Concord Museum will offer free admission all day. You can see Paul Revere’s lantern from his midnight ride on display, a musket drill and encampment demonstration, and an ongoing exhibition showcasing the contributions of the war’s unsung heroes, such as women, black slaves, and indigenous people.
When evening comes, Concord250 will offer a special send-off that starts at 7:30 pm and will include a special Patriots Light Drone Show at 8:15 pm.
Take the Commuter Rail to Concord
With such a major anniversary and with so many things planned, you can expect Concord to be busy and for parking to be scarce. The parade will result in some road closures, too, making driving a difficult feat. That’s why you should skip the hassle and take the Commuter Rail.
Use the Fitchburg Line to travel to Concord Station, which is 1.55 miles from Minute Man National Historic Park and 1.07 miles from the Concord Museum. This means that it’s a short walk or rideshare from the station to the thick of the festivities.
The Commuter Rail will be running trains with increased frequency starting at 4:00 am on a special event schedule, with the last inbound train leaving at 9:45 pm. This increased schedule will cover the majority of the Fitchburg Line, offering more departures from stations between North Station and South Acton.
The trains will also have larger cars to accommodate more riders, though it should also be noted that bicycles won’t be allowed on the train that day. You’ll be able to use your $10 Weekend Pass, and kids under 11, as always, ride for free, so the whole family can take part in the momentous commemoration of 250 years of American liberty.
Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a real piece of American history. Take the train to the Concord250 celebration and take part in the American Revolution’s semiquincentennial.