We just had a three-day weekend and somehow we're already talking about the next one. To be fair, it's a pretty big deal. Boston is always the main character on the 4th of July and this year we’re not letting anyone forget it. America's turning 250 and the city that loves reminding everyone it practically invented the country is going BIG. We've got all the fireworks and patriotic parties you'll need for the holiday weekend right here.

But first, we're squeezing every last drop out of Pride Month. Enter to win tickets to the Pride After Party with Free Range Revue and keep the rainbow vibes vibin’.

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• If you like independence with a side of historical reenactments, Harborfest is the move. Watch the stars and stripes go up, then follow the parade as it winds past some of Boston's most Revolutionary-era landmarks.

• Raise a glass to freedom at America's most patriotic brewery. Live music? Check. Beer slushies? Check. Red, white and blueberry specials? You bet your star-spangled ass.

• Nobody does the 4th quite like the Boston Pops. This year's spectacular features Lainey Wilson, Chance the Rapper and Trombone Shorty. Pro tip: arrive early. The rest of the city has the same idea you do.

• One of our favorite holiday traditions is hopping a ferry to the Harbor Islands. Spectacle Island's Red, White & Views will get you live music and a front-row seat from the other side of the harbor.

• It's not every year America turns 250. Don’t spend the holiday weekend panic-scrolling for plans when we worked so hard on your 4th of July cheat sheet.

WHERE TO WATCH FIREWORKS

From the Esplanade to Seaport, Boston is set to light up like your group chat after the Karen Read verdict. Fair warning: fireworks aren’t the only things popping off. Expect congestion, revelry in the streets and at least one neighbor making terrible decisions with a Roman candle (don’t be that neighbor).

TO CELEBRATE ‘MERICA

LOCALS ONLY

• If your 4th plans don't include a Jaws screening, are you even from New England? Catch the OG summer blockbuster for free before cruising into your holiday weekend.

• Hear the Declaration of Independence read from the Old State House balcony, just like in 1776. History buff or not, this tradition always gives us the chills.

• Wanna see the Boston Pops but avoid all the crowds? This waterfront view of the fireworks includes ice cream and drinks. Money well spent, if you ask us.

• 72 million Americans are expected to travel for the 4th. Only about 70 million of them are coming to Boston (jk it will just feel that way). Plan ahead unless you'd prefer to watch the fireworks through your windshield.

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