Patriots Day, observed this year on Monday, April 20th, commemorates the opening battles of the American Revolution. Boston marks the occasion with historic ceremonies, parades, and dramatic reenactments—many centered around the famous midnight ride of Paul Revere.

Patriots Day Parade

Start: 9:00 AM at Boston City Hall, Downtown

Route: From Boston City Hall to Paul Revere Mall (also known as “The Prado” in the North End)

What to expect:

• Opening flag-raising at City Hall
• A wreath-laying at Granary Burying Ground
• Honors paid to William Dawes and Paul Revere
• A lively procession through historic Boston streets

The parade lasts about one hour and blends ceremony with celebration.

Reenactment: Paul Revere’s Ride

Start: 9:00 AM at the Paul Revere Mall, North End

Route: North End to Lexington

After appearing in the parade, Revere begins his ride with several stops along the way:

• 10:20 AM – Departure from Boston’s North End
• 10:35 AM – City Square (Charlestown)
• 11:20 AM – Foss Park (Somerville)
• 11:55 AM – Arlington Town Hall
• 12:00 PM – Medford
• 12:45 PM – Lexington Battle Green (final destination)

Reenactment: William Dawes’ Ride to Warn “The British Are Coming!”

Start: 9:00 AM in Eliot Square, Roxbury

Route: Roxbury to Lexington

Key stops:

• 9:00 AM – Eliot Square (Roxbury departure at 9:20)
• 10:05 AM – Devotion School (Brookline)
• 10:35 AM – Hill Memorial Church (Allston)
• 11:05 AM – Cambridge
• 12:05 PM – Arlington Town Hall
• 12:55 PM – Lexington Green

These events commemorate the urgent rides that warned colonists of advancing British troops in 1775—sparking the battles of Lexington and Concord and the beginning of the American Revolution.

*BONUS: Check out Warren Tavern in Charlestown

Located in the heart of Charlestown, the Warren Tavern stands as one of the oldest and most historically significant taverns in the United States. Established in 1780, it holds a vibrant past intertwined with the American Revolution and the early years of our new nation.  Imagine walking into a place where George Washington and Paul Revere once hung out?! Back in the day, this was the go-to spot for revolutionaries and local residents alike. They would gather here to swap stories, plan strategies, and, of course, enjoy a pint or two. With the celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War and the Battle of Bunker Hill on the horizon, dive into the history behind this iconic neighborhood tavern.