Before the pandemic of 2020, thousands of people from all around the globe came to Concord to celebrate the events that gave birth to a new nation. In most years, the events of April 19, 1775 would be remembered with parades, reenactments, candlelight processions, living history events, and more. This year, while we are still not able to gather in large groups, Concord and its cultural institutions have come together to provide a variety of experiences, both live and online, that will honor this important day in American history.
The Town of Concord has several online events in store, including:
A Dawn Salute: A livestream broadcast of the traditional 21-gun salute with musket and cannon fire traditionally held at 6:00 am on April 19 each year. Spectators will not be allowed due to COVID regulations, but you won’t want to miss it online.
Patriots’ Day Parade: A video montage of current reenactment units, parade groups, and others capturing their well wishes, with brief interviews.
Go to visitconcord.org for additional information as more events are planned.
For live events, visit Concord Museum’s new April 19, 1775 galleries and meet a minuteman!
Also sponsored by Concord Museum will be a short walk from the Tavern to the Old North Bridge. Led by a trained Museum educator, you can learn about the events leading up to April 19, 1775 and the first battle of the American Revolution. Visit concordmuseum.org for more information and other events related to April 19, 1775 taking place during place during April.
Visit the Acton Minutemen Encampment: “I haven’t a man who is afraid to go!” The Acton Minutemen mustered and marched to the North Bridge on the morning of April 19, 1775 where, under the leadership of Captain Isaac Davis, they were first in line of 450 Provincials who advanced on the British Regulars. Both Provincials who died at the North Bridge – Isaac Davis and Abner Hosmer – were Acton Minutemen. Visit this brave minute company in an encampment outside the Concord Museum on Patriots’ Day and see them prepare for battle!