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BSO, Pops, Tanglewood, and Symphony Hall Logos

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

Know Before You Go

  • Presenting Sponsor
Everything you need to know before you join us on the Esplanade this Fourth of July!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is allowed and not allowed on the Esplanade?

To ensure the safety of all visitors to the Esplanade, the following rules will be strictly enforced for the concert and the Mugar Family Fireworks on July 4. Unless noted below, no backpacks, shopping bags, or similar type containers may be carried onto the Esplanade, and all carried items are subject to inspection. Please note the regulation on bicycles.

Allowed Items

  • Pop-up tents/canopies with no sides – maximum size 10’x10’.
  • Blankets or tarps no bigger than 10’x 10’.
  • Folding/beach chairs only.
  • Coolers, which must be carried in by shoulder strap or single handle (no wheeled coolers).
  • All liquids will be carried in sealed clear plastic containers not to exceed 2 liters in size.
  • All personal items must be carried in clear bags only.
  • After inspection, small clutch bags/purses may be taken into the venue with the clear bag.

Prohibited Items

  • No coolers on wheels.
  • No backpacks.
  • No firearms, weapons, sharp objects, or fireworks.
  • No glass containers.
  • No cans.
  • No pre-mixed beverages.
  • No grilling, propane tanks, or open flames.
  • No alcoholic beverages.
  • No bicycles will be allowed through the checkpoints into the Oval or Island/Lagoon areas. Bicycles are allowed throughout the rest of the venue but must not be left unattended. Bicycles attached or locked to security fences, poles, or other structures may be subject to removal. 

Boston is a city with so much to do and see! The links below will help you to plan your visit and provide valuable information on public transportation, hotels, and special attractions in the city.

Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)

DCR manages state parks and oversees more than 450,000 acres of land throughout Massachusetts. It protects, promotes, and enhances the state’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. To learn more about DCR’s amazing forests, parks, greenways, historic sites and landscapes, seashores, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and watersheds, visit mass.gov/dcr or find them on Twitter @MassDCR.

Meet Boston

Meet Boston is a visitor’s guide to Boston that includes information about area hotels and attractions. For more information, visit meetboston.com.

Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism

Your official guide to tourism in Massachusetts. For more information, visit visitma.com

Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

A complete guide to Boston’s public transportation system. For more information, visit mbta.com.

Community Boating

Enjoy the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular from the docks or sailboats at Community Boating, the nation’s oldest public sailing program, located just steps from the Hatch Shell. Each year, their annual Fourth of July fundraiser welcomes families to a summer cookout, DJ broadcast of the Pops concert, and an unobstructed waterfront view of the Mugar Family Fireworks. For tickets and more information, visit community-boating.org.