(This article by Colorado-based writer Judy Christie originally appeared in the June 2025 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

If you can’t wait to celebrate, head to Massachusetts, the birthplace of American independence.

Beginning this year and into 2026, the Bay State has an array of patriotic events planned.

“We’ve already started the party,” said Maj. Paul Cancelliere, USA (Ret), president of MOAA’s Paul Revere Chapter and veterans service officer for the town of Saugus. “Each town has a legacy of history.”

The 250th anniversary of the historic battles of Concord and Lexington, the first battles of the American Revolution with “the shot heard ’round the world” is this year.

Opening in March 2026 is the “Revolutionary Legacies” exhibit at the Concord Museum, where you can explore how the nation’s founding ideas were reinterpreted over the past 250 years.

Along the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area, learn how the region shaped American identity. Home to Minute Man National Historical Park and Walden Pond, this area includes 45 communities in north central Massachusetts, plus communities in southern New Hampshire. Check the Freedom’s Way website for more 2026 activities.

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With naval history anchored in the Charlestown Navy Yard, part of Boston National Historical Park, USS Constitution, the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat and America’s Ship of State, is a popular military site. The ship, featuring an 1812-era configuration, is free and open to the public. Visitors are able to ask questions of active duty Navy sailors. Visit the ship’s website for requirements for boarding “Old Ironsides.”

Add to the experience by exploring the USS Constitution Museum, with related artifacts and archival material. Other nearby attractions include USS Cassin Young, a destroyer built during World War II, and the Bunker Hill Monument and Museum, which commemorates the Revolution’s first major battle.

Want to drive an M4 Sherman medium tank from World War II? Then visit the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, where you can also soak up history from the Revolutionary War onward thanks to a collection of tanks, armored vehicles, and military artifacts.

“Think of it as a small airfield,” Cancelliere said.

Stay overnight or have a meal at The Wayside Inn, a historic stop in in Sudbury. Or visit Union Oyster House, America’s oldest restaurant, located on the Freedom Trail in downtown Boston, where military organizations, including the local MOAA chapter, frequently meet. Another place to grab a bite or a drink is The Green Dragon Tavern. Established in 1654 and a favorite haunt of Paul Revere and John Hancock, this is reportedly where plans for the invasion of Lexington and Concord were overheard, thus starting the famous ride of Revere.

For other 250th attractions and events, visit the official site, Massachusetts250.org.

Something Extra: At iconic Fenway Park, take in a Red Sox game or tour the field, including the fabled Green Monster. Military discounts are given for tours. Learn more here.