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Patriots Day Weekend 2025
What a Celebration!
The 250th anniversary of the historic battles of Concord and Lexington is approaching on April 19, 2025. Concord250 commemorates the semi-quincentennial, or 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, which began here in New England. Two hundred fifty years ago, the men and women of what is now Massachusetts secured their independence from Britain and created a new nation dedicated to the ideals of liberty, equality, natural and civil rights and responsible citizenship. Concord250 honors our first 250 years and inspires Americans to imagine our next 250.
Key Information
Concord250 Event Schedule for Patriots' Day
Transportation: Road Closures, Maps, Parking, and Shuttle Routes
Concord 250 "PATRIOTS LIGHT" DRONE SHOW at 7:30 PM at Concord Carlisle High School
Contribute your photos to the Concord250 Archive HERE
See you April 19th!
Did you take pictures on April 19?
Please consider sharing your photos with the Town of Concord Archives. Here is a link to the Town Archives.
We would also love your photos from other Concord250 events.
Maps & More App - Click for Maps, Schedule, and More
Patriots' Day Weekend FAQS
- Amenities
- Transportation & Shuttle Routes
- Media
- Navigating the Day
- Resident and Local Business FAQ
- Spectator Guidelines
- Visitor FAQ
Food and Drink
A variety of options will be available in Concord Center to fuel up throughout the day. See the Parade Route and Walking Map for locations.
Food Trucks
Over 20 food trucks, serving up everything from ice cream to lobster rolls, are located on Stow St., Walden St., and at the Concord Museum. Food trucks will be serving from 7 am - 9 pm.
Concord Restaurants
Concord restaurants will be open on an individual basis. Some will offer grab-n-go and mobile locations, while others provide an opportunity to take a break and enjoy a sit down meal.
Water
Hydrations stations will be located in the Walden St. Food Truck area and at the North Bridge entrance on Monument St. Note that Concord prohibits the sale of plastic water bottles so consider bringing a refillable water bottle and checking out the "Quench Buggy."
Restrooms
Portable toilets will be located at the Food Truck areas and other locations throughout the Center.
Merchandise
Looking for a souvenir to remember the weekend? Check out this list of vendors on the VisitConcord.org site offering Concord250 merch.
Information
Ambassadors in orange vests will be at locations throughout Concord Center to welcome visitors to the area. They can answer questions, point you in the right direction, and access assistance if needed.
Jumbotron
A jumbotron will be located on Stow Street with a seating area to simulcast the parade live.
Drone Show
The Patriots Lights drone show will go up after sundown from the Concord Carlisle High School. Shuttle service continues after the drone show with a stop at Concord Carlisle High School after the Concord Museum stop.
Please check back to this page regularly as things may change.
(Updated April 17, 2025 )
Here are our suggestions on the best way to get to Concord on April 19th, 2025 for the Patriots Day Parade:
Take the MBTA
Public transportation is a great way to enjoy the day. The MBTA will be running trains starting at 4:00 AM on a special event schedule (increased frequency) and with larger cars that can handle more people. The last train inbound will be at 9:45 PM. The increased schedule will run from Boston to South Acton. Find the special event schedule on the MBTA website.
Drive yourself
If you plan to drive, there are satellite parking lots available to park in. The locations are listed below and at the link:
Satellite parking and shuttle service schedule
The Satellite Parking Shuttle will take people from the satellite parking lots to designated locations. The drop off and pick up locations from and to the satellite parking lots are at the Concord Museum on Cambridge Turnpike and the MMNP Visitor’s Center near Liberty Street. Service 6 AM - 9 PM. After the drone show, shuttle routes will include stops at CCHS after stopping at the Concord Museum.
Satellite Parking Locations | Bus Route | Times Saturday | Drop Off Location |
| MCI Concord Parking Lot Commonwealth Avenue | MCI | 6 AM - 9 PM | Concord Museum |
| 300 Baker Avenue Ext. | Baker | 6 AM - 9 PM | Concord Museum |
| Middlesex Green Business Park at 490 Virginia Road | Virginia | 6 AM - 9 PM | Concord Museum |
| Spaulding Mgmt. LLC at 561 Virginia Road | Virginia | 6 AM - 9 PM | Concord Museum |
| Middlesex School - 196 Middlesex School Road | Middlesex Shuttle pick up at flag pole | 6 AM - 9 PM | Liberty Street @ MMNP Visitor Center |
| Weather Dependent | |||
| Verrill Wheeler Road | Verrill | TBD | Concord Museum |
| Lincoln Pick Up Location | Bus Route | Time | Drop off Location |
| 3 stops @ Lincoln School, Ballfield Rd. Campus with one stop at Walden Pond | 3 Stops at Lincoln School Campus: Hartwell, Brooks, Smith | 6 AM - 9 PM | Concord Museum |
In addition, there are specific lots designated for downtown business employees, handicap and VIP parking as well as parade participant parking. A special permit may be required to park in these lots.
- Concord District Court House (Handicap, Employee & VIP Parking)
- Crosby's (Handicap, Downtown business employee parking/shuttle drop off)
- Alcott School (PARADE PARKING)
- CCHS (PARADE PARKING-THOREAU STREET SIDE)
Getting from Concord to Lexington and back
Concord-Lexington Pick Up Location | Bus route | Times Saturday | Drop Off Locations |
| Concord Museum | Concord-Lexington | 6 AM - 7 PM | Hartwell Tavern, MMNP, Visitors Center (2A) and Lexington at Park Drive |
By Bicycle
Bicyclists are advised to use caution along the parade route and park bikes at the bike racks located around the town center. Please note, the MBTA is not permitting bicycles on the trains on April 19. (Guidance updated on March 20, 2025)
Accomodations
Individuals with limited mobility can go to Harvey Wheeler and be transported by the COA vans to the Jumbotron on Stow Street. Try to arrive between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM at the Harvey Wheeler Center. There are 100-125 seats openly available at the Jumbotron, it’s first come, first serve. The buses will return to the Harvey Wheeler Center after the parade. Please sign up here if you plan to park at the Harvey Wheeler Center and take the shuttle to Concord Center.
In addition, individuals with a handicap placard can access limited handicap parking within the soft closure areas at 747 Main Street, Crosby’s Marketplace at 211 Sudbury Road and Concord District Court at 305 Walden Street.
Media
Media planning to cover the Concord250 events on April 19, 2025 must register through the official credentialing process to facilitate efficient sharing of event information, including sharing of the media kit, limited general updates, event changes, and day-of notification in the event of emergencies.
Direct requests for media credentials to Brian Farber, Communications and Publicity Subcommittee, Concord 250 Executive Committee, brian@monumentsquare.llc
Media Credential Guidelines
Credentials will be approved at the discretion of the Concord250 Executive Committee and the Town of Concord following the guidelines below:
- Non-Transferability
Media credentials are issued to a specific individual and are strictly non-transferable. They may not be shared, loaned, or reassigned. - Eligibility
Credentials will be issued to reporters, writers, videographers, producers, and photographers, who are actively covering Concord250 on assignment for a recognized media organization, including newspapers, magazines, television, podcasts, and radio stations, wire services, and digital news platforms with a verifiable record of independent journalism. - Freelance Journalists, Podcasters, and Digital Media
Freelancers must provide a letter of assignment from a recognized news organization specifying the nature of their coverage. General interest bloggers, influencers, and content creators without a formal assignment will not be credentialed.
Media credentials may be issued to podcasters and digital media who meet the following criteria:
- Affiliation with a recognized media organization or production company that produces journalistic content.
- A proven track record of regular, substantive episodes and/or content covering news, history, policy, or public affairs.
- A verifiable audience and demonstrated editorial standards (e.g., consistent publishing, interviews with experts, cited sources).
- A formal assignment to cover Concord250, either self-directed with a history of journalistic coverage or commissioned by a news outlet.
- Application Process for Multiple Journalists
- News organizations requesting credentials for multiple staff members must submit individual applications authorized by an editor or news director.
- Credentials will be issued directly to the approved journalist.
- Approval & Limitations
- All applications are subject to review. Concord250 and the Town of Concord reserve the right to approve or deny credential requests at its discretion.
- Credentials will not be issued to individuals whose primary role is advertising, sales, marketing, or administration.
Please check back to this page regularly as things may change (Updated April 8, 2025)
Road Closures
Road closures will start in Concord Center on Friday April 18 in the yellow area on the map around 6 PM and will remain closed up through late Saturday April 19. The opening of the roads will start after the Drone Show Saturday night and will be completely opened by 11 PM Saturday night. Please see the map at the right for details. The streets outlined in red are hard closures, meaning there is basically no traffic allowed and the streets outlined in yellow are soft closures, meaning that they are open to local traffic. The blue overlay is the parade route. If you are in an area that is a hard closure, you should plan as much as possible to not drive.
Visitors should plan to take public transportation. The MBTA is running a special event schedule on April 19, 2025.
Satellite parking is available for those taking their own cars. See the "Getting Here & Around" tab for more information on parking options.
Residents and businesses in Concord Center should refer to the "Resident and Local Business FAQ" tab for more information on navigating the road closures.
Dawn Salute
Buses will begin at 5 AM with a pick up at the MCI Concord parking lot on Commonwealth Ave. Space is limited so please sign up here for a spot on the bus. There are 100 spaces available. The form will stop taking reservations once it is full. The buses will return back to MCI Concord after the conclusion of the Dawn Salute (approx. 6:30 AM) if people would like to be transported back, or they can stay in Concord Center and take a shuttle back from the Concord Museum later in the day. These buses may not be able to transport a wheelchair, so please plan accordingly.
FAQ for Residents and Local Businesses
Please check back regularly for updates. (April 16, 2025)
Residents Shuttle Service
Concord residents can hop on a bus and go to either the Concord Museum or the Minute Man National Park Visitor Center at Liberty St. Plan to walk or be dropped off at these locations as there is no parking. See the residents shuttle schedule and associated maps. Shuttle service runs from 6 AM - 9 PM.
250 Concord Resident Shuttle Service
Map-Thoreau Hills Resident Shuttle Route
Map-CMS Route Resident Shuttle Route
Dawn Salute
Q: How can I get to the North Bridge to see the Dawn Salute on April 19th if I don’t live in an area that is walkable to the Bridge?
A: Buses will begin at 5 AM with a pick up at the MCI Concord parking lot on Commonwealth Ave. Space is limited. There are 100 spaces available. SHUTTLE IS FULL The buses will return back to MCI Concord after the conclusion of the Dawn Salute (approx. 6:30 AM) if people would like to be transported back, or they can stay in Concord Center and take a shuttle back from the Concord Museum later in the day. These buses may not be able to transport a wheelchair, so please plan accordingly.
Road Closures
Q. I live in the road closure area and will need to get in and out on Friday evening. What do I do?
A. Please review the information below on local access.
- Residential Access Passes:
- Two access passes have been mailed to each residence within the closure area shown on the linked map.
- Please hang these passes from your vehicle's rearview mirror to ensure smooth access during road closures.
- Road Closure Schedule:
- Friday, April 18th, 6:00 PM: Roads marked in yellow on the map will begin to close. Closures will occur on a rolling basis, meaning roads will close progressively.
- Friday, April 18th, 11:00 PM: Roads marked in both yellow and red will be closed to inbound traffic. This means you will not be able to drive into these areas after this time without a pass.
- Saturday, April 19th, 8:30 AM: The parade begins.
- Parade Route (Red Areas):
- Roads along the parade route (marked in red on the map) will become very difficult, and potentially impossible, to travel on approximately one hour before, during, and immediately after the parade.
- Please plan your travel accordingly to avoid these areas during this time.
- Road Reopening: Roads will begin to reopen in the evening of Saturday, April 19th.
Please contact Steven Hawkins, CPD with questions and concerns. shawkins@concordma.gov
Q: When roads close, where will employees park during the day on Friday if they work past 6 pm on Friday?
A: Where they normally would. As long as they are not leaving their vehicle overnight. If there is an issue the CPD will find them.
Q: Where will customers for businesses open after 6 pm on Friday park (aka Fiorella's, Helen's, etc)
A: The municipal lots at Walden and Keyes will have limited parking after Wednesday night (April 16) to allow for parade set up. On-street parking will be available for patrons and staff of center businesses.
Q: What about people parked in private lots? Will they be able to get out between 6 pm on Friday and 8 am on Saturday? What about other times on Saturday - it is all closed off or could some exits be allowed before 11 pm on Saturday?
A: Anyone parked after 6PM on Friday will be able to get out. To get back in they will need a credential to get back in. Once the parade starts it will be impossible for anyone in or around the parade route to leave. Those further out from the route should be able to get out as long as they avoid the parade route.
Residents Shuttle Service
Concord residents can hop on a bus and go to either the Concord Museum or the Minute Man National Park Visitor Center at Liberty St. Plan to walk or be dropped off at these locations as there is no parking. See the residents shuttle schedule, which runs from 6 AM - 9 PM at the link.
250 Concord Resident Shuttle Service
Map-Thoreau Hills Resident Shuttle Route
Map-CMS Route Resident Shuttle Route
Emergency Access
Q: What if there are urgent needs on that Saturday, April 19 - such as - broken pipe, trash overflowing needing pick up. What resources/access is possible?
A: Resources will be in place on Saturday and issues will be addressed as they arise.
Q: I am a business in Concord, who do I contact at CPD to discuss any special needs I may have?
A: Please contact Officer Steve Hawkins with the Concord Police Department at (351) 209- 9614 or shawkins@concordma.gov. Complete the form at the link to communicate business needs.
Q: I am involved with a Faith Institution in Concord. Who do I contact at CPD to discuss any special needs we have?
A: Please contact Officer Brendan Fitzgerald with the Concord Police Department at (978) 605-3512 or bfitzgerald@concordma.gov
Q: I am a Concord Resident. Who do I contact at CPD with any special needs we have particularly with travel inside the road closure areas?
A: Please contact either Officer Steve Hawkins or Officer Brendan Fitzgerald above.
Bicycles
Q. Can I ride my bike to the parade route? If so, will there be a place to store it?
A: Bicycles are a welcome way to come to Concord center but please be aware that they will not be allowed on the parade route. Also be aware that there will be spectators all along the route and sidewalk. Bike racks will be at convenient locations to store your bike while you take in the parade and other events.
Q. Can I take my bike on the "T"?
A. The MBTA is not permitting bicycles on the trains to Concord on Saturday, April 19.
Accomodations
Q: How do individuals with limited mobility, or perhaps a wheelchair, get to the parade?
A: Individuals with limited mobility can go to Harvey Wheeler and be transported by the COA vans to the Jumbotron on Stow Street. Try to arrive between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM at the Harvey Wheeler Center. There are 100-125 seats openly available at the Jumbotron, it’s first come, first serve. The buses will return to the Harvey Wheeler Center after the parade. Please sign up here if you plan to park at the Harvey Wheeler Center and take the shuttle to Concord Center.
In addition, individuals with a handicap placard can access limited handicap parking within the soft closure areas at 747 Main Street, Crosby’s Marketplace at 211 Sudbury Road and Concord District Court at 305 Walden Street.
Mobile Vending
Q: Can businesses set up in front of their businesses to sell — either simple retail (tables with souvenirs) or food service (grab-and-go drinks and sandwiches.) What is possible? Is this only allowed on private property? Could it be permitted on a sidewalk? Only some spaces? What is the process for requesting and approving other than the health department, if it is food?
A: No tables on sidewalks. Private property can be used but it can't interfere with the Parade or flow of pedestrians.
General Spectator Guidelines for 250 Events
Arlington, Concord, Lexington, and Lincoln
For the enjoyment of all during the celebrations of the 250th Anniversary of the start of the American Revolution, visitors are asked to abide by these important health and safety guidelines:
- Congregate in designated viewing areas at all times during events. Pay attention to any instructions given by public safety personnel. Do not enter reenactment areas or parade routes or in any way interfere with events in progress.
- These events are family-friendly, inclusive, and open to all. Be mindful that children will present and refrain from using foul language. Please respect private property. Many of these events pass by or are located near private homes and businesses.
- Dispose of trash and recycling properly in the receptacles provided at event sites.
- Public consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Local smoking and vaping ordinances will be in effect.
- Spectators are asked not to bring weapons, flammable liquids, fireworks, tents, canopies, coolers, suitcases/rolling bags, ladders or step stools to any events.
- Spectators are urged to use clear bags at all events. Bags are subject to search at any time.
- Do not leave bags or other items unattended. Items left unattended are subject to removal by police.
- Drone/UAV flying is prohibited at all 250 events. Obey all posted flight restrictions.
There will be a significant police and public safety presence at all events. Guidelines are subject to change at any time. Safety updates or changes will be shared on event websites and social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please check back to this page regularly as things may change. (Updated April 11, 2025)
General Information for Visitors
Q. How can I find real-time event, parade, and other information?
A. There's a app for that. Check out Concord250 Maps and More to find interactive maps, real time event schedules, and more. Accessible on both mobile devices and personal computers. Pin it to your home screen and you'll have access to up to the minute information on the weekend's events.
Q. Is there someone I can call if I have a 250th celebration question or non-emergency issue the weekend of April 18-19?
A. We’re here to help!
Call our Non-Emergency Information Line for general event information, directions, and assistance related to the Concord 250th celebrations.
📞 978-318-3344 – NEW NUMBER
📅 Friday, April 18th: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📅 Saturday, April 19th: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friendly staff will be available during these hours to answer your questions and help make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Please note: This line is for non-emergency inquiries only.
🚨 If you have an emergency, call 911.
For event details and updates, visit: concord250.org
MBTA / Commuter Rail Options
Q: Will the Commuter Rail (MBTA) run on Saturday April 19th?
A: Yes, public transportation is a great way to enjoy the day. Starting at 4 AM on Saturday, April 19, the MBTA commuter rail service will run on an Event Schedule (double the frequency and with additional cars to accommodate larger crowds). See more info here - LINK to MBTA page
Q: What time do trains stop running?
A: Last train inbound is at 9:45pm
Q: If folks park in West Concord and take the commuter rail, where are people being directed to park?
A: Parking will be open in West Concord but once the MBTA lot is full only park in designated, allowed areas that are not posted no parking. It is strongly recommended that those from out of Town, park at a larger facility and take the commuter line to Concord. Also, residents should consider parking in one of the small lots in Concord and take the Satellite Parking Shuttle across Town.
Visitor Shuttles and Satellite Parking Lots
Q: Will there be transportation from the satellite lots?
Visitor Shuttle Service and Satellite Lot Schedule
Parade Participants, Volunteers, Others
Q. I'm marching in the parade. Where can I find information on where I should be and what to expect?
A. Parade organizers have prepared a guide for parade participants.
Q. Where do I park if I'm in the parade, volunteering, or working in Concord center on Saturday?
A. A special parking placard is required to park in the lots for parade participants, volunteers, town staff, and employee parking. A handicap parking placard is required in the lots designated for handicapped parking.
- Concord District Court House (Handicap, Employee & VIP Parking)
- Crosby's (Handicap, Downtown business employee parking/shuttle drop off)
- Alcott School (PARADE PARKING)
- CCHS (PARADE PARKING-THOREAU STREET SIDE)
Bicycles
Q. Can I ride my bike to the parade route? If so, will there be a place to store it?
A: Bicycles are a welcome way to come to Concord center but please be aware that they will not be allowed on the parade route. Also be aware that there will be spectators all along the route and sidewalk. Bike racks will be at convenient locations to store your bike while you take in the parade and other events.
Q. Can I bring my bike on the MBTA trains?
A: The MBTA is NOT permitting bicycles on the trains. (Guidance updated on March 20, 2025)
Ambassadors
Q. If I have a question or need assistance finding an event or amenity who can I ask?
A. Look for the volunteer ambassadors in high visibility orange vests, who will be along the parade route and in the town center Saturday, April 19 to answer questions, point you in the right direction, and provide assistance.
Basics
Q. What is the schedule for day on April 19, 2025?
A: Times are approximate. See Concord250.org for details.
6:00 AM Dawn Salute
8:30 AM Parade Step Off
9:30 AM North Bridge Ceremony
2:00 PM Block Party
Dusk Patriots Light Drone Show
Q: Any clearer estimates on how many people are coming?
A: Based on attendance numbers in 1975 could be as many as +100,000
Q: Will there be metal detectors?
A: No
Q: Can people carry backpacks or will they need plastic bags?
A: Concord is following a clear bag policy, which means they encourage individuals to carry their items in a clear plastic bag. If you have any other type of bag they may be subject to being searched.
Q. Will there be food and drink?
A. Yes, there will be food trucks and local establishments providing food and drink throughout the day. Check out the "Amenities" tab for more information.
Q. Can I bring my dog?
A. Service dogs only are allowed on the MBTA and shuttles. Be aware that there will be crowds, loud noise, and music throughout the event.
Q: Can I bring a canoe or a kayak?
A: You can try but there may be limited access to the North Bridge. Please follow all boating safety guidelines including having life jackets on board.
Q: Can I bring my drone?
A: No. There is a temporary flight restriction for Saturday April 19th.
Q: Do we know what speakers will come and if not yet, will we learn about that ahead of time?
A: It will be announced the final line-up is known.
Q: What if it rains?
A: The Parade will happen. Any weather related issue will be addressed and notification and updates will be posted the day of the event as well as leading up to it.
Q: If the cell signal is bad, how will we alert people to event updates / news that day?
A: Cell on wheels (COWS) will be in place in Concord to provide emergency cellular coverage for the weekend. Other forms of media will also be utilized as needed.
Q: How will people get into the center of town and out?
A: There will be no parking on the north side of Concord. The public is asked to take public transportation to and from the event. There will be designated satellite parking lots with satellite parking shuttles providing service into town. See parking section above.
Q: How do individuals with limited mobility, or perhaps a wheelchair, get to the parade?
A: Individuals with limited mobility can go to Harvey Wheeler and be transported by the COA vans to the Jumbotron on Stow Street. Try to arrive between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM at the Harvey Wheeler Center. There are 100-125 seats openly available at the Jumbotron, it’s first come, first serve. The buses will return to the Harvey Wheeler Center after the parade. Please sign up here if you plan to park at the Harvey Wheeler Center and take the shuttle to Concord Center.
In addition, individuals with a handicap placard can access limited handicap parking within the soft closure areas at 747 Main Street, Crosby’s Marketplace at 211 Sudbury Road and Concord District Court at 305 Walden Street.
Q: Will people be able to watch the parade on news / through local station?
A: Yes, Minuteman Media Network will be televising the parade on their youtube channel. https://www.youtube.com/MinutemanMediaNetwork
Q: Can I rent my house?
A: . For those wishing to make their property available to paying guests, online platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo and Homeaway are making the marketing and reservations easier than ever before. Concord does allow homeowners to offer rooms within their primary home for such short-term rentals through designation either as a Tourist Home or as a Bed & Breakfast. Read more here.
Q: May I sell food on April 19 and when do I need to notify of my plans?
A: A permit is required to sell food and the permit information needed to be submitted by January 31st, 2025. No new vendors will be admitted after Friday, January 31.
Q: How can I get up to date info on what is happening?
Stay informed! Sign up for the Concord250 Stay Connected list through New & Notices