BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The New England Aquarium is preparing for thousands of spectators to arrive for the 43rd annual Boston HarborFest Fireworks Show Wednesday.
"It's a key location," said Della Grallert, associate VP of sales and guest services for the aquarium. "You can see the fireworks over the harbor. We have some very pleasant places to sit and enjoy the view."
Harborfest is a three-day event observing Boston's revolutionary history leading up to Independence Day. The celebration kicked off with an opening ceremony at Downtown Crossing. Speakers included Mayor Michelle Wu, City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune and military representatives from the U.S. Guard, USS Constitution and USS Donald Cook.
Bostonians have several activities to choose from if they want to partake in the Fourth of July festivities including tours, re-enactments, musical entertainment and alcoholic beverages at the aquarium's dockside beer garden on Central Wharf.
"Full bar, music and games, so it's really a fun family or adult or child activity as well," remarked Grallert.
With extended hours for the day, Grallert expects to see around 6,000 people passing through the aquarium and at least one hundred in the beer garden for the display.
"The hours of the beer garden are 12 to 7 daily. And then this evening we'll be open till 10 pm to allow guests to enjoy the fireworks."
The forecast for the celebration includes some scattered showers on Thursday, but Bay Staters can expect mostly sunshine and temperatures in the 80's for the celebration.
"Being on the water this time of year — you can't beat it," said Grallert.
WBZ NewsRadio's James Rojas (@jamesrojas.bsky.social) reports.