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Welcome to the City of Cambridge’s 250th Anniversary of America's independence website! In celebration of the 250th anniversary, City and state officials launched the Massachusetts 250 campaign in September 2024. Throughout 2025 and 2026, Massachusetts 250 (or MA250) will commemorate the many battles across the City of Cambridge and the state that led to America's independence.
Cambridge has played a key role in Massachusetts’ history, from its indigenous Massachusetts tribe to milestones like the American Army’s birth, the first printing press, the first college, and the first same-sex marriage in America. Join us as we commemorate America’s Independence and embark on this journey of remembrance and celebration.
Whether you are born and raised in Cambridge, here as a student, or visiting, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of our city's history – a story woven with strands of change, innovation, and extraordinary firsts. From the early revolutionary days to the vibrant, diverse community we are today, Cambridge has continually embraced progress and transformation all while respecting and honoring our history. This milestone is not just a reflection of our past but an exciting opportunity to honor the pioneers, visionaries, and everyday residents who shape our legacy and propel us forward.
Sign Up for Cambridge Mass250 Updates
Patriot's Day
April 21, 2025
History is brought to life through reenactments in Cambridge as we celebrate the event, the bravery, and one of the riders that changed the history of the world — William Dawes!
"East Cambridge and the Revolution" Tour
May 3, 2025
Uncover the hidden Revolutionary War history of East Cambridge on this free guided tour! While often overshadowed by other historic sites, East Cambridge played a crucial role in the war, from the landing of British troops at Lechmere Point to the construction of Fort Putnam.
Birth of the American Army Celebration
June 14, 2025
Celebrate the birth of the Army in the location General Washington took Command! This family-friendly event aims to bring our community together to recognize this significant milestone in American history and honor the service and sacrifice of Army personnel, past and present and future.
Harvard Square's Bookish Ball
June 21, 2025
Join a free guided bookstore tour through Harvard Square led by historian Daniel Berger Jones, exploring the Revolutionary History of Harvard Square. Stop by five local bookstores, collect stamps on your Dance Card, and enter to win a Harvard Square Grand Prize Gift Basket!
Revolution-Themed Citywide Dance Party
June 27, 2025
The citywide Dance Party presents a Revolutionary Reunion — Celebrating 250 Years of Revolution.
April 27, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
May 3, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
May 10, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
May 10, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
May 17, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
The Massachusetts 250 Grant Program, administered through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) within the Executive Office of Economic Development, funded projects that highlight historic themes of revolution and independence, celebrate significant "firsts" in Massachusetts history, and take a creative or innovative approach to commemorating the state’s past 250 years.
The City of Cambridge is one of the grant recipients and plans to use this grant to showcase these stories through a series of engaging events. In 2025, Cambridge plans to highlight its revolutionary milestones with walking and bike tours, celebrations of veterans and innovators, and an American Army Birthday Commemoration. The festivities will culminate in a Revolution-themed Citywide Dance Party in June, celebrating Cambridge’s rich and diverse heritage.
To stay up-to-date about what's happening with the Cambridge Mass250 campaign, please sign up for emails about programming and events.
Visit the Mass 250 website to learn more: https://massachusetts250.org.
For additional information, please contact Cambridge250@cambridgema.gov.
To stay informed about all things Cambridge, please sign up for the City of Cambridge Daily Update Newsletter.
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