Arlington Celebrating Its Place In American History This Patriots Day

ARLINGTON, MA — The town has set Patriots’ Day Weekend for the weekend beginning on Saturday, April 18. Arlington was the site of some of the fiercest fighting on the opening day of the American Revolution. The Battle of Menotomy took place on April 19, 1775. Retreating British troops fought with local militia on the grounds that would one day become Arlington.

The 2026 observance marks the third year of Arlington 250: The Untold Stories of Menotomy. According to the announcement, the initiative aims to highlight Arlington’s historic contributions while also elevating stories of historically underrepresented communities. The local celebration also aligns with statewide and national commemorations, including Revolution 250 and America 250.

The weekend is being presented by Leader Bank in partnership with the Town of Arlington, the Arlington 250 Committee, Arlington Historical Society, Old Schwamb Mill, Cyrus Dallin Art Museum, Arlington Tourism and Economic Development Committee, and Arlington Commission for Arts and Culture.

Among the scheduled events are free guided tours of the Jason Russell House & Museum from April 18 through April 20, taking place between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tours will allow visitors to explore the site of the largest battle in Menotomy and view preserved bullet holes from the 18th century battle.

Other weekend events include the Menotomy Beer Hall on Saturday, April 18, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Arlington Town Hall, with craft beer from Arlington Brewing Company, live music, games, and family activities. That same day, the Foot of the Rocks Exhibition will be on view from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the upstairs gallery at the Old Schwamb Mill.

Family Day at the Jason Russell House is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The town describes it as a collaborative outdoor event hosted by the Arlington Historical Society, Cyrus Dallin Art Museum and Old Schwamb Mill, with hands-on activities for all ages.

On Monday, April 20, Whittemore Park will host a Patriots’ Day Celebration at 10 a.m. featuring live readings, historical storytelling and reflections on Arlington’s revolutionary past. Later that day at Arlington Town Hall, family activities for a reenactment of the arrival of Paul Revere and William Dawes begin at 11 a.m., with the National Lancers’ reenactment ride expected to start approximately one hour later.

Additional weekend offerings include open hours at the Cyrus Dallin Art Museum and special public art exhibitions exploring Arlington’s artistic and historical legacy. According to the announcement, all events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

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