Patriots' Day 2016: Events Around Concord

Photo Credit: David Maroney

CONCORD, MA—Concord's historical significance is celebrated on a daily basis, but Patriots Day may be the most important day to Concord residents and to the history of our country.

As many residents are well aware, Patriots' Day commemorates the battle of Lexington and Concord, and 2016 marks the historic 241st anniversary of the famous battle. Many different demonstrations, celebrations and events take place in Concord each year in honor of the battle that began the Revolutionary War.

Here are some events going on in Concord during the weekend leading up to Patriots' Day, which will be held on April 18 (via the National Park Service):

"Armed as According to Law: Captain David Brown's Company of Minute Men: North Bridge, Concord, 7:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.;
Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Visit North Bridge and Concord Museum and see Captain David Brown's Company, a nearly full strength recreated minute company, demonstrate drill maneuvers and musket firings. Learn about militia duty in colonial Massachusetts and what it meant to be "armed as according to law."

Warlike Preparations: Col. James Barrett House, 455 Barrett's Mill Road, Concord 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

In 1775, Col. James Barrett of Concord was responsible for all the military supplies in town. On April 19th he and his family found themselves in the middle of a storm of activity and danger as British soldiers occupied the town of Concord and even searched the Barrett family home!. Visit the Barrett House and learn about the military preparations that helped launch the colonies into the Revolutionary War.

Commemoration of the North Bridge Fight, and Concord Parade: North Bridge, Concord 8:45 a.m.

British and Colonial reenactors will commemorate the "Shot heard round the world" with a dramatic re-staging of the North Bridge fight featuring marching and musket fire. The Concord Parade will arrive at North Bridge around 9:30 a.m. with ceremonies featuring minute man companies, British reenactors and music groups. NOTE: all of the roads in the center of town are closed to vehicles beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Stay tuned to Patch for all things Patriots' Day in Concord.