Home > Shark Guides > Events > Spring Events > Patriot's Day in Boston

Patriot's Day in Boston

Patriot’s Day is a civic holiday, observing the famous battles that started the American Revolutionary War. Marked on the third Monday of April, the holiday remembers the Battles of Lexington and Concord through historical reenactments and other festivities.

History of Patriot’s Day

First observed in 1894, Patriot’s Day is a civic holiday in April to commemorate the Battles of Lexington and Concord in the American Revolutionary War. In Massachusetts, it’s a state-wide holiday, recognized by several educational institutions and for some, it means a day off from work as well. It was originally held every April 19, regardless of what day it fell on, until 1969 when it was changed to every third Monday.

The Battles of Lexington and Concord took place on April 19, 1775 and kicked off the war for America’s independence. Paul Revere and William Dawes alerted local troops and citizens to the arrival of British troops on the famous midnight ride. Many historical reenactments take place around the city in remembrance of this event.

The National Lancers, a ceremonial unit of the Massachusetts Organized Militia, traditionally take on the roles of Paul Revere and Dawes, and begin the reenactments the Sunday before Patriot’s Day with a service at the Old North Church. In the morning, kicking off Patriot’s Day, are Revere, riding from the North End neighborhood, and Dawes riding from Roxbury, to warn people of the incoming arrival of the British troops as they ride to Lexington.

The Boston Marathon

Patriot’s Day is also known to Bostonians as “Marathon Monday” because the Boston Marathon is traditionally held on that day as well. It’s considered to be the world’s oldest annual marathon, dating back to 1897 with only 18 participants – quite a different from the 20,000 that participate these days. Inspired by the 1896 Summer Olympics, the Boston Marathon is internationally recognized as one of five World Marathon Majors. An estimated half a million people come out to watch the event, which attracts seasoned runners and amateurs alike.

In the early days of the Boston Marathon, winners were crowned with an olive branch wreath. However, since 1986, corporate sponsors have made cash prizes available to marathon winners in an effort to attract professional racers. Not everyone can sign up to race either – participants must be 18 or older and meet qualifying racing standards.

Boston Red Sox

The famous Boston Red Sox have played a home game at Fenway Park every year since 1959 on Patriot’s Day. Oftentimes, the game coincides with the Boston Marathon, and runners can be seen passing through Kenmore Square during game time.

Book a Boston Hotel today!

More Shark Guides

FIND HOTELS NOW

Patriot's Day in Boston