What is Patriots' Day?Patriots' Day is a state holiday in Massachusetts commemorating the first battle of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. Although Patriots' Day occurs annually on the third Monday of April, Minute Man National Historical Park host special programs and events throughout the month. The following is a schedule of our signature Patriots' Day events for 2025. Signature events at Minute Man National Historical Park include:Open House at Meriam's CornerCheck back soon for 2025 details. Visit the Nathan Meriam witness house and talk with costumed park staff about the Meriam family and the importance of the crossroad near their home on April 19, 1775. In the early afternoon of that fateful day, Militia soldiers arriving from Reading, Chelmsford, and Billerica attacked retreating British soldiers near this home. From Meriam’s Corner to Charlestown the fighting raged continuously for 8 hours and roughly 16 miles. Today, this important home marks the beginning of the “Battle Road.” Barrett Farm Open House
On April 19th, 1775 a contingent of about 120, British Soldiers marched over the North Bridge to Barrett’s farm in search of military arms and supplies. During this open house program explore the interior of this 319 year old home, talk with park staff about military preparations in 1775, and learn the story of Rebeckah Barrett who went toe to toe with the British Soldiers searching her home. Patriot VigilThursday, April 17, 2025 The path from the North Bridge Visitor Center to the North Bridge will be lighted with 122 luminaries to honor those who lost their lives in the battle. Lantern light procession* starts at North Bridge Visitor Center, 174 Liberty St, Concord, MA *To participate in the lantern-light procession, please provide your own REAL candle lantern. The procession will begin at North Bridge Visitor Center, 174 Liberty Street, Concord Ma. From there we will march down the quarter-mile path to the North Bridge where the ceremony will take place. Participants are welcome to wear 18th century clothing if they choose, but please do not bring muskets. Parking: North Bridge Visitor Center: 174 Liberty Street, Concord, MA North Bridge Parking Lot: 280 Monument Street, Concord, MA This event is co-sponsored by Friends of Minute Man National Park Battle Road Tactical DemonstrationApril 19, 2025 Detailed Schedule: Check back soon for more 2025 details. This event is co-sponsored by Friends of Minute Man National Park North Bridge ProgramApril 21, 2025 Commemorate Patriots' Day with a National Park Service program marking the "shot heard round the world." Battle Road Anniversary HikeMonday, April 21, 2025
Parking: Learn More!250th of the American Revolution
Learn about the 250th commemoration of the American Revolution at Minute Man National Historical Park. April 19, 1775: The First Battle
Learn about the people and events of April 19, 1775! Battle Site Explorations
At Minute Man, we use history, living history, science and technology to help us learn about the past. The Embattled British Column
Survival Against the Odds on the Battle Road |
Last updated: May 11, 2024