A spectacular display of fireworks will again illuminate the sky over the Charles River for hundreds of thousands of spectators, in Boston, on July 4. A free Boston Pops concert at 8:30 p.m., at the Hatch Shell, accompanies the annual light show, featuring conductor Keith Lockhart leading the Pops orchestra and special guests. The concert begins with The Star-Spangled Banner and includes a fly-over of fighter jets, and Tchaikovsky’s explosive 1812 Overture closes the performance, complete with dramatic drumrolls and real cannon fire, as church bells ring throughout the city.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to find a viewing spot on either side of the Charles River. Those wishing to see the concert should make their way to the grassy area in front of the Hatch Shell as early as 9 a.m., on Independence Day. Many of the prime riverside viewing spots for fireworks fill up by late morning or early afternoon. Another option is to attend the free rehearsal concert, in the same location with smaller crowds, the evening of July 3.

For more information, visit the official event website, July4th.org.