What to Know
- Harvard University student Amanda Gorman was revealed as a special addition to the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular lineup.
- Authorities said state police troopers will monitor the grounds on foot, bicycles, motorcycles and horses.
- Officials encourage attendants to follow the "see something, say something" motto if they observe suspicious activities during the event.
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker and other officials on Tuesday encouraged people planning to attend the July 4 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular to use public transportation and to keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
"Let's make sure this is another wonderful, safe, celebratory moment here in the creator of liberty on this iconic hatch shell to celebrate, once again, American independence," Baker said during a press conference.
Authorities said attendants can expect a large uniformed presence at the Charles River Esplanade during the festivities. State police troopers will be monitoring the area on foot, bicycles, motorcycles and horses.
Officials urge visitors to follow the "see something, say something" motto if they see suspicious activity during the celebration. Anyone who sees out-of-the-ordinary behavior is encouraged to text B4 and their tip to 67283.
Prohibited items include drones, backpacks, weapons, cans, pre-mixed beverages, alcohol, bicycles and coolers on wheels. Grilling will also not be allowed at the venue.
Ahead of the announcement, authorities warned commuters that the right lane of Storrow Drive westbound will be closed beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
Public transportation is highly encouraged and the MBTA has released details for the Thursday service. Subways will run on a Sunday schedule before 2 p.m. on Thursday. Afterward, subways will run at rush-hour levels to accommodate the influx of passengers.
All MBTA fares will be waived after 9:30 p.m.
During the press conference, Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart announced a special addition to the lineup that celebrates diversity.
Harvard University senior Amanda Gorman, who was the first Youth Poet Laureate of the United States, will present a poem during the festivities.
Queen Latifah, Arlo Guthrie, Amanda Mena and the Texas Tenors are headlining the event.
Gates for the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular open at 9 a.m. Thursday and the concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. The fireworks display is slated to start at 10:30 p.m.
