Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in boston, MA

Our city is famous for its amazing celebrations, and this year is no exception.  Want to know what's in store for you?  Read on and choose your party wisely!

Fourth of July on the Esplanade.  Now in its 36^th year, Boston's 4th of July spectacle has been attended by thousands of people from places far and near.  The event consists of awesome fireworks which are accompanied by a live performance of the Boston Pops.  Neil Diamond, this year's special guest, will be performing with the Pops.  Tip:  Arrive early (the Oval opens at 9am) to find a good place to sit.  Pack a lunch, water, sunscreen, blankets, and things to keep the kids occupied.  Best to take public transportation as parking will be scarce.  The Charles River Esplanade, Boston.

Pssst!  If you're really into the Pops, Boston is known for its preview concert on July 3^rd!  Sort of like a run-through, what you'll get is a less-crowded version of the spectacle.

Another cool place to watch the show (if you're not into long days on lawn chairs) is the dockside seating at the Community Boating Boathouse on the Esplanade.  Limited tickets are sold for the event, but they include admission, a cookout, and premium seating.  Tickets are $65/adult and $25/kid.  This event is sold-out but remaining tickets are being sold in an auction for charity here.

Boston Harborfest.  Nothing says "4^th" quite like the annual Harborfest.  Running from June 30^th until July 5^th, the event features different daily activities meant to showcase our city's rich colonial and maritime heritage.  Check out one of the guided tours, musical performances, history lessons, or cruises.  Don't miss Children's Day on Wednesday, July 1^st - come for music, jugglers, a treasure hunt and so much more.  Friday is a giant party on the plaza and Sunday is the famed Chowderfest.  For a full schedule of events, visit http://www.bostonharborfest.com/.