Boston Marks 250th Anniversary of Evacuation Day

Special ceremony and memorial service to be held in South Boston and Dorchester Heights

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:05pm

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On Tuesday, Boston will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the evacuation of the city by the British army during the American Revolution. The occasion will be marked with a memorial service, a procession, and a commemorative program featuring political and community leaders, as well as historical reenactment units.

Why it matters

Evacuation Day is a significant historical event for Boston and the United States, as it was the first major victory for George Washington's Continental Army following an 11-month siege of the city. The 250th anniversary celebration will honor this important milestone in the American Revolution.

The details

The commemoration will begin with a memorial service at St. Augustine's chapel in South Boston, followed by a procession up to Dorchester Heights. There, a commemorative program will feature speeches from Gov. Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and other political and community leaders. Several historical reenactment units, including the Lexington Minute Men, the 2nd Massachusetts Regiment, and the Henry Knox Regiment of Artillery, will also participate in the event.

  • Evacuation Day is observed on March 17 in Suffolk County, Massachusetts.
  • The 250th anniversary commemoration will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

The players

Maura Healey

The Governor of Massachusetts.

Michelle Wu

The Mayor of Boston.

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What they’re saying

“Evacuation Day is a significant historical event for Boston and the United States, and we are honored to commemorate the 250th anniversary of this important milestone.”

— Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts

“This celebration is a chance for our community to come together and reflect on the sacrifices and bravery of those who fought for our independence.”

— Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston

What’s next

The city of Boston is expected to continue its annual Evacuation Day celebrations in the years to come, honoring the legacy of the American Revolution and the role Boston played in the fight for independence.

The takeaway

The 250th anniversary of Evacuation Day serves as a reminder of Boston's pivotal role in the American Revolution and the enduring spirit of the city's residents in the face of adversity.