Patriots’ Day weekend in Lexington was a monumental celebration of history, democracy, and the American spirit. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, the town organized numerous festivities to mark the occasion, including rededication and award ceremonies, wreath layings, reenactments, and the much-loved afternoon parade.
Award-winning documentarian Ken Burns attended events on Thursday ahead of the release of his latest work, THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, which releases this November. Later that day, SNL and LHS alum Rachel Dratch hosted the volunteer awards ceremony before sticking around to participate in the rest of the weekend’s festivities.
On Saturday, Lexington received over 100,000 visitors, some traveling from across the country to participate, eager to relive history and celebrate the accomplishments of Paul Revere, William Dawes, Captain John Parker, and the Minutemen Militia against the Regulars. There was a parachute performance by the US Army Golden Knights, and LHS alum and Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn spent the day in his hometown, watching the morning reenactment, running in the road race, and being part of the afternoon parade. On Monday, members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra performed at Hastings Park while those listening picnicked on the grass. The weekend wrapped up on Tuesday morning when a group of hopeful Americans gathered on the Battle Green to to be formally naturalized as American citizens.
LexMedia staff provided accessible coverage of the Lex250 celebrations to those who could not attend in person, broadcasting six events live and recording numerous others. Watch our coverage from the weekend below (click the button on the upper right of the video below to view and select videos in the playlist).
We’re endlessly thankful to the volunteers who joined us for the day; whether it was hosting the afternoon parade, manning a camera, or taking photographs – we couldn’t have done it without them! If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering with us, please reach out.
