Boston's Fourth of July parade highlighted the city's unique connection to American history, drawing visitors from across the country to celebrate freedom and unity.

Holiday revelers say there’s no other place they’d rather be to celebrate America’s 249th birthday than Boston, coming out early and often for Fourth of July festivities.

If you're heading to Boston on Friday to see the Independence Day fireworks and concert (or if you'd like to watch the festivities from home), here's everything you need to know.