Lexington Patriots’ Day
A tribute to the Patriots who fell on Lexington Green,
April 19, 1775
Since 1971, the Lexington Minute Men have recreated the birth of American liberty on Lexington Common, also known as the Lexington Battle Green, at 6 AM on Patriots’ Day. First proclaimed as a public holiday in Massachusetts in 1894, Patriots’ Day commemorates the start of the American Revolution at the Battle of Lexington. The Battle of Lexington is commemorated every year on the third Monday in April. We pay tribute to those patriots who fell on Lexington Green on the morning of April 19, 1775, and to the courage and fortitude of those who continued the fight throughout the day. The celebration usually spans an entire weekend culminating with the annual parade through Lexington Center.
After dawn on Patriots’ Day, spectators ring the Common watching the huddled group of Minute Men- “The Alarm” at the Old Belfry. Soon they hear the steady pounding of drums and marching feet as column upon column of red-coated Regulars come into view.
On the morning of April 19, 1775, seventy-seven members of Lexington’s town militia faced down eight hundred British troops on the Lexington Battle Green. The British Regulars were marching to Concord, where they expected to confiscate a stockpile of weapons intended to be used for rebellion. A shot was fired on the Green. Nobody knows who fired that shot, but with it and with the ensuing musket fire, the American Revolution began.
Volley after volley of musket fire follows. Seven men fall. The Regulars shout a triumphant “huzza” and continue on to Concord. Despite losing close friends and family members, the Minute Men soon follow them to Concord, where they have their revenge. This is the historic reenactment of the beginning of the War for American Independence.
More events to enjoy in Lexington:
Battle Green Rededication: This event is a first-of-its-kind and will be unique to Patriots’ Day 2025. The Lex250 Commission will rededicate the Lexington Battle Green alongside officials from every level of government. After the speaking portion of the ceremony, there will be a special demonstration from the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. Members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will descend on Lexington, landing directly onto the Battle Green.
Lexington Lions Club Annual Five-Mile Road Race: Set against the backdrop of scenic Lexington, this event not only marks a significant milestone but also embodies the spirit of Patriots’ Day, a day steeped in American history.
USS Lexington Memorial Ceremonies: This ceremony commemorates the role played by the U.S.S. Lexington ships and honors those who served aboard the five vessels named U.S.S. Lexington.
Patriots’ Day Afternoon Parade: The most anticipated event of the weekend which is a two-hour parade starting from East Lexington to Worthen Road. This two-mile parade includes floats from many culturally diverse organizations displaying their work and art.
