In 2025, Patriots’ Day takes on profound meaning as Massachusetts commemorates the 250th anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolution. Patriots’ Day honors the colonists’ fight for independence, celebrated alongside the famous Boston Marathon. From reenactments to racing events, the day reflects the sacrifices that formed the nation. This article explores the colonies’ early ties to England, the causes of the revolutionary break, and how Patriots’ Day and the Boston Marathon intertwine in a proud annual tradition.
Colonial Roots: Ties Between America and King George III
The American colonies began as extensions of English rule. Settlers arrived with charters and loyalty to King George III, embracing British customs, governance, and commerce. Colonists were proud subjects of the Crown, seeing themselves as partners in an expanding British empire. 
Yet, the vast Atlantic distance fostered unique American identities. Despite shared traditions, colonies evolved semi-autonomous governments, thriving economies, and distinct cultures. These seeds of self-determination planted the future revolutionary spirit.
The Breaking Point: Causes of the American Revolution
Tensions ignited as Britain imposed taxes and laws without colonial representation. Acts like the Stamp Act and Tea Act angered Americans, while the presence of British troops stirred resentment. King George III’s refusal to acknowledge 
colonial grievances deepened the divide. Calls for liberty and self-governance grew, culminating in armed resistance. The “shot heard round the world” in April 1775 at Lexington, Concord, and Menotomy (now Arlington) marked the colonies’ irrevocable step toward independence. The fight for freedom was underway.
Patriots’ Day and the Boston Marathon: A Celebration of Freedom
Patriots’ Day, celebrated on the third Monday of April, honors the Battles of Lexington, Concord, and Menotomy—the first armed conflicts of the Revolutionary War. Officially a state holiday in Massachusetts and Maine, Patriots’ Day embodies the spirit of American freedom. In 2025, festivities are even more poignant, commemorating 250 years since the Revolution’s dawn.
Beyond historical reenactments, Patriots’ Day is synonymous with the Boston Marathon, the world’s oldest annual marathon, dating back to 1897. This year’s marathon will see thousands of runners and spectators line the streets of Boston and beyond.
Here’s how you can watch the Boston Marathon 2025:
On TV:
- Race day coverage on WCVB begins Monday morning at 4 a.m.
- Broadcast of the professional races starts at 9 a.m.
- Coverage concludes with a special edition of Chronicle at 7:30 p.m.
On your computer, tablet, and smartphone:
- All coverage will be streamed throughout the day on WCVB.com and the WCVB app.
- Real-time updates available by subscribing to alerts on your phone or browser.
The Boston Marathon is more than a race—it’s a tribute to resilience, freedom, and the enduring American spirit.
Short List of 2025 Patriots’ Day Activities:
• Battle Reenactments at Lexington Green, Concord’s North Bridge, and Menotomy (Arlington)
• Patriots’ Day Parade in Lexington and surrounding towns
• Paul Revere’s Ride Reenactment starting from Boston’s North End
• Dawn Salute in Concord with musket volleys at sunrise
• Boston Marathon with professional, wheelchair, and amateur races starting from Hopkinton
• Colonial Living History Demonstrations at Minute Man National Historical Park
• Patriots’ Day Pancake Breakfasts at local churches and town halls
Patriots’ Day Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the brave souls who stood for liberty and lit the torch of freedom that still burns brightly today.
Bless our nation with courage, unity, and wisdom.
Teach us to honor the sacrifices of those before us by living with integrity and gratitude.
Strengthen our leaders, protect our freedoms, and guide each generation to walk in truth and justice.
May we never forget that true liberty comes from You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Celebrating States’ Rights and American Freedom
Patriots’ Day is not a federal holiday; it’s a celebration of state pride and autonomy, underscoring the importance of states’ rights preserved in the U.S. Constitution; as well as a celebration of our national freedom. As the Tenth Amendment affirms: “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution…are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”
Patriots’ Day reminds us that freedom was hard-won and must be continuously cherished. Let us work to preserve the freedoms and holidays of our nation, the USA. Take a moment to discover state celebrations not only of your home state, but each of the 50 states, and plan meaningful and intentional activities whenever we celebrate Thanksgiving and Independence Day with our friends and families in 2025 and every year thereafter.
Happy Patriots’ Day Massachusetts and Maine!
“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.”
— George Washington
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