Sat, May 16
|Fort Phoenix
MA250 Harbor of Courage: American Revolution's First Naval Engagement
Celebrate a pivotal moment in the American Revolution at Fairhaven’s waterfront! Experience a Revolutionary War encampment, food trucks, cannon fire, a 10-gun salute, and more as part of Massachusetts’ 250th Anniversary celebration. History comes alive—don’t miss it!
TIME & LOCATION
May 16, 2026, 10:00 AM – May 17, 2026, 3:00 PM
Fort Phoenix, Green St, Fairhaven, MA 02719, USA
ABOUT THE EVENT
Join us for MA250: Harbor of Courage, commemorating the first naval engagement of the American Revolution and one of Massachusetts’ defining moments. Set on Fairhaven’s scenic waterfront, this event will bring history to life with:
A Revolutionary War encampment showcasing period life
Food trucks offering treats and bites for all ages
Cannon fire and a 10-gun salute, recreating the drama of the era
Hands-on history experiences, demonstrations, and more surprises
This special MA250 celebration honors the bravery, strategy, and spirit of those who shaped the nation. Families, history buffs, and waterfront enthusiasts alike are invited to witness, learn, and experience a day of American heritage like no other.
Co-hosted by the Fairhaven Village Militia and Discover Fairhaven with support from SRPEDD and BayCoast Bank — come see history in action at the very spot where courage met the sea!
Event Schedule
Saturday, May 16
• Fairhaven Village Militia encampment open to the public beginning at 10:00 AM, featuring living history throughout the day
• Festival at Grimshaw Park from 11:30 AM–6:30 PM
• Cannon firing planned for around sunset, around 7:00 PM
Sunday, May 17
• Fairhaven Village Militia encampment open from 9:30 AM–3:00 PM
Locations & Parking
The Fairhaven Village Militia Encampment will take place on the Town-owned lot at Fort Phoenix, located at the end of Fort Street near the hurricane barrier entrance and historic cannons.
Discover Fairhaven’s Saturday festival will take place nearby at Grimshaw Park, in the grassy area behind the tennis courts on Green Street.
During the busy Saturday schedule, limited accessible parking will be available along Green Street. Please check in with the on-duty police detail officer for assistance.