Every New Year’s Day, Somerville commemorates an important moment of the American Revolution: The First Flag Raising.

The event re-enacts the one that took place on Prospect Hill on January 1, 1776. General Washington raised a new American flag on that day over the highest point in the land, Prospect Hill in what is now Somerville.

Numerous city officials, the Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts based out of Faneuil Hall (Boston), and re-enactors participate in the ceremony and parade. This year Phillis Wheatley and Martha Washington will be welcomed at the festivities.

The event starts at Somerville City Hall at 11:30 and proceeds to Prospect Hill for an hour long program, from noon till 1pm.

Date: January 1st
Admission: Free
Start Location (11:30): City Hall Concourse – 93 Highland Ave. Somerville, MA 02143
End Location (12-1pm): Prospect Hill Somerville, MA
Parking: Public Lots & On Street Parking
Public Transportation: Bus 90 Davis Sq
Directions Hwy Exit: RT 93 to Fellsway Exit