Last updated: May 5, 2026
Thing to Do
Join a Historic Town Meeting at Faneuil Hall
NPS Photo M Bozio
Make your voice heard by joining the National Parks of Boston for compelling reenactments of three historic town meetings!
Inspired by real words spoken in historic town meetings in Faneuil Hall and around Boston, these programs encourage audience members to participate in debates from pivotal moments of Boston's history. Debate with your fellow audience members and vote on the issue. Have your voice heard in town meeting!
2026 Season (June 25- September 7)
Join a ranger for a historic town meeting Thursday through Sunday at 2 pm. No registration is required.
The following town meeting reenactments will be offered throughout the summer:
"Declaration of Independence" 1776 Town Meeting
250 years ago, citizens gathered at local town meetings throughout Massachusetts. Each town had to determine if they supported their delegates decision to declare independence from Great Britain. How will Boston vote?
"Rocking the Cradle" 1854 Town Meeting
In May of 1854 Federal Marshals arrested Anthony Burns under the 1850 Fugitive Slave Law. Immediately following Burns’ arrest, Bostonians gathered at Faneuil Hall to discuss whether they would abide by this federal law or appeal to a higher law of freedom and liberty for all. The eyes of the nation were firmly fixed upon Boston. How will Boston respond?
"Woman's Tea Party" 1873 Town Meeting
On December 15, 1873 Boston’s suffragists held the New England Women's Tea Party, a massive suffrage rally in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Leading suffragists, including Lucy Stone, Frederick Douglass, and Mary Livermore, delivered rousing speeches to a crowd of more than three thousand, furthering the suffrage movement in Boston. Will Boston support women's suffrage?
Details
Duration
30-45 Minutes
Activity
Living History
Age(s)
10 and Older
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Great Hall of Faneuil Hall
Reservations
No
Season
Summer
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Town Meetings at Faneuil Hall take place on the 2nd floor which is accessible through an elevator on the 1st floor.