New England Clam Chowder. Revolutionary reenactments. Breathtaking fireworks. What better place to wear your red, white and blue this Fourth of July than on the shores of Beantown during the nation’s largest patriotic celebration?

It is no wonder Boston is the hub of patriotism each July. As the cradle of the American Revolution, the city now draws more than 2.5 million visitors not only from New England but from across the country and even around the globe. Beginning just over a quarter-decade ago as a small local celebration with just over 30 scheduled activities, Harborfest has grown immensely to a weeklong festival (June 28 to July 4) hosting more than 200 events.

Celebrating Boston’s colonial and maritime history, Harborfest features walking tours, reenactments, interactive adventures, concerts, live entertainment and good ‘ole New England grub, of course. For a true taste of local flavor, grab a sample or two (or three or four) of clam chowder at the 25th Annual Chowderfest where top local restaurants supply over 2,000 gallons of New England Clam Chowder. Their motive? Earning the people’s vote for “Boston Best Clam Chowder.”

Earning acclaim across the nation, Boston’s Harborfest has certainly not gone unnoticed each July. In fact, last year marked the 16th year that American Bus Association chose Harborfest as one of the “Top 100 Events in North America.” In addition, the festival was one of the “Top 50 Festivals and Events in 2002” by Leisure Group, “Festival of the Year” by Events Business News and the “Family Favorite Festival” by the Boston Parents’ Paper.

Whether heading to the festival with a significant other, a group of friends or the kids, there’s guaranteed fun for all. While most events are free, those that charge admission cost only between $1 and $10. Though the festival’s main events take place exclusively on Boston’s City Hall Plaza, others are conveniently concentrated in Boston’s historic downtown and waterfront districts.

The 2006 Harborfest schedule of headlining events goes as follows:

Opening Ceremony: Wednesday, June 28
Children’s Day: Thursday, June 29
TGIF Concert: Friday, June 30
Party on the Plaza: Saturday, July 1
Chowderfest: Sunday, July 2
Middlesex County Volunteer Fife and Drum: Monday, July 3
City of Boston July 4th: Tuesday, July 4

For a detailed schedule or more information, please call (617) 227-1528 or visit www.bostonharborfest.com.