The fireworks were not announced until an hour or so before to avoid attracting large crowds during the coronavirus pandemic.
This is traditionally a weekend for gathering in large groups for historic ceremonies and social events, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said.
The Fourth of July remains a party, though Americas 244th birthday wont be the usual blowout bash.
Fireworks will still crackle over the National Mall in Washington and other places, though with fewer people packed together watching them.
But whether its big cities or small towns bursting with pride, theres a desire to make sure some show goes on, no matter what it looks like.