Hot Off the T: 5 Things to Do in Boston This Weekend

(All events are in walking distance from Orange Line stops on the MBTA.)

1. : Country star Martina McBride will headline the show at the Esplanade on Monday, July 4.  Lionel Richie was originally scheduled to lead the show but says he has strained vocal chords. The area in front of the Hatch Shell opens at 9 a.m. with entertainment all day. Thousands will converge on the area which makes the T the perfect mode of transportation for this event. Subway, bus and commuter rail rides are free after 10 p.m.
   Take the Orange Line to Haymarket Station and walk 15 minutes to the Hatch Shell.
    
2. : For $200 per person you get a 1-hour open bar, 5 courses and an unbeatable view of the fireworks from the , on Monday, July 4. Call (617) 536-1775 for reservations or have your butler do it.
   Take the Orange Line to Back Bay Station and walk 10 minutes to the Prudential Center.
    
3. ON THE CHEAP (AND AVOID THE CROWD): You don't have to be on the Esplanade to see Boston's fireworks on Monday, July 4. There are many good viewing spots around town. One good spot is on Cambridge Street. And you can go in at the last minute because there won't be a crowd.
   Take the Orange Line to Haymarket Station and walk 10 minutes to the corner of Staniford Street.
    
4. CHOWDERFEST: On Sunday, July 3, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., sample chowder from some of the best restaurants in town at City Hall Plaza. Adults, $12; Children 2-12, $10; Under 2, free.
   Take the Orange Line to Haymarket Station and walk 7 minutes to City Hall Plaza. 
   
    
5. SOWA OPEN MARKET: Open every Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the SOWA market is a farmers market; an artisan/crafts market; and a vintage/antique market; all in one. And you can usually see and buy some fine artwork in the artist studios which are on site.
   Take the Orange Line to Back Bay Station and walk 17 minutes to the market at 460 Harrison Ave.