While fireworks light the sky, a great barbecue steals the whole show, and Massachusetts has plenty of places ready to prove it one smoky plate at a time.
If your Fourth of July plans need brisket with bark, ribs with swagger, or pulled pork that disappears faster than sparklers, this list is your shortcut to a seriously tasty holiday.
From Boston and Cambridge to western small towns and South Coast gems, these spots bring real craft, big flavor, and the kind of side dishes that deserve their own applause…