Events
A Year-Round Celebration of Events in 2025
Boston, one of the most historically rich cities in the United States, offers a vibrant mix of cultural, historical, and seasonal events throughout the year. Known as the “Cradle of Liberty” due to its significant role in the American Revolution, Boston combines its storied past with a lively modern culture. Visitors can enjoy a blend of historic landmarks, world-class museums, diverse neighborhoods, and a thriving arts and food scene.
July through December is an especially exciting time to visit Boston. The city comes alive with summer festivals, autumn celebrations, and winter traditions, making it a premier destination for cultural experiences. Seasonal highlights include Fourth of July celebrations, fall foliage events, and festive holiday markets. Boston’s events are notable for their strong community participation, historical significance, and unique local charm that appeals to both residents and tourists alike.
January
Boston Wine Festival
- Dates: January 5 – March 27, 2025
- Location: Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
- Contact: (617) 439-7000
- Description: The Boston Wine Festival is the nation’s longest-running wine and food festival. It features themed dinners, receptions, and seminars hosted by winemakers from around the world.
- Highlights: Wine pairings with gourmet meals, meet-and-greets with winemakers, wine education seminars.
Harvard’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals
- Dates: January 26 – March 10, 2025
- Location: Farkas Hall, 12 Holyoke St, Cambridge, MA 02138
- Contact: (617) 495-5205
- Description: This annual theatrical production by Harvard University’s Hasty Pudding Club features comedic performances, original songs, and elaborate costumes.
- Highlights: Satirical comedy, all-male cast in drag, original musical numbers.
Boston Celtic Music Festival
- Dates: January 18-21, 2025
- Location: Various venues in Cambridge, MA
- Contact: info@bcmfest.com
- Description: Celebrating Celtic music and dance, this festival showcases local musicians and dancers through concerts, workshops, and sessions.
- Highlights: Live performances, dance workshops, traditional Irish and Scottish music.
February
Chinese New Year Parade
- Dates: February 9, 2025
- Location: Chinatown, Boston, MA
- Contact: info@chinatownmainstreet.org
- Description: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with colorful parades, lion dances, and cultural performances in Boston’s Chinatown.
- Highlights: Dragon and lion dances, traditional music, cultural booths.
Boston Beanpot Hockey Tournament
- Dates: February 3 and 10, 2025
- Location: TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114
- Contact: (617) 624-1050
- Description: This annual college ice hockey tournament features fierce competition among Boston’s four major college hockey teams: Boston University, Boston College, Harvard University, and Northeastern University.
- Highlights: High-energy hockey games, school spirit, exciting atmosphere.
Valentine's Day Chocolate Tour
- Dates: February 10-14, 2025
- Location: Various chocolate shops in Boston, MA
- Contact: info@bostonchocolatetours.com
- Description: Indulge in a sweet journey through Boston’s best chocolate shops, tasting exquisite chocolates and learning about the art of chocolate making.
- Highlights: Gourmet chocolate tastings, exclusive discounts, romantic ambiance.
March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Dates: March 17, 2025
- Location: South Boston, MA
- Contact: southbostonparade.org
- Description: Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the country, featuring marching bands, colorful floats, and Irish dancers.
- Highlights: Festive atmosphere, live music, traditional Irish celebrations.
Boston Flower & Garden Show
- Dates: March 12-16, 2025
- Location: Seaport World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210
- Contact: (800) 258-8912
- Description: This annual event showcases stunning garden displays, floral arrangements, and expert gardening tips.
- Highlights: Garden designs, floral competitions, gardening seminars.
Boston Seafood Festival
- Dates: March 29, 2025
- Location: Boston Fish Pier, 212 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210
- Contact: info@bostonseafoodfestival.org
- Description: A celebration of Boston’s rich maritime history, featuring fresh seafood, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.
- Highlights: Seafood tastings, chef demonstrations, maritime exhibits.
April
Boston Marathon
- Dates: April 21, 2025
- Location: Starts in Hopkinton, ends in Boston, MA
- Contact: info@baa.org
- Description: The world’s oldest annual marathon, attracting runners from around the globe. The race is renowned for its challenging course and enthusiastic spectators.
- Highlights: Elite athletes, Heartbreak Hill, vibrant cheering crowds.
Patriots' Day Reenactments
- Dates: April 21, 2025
- Location: Lexington and Concord, MA
- Contact: lexingtonma.gov
- Description: Commemorate the battles of Lexington and Concord with historical reenactments, parades, and ceremonies.
- Highlights: Authentic reenactments, historical tours, colonial-themed events.
Boston Comic Con
- Dates: April 5-7, 2025
- Location: Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St, Boston, MA 02210
- Contact: info@bostoncomiccon.com
- Description: A popular convention celebrating comic books, pop culture, and entertainment, featuring celebrity guests, panels, and cosplay.
- Highlights: Celebrity appearances, artist alley, cosplay contests.
May
Boston Calling Music Festival
- Dates: May 23-25, 2025
- Location: Harvard Athletic Complex, 65 N Harvard St, Boston, MA 02134
- Contact: info@bostoncalling.com
- Description: A major music festival featuring a diverse lineup of bands, musicians, and comedians.
- Highlights: Live music, food vendors, art installations.
Lilac Sunday
- Dates: May 11, 2025
- Location: Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130
- Contact: (617) 524-1718
- Description: Celebrate the blooming of the lilacs with family-friendly activities, guided tours, and picnics in the beautiful Arnold Arboretum.
- Highlights: Lilac collection, horticultural tours, children’s activities.
ArtWeek Boston
- Dates: May 1-10, 2025
- Location: Various locations in Boston, MA
- Contact: artweek@bochcenter.org
- Description: A creative festival offering unique and interactive art experiences, workshops, and performances.
- Highlights: Hands-on activities, live performances, artist talks.
June
Boston Pride Parade and Festival
- Dates: June 8, 2025
- Location: Copley Square, Boston, MA
- Contact: info@bostonpride.org
- Description: Celebrate LGBTQ+ pride with a vibrant parade and festival featuring performances, vendors, and activities.
- Highlights: Parade floats, live entertainment, community booths.
Cambridge Arts River Festival
- Dates: June 15, 2025
- Location: Central Square Cultural District, Cambridge, MA
- Contact: cambridgeartscouncil.org
- Description: A free outdoor festival celebrating the arts with live music, dance, theater performances, and art-making activities.
- Highlights: Art installations, family activities, food vendors.
Boston JerkFest
- Dates: June 29, 2025
- Location: Harvard Athletic Complex, 65 N Harvard St, Boston, MA 02134
- Contact: info@bostonjerkfest.com
- Description: A Caribbean food festival featuring jerk-spiced foods, live music, and cultural performances.
- Highlights: Food tastings, rum and beer garden, cultural dances.
July
Boston Harborfest
Date: July 1–July 7, 2025
Contact: info@bostonharborfest.com | (617) 227-1528
Website: www.bostonharborfest.com
Location: Various locations across downtown Boston and Boston Harbor
Description: Boston Harborfest is one of the nation’s largest Independence Day celebrations, featuring a week-long series of events honoring Boston’s colonial and maritime heritage. Highlights include live music, historical reenactments, harbor cruises, and the iconic Chowderfest.
Highlights and Features: The event culminates in the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on July 4th at the Esplanade, featuring live performances by the Boston Pops Orchestra and a dazzling fireworks display over the Charles River.
Practical Information: Most events are free, but tickets for harbor cruises and premium experiences can be purchased on the website. Public transportation is highly recommended, as parking in downtown Boston is limited.
Tips: Arrive early on July 4th for the best viewing spots along the Charles River. Bring sunscreen, water, and a blanket for comfort.
Shakespeare on the Common
Date: July 15–July 28, 2025
Contact: info@commshakes.org | (617) 426-0863
Website: www.commshakes.org
Location: Boston Common, Parkman Bandstand
Description: This free outdoor theater event is a beloved summer tradition, featuring professional performances of Shakespeare’s plays in the heart of Boston Common.
Highlights and Features: This year’s production is A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with enchanting sets and costumes bringing the magical world of Shakespeare to life under the stars.
Practical Information: Seating is first-come, first-served. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfort. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot. Check the weather forecast and bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Boston JerkFest
Date: July 19–20, 2025
Contact: info@bostonjerkfest.com | (617) 405-5346
Website: www.bostonjerkfest.com
Location: Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology, 41 Berkeley St, Boston, MA
Description: A two-day Caribbean food and music festival celebrating the flavors of jerk spices and Caribbean culture.
Highlights and Features: The event features live reggae music, chef demos, rum and craft beer tastings, and family-friendly activities.
Practical Information: Tickets are available online, with options for general admission and VIP packages. Public transportation is recommended, as parking is limited.
Tips: Don’t miss the rum tasting event on the first evening for a unique experience.
August
Boston GreenFest
Date: August 15–17, 2025
Contact: info@bostongreenfest.org | (617) 477-4840
Website: www.bostongreenfest.org
Location: Rose Kennedy Greenway
Description: Boston GreenFest is the largest multicultural environmental festival in the region, celebrating sustainability, innovation, and community.
Highlights and Features: The festival includes eco-friendly exhibits, live music, a film festival, and activities for all ages.
Practical Information: Admission is free. The Greenway is accessible via the Haymarket T station.
Tips: Bring reusable water bottles and bags to make the most of the eco-friendly atmosphere.
Fisherman’s Feast
Date: August 22–25, 2025
Contact: info@fishermansfeast.com | (617) 635-3911
Website: www.fishermansfeast.com
Location: North End, Boston, MA
Description: A traditional Italian festival celebrating the Madonna del Soccorso di Sciacca. This is the oldest continuous Italian festival in Boston, dating back to 1910.
Highlights and Features: Processions, street vendors, live music, and the famous “Flight of the Angel” ceremony make this event a must-see.
Practical Information: Admission is free. The North End can be reached via the Haymarket or North Station T stops.
Tips: Try the authentic Italian street food, including cannoli and zeppole.
Summer Dine Out Boston
Date: August 18–25, 2025
Contact: info@dineoutboston.com | (617) 536-4100
Website: www.dineoutboston.com
Location: Participating restaurants across Boston
Description: A biannual restaurant week offering prix fixe menus at some of Boston’s best restaurants.
Highlights and Features: Enjoy multi-course meals at discounted prices, with options for lunch and dinner.
Practical Information: Reservations are recommended and can be made directly with participating restaurants.
Tips: Book early to secure tables at popular spots like No. 9 Park or Mamma Maria.
September
Boston Arts Festival
Date: September 7–8, 2025
Contact: info@bostonartsfestival.com | (617) 635-3911
Website: www.bostonartsfestival.com
Location: Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Description: A celebration of Boston’s thriving arts community, featuring local artists, craftspeople, and live performances.
Highlights and Features: Interactive art installations, musical performances, and opportunities to purchase unique handmade items.
Practical Information: Admission is free. The park is accessible via the Aquarium T station.
Tips: Bring cash for art purchases and enjoy a picnic by the waterfront.
Boston Film Festival
Date: September 20–24, 2025
Contact: info@bostonfilmfestival.org | (617) 523-8388
Website: www.bostonfilmfestival.org
Location: Various theaters across Boston
Description: Showcasing independent films, documentaries, and premieres, the Boston Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world.
Highlights and Features: Post-screening Q&A sessions with directors and actors, and a spotlight on environmental films.
Practical Information: Tickets can be purchased online or at the theater box office.
Tips: Arrive early for screenings to get good seats and check out the schedule for celebrity appearances.
Hub on Wheels
Date: September 29, 2025
Contact: info@hubonwheels.com | (617) 918-4456
Website: www.hubonwheels.com
Location: Ride begins and ends at City Hall Plaza
Description: A citywide bike ride through Boston’s neighborhoods and along the Charles River Esplanade.
Highlights and Features: Closed roads for cyclists, scenic routes, and post-ride festivities.
Practical Information: Registration is required, with proceeds benefiting local charities. Bike rentals are available.
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and bring water for the ride.
October
Boston Book Festival
Date: October 18–19, 2025
Contact: info@bostonbookfest.org | (617) 314-6800
Website: www.bostonbookfest.org
Location: Copley Square, Boston Public Library, and surrounding venues
Description: The Boston Book Festival is a literary celebration featuring author talks, workshops, book signings, and family-friendly activities. It brings together writers, readers, and publishers to celebrate the power of storytelling.
Highlights and Features: This year’s festival includes keynote speakers from bestselling authors, panel discussions on contemporary issues, and interactive writing workshops for aspiring authors. The festival also has a popular marketplace for independent publishers and booksellers.
Practical Information: Most events are free, while some require registration. Copley Square is easily accessible via the Copley T station.
Tips: Arrive early for popular author events, as space can fill up quickly. Check the schedule for children’s programming if visiting with kids.
Oktoberfest at Harvard Square
Date: October 12, 2025
Contact: info@harvardsquare.com | (617) 491-3434
Website: www.harvardsquare.com
Location: Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA
Description: A lively fall tradition, Oktoberfest at Harvard Square features live music, beer gardens, arts and crafts vendors, and international food stalls.
Highlights and Features: The festival is known for its HONK! Parade, where activist marching bands from around the world perform. The beer gardens feature local breweries, making it a great event for beer enthusiasts.
Practical Information: Admission is free. Harvard Square is accessible via the Red Line T station.
Tips: Bring cash for food and vendor purchases. Arrive early to secure a good spot for the HONK! Parade.
Head of the Charles Regatta
Date: October 19–20, 2025
Contact: info@hocr.org | (617) 868-6200
Website: www.hocr.org
Location: Charles River, with viewing areas at Cambridge Boat Club and along Memorial Drive
Description: The largest two-day rowing event in the world, the Head of the Charles Regatta attracts athletes and spectators from around the globe.
Highlights and Features: Watch crews compete in various race categories while enjoying food trucks, live music, and sponsor booths along the riverbank.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but premium viewing areas and hospitality tents require tickets. Parking is limited; use public transit or bike to the event.
Tips: The best viewing spots are along Memorial Drive, near Harvard and Weeks bridges. Dress warmly as the event takes place outdoors.
November
Boston Christmas Tree Lighting
Date: November 30, 2025
Contact: info@boston.gov | (617) 635-4500
Website: www.boston.gov
Location: Boston Common, Tremont Street, Boston, MA
Description: A cherished holiday tradition, the Boston Christmas Tree Lighting celebrates the start of the holiday season. The tree, a gift from Nova Scotia, is lit in a festive ceremony featuring live music and performances.
Highlights and Features: This year’s lighting ceremony includes performances by local choirs, a children’s holiday train ride, and a fireworks display.
Practical Information: The event is free and open to the public. Boston Common is easily accessible via the Park Street T station.
Tips: Arrive early to get a good view of the stage. Dress warmly and bring a thermos of hot cocoa to stay comfortable.
Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair
Date: November 15–17, 2025
Contact: info@bostonbookfair.com | (617) 536-2270
Website: www.bostonbookfair.com
Location: Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston Street, Boston, MA
Description: This unique event brings together book lovers, collectors, and dealers to browse and purchase rare and antique books, manuscripts, and ephemera.
Highlights and Features: Attendees can explore rare first editions, historical documents, and signed works by famous authors. There are also lectures and appraisals available for attendees.
Practical Information: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. The Hynes Convention Center is accessible via the Green Line at the Hynes T stop.
Tips: Bring a list of any specific titles or authors you’re looking for and consider attending early for the best selection.
Boston Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Date: November 28, 2025 (Thanksgiving Morning)
Contact: info@turkeytrotboston.com | (617) 555-8765
Location: Start/Finish at Boston Common, Tremont Street
Description: This annual 5K run is a fun and family-friendly way to kick off Thanksgiving morning while supporting local charities.
Highlights and Features: Participants receive a commemorative medal and T-shirt, and there are post-race refreshments and activities. Costumes are encouraged, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Practical Information: Registration is required, with proceeds benefiting local food banks. Public transit is recommended, as parking is limited.
Tips: Dress in layers for the crisp morning weather and arrive early for the pre-race warm-up activities.
December
Blink! at Faneuil Hall
Date: December 1, 2025–January 1, 2026
Contact: info@blinkboston.com | (617) 635-4500
Website: www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com
Location: Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 4 South Market Street, Boston, MA
Description: Blink! is a spectacular light and sound show that transforms Faneuil Hall Marketplace into a winter wonderland, featuring over 350,000 twinkling lights synchronized to holiday music.
Highlights and Features: The marketplace also hosts holiday shopping, seasonal food vendors, and Santa Claus meet-and-greets.
Practical Information: Admission is free. Faneuil Hall is accessible via the Haymarket or State T stations.
Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, and pair your visit with a meal at one of the nearby restaurants.
The Nutcracker by Boston Ballet
Date: December 1–31, 2025
Contact: tickets@bostonballet.org | (617) 695-6955
Website: www.bostonballet.org
Location: Citizens Bank Opera House, 539 Washington Street, Boston, MA
Description: Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a cherished holiday tradition, featuring stunning choreography, Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, and dazzling sets and costumes.
Highlights and Features: This year’s production includes new set designs and special guest performers.
Practical Information: Tickets range from $45 to $250 and can be purchased online or at the box office. The Opera House is accessible via the Downtown Crossing T station.
Tips: Book tickets early, as performances often sell out. Consider attending a weekday matinee for better seat availability and lower prices.
First Night Boston
Date: December 31, 2025–January 1, 2026
Contact: info@firstnightboston.org | (617) 635-3911
Website: www.firstnightboston.org
Location: Copley Square, Boston Common, and surrounding areas
Description: First Night Boston is the city’s iconic New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring live performances, ice sculptures, fireworks, and family-friendly activities.
Highlights and Features: The event includes a parade through downtown Boston, indoor and outdoor performances, and two fireworks displays—one at 7 PM for families and another at midnight.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but certain indoor performances may require tickets. Public transit is strongly recommended, as parking is limited.
Tips: Dress warmly and plan your schedule in advance to catch your favorite performances and fireworks.
Practical Information
- Tickets: Many events offer tickets online through their official websites. Prices vary by event, with some offering early bird discounts or group rates.
- Getting Around: Boston’s public transportation system, the MBTA, provides convenient access to most event locations. Parking can be limited, so using public transport or rideshare services is recommended.
- Accommodation: Book early, especially during major events, as hotels can fill up quickly. Consider staying in centrally located neighborhoods like Back Bay, Downtown, or the Seaport District for easy access to event venues.
Insider Tips
- Best Times to Attend: For optimal experience, arrive early to avoid crowds and secure the best views. Weekday events often have smaller crowds than weekend events.
- Local Customs: Boston is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Be respectful of the city’s history and traditions, especially during cultural and historical events.
- Additional Attractions: While attending events, explore other attractions like the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts to round out your visit.
