Paddle Boarding in Boston

A guide to the must-do summer events in Boston

We've got a list of the must-do summer festivals and events.

by Selena Frongillo | July 22, 2022

It’s summertime, and the livin’ is easy! Whether you’re ready to kick back and relax or are off to the races filling your calendar with summer plans, we’ve got you covered on the fun summer events in Boston you won’t want to miss. This list includes a little something for everyone!

July

Boston Harborfest
Downtown Boston
July 1-4

Dogs wearing patriotic costumes make their way past fans and judges during the Patriotic Pooch Parade in Boston, Massachusetts, on July 3, 2022. – The event, part of Boston Harborfest, gave awards to dogs and their owners for Best in Show, Best Team, Most Creative, and Most Patriotic outfits. (Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO / AFP) (Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)

Boston Harborfest is packed with activities the whole family will enjoy with everything from art markets, live entertainment, parades, fireworks and more. Don’t forget to try local restaurants’ adaptation of the New England classic, clam chowder and take part in crowning a winner.

Boston Pops
Hatch Memorial Shell, Boston
July 4

Come celebrate America’s birthday in one of the country’s oldest cities, at the Boston Pops celebration. This summer event in Boston has been hosted for almost 100 years. Beginning in 1929, the 4th of July event in Boston continues to draw the locals in. The musical performance of the Boston Pops Orchestra, as well as its spectacular fireworks show, is an annual tradition. Special guests this year included Chaka Khan, Heather Hadley, and Javier Colon.

Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival
Revere, MA
July 22-24

REVERE, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 21: Sculptors work on their creations at the Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach in Revere, Massachusetts on July 21, 2022. Sculptors from around the world come to compete and show off their skills at creating large temporary sand sculptures that bring thousands of people from all over the region to view them. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Ready to catch some rays by the shore? Head over to America’s very first beach in Revere, Massachusetts for the18th annual Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival. This year’s theme is “Wonders of the World,” displaying famous world landmarks. You’ll be sure to marvel at the intricate sandcastles, but that’s not all – make sure to stay for the live entertainment, fireworks and food from local spots.

Elton John Concert
Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

July 27-28

LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 24: Elton John performs on stage as American Express present BST Hyde Park at Hyde Park on June 24, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

If going to see more live concerts in Boston is on your summer bucket list, “The Elton John: Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour” is a must. Elton John will be performing at the Gillette Stadium in Boston on July 27th and again on the 28th. This is a once in a lifetime experience you won’t want to miss as this may be the last time Sir. Elton will be performing live.

Marblehead Race Week
Marblehead, MA
July 28-31

Set sail at the Marblehead Race Week in the NOOD’s (National Offshore One Design) Regatta series and see upwards of 200 boats from across the country take on the high seas. There’s no better place to be than by the ocean in the Boston summer heat.

August

Chinatown August Moon Festival
Boston Common
Aug. 8

BOSTON, MA. – AUGUST 11: Blue sky and spectators watch as colorful dancers perform with fans during the August Moon festival in China Town on August 11, 2019 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo By Mary Schwalm/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald) ( Photo by Mary Schwalm/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images)

Looking to celebrate Thanksgiving early? While it’s not quite the same, Chinatown August Moon Festival is the equivalent of America’s Thanksgiving to Chinese culture. This festival celebrates the annual harvest of wheat and rice on a full moon. Come try mooncakes (a typical Chinese dessert), cultural performances, trivia, a scavenger hunt and more while getting to know community members.

St. Anthony’s Feast
North End, Boston
Aug. 25-28

The feast of all feasts is the St. Anthony’s Feast in Boston’s North End, which has been held since 1919, and is the largest Italian religious festival in all of New England. Join in on the fun by indulging in different Italian cuisine from 100 food carts, while watching the parades, live entertainment and more! Enjoy everything from pizza, pasta, calamari, cannoli – to every Italian dish your heart could desire.

September

Boston Arts Festival
Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Sept. 10-11

There’s no better way to close out summer’s chapter than getting to check out and support local artists and musicians in the Boston area! Whether it’s browsing artwork like paintings, picking up some hand-made jewelry or finding your new favorite band, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Boston Film Festival
Rockport, MA
Sept. 22-26

Are you a film buff or just looking for some kick-back-and-relax entertainment? For its 38th year, the Boston Film Festival showcases a wide variety of films, grants awards and even offers a Q&A with filmmakers. Get all your burning questions answered, and maybe find a new go-to movie or two.

Is your calendar filled yet? We hope these summer events in Boston help you have a fun-filled rest of the season!

All photos courtesy Getty Images

Boston Rob Does Beantown

We’ve got three great shows that highlight the best of Boston! Check out Boston Rob Does Beantown, Blind Kitchen Boston and Eat Play Stay Boston.

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Selena Frongillo

Selena Frongillo

Selena Frongillo, a Boston native, is a freelance writer who has a passion for crafting thought-provoking stories no matter the industry or subject. She also has a love for travel and can be found performing in singing shows across the city. You can also find her at her website, http://showerthoughtsseries.com and her Instagram, showerthoughtsseries.

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