The vibrant atmosphere of a summer festival in Boston, showcasing music and culture.
This summer, Boston will host a variety of free music, movie screenings, and cultural events, providing entertainment for residents and visitors alike. From outdoor performances at the Boston Harbor Hotel to the Boston Art & Music Soul Festival and outdoor movie nights, there’s something for everyone. The Boston Harborfest and the 25th Anniversary of the Boston Landmarks Orchestra will also feature prominently in the celebration of community and culture. Enjoy free admission to museums and unique events throughout the season.
This summer, Boston will come alive with a series of exciting events that offer a wide range of free music, movies, and cultural celebrations. From the Boston Harbor Hotel’s outdoor performances to outdoor film screenings at various locations and vibrant festivals, residents and visitors will find plenty to enjoy throughout the season.
The Boston Harbor Hotel is set to host a series of free summer programs at its Rowes Wharf outdoor stage from Tuesday to Friday evenings. These offerings will include pop-up experiences designed to engage the community.
Among the anticipated events is the Boston Art & Music Soul Festival (BAMS Festival), scheduled for June 28 at Franklin Park Playstead Field. The festival will celebrate Black arts and culture with performances from over a dozen artists, a dedicated kid’s stage, and various vendors providing diverse culinary options.
Boston Landing’s Outdoor Movie Nights will kick off on June 26 with a classic screening of Happy Gilmore, and the fims will continue into August. Notable screenings include a “Christmas in July” feature of Elf on July 24, followed by an August 14 showing of Gone with the Wind. The movie season will culminate with a sing-along of Wicked on September 6.
The Coolidge Corner Theatre will also host outdoor screenings starting June 18, with titles such as Good Burger, Blade Runner: The Final Cut, Point Break, and The Blob. Moreover, on August 26, the historic Mount Auburn Cemetery will provide a unique experience with a double feature screening of The Sweet Hereafter and Gates of Heaven.
Celebrations continue with the Boston Harborfest from July 2 to July 4, featuring parades, historic tours, live music, and culminating with a fireworks display on July 2. A traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence will take place from the balcony of the Old State House on July 4. Events will span multiple locations, including Christopher Columbus Park, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, City Hall Plaza, and various stops along the Freedom Trail.
Continuing the cultural festivities, the Boston Landmarks Orchestra will celebrate its 25th anniversary by hosting free summer concerts, including a special concert on Juneteenth on June 14, focusing on music that resonates with the theme of freedom.
This summer, various cultural institutions will provide free admission and unique programming. On Juneteenth, many museums will allow visitors to explore their collections without charge. Similarly, the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Fine Arts will offer designated days for free entry.
Additional events include a whiskey tasting at the Fairmont Copley Plaza’s Oak Long Bar + Kitchen on June 19 to honor Juneteenth and a Summer Solstice party at Harvard Museums on June 20, promising performances and family-friendly activities.
With such a diverse and exciting array of offerings, Boston’s summer 2025 programming encourages community engagement and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the city’s vibrant culture. Whether it’s enjoying free concerts, outdoor movie nights, or visiting local museums and festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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