Boston Events

Events in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston Marathon - The world's oldest and most prestigious marathon is held each April on Patriots' Day. Starts in the rural town of Hopkinton and runs through eight cities and towns, ending at Boston's Back Bay.

Head of the Charles - Each October, more than 8,000 rowers come from all over to participate in the world's largest 2-day regatta. Held on the Charles River, which separates Boston and Cambridge.

Annual Street Performers Festival - Held every year on Memorial Day weekend at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Watch a variety of performers including musicians, jugglers, magicians, break dancers, acrobats, clowns, and comedians.

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony - Each year the tallest tree in New England is lit at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Takes place in November. Also enjoy holiday music and a visit from Santa.

SoWa Open Market - A weekly market open every Sunday from May thru October. There are always new artists, vendors and farmers selling unique goods.

L Street Brownies New Year's Day Swim - One of Boston's oldest traditions, each New Year's Day approximately 600 swimmers dive into the Boston Harbor. Swimmers and spectators are all invited to attend. The event is also televised locally and worldwide.

St. Patrick's Day Parade - Enjoy colorful floats, music and Irish cheer each March as Boston's Irish heritage is celebrated. Takes place in South Boston and has been a tradition since 1901.

Patriot's Day Parade - This parade is held each April and begins with a flag raising ceremony on City Hall Plaza. The annual ceremonies conclude with a re-enactment of Paul Revere's midnight ride.

Greek Independence Day Parade - Highlights the first generation Greek Americans. Takes place annually each April in Back Bay.

Dorchester Day Parade - Always held on the first Sunday in June, this parade celebrates culture as it features marching bands, floats and politicians. The parade marks the historic landing of the Puritans, who settled in Dorchester in 1630.

Boston (Caribbean) Carnival - Held each August, this Trinidad style carnival includes events for kids and a parade. Focus is on Caribbean and International cultures and cuisines.

First Night - A day long festival each New Year's Eve, celebrating arts and community in Boston. Enjoy over 250 exhibitions and performances.

Salem Haunted Happenings - A Halloween festival throughout the month of October. Located in the witch town of Salem, enjoy museums, attractions, and haunted houses. Fun for the whole family.

Annual Great Pumpkin Float - During the month of October, jack-o-lanterns float down Davenport Creek in Dorchester. Participants are invited to bring a pumpkin to float or enjoy the parade of floating pumpkins.

International Film Festival - A variety of short and featured films are presented. The festival takes place for 10 days in April.

Boston Flower and Garden Show - The third largest indoor garden show in the world. Presented by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Chinese New Year - Every year a celebration is thrown in Chinatown for Chinese New Year. Enjoy booths, dancing, art and martial arts performances.

International Boston Seafood Show - The largest North American seafood event. Find the newest fresh, frozen and packaged seafood products. Sellers from more than 90 countries participate.

Boston Ducklings Day Parade - Held each year on Mother's day. This costume parade re-enacts the children's book "Make Way for Ducklings." Children and parents retrace the steps of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their family of eight little ducklings. Led by the Harvard University Marching Band.

Dragon Boat Festival - America's longest running Dragon Boat Festival, takes place on the Charles River. Enjoy Asian food, arts and craft demonstrations, and boat racing.

Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl- An all-you-can-eat ice cream festival. Takes place at the Boston City Hall Plaza each June. Raises money for cancer research.

Chowderfest - Annual clam chowder cooking competition, part of the 4th of July Harborfest. Takes place on City Hall Plaza. Each tent serves samples of their chowder, guests will then vote on the best chower.

Boston Fashion Week - Takes place each fall, traditional runway shows, special events and parties. Features experienced designers and student designers.

Bunker Hill Day - An annual event every second weekend of June. There are military drills, a parade, music and much more. Commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Cambridge River Festival - A free event along the banks of the Charles River features jazz, folk, latin and world music performances. Also enjoy food, art, demonstrations and activities for the whole family.

Boston Tea Party Re-enactment - Takes place each December at the Old South Meeting House. Witness first hand the event that took place in 1773.

Harbor Fest - Festival includes more than 220 events: walking tours, concerts, Revolutionary-era historical reenactments, visits from U.S. and foreign naval ships; harbor cruises; State House tours; guided walking tours of the North End.

Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival - Free event, three stages of live, worl-class jazz, great food, a Family Park complete with rides, inflatables, arts, crafts, cotton candy, even an Instrument Petting Zoo.