55 Can’t-miss Spring Festivals Coming to Boston in 2025
When:
Wednesday, Apr 16, 2025 9:00a -
Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 11:00p
Wednesday, Apr 16, 2025 9:00a -
Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 11:00p
Where:
Boston
Surrounding areas
Boston, MA
Admission:
$Varies
Categories:
Art, Date Idea, Drinks, Farms, Festivals & Fairs, Food, Games, Good for Groups, Kid Friendly, Meetup, Music, Outside, Party, Photoworthy, Seasonal
Event website:
https://joyraft.com/event/24-festivals-to-enjoy-in-boston-this-spring-boston-455683
It’s festival season in Boston. Enjoy a mix of cultural, musical, food, and drink festivals in and around the city this spring before it’s officially summer on June 20. While we may be counting down the days until the next switch of seasons, let’s enjoy a mix of cool and breezy weather while connecting with our community before it turns hot and sticky.
Savor spring with this list of free and ticketed festivals around Boston.
by Yelena Nicolle Salvador
Events are listed chronologically
1) Boston 250 Launch: Anniversary of Paul Revere’s Ride
When: Friday 4/18
Where: North End
Cost: Free
Info: Commemorate the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride with a night of festivities. Watch Paul Revere bid farewell, listen to an address by Mayor Wu, catch the procession of lanterns, and stay for a Harborwalk drone show.
2) Grow with Us: Earth Day Celebration Festival & Market
When: Saturday 4/19
Where: Allston
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate Earth day in Allston with the third annual Grow with Us party. Bring clothing donations, participate in a massive clothing swap, shop from over 20 local vendors, and grab a bite to eat from a food truck. This community get together is the perfect way to practice sustainability and meet new like-minded friends.
When: Saturday 4/19
Where: Seaport
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy this one-day festival that celebrates all comic book-related things. Shop for collectibles, meet professional DC and Marvel comic book artists, and come dressed in your favorite cosplay.
When: Saturday 4/19
Where: Fenway
Cost: Free
Info: If you’re a brew lover, head to Time Out Market for this one-day festival. Snap a pic at the photo booth, dance to the tunes of a DJ, and enjoy free samples of beer that is locally crafted from breweries from around New England.
5) The Boston Progressive Jazz Festival
When: Saturday 4/19 - Sunday 4/20
Where: Somerville
Cost: $25-40
Info: Explore the meaning of jazz and its sounds at this music festival at the Arts at the Armory. You’ll be able to listen to over 10 local jazz musicians and bands perform as they define what jazz is with their own creative twist over two days.
When: Monday 4/21
Where: Greater Boston
Cost: Free
Info: Marathon Day is a full-day festivity. Cheer on runners throughout the city and enjoy specials and watch parties at local restaurants. Meet running enthusiasts, listen to motivational speakers, catch a live music performance, and so much more throughout the weekend leading up to the big day at Marathon Fan Fest, the Marathon Expo, and the Marathon Finish Line.
7) 22nd Annual Independent Film Festival Boston
When: Wednesday 4/23 - Wednesday 4/30
Where: Greater Boston
Cost: $13+
Info: Grab a bucket of popcorn and get ready to watch innovative films across genres. At independent theaters across Boston, you can enjoy a week of films and community connection with other cinephiles.
8) 1965 Freedom Rally 60th Freedom Rally
When: Saturday 4/26
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: This year is the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Ruth Batson, Alan Gartner, Reverend Virgil Wood, and Dr. Ralph Abernathy’s 1965 Freedom Rally on the Common. Show up to this rally and stand together with your neighbors to continue the fight for freedom and human dignity. There will be special guest speakers, an address from Mayor Wu, and more.
When: Saturday 4/26
Where: Roxbury
Cost: Free
Info: Head to the Shirley-Eustis House to welcome spring at this festival. Spend a day with farm animals, learn about wool weaving and butter making, make some crafts, and more. You’ll be able to connect with community members, neighborhood organizations, and local farms too.
When: Saturday 4/26
Where: Waltham
Cost: $20
Info: Gore Place is hosting their annual Sheepshearing Festival. Explore the grounds of this historic, 50-acre estate and watch traditional sheep shearing techniques. There will be dog herding demos, an art market, live music, and so much more.
11) Boston Comics in Color Festival
When: Saturday 4/26
Where: Allston
Cost: Free
Info: Learn about and connect with storytellers of color at this family-friendly festival. Listen to guest speakers, dress up in your best cosplay, shop for comics, and enjoy live art demos at this community event.
12) Massachusetts Craft Brewers Festival
When: Saturday 4/26
Where: South End
Cost: $10-55
Info: Raise a glass to the past and toast to the future of independent brewers as you celebrate the artistry of brewmakers from across the state. At Cyclorama, Boston’s Center for the Arts, you’ll be able to sample beers, kombucha, seltzers, and ciders from over 40 craft breweries.
13) Japan Festival Boston 2025
When: Saturday 4/26 - Sunday 4/27
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: The Boston Common is transforming into a little slice of Japan for the weekend. Enjoy live music, watch traditional dance and cultural performances, sample different foods, and shop from pop-up vendors. You’ll be able to learn about Japanese culture and connect with other community members at this family-friendly event.
14) 29th Annual Greek Independence Day Parade & Festival
When: Sunday 4/27
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Watch a big parade of Greek dance troupes, organizations, and officials march along Boylston Street to honor Greece’s independence from Ottoman rule. Then head to the Common as it transforms into “Plaka,” Athens’ central square, with food trucks, live performances, and more.
When: Thursday 5/1 - Sunday 5/4
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: Free
Info: At this festival, you’ll get to explore art in all its forms. Harvard students, graduate students, and faculty will be showcasing their work from sculptures and paintings to live performances, music, and more.
16) Boston Panda Fest at City Hall
When: Friday 5/2 - Sunday 5/4
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: $9-35
Info: For the first time ever, City Hall is turning into a panda wonderland for the Boston Panda Fest. Everything will be panda-themed. Enjoy panda-shaped food and sweet treats, take a photo by the 15-foot panda inflatable, listen to live music, and so much more.
When: Friday 5/2 - Sunday 5/4
Where: Fenway
Cost: $27
Info: Head to the MFA for the weekend and watch the museum burst with life. Spot the beautifully handcrafted floral arrangements inspired by different pieces of art throughout the exhibits. There will also be special events, tours, and more throughout the festival.
18) 2nd Annual Hot Sauce Festival of Global Flavors
When: Saturday 5/3
Where: Kendall Square
Cost: $12
Info: It’s time for the hottest event of the year. The Cambridge Foundry is hosting the 2nd annual Rhythm N’ Spice Hot Sauce Fest where you can sample hot sauces, watch spicy food challenges, catch live cooking demos, sip on a spicy cocktail, and dance to Afrobeats.
When: Saturday 5/3
Where: Central Square
Cost: Free
Info: Central Square is hosting another block party in the neighborhood. Munch on local bites, like Naco Taco, listen to live music, and enjoy family-friendly activities throughout the afternoon and into the evening. There will be art, immersive activations, and more.
20) Big Queer Food Festival Grand Tasting
When: Saturday 5/3 - Sunday 5/4
Where: Downtown
Cost: $95+
Info: Sample the best dishes by local LGBTQIA+ chefs at this festival at High Street Place. At this festival, you can enjoy unlimited tastings of food, cocktails, wines, and more. This block-style party will feature music and other special guests.
21) Tulip Fest at Cider Hill Farm
When: Saturday 5/3 - Sunday 5/4 & Saturday 5/10 - Sunday 5/11
Where: Amesbury
Cost: Free
Info: This local MA farm is blooming with hundreds of tulips. Purchase a special ticket for cut-your-own-tulips or enjoy the festivities for free. Wander through the orchard, sip on a hard cider, listen to live music, and enjoy the springtime air.
22) 40th Annual Mayfair Festival
When: Sunday 5/4
Where: Harvard Square
Cost: Free
Info: The streets of Harvard Square will be bustling with music, food, and culture during the 40th Annual Mayfair Festival. Watch and listen to some of the best dancers and musicians from across New England. Taste your way around the world and so much more.
23) Greek GyroFest
When: Friday 5/9 - Saturday 5/10
Where: Somerville
Cost: Free
Info: Opa! Eat tons of gyros, celebrate Greek culture, and sip on some fun drinks. This two-day festival is for exploring Greek cuisine and connecting with the local Greek community.
When: Saturday 5/10
Where: Somerville
Cost: Free
Info: One of Greater Boston’s biggest traditions is back this year. Don’t miss Somerville’s PorchFest where you can listen to live music on porches, in driveways and alleys, and parking lots. You’ll love exploring the sounds of local talent at this neighborhood music festival.
25) Be-In Joy Boston
When: Saturday 5/10
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Spread happiness with other Boston community members at this day-long festival on the Common. There will be prompts, so you can engage in meaningful conversations with new friends, dancing lessons, and other fun activities for all.
When: Saturday 5/10
Where: Roslindale
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy this mini Greek food fest where you can grab a mouthwatering gyro wrap and the classic Greek dessert, Loukooumades, a fried dough ball with honey, cinnamon, and walnuts. Taste your way through Greece right in Rozzie.
27) Watch City Steampunk Festival
When: Saturday 5/10
Where: Waltham
Cost: Free
Info: This outdoor festival celebrates all things Steampunk. Shop from over 60 vendors, listen to live music, and participate in family-friendly activities. This year’s new activation will feature “monsters on the loose” – say hello to unique performers that are part of a new “zoological park.”
28) Duckling Day
When: Sunday 5/11
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Happy Duckling Day! Come watch the Common turn into a field of little ducklings as kids parade in their duckling costumes towards the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ sculpture. There will be live music, lawn games, dance performances, and so much more.
29) Lilac Sunday at Arnold Arboretum
When: Sunday 5/11
Where: Jamaica Plain
Cost: Free
Info: The Arboretum will be blooming with over 400 lilacs. Bring a picnic and enjoy a spring day on the lawns of the Arboretum on the only day of the year that picnicking is allowed. There will be art, guided tours, dance performances, and plenty of lilacs to enjoy.
30) Boston’s National Bike to Work Day Festival
When: Friday 5/16
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: Free
Info: Happy Bike to Work Day! Join a neighborhood bike ride,enjoy breakfast and coffee after a fun commute, and indulge in other fun activities to connect with community members and neighbors.
31) Franklin Park Kite & Bike Festival
When: Saturday 5/17
Where: Franklin Park
Cost: Free
Info: Don’t miss Opening Day of Franklin Park this season. The Kite & Bike Festival is one of Boston's most beloved traditions where you can make your own or bring a kite, fly it, munch on some snacks from food trucks, and enjoy this beautiful public open space.
32) Quincy Multicultural Festival
When: Saturday 5/17
Where: Quincy
Cost: Free
Info: Stop by Quincy’s family-friendly Multicultural Festival. There will be live music and dance performances from around the world. You can learn about the cultures of Quincy by wandering through different interactive displays and connecting with neighbors. And there will be plenty of food options that represent the diversity of the city.
When: Saturday 5/17
Where: Watertown
Cost: Free
Info: Explore Watertown and listen to live music all day. Wander through the streets and enjoy performances by your very own neighbors. Stick around at a local business for this year’s Watertown PorchFest After Hours featuring specials and even more live music.
34) Lexington Battle Green BBQ Festival
When: Saturday 5/17 - Sunday 5/18
Where: Lexington
Cost: Free
Info: Take a day trip to Lexington or enjoy a weekend getaway to savor all things BBQ. The 12th Annual Lexington Battle Green BBQ Festival will feature food from local BBQ joints, craft beer, and live music.
35) 9th Annual Boston Polish Fest
When: Sunday 5/18
Where: Dorchester
Cost: Free
Info: Learn about Polish culture and taste the very best of the country at the 9th Annual Boston Polish Fest. Enjoy cultural performances, live music, and food. You’ll get to connect with the local Polish-American community and meet new friends too.
36) 2025 Watertown Dam Herring Festival
When: Sunday 5/18
Where: Watertown
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate the annual migration of Alewife, Blueback Herring, and American Shad from the ocean to the Charles River. This festival will feature food trucks, activities, and opportunities for you to learn about and connect more with nature.
37) Boston Calling Music Festival 2025
When: Friday 5/23 - Sunday 5/25
Where: Allston
Cost: $176+
Info: Boston Memorial Day weekend wouldn’t be complete without the Boston Calling Music Festival. Get ready for a three-day music festival filled with amazing artists like Fall Out Boy, Avril Lavigne, Luke Combs, and more.
When: Thursday 5/29 - Sunday 5/31
Where: Allston
Cost: $159+
Info: WBUR is turning 75. Come celebrate at the WBUR Festival featuring special guest speakers like Leslie Odom, Jr., Busy Philipps, Jamelle Bouie, and more. There will also be live music on multiple stages and so much more.
39) New England Hong Kong Festival 2025
When: Saturday 5/31
Where: Somerville
Cost: Free
Info: The second annual New England Hong Kong Festival is being held at Seven Hills Park. Come enjoy the cultural festivities from local Asian and Hong Kong goods and live music performances to scrumptious bites and other cultural demonstrations.
When: Saturday 5/31
Where: Southie
Cost: Free
Info: Southie is bringing their first ever Porchfest with a twist. To fit the unique neighborhood architecture, StoopFest was born and is making its premiere this year to blend love for music and local businesses. Get ready for live music and neighborhood connection.
41) Dorchfest 2025
When: Saturday 5/31
Where: Dorchester
Cost: Free
Info: Dorchester will be booming with life and live music all day long. Put some walking shoes on and enjoy the beats from local musicians as they perform their best tracks on porches, driveways, parking lots, and more.
When: Saturday 5/31
Where: Malden
Cost: Free
Info: Meet the local talent of Malden and get ready for a full day of music. As you stroll around the neighborhood, you’ll be able to listen to the tunes of local bands and musicians as they perform all day long.
43) Harvard Square Bookish Ball
When: Saturday 6/1
Where: Harvard Square
Cost: Free
Info: This festival is perfect for book lovers and storytellers. Explore the local bookstores in and around Harvard Square and enjoy special offers throughout the establishments. There will be live music, literary tours, and plenty of bookish community connection.
44) 42nd Annual Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl
When: Tuesday 6/3 - Thursday 6/5
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: $15-35
Info: Unlimited ice cream scoops? Yes, please. Head to City Hall Plaza and eat ice cream for a good cause while sampling signature flavors from big name ice cream companies. Proceeds will support life saving cancer research. Check out the adults-only after party for even more scoops and fun bevs.
45) 15th Annual Dance for World Community Festival
When: Saturday 6/7
Where: Harvard Square
Cost: Free
Info: It’s time for Greater Boston’s largest indoor & outdoor dance festival. At this all-day affair, you’ll be able to enjoy performances and classes from over 60 local dance companies. You’ll also be able to connect with local social justice organizations and neighborhood advocacy efforts. Get ready to dance it out!
When: Saturday 6/7
Where: Medford
Cost: Free
Info: Explore Medford by foot and enjoy a family-friendly music festival throughout the neighborhood. Listen to local musicians perform live on porches, driveways, parking lots, and more.
When: Saturday 6/7
Where: Brighton
Cost: Free
Info: The Department of Conservation and Recreation is hosting their annual Adaptive Recreation Fair along the Charles. Enjoy a full day of accessible and inclusive activities for all. Learn about adaptive cycling, hiking, and fencing and even try your hand at adaptive golf.
48) Farm & Field Festival at Cider Hill Farm
When: Saturday 6/7 - Sunday 6/8
Where: Amesbury
Cost: Free
Info: Make your way to Cider Hill Farm for a weekend full of spring festivities. Listen to live music from local bands, play some lawn games, participate in a musical-themed obstacle course, and so much more.
49) Boston Portuguese Festival 2025
When: Sunday 6/8
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: Free
Info: It’s time for the 20th Boston Portuguese Festival. Enjoy Portuguese cuisine, listen to traditional fado and folk music, and learn all about Portuguese culture, especially in Boston. This vibrant family-friendly festival is the perfect way to celebrate Portuguese-American pride.
50) 46th Annual Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
When: Sunday 6/8
Where: Cambridge
Cost: Free
Info: Another one of Boston’s most iconic events is back this spring. Line up along the Charles and watch nearly 70 dragon boats compete during the oldest boat festival in the United States. There will be food, an art market, cultural demonstrations, and so much more.
51) Boston Caribbean American Heritage Festival
When: Sunday 6/8
Where: Allston
Cost: Free
Info: June is National Caribbean Heritage Month. Learn about Boston’s Caribbean-American community, watch dance performances, listen to live music, taste great food, and learn about local organizations at this family-friendly cultural festival.
52) International Day of Play 2025
When: Wednesday 6/11
Where: City Hall Plaza
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate fun and creativity for all ages. There will be dancing, music, crafts, games, and so much more. This event is for the kids, the kids at heart, and those looking to get back in touch with their fun side.
When: Saturday 6/14 - Sunday 6/15
Where: Amesbury
Cost: Free
Info: Strawberries are in season! Head to Cider Hill Farm for an entire weekend dedicated to the mighty strawberry. Listen to live music, grab a cider, enjoy a hayride, and more. Don’t forget to purchase a ticket for PYO strawberries if you want to bring home some fresh fruit.
54) Boston Pride Parade & Festival 2025
When: Saturday 6/14
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Boston Pride for the People is back this year with a massive parade and festival. Celebrate the rich diversity, culture, and intersectionality of the LGBTQIA+ community in Boston and beyond and cheer on every kind of love.
55) 15th Annual Boston Juneteenth Emancipation Observance
When: Thursday 6/19
Where: Roxbury
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate Black joy and freedom during the 15th Annual Boston Juneteenth Emancipation Observance. Watch a flag raising ceremony, cheer on a parade, participate in family-friendly activities, and learn about our city’s and nation’s history.
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Sponsored -
SponsoredHannah Selinger + Kara Baskin at the BPL
Wednesday, Apr 30, 2025 6:00p
The Boston Public Library, Central Library Copley Square, Commonwealth Salon
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SponsoredThe Center Will Not Hold: A Dorrance Dance Production
Friday, Apr 25, 2025 goes until 04/26
Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre
