55 Things to Do in Boston for $10 or Less: July 2024
When:
Monday, Jul 01, 2024 9:00a -
Wednesday, Jul 31, 2024 11:00p
Monday, Jul 01, 2024 9:00a -
Wednesday, Jul 31, 2024 11:00p
Where:
Boston
Surrounding areas
Boston, MA
Admission:
Unknown
Categories:
Art, Date Idea, Drinks, Festivals & Fairs, Food, Games, Good for Groups, History, Kid Friendly, LGBTQ+, Meetup, Movies, Music, Nightlife, Outside, Party, Photoworthy, Seasonal, Shopping, Sports & Active Life
Happy full month of summer, my Boston friends! Hotter weather means more time to celebrate outdoors – whether it’s through cultural festivals, markets, movies, concerts, and of course, July 4th festivities.
There is so much to do in July, so rest up, stay hydrated, put on some sunblock, and start exploring the best of what our city has to offer with this list of 55 fun and cheap things to do.
By Yelena Nicolle Salvador
1) Boston Harborfest Opening Ceremony
When: Mon. 7/1
Where: Downtown Crossing
Cost: Free
Info: Kick off July with some free cake! There will be re-enactors from the USS Constitution to greet you and your friends as you watch the US Navy Band Northeast play the national anthem too.
When: Mon. 7/1
Where: Downtown Crossing
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy live music performances by the 215th Army Band of the Massachusetts Army National Guard, and get in the patriotic spirit!
When: Mon. 7/1 - Thu. 7/4
Where: Boston
Cost: Free
Info: This Boston tradition is back! Take in the history of our beautiful city with this jam-packed week of family-friendly activities from museum tours and re-enactments to live entertainment and so much more.
4) Marblehead Festival of Arts
When: Mon. 7/1 - Sun. 7/7
Where: Marblehead
Cost: Free
Info: A fun way to spend your summer days is checking out the Marblehead Festival of Arts – an annual celebration that promotes community, connection, and creativity. Back for its 58th year, this art fair has exhibits, a champagne reception, auctions, running races, a marketplace, and so much more.
5) Dockfest: Fourth of July @ The Anchor
When: Mon. 7/1 - Sun. 7/7
Where: Charlestown
Cost: Free
Info: The Anchor is hosting a week full of events to celebrate the first week of July. Show your Boston pride by supporting the Red Sox at the Red Sox vs. Yankees watch parties. Enjoy dancing, live music, and brews. And stay for some great waterfront views, especially during the Harborfest fireworks!
6) Sam Adams 4th of July Weekend
When: Mon. 7/1 - Thu. 7/4
Where: Jamaica Plain
Cost: Free
Info: It wouldn’t be summer without brews and lawn games. Head to Sam Adams Brewery for a week full of festivities, live local music, and good times at their beer garden in JP.
7) Chowderfest
When: Tue. 7/2
Where: Downtown Crossing
Cost: Free
Info: It wouldn’t be Boston without a cup of chowder! Enjoy samples of this New England staple from participating restaurants in Downtown.
8) Boston Harborfest Fireworks
When: Tue. 7/2
Where: Long Wharf
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate 4th of July early and watch the night sky fill with rainbow colored lights. This Harborfest celebration is great for everyone! Head to Seaport or Eastie for the best views.
When: Wed. 7/3 & Wed. 7/17
Where: Chinatown
Cost: Free
Info: Welcome this farmers market to the Boston stage! Make your way to Auntie Kay & Uncle Chin Park on the Greenway for a market that occurs every other week starting this July. There will be local produce, Chinese pastries, and so much more.
10) Christopher Columbus Park Music and Activities
When: Tue 7/2 - Wed. 7/3
Where: The Wharf
Cost: Free
Info: Welcome July with the entire family and with friends who are kids at heart. Head to the Christopher Columbus Park for face painting, balloon art, carousel rides, live music, and a day full of fun!
11) 7 Places to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks
When: Tue. 7/2- Thu. 7/4
Where: Greater Boston
Cost: Free
Info: Here’s your guide for the who, what, and where of all things fireworks this week. Watch the night sky light up in every color, no matter where you are!
12) Macy’s Great American Fashion Show
When: Wed. 7/3
Where: Downtown
Cost: Free
Info: As part of Boston’s Harborfest, Macy’s will be hosting a patriotic fashion show with models who will be wearing red, white, and blue (and more!) in new and trendy ways.
When: Thu. 7/4
Where: City Hall
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrate Independence Day with this annual parade with live music performances, re-enactments, and a whole lot of Boston pride! The parade will be heading through Downtown, and there will be a flag raising ceremony too.
14) Boston Pops July 4th Fireworks Spectacular 2024
When: Thu. 7/4
Where: The Esplanade
Cost: Free
Info: It wouldn’t be 4th of July in Boston without this iconic night display. Head to the Esplanade (super) early for a Hatch Shell concert and stay for an evening full of fireworks across the Charles River.
15) City of Waltham Annual 4th of July Celebration
When: Thu. 7/4
Where: Waltham
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy a family-focused celebration outside the city at Prospect Hill Park with food, inflatables, games, crafts, and more. There will be lots to do for everyone to get in the patriotic spirit!
16) City of Newton Independence Day 2024
When: Thu. 7/4
Where: Newton
Cost: Free
Info: Head to Newton for a full day of fun! Enjoy human and pet parades, free ice cream, live music, carnival rides, and a craft fair.
17) Chinatown Main Street Summer Festival
When: Sat. 7/6
Where: Chinatown
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy traditional folk dances, lion dance performances, street food, vendors, and more at this annual summer festival in Boston’s Chinatown!
18) Summer Vintage Clothing Pop-up Market by Select
When: Sat. 7/6
Where: Somerville
Cost: Free
Info: With over 40+ vendors, you’ll have a great time perusing through lovely items from vintage clothing, temporary tats, screen prints, and more. Plus, there will be a caricature station for some extra fun!
19) Summer Grown Up Book Fair at Trillium
When: Sat. 7/6
Where: Fort Point
Cost: Free
Info: While you’re sippin’ on a beer with friends, enjoy the vibes of those middle-school Scholastic book fairs with this mini adult version at Trillium. Enjoy stickers, a curated selection of books, and more.
20) My Caribbean One World Expo
When: Sat. 7/6
Where: Rowes Wharf Plaza
Cost: Free
Info: Immerse yourself in Caribbean culture at this annual Boston festival. Enjoy food, music, dancing, and art.
21) Inspirational Wood Blocks Paint Party @ The Anchor
When: Tue. 7/9
Where: Charlestown
Cost: Free
Info: Make the most of summer nights by grabbing a brew and letting your creativity and imagination shine. Head to The Anchor for a fun event where you can paint wood blocks and enjoy waterfront views.
22) Cambridge School of Culinary Arts Open House
When: Wed. 7/10
Where: Cambridge
Cost: Free
Info: Sample some great meals by up and coming chefs in the community. This all-age event is perfect for anyone who loves to eat! Enjoy live BBQ and ice cream demos, a sundae bar, pastry and culinary snacks. Come with an empty stomach and leave with great memories and a full tummy.
23) Mariposa After Hours Concert
When: Wed. 7/10
Where: Cambridge
Cost: Free
Info: This community fav in Cambridge is hosting its very first late night concert where you can listen to live music while munching on some pastries and sipping on coffee or tea.
24) Boston Landing Outdoor Movies
When: Thu. 7/11 & Thu. 7/25
Where: Brighton
Cost: Free
Info: Head to these movie nights that show fun films for everyone. There will be food, bevies, swag, and more as you watch on the big inflatable screen.
When: Thu. 7/11 & Thu. 7/25
Where: Revere
Cost: Free
Info: Movies under the stars can get even better when they’re on the beach. Lucky for us, Revere Theatre Thursdays are the best family-friendly nights to enjoy films on the sound and with the soothing sound of the ocean. There will be music, popcorn, and cotton candy to complete this beloved movie night.
26) Sunset Socials
When: Thu. 7/11 & Thu. 7/25
Where: Southie
Cost: Free
Info: Nights dedicated to meeting new people are the best! It takes the awkwardness out of getting to know strangers. Enjoy this community-building event in Southie where you can grab a drink or find a comfy chair, chat with some neighbors, and watch the sunset.
27) Harborwalk Sounds: Berklee College of Music at the ICA
When: Weekly starting Thu. 7/11
Where: Seaport
Cost: Free
Info: When you’re done strolling through the breathtaking contemporary art galleries during Free Thursdays at the ICA, head to the steps outside for some live music by talented Berklee College of Music students!
When: Fri. 7/12
Where: Long Wharf
Cost: Free
Info: As Bostonians, we are right by the water! Learn about the water transportation resources around us at this fair (like free ferries across the Harbor!). Enjoy photo ops, chances to win prizes, and a full day of community education.
When: Weekly starting Fri. 7/12
Where: Seaport
Cost: Free
Info: Take in beautiful views of the Harbor on the steps of the ICA, where you can find some shade and still enjoy the hot weather, while listening to some of the best DJs in Boston. Enjoy a variety of musical genres and grab some refreshments from the ICA Wine + Coffee Bar too.
30) 20’s & 30’s Social at Downeast Cider House & Tall Ship
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Eastie
Cost: Free
Info: Make some friends with people in the area and explore some of the best bars in the city! Don’t worry about coming solo, since the point of this event is to meet new folks. Plus, you’ll enjoy some tasty drinks and even better views of the city.
31) Somerville ArtBeat 2024 Festival
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Davis Square
Cost: Free
Info: Be your wildest self at this beloved art festival in Somerville. With approximately 100 art and food vendors, ArtBeat focuses on strengthening the community through art and creativity. Shop, dance, listen to live music, and live your “wildest” dreams with this year’s theme: WILD.
32) City Splash 2024: Swimming in the Charles River
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: The Esplanade
Cost: Free
Info: Did you know that the Charles is one of the cleanest urban rivers in the U.S.? Yes, you heard that right. And for one time a year, the Charles River Conservancy opens a section of the river for some swimming. Whether you grabbed a slot to plunge into the river, or you’re heading over to watch, you’ll have a fun time watching this Boston tradition that raises awareness for river conservation.
33) Fat Beach Day
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Eastie
Cost: Free
Info: Head to the beach and embrace your beautiful self in community with others. Everyone is welcome, especially those in the most marginalized bodies. Don’t forget to hydrate and have a good time while celebrating each other!
34) Urban Park Roof Garden Start of Summer Party
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Kendall Square
Cost: Free
Info: Make your own bouquet, watch a cake pop demo, dance to a live DJ set, listen to music performances by Club Passim, and soak in this urban oasis on the roof of a parking garage. This hidden garden is the perfect community space to make the most of summer.
35) Countryfest
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Southie
Cost: Free
Info: Time to put on your cowboy boots and get ready for a night full of country-livin’ and country-lovin’. Enjoy pony rides, games, food, and a whole lotta country music.
36) Boston Unity Cup Opening Day
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Roxbury
Cost: Free
Info: This 5th annual city-wide adult soccer tournament needs your team spirit. Come out and enjoy the opening day with friends and family as 40 teams representing 34 unique countries and regions compete for a chance to win! There will be a beer garden, games, and more.
37) Viva FitFest at the Lawn on D
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Southie
Cost: Free
Info: Enjoy the new offerings and art installations at the Lawn on D while breaking a sweat. This day is all about fueling your body and getting your stress out through running, pickleball, crossfit, and mat pilates. Be sure to register for a free drink after your workout and stop by for a complimentary massage.
38) Boston Little Saigon Night Market 2024
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Dorchester
Cost: Free
Info: Head to Boston’s Little Saigon for a night full of culture, games, music, and food. Support the local Vietnamese community in Boston, meet your neighbors, try new cuisine, and take advantage of all the photo opps since this is a yearly event you shouldn’t miss!
When: Weekly starting Sat. 7/13
Where: Back Bay
Cost: Free
Info: The Pru has a green lawn that’s perfect for movie watching! Enjoy entertainment for the kids before the movie starts at dusk and make sure to bring a blanket and grab some food for a night under the city lights.
40) Lion Dances on the Greenway
When: Weekly starting Sat. 7/13
Where: Chinatown
Cost: Free
Info: Make sure you make a brief stop on a Saturday in July to catch this traditional Chinese cultural dance. It’s perfect for kids, solo, and with friends!
41) 2024 Charles River Jazz Festival
When: Sun. 7/14
Where: Allston
Cost: Free
Info: The Charles River Jazz Festival is back for its fourth season full of soulful music, art and food vendors, and one-of-a-kind performances. Don’t miss this day full of celebration with community and good vibes.
42) Bastille Day Celebration & French Market
When: Sun. 7/14
Where: Cambridge
Cost: Free
Info: Cross the Charles and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to France. Celebrate France’s Day of Freedom with a French pastry market, live accordion music, and a “Greater Boston’s Best Eclair” contest!
43) Broadway Burn
When: Weekly starting Mon. 7/15
Where: The Esplanade
Cost: Free
Info: The Hatch Shell is not just for concerts! In fact, you can enjoy fitness classes fused with musical theater – dance and get your heart pumping while jamming out to Broadway hits with this workout series.
44) Shakespeare on the Common: The Winter’s Tale
When: Tue. 7/16 - Wed. 7/31
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Head to the Boston Common for a night under the stars where you can watch a live performance of “The Winter’s Tale,” a story of betrayal, hope, and redemption. Bring a blanket or rent a chair and enjoy this beloved Boston tradition by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company.
45) Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration Day
When: Wed. 7/17
Where: City Hall
Cost: Free
Info: Thirty four years ago, folks with disabilities became protected under the law across the country. This day is worthy of celebration, so come out to City Hall, listen to speakers, dance to some music, grab a free t-shirt, and learn more about disability resources in the community.
46) CINEMARINA: An Outdoor Movie Night on Boston Harbor
When: Wed. 7/17
Where: Easite
Cost: Free
Info: Watch ‘The Little Mermaid (2023)’ as you marvel at the Boston skyline along the shore. Don’t forget to pack a blanket or bring a beach chair, so you can enjoy the movie while tasting food and desserts from food trucks.
47) Boston Landmarks Orchestra Concerts at the Hatch Shell
When: Wed. 7/17 & Wed. 7/24
Where: The Esplanade
Cost: Free
Info: The beautiful and iconic Hatch Shell is a stage for some of the best musical performances. Enjoy free concerts this summer by the Boston Landmarks Orchestra. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and some friends (and your furry ones too!), and watch the sunset while listening to otherworldly music.
48) Maker’s Market at Boston Landing
When: Thu. 7/18
Where: Brighton
Cost: Free
Info: Support local artists by heading over to Boston Landing for their monthly market. There will be a live DJ and the first 10 guests to make a purchase will get a $10 gift card to a Boston Landing restaurant!
49) 2024 Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival
When: Fri. 7/19 - Sun. 7/21
Where: Revere
Cost: Free
Info: This festival is a Boston staple, and it’s back for its 20th year! Watch Revere Beach turn into an artistic wonderland as sand sculptors from all over the world gather to create stunning works of art right before your eyes. There will be boardwalk activities, food trucks, live music, and more.
When: Sat. 7/20
Where: South End
Cost: Free
Info: Are you ready to salsa all day? Join Boston’s LatinX community for a day of celebration at New England’s longest-running Latino cultural festival. Dance to live music, get your face painted, cheer on the parade, and munch on great traditional cuisine.
51) Boston Conversations - Park Event
When: Sat. 7/20
Where: Boston Common
Cost: Free
Info: Whether you are new to the city or looking to expand your social circle, Boston Conversations will allow you to connect with strangers on deeper levels with thoughtful prompts and meaningful topics. Skip the icebreakers and get ready to build lasting connections with folks from around Boston.
52) Open Streets Boston 2024: Jamaica Plain
When: Sun. 7/21
Where: Jamaica Plain
Cost: Free
Info: Explore Jamaica Plain by strolling on its car-free main street with friends, family, or solo. Experience the community vibes through family-friendly activities, art and music, and learning about local resources and local businesses.
53) Kidsfest
When: Sat. 7/27
Where: Southie
Cost: Free
Info: Bring the entire family for this fun event that has completely free activities that combine art, games, and science for kids of all ages. You’ll be able to soak up the sun while the kids learn in a fun environment.
54) Puerto Rican Festival of Massachusetts
When: Sat. 7/27 - Sun. 7/28
Where: Jamaica Plain
Cost: Free
Info: You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re in Puerto Rico. Enjoy this cultural festival where you can connect with the Hispanic community of Boston through food, art, music, and a parade.
55) 9th Annual Cambridge Jazz Festival
When: Sat. 7/27 - Sun. 7/28
Where: Cambridge
Cost: Free
Info: Feel the rhythm in your soul at this family-friendly jazz festival featuring Grammy-winning jazz artists! This weekend event will have live music performances, a children’s area, food trucks, and a jazz museum.
BONUS: These events are more than $10 but worth it!
ICA First Fridays: Fashion Fête
When: Fri. 7/5
Where: Seaport
Cost: $25
Info: Dress to impress at this First Friday night event that celebrates Caribbean culture and fashion. Enjoy beautiful views of the Harbor, dance to DJ beats, and get lost in the art at this after-hours event.
Boston Jerkfest Caribbean Foodie Festival
When: Sat. 7/13
Where: Cambridge
Cost: $35
Info: Come hungry to this food festival that celebrates Caribbean heritage. Munch on all things hot and spicy, listen to live music, and have fun with friends and family.
When: Tue. 7/23
Where: Eastie
Cost: $50
Info: Head to Tall Ship for an evening of amazing local food from East Boston. You’ll enjoy full plates of noms and waterfront views at this event.
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