Boston never ceases to surprise visitors with its diverse cultural heritage and historical landmarks such as John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum and Old North Church. As the most populous city in Massachusetts, it is a wonderful melting pot that showcases different cuisines and cultural festivals. With its Asian, Greek, Italian, Polish and Caribbean communities, this hubbub is packed with a myriad of vibrant festivities that revolve around food, handicrafts, traditional clothes, music, and legends as well. Whether you are a fan of the Japanese tea ceremony, wine-tasting or the salsa dance, Boston has a number of exciting activities that you should participate in. To find out more, read below for a list of popular festivals in Boston, Massachusetts.
1. Castleberry Fall Craft Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Castleberry Fairs & Festivals on Sunday, 27 October 2019
One of the best ways to discover local artisanal products in the northern part of Boston is by attending the Castleberry Fall Craft Festival, an event that showcases the works of different artisans coming from over 175 regions. This grand fair generally happens indoors, offering you easy parking facilities. By attending the festival with your family, all of you are likely to find food products such as jam, honey, sauces, or herbal dips. Of course, there are also numerous other handicrafts such as paper crafts, accessories, and paintings.
Castleberry Fall Craft Festival
Address: Shriners Auditorium 99 Fordham Road, Wilmington, MA 01887, United States
Website: Castleberry Fall Craft Festival
Takes place: October
2. Boston Local Music Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This popular two-day festival has always been part of the local music culture, so make sure to not miss out on it. If you’re planning to visit Boston in September, check out the local artists at the Boston Local Music Festival and listen to some of the best original music. There’s a variety of music genres to discover here such as Indie music, rock, and pop. This is also your best chance to listen to emerging artists if you’re looking for new and unique music. To make things even better, you can expect to find a range of food stalls selling delicious local delicacies and artisanal beers.
Boston Local Music Festival
Website: Boston Local Music Festival
Takes place: September
3. African Festival of Boston
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by AFRICAN FESTIVAL BOSTON on Saturday, September 26, 2020
In the hope of reviving the African heritage, this festival is an annual event that aims to promote African arts and culture in Boston. The festival is a successful initiative of the Shalupe Foundation, which hopes to build a strong African community in Boston and give a platform to African artists to showcase their talents. This is a fantastic opportunity to mingle with other people and learn about various cultural and educational values. The festival is usually held in the center of Boston City Hall Plaza, which is a convenient place that comes with many facilities.
African Festival of Boston
Address: 7 Ave de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111, United States
Website: African Festival of Boston
Takes place: Usually held in August or September
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4. Boston Book Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
It's on! The massive #BBFBookHunt has started! Book elves have been hiding books by #BBF2020 authors across Boston and...
Posted by Boston Book Festival on Thursday, October 1, 2020
The Boston Book Festival is an interesting event where you can mingle with fellow avid book readers in the month of October. It’s an event that bases its philosophy on ‘stimulating, agitating, uniting, and inspiring’ passionate writers, readers, and publishers. During the event, there will be several contests, debates, and discussions that usually take place in Copley Square, where participants can easily find a range of bookstalls and food outlets. This event is family-friendly and ideal for curious minds out there.
Boston Book Festival
Address: Copley Square Boston, MA 02116, United States
Website: Boston Book Festival
Takes place: October
Boston Tour Guide
Naim Benmayor
As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this unique perspective has taught me what appeals to people when visiting a new part of the country or a new part of the world. My fluency in English and Turkish, and my advanced skills in Spanish and intermediate skills in French, also help me to service a wider range of tourists and business people.I moved to Boston, Massachusetts several years ago, and I now reside in Brookline. I have three children, so I develop my tours to accommodate families with kids, couples, and individuals who want to visit and learn about the rich history and culture of Boston. As a parent, I know that Boston is a great place for higher education, and I have knowledge of the colleges and universities in the area.I customize tours to suit the needs and preferences of my customers. Whether you want a walking tour, a riding tour, or a little of both, I can create an itinerary that showcases the best of what Boston has to offer.My one day tours are educational and entertaining, and include the history, culture, personalities, architecture and, even the shopping areas of this renowned city. At the end of the tour you will be happy and satisfied when you realize you've seen so much in just a short time.I am here to share my knowledge of Boston, Cambridge and all of New England with you, and help you to enjoy your visit so you can explore the must-see parts of this great city. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you around the city, so please send me a message if you have any questions.Thank you for reading.
5. Boston Wine Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
From January until March, enjoy the lovely ambiance of the Boston Wine Festival that happens at the swanky Boston Harbor Hotel. Helmed by Executive Chef Daniel Bruce, the enticing cuisine of the hotel is the perfect pair to the most prestigious wine. Over three decades, Executive Chef Daniel Bruce has whipped up over 4,000 original dishes based on a unique theme. This is the ultimate food and wine event where you can meet great personalities in the industry. Take a step further by staying at one of the opulent guest rooms for the ultimate luxury experience.
Boston Wine Festival
Address: 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
Website: Boston Wine Festival
Takes place: January - March
6. Boston Pride Festival
If you’re up for supporting diversity, then attending the Boston Pride Festival is the perfect way to do so. For years, grassroots queer organizations have worked together to bring the best out of the community. In the hope to spread awareness about the LGBTQ community and offer a safe space, there are several talks, seminars, and exhibitions during this festival. Some fun activities include face painting, photo booth sessions, crafts, games, and music concerts. So, head to Boston in June to experience the vibrant and fun community event where you can learn and raise awareness about what Pride truly means.
Boston Pride Festival
Website: Boston Pride Festival
Takes place: June
7. Japan Festival Boston
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Even if you are in Boston, you can still experience the beautiful Japanese culture— think crazy gadgets, mangas, delicious sushi, and gorgeous artworks— by attending the Japan Festival Boston that happens in the month of April. For seven years, this festival has been pompously celebrated among locals and tourists alike. Find a vast range of different food stalls that serve scrumptious Japanese dishes such as ramen, udon, and okonomiyaki. Catch a glimpse of Japanese tradition and history by viewing a boatload of other stalls showcasing souvenirs, toys, origami, and calligraphy items.
Japan Festival Boston
Address: The Boston Common, 16 Charles St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Website: Japan Festival Boston
Takes place: November to December
8. Boston Greek Festival
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Whether you wish to see a lovely performance of the Greek folkloric dance called sirtaki or you just want to eat some yummy Greek delicacies such as bougatsa or baklava, you can attend the Boston Greek Festival this September. This much-awaited festival is packed with food, fun, entertainment, and cultural immersion. Learn about Greek history and culture from descendants who are now living in Boston. Try the traditional Greek costume for the first time and take some memorable shots.
Boston Greek Festival
Takes place: September
9. Boston Arts Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This September, you can attend the virtual Boston Arts Festival and meet some of the best creative local artists and other art enthusiasts online. If you happen to be an artist, then you can seek inspiration and advice during this event. This weekend-long festival presents a range of various genres such as soul, rock, jazz, modern blues, and reggae. On top of that, there are going to be online music shows by local artists. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the Boston art culture than by partaking in this festival.
Boston Arts Festival
Website: Boston Arts Festival
Takes place: September
10. Boston GreenFest
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Today and tomorrow (12/22-12/23/18) you can do your last minute shopping at the Pru from 10 am - 10 pm tonight and 10 am...
Posted by Boston GreenFest on Saturday, 22 December 2018
If you’re someone who wants to work towards a sustainable environment and appreciates creative innovations, then attend the virtual Boston GreenFest. This huge event happens in August and offers you and other people the chance to participate in several seminars and workshops. The three-day festival usually takes place at the historic Long Wharf and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway. But this time, you can experience everything from the comfort of your home. This is a great way to get acquainted with those who are playing an active role in protecting the environment.
Boston GreenFest
Website: Boston GreenFest & TechExpo
Takes place: August
11. Boston Local Food Festival
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Though the main concept of the Boston Local Food Festival is about celebrating the cultural cuisine of the city, the festival is much more than just eating food. Every year, in the month of September, the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts organizes one of the largest local food fairs in the downtown area. The festival is about creating awareness around sustainable approaches regarding food, from gardening to cooking. Attending this festival means having the chance to tuck into some delicious food that you can get from food trucks, local restaurants, and farmers. One of the exciting programs is the “Seafood Throwdown” where guests can watch chefs whip up seafood dishes. Children can participate in numerous kid-friendly activities, while adults can enjoy live music and learn about recycling.
Boston Local Food Festival
Website: Boston Local Food Festival
Takes place: September
12. Boston International Film Festival
Boston is known for its creative locals with amazing talents. One way to discover creative minds is to attend the Boston International Film Festival, which annually occurs in the month of April. This is a unique way to enjoy over 90 films created by passionate local and international filmmakers. Created in 2003 by the acclaimed film producer Patrick Jerome, the festival showcases independent short films such as the award-winning ‘West Bank Story.’ There are also film documentaries that bring awareness about societal and environmental issues. This five-day festival presents itself as a wonderful opportunity to meet talented professionals in the industry.
Boston International Film Festival
Address: 9 Hamilton Pl, Boston, MA 02108
Website: Boston International Film Festival
Takes place: April
13. HubWeek Fall Festival [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
When it comes to making some real change in society, Boston plays its part. One of the ways they help the environment is by hosting the exciting Hubweek Fall Festival which happens annually. It is a big event where over 100,000 people come to participate. This three-day festival is the best way to meet leaders, researchers, investors, and creatives who want to make our planet a better and livable place. So, if art, science, and technology are your interests, then this festival is perfect for you. Meet passionate and smart people and discuss many topics, including pressing issues in the news. This festival is the perfect chance for people to come together and find solutions. There are over 730 organizations, seminars, conferences, debates, and exhibitions that are held in this event.
HubWeek Fall Festival
Website: HubWeek Fall Festival
Takes place: October
14. Boston Veg Food Fest
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Another interesting food festival in the city is the Boston Veg Food Fest which is dedicated to vegetarian food. Here, you will witness talks and seminars where national speakers will share their knowledge. If you want to learn more, there will be some insightful and educational exhibitions too. If you happen to be a vegetarian or a vegan and you find it challenging to make food or eat a balanced meal, then this huge event is going to solve your problems. There are many perks to this festival such as free food sampling, discounted products, free parking, and free seminars. Children will have plenty of fun-packed activities to try, while adults will learn sustainable cooking practices. This year, you can still attend numerous seminars online.
Boston Veg Food Fest
Website: Boston Veg Food Fest
Takes place: October
15. Boston Water Lantern Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the best family-friendly festivals in the city is the Boston Water Lantern Festival that happens every year in the month of July. This festival has adopted the most eco-friendly way to enjoy the magic by providing lanterns that are basically made up of rice paper and wood. The philosophy behind this festival is based on sharing happiness, having hope, and making great memories with your loved ones.
Boston Water Lantern Festival
Website: Boston Water Lantern Festival
Take place: Usually held in July
16. Boston Harborfest
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The best way to learn about the rich history of Boston is by visiting this city in the month of July during Independence Day week. This family-friendly event is packed with a boatload of historic and cultural activities such as historical reenactments, an opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, Freedom Trail walks, live music entertainments, and wonderful boat tours. Head to the plaza at the city hall and indulge in free goodies at the numerous booths. Grab yourself some pots of honey, oat boxes, bottles of Cholula, and many more.
Boston Harborfest
Website: Boston Harborfest
Takes place: July
17. Boston Christmas Festival
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Boston Christmas Festival is a seasonal event that is all about food, entertainment, and competitions. It offered the chance for local artisans to bring their best products. One of its most iconic programs is the gingerbread competition where top chefs from the area showcase their masterpieces. You can spread the true meaning of Christmas by meeting and joining personnel from non-profit organizations that help homeless people. Participants were able to eat at various restaurants and enjoyed spending time among 23 late-night hot spots.
Boston Christmas Festival
Takes place: November
18. Caribbean Rum & Food Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Caribbean Rum and Food Festival on Thursday, August 9, 2018
If you want to experience the amazing atmosphere from the Caribbean islands, then attend the Caribbean Rum and Food Festival in September. This fun-packed event is all about relaxing in a laid-back setting, learning about Creole culture, eating food, and indulging in some Caribbean rum. It’s a great way to mingle with the locals. Enjoy sampling a variety of Caribbean rum and refreshing cocktails (including virgin cocktails), or take part in fun competitions and win a basket filled with some Caribbean goodies.
Caribbean Rum & Food Festival
Website: Caribbean Rum & Food Festival
Takes place: September
19. Boston Early Music Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
An amazing way to discover and learn more about early music is by attending the Boston Early Music Festival. Here, you can participate in programs and activities or watch concerts. Attend an opera led by Grammy-nominated directors like Paul O’Dette. Created since 1981, this festival has gained worldwide recognition in the field of early music. By watching one of the fantastic music concerts in June, you will understand how much passion the artists put into their work.
Boston Early Music Festival
Website: Boston Early Music Festival
Takes place: June
20. Illuminus Boston [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Illuminus Boston is an urban light festival that showcases artists who create using technology, performances, light, and sound. The festival revolves around being creative and innovative with light. Meet talented artists from the non-profit agency LuminArtz, and hear the stories behind their creations. Mixing art and science, you are bound to have the time of your life here.
Illuminus Boston
Website: Illuminus Boston
Takes place: December
21. Boston Dragon Boat Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Boston Dragon Boat Festival on Sunday, April 5, 2020
The Boston Dragon Boat Festival is an ancient festival that is celebrated to commemorate the death of the much-respected Chinese poet Qu Yuan. This cultural event normally happens every year on the fifth day of the fifth moon on the Chinese lunar calendar, around late May. This cultural festival has been celebrated in Boston since 1979 and attracts more than 30,000 participants. This is a wonderful occasion where you can eat Chinese traditional dishes, wear beautiful Chinese costumes, and of course, witness the vigorous race of the dragon boats.
Boston Dragon Boat Festival
Website: Boston Dragon Boat Festival
Takes place: Usually held between May and June
22. Polish Fest Boston [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Thanks to its cultural diversity, Boston is a hubbub where you can easily mingle with people and attend many festivals to learn about different places and traditions. Another interesting festival to check out is the Polish Fest Boston, which commemorates the rich cultural heritage of Boston’s Polish-American community. Bring your family and friends to savor yummy Polish-inspired dishes and enjoy live music entertainment. This festival usually happens at the Polish Club which was built by the Young Polish Men’s Club in the late 1930s.
Polish Fest Boston
Website: Polish Fest Boston
Takes place: May
23. Boston Contemporary Dance Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Boston Contemporary Dance Festival, which started in 2012, was first created by the Urbanity Dance. Its aim is to bring the art of contemporary dance to the public. If you attend this festival, you will get insightful information about contemporary dance, which is recognized as an art of expression. Additionally, if you’re someone who is into this type of dance, then this festival serves as a golden opportunity to meet experts in the field who can give their views. Witness many exhibitions and talks centered around contemporary dance, including a display of beautiful photographs.
Boston Contemporary Dance Festival
Address: 725 Harrison Ave #100 Boston, MA 02218, United States
Website: Boston Contemporary Dance Festival
Takes place: Usually held in August
24. Boston Calling Music Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Boston Calling Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration in Boston that takes place in the month of May. Started out in 2013, this fun festival invites locals and tourists to spend some quality time with their families while enjoying entertainment. Be ready to experience over 60 performances that usually occur over 4 outdoor stages, including an indoor arena. Plus, there are many food stalls that will keep your tummy satisfied. Other things to keep an eye out for are a 100-foot (30 meters) Ferris wheel, numerous art installations, engaging outdoor activities, and life-size games. The festival annually happens at the City Hall Plaza, which is already well-equipped with convenient amenities.
Boston Calling Music Festival
Website: Boston Calling Music Festival
Takes place: May
25. Puerto Rican Festival [Last event 2019]
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you want to try the sexy salsa or merengue and have lots of fun, then you will surely love the annual Puerto Rican Festival which occurs in July at Boston City Hall Plaza. The aim of the festival is to build a sense of belonging among locals and those who have Puerto Rican heritage. Traditional food stands, handcrafted items, live music shows, storytelling sessions, and cooking and percussion workshops all usually happen in the hall. There will be dance workshops as well where you can learn some interesting steps.
Puerto Rican Festival
Website: Puerto Rican Festival
Takes place: July
26. Boston Pizza Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are a pizza lover, then Boston has something in store for you. Don’t miss out on the chance to go to the Boston Pizza Festival to savor some delicious Italian pizza prepared by talented artisans in the city. This festival happens annually in June at the City Hall Plaza. Walk around and you will find an eclectic range of pizza stalls that offer you various choices from different brands such as Regina Pizzeria, Sal’s Pizza, Union Park Pizza, and Rina’s Pizzeria. Whether you love eating pizza with pepperoni slices, the standard Margherita, and even other unique toppings and flavors, you can expect to find the perfect pizza for you at this festival.
Boston Pizza Festival
Website: Boston Pizza Festival
Takes place: Usually held in July
27. Boston Jazz Festival
The Boston Jazz festival is a much-anticipated music festival among jazz music lovers and huge fans of African-American roots. This festival is hosted annually in August at Boston’s Waterfront where local and international jazz artists come together to celebrate a day of musical brotherhood. Thanks to its loyal participants and great musicians, this crowd-funded festival is a successful event each year. There are no better ways to enjoy jazz music than pairing it with local food and meeting new people.
Boston Jazz Festival
Website: Boston Jazz Festival
Take place: August
28. Boston Beer and BBQ Fest [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Another must-consider event while visiting Boston in November is the Boston Beer and BBQ Fest. Bring a bunch of friends or family members and discover a range of crafted beers and cider from 25 local breweries. In addition, you will have unlimited access to five of the local BBQ joints where you can eat chicken drumsticks or even a bowl of chili. As for desserts, you will also have the option to treat yourself to several sweet items such as cookie dough, whoopie pies, and butter cake. Plus, this is a wonderful way to meet people from different communities.
Boston Beer and BBQ Fest
Takes place: November
29. Boston Seafood Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Boston Seafood Festival on Thursday, August 11, 2016
The Boston Seafood Festival is a unique event that takes place in August that allows visitors and locals to try succulent seafood and meet new people in a lively setting. Try some of the sensational seafood dishes such as oysters, crab, or swordfish sprinkled with citrus juice. To complete the experience, pair your meal with the chilled Harpoon beer. Meet chefs who will demonstrate their cooking skills and sample freshly cooked dishes with your friends and family. Other programs here include the “Battle of the Shuckers” and a contest on cutting fish.
Boston Seafood Festival
Website: Boston Seafood Festival
Takes place: September
30. Boston Fermentation Festival [Last event in 2019]
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Do you have a great love for fermented food? If so, then the Boston Fermentation Festival is an event that you will surely enjoy. Find a plethora of fermented food such as yogurt, sourdough, and kombucha mothers. There will also be a wide range of pickles such as kimchi. The festival is also a great way to meet companies such as Indigo, a local Boston company that specializes in custom microbes for food. Learn about how food is preserved through fermentation and try some tasty food.
Boston Fermentation Festival
Website: Boston Fermentation Festival
Takes place: August
Travel to the culturally rich Boston City
Besides its colonial buildings and historical landmarks, Boston has numerous activities that attract guests. It also has its cultural side where many ethnic groups cohabit harmoniously, resulting in many festivals that take place annually in this vibrant city. There are even festivals that you can participate in without traveling all the way to Boston. Use this list as a guide to find the festival the suits your taste.
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