Saturday

07-19-2025 Vol 2026

Engagements Abound: Art, Literature, and Community Events This July in Boston

This July, the Boston area is buzzing with a variety of creative events aimed at bringing communities together through art and literature.

Kicking off the week, the Boston Figurative Art Center will host comic authors Mike Curato and K. Wroten on Monday. This event will spotlight Curato’s recent adult novel, “Gaysians,” along with his popular works like “Flamer” and the “Little Elliot” series. It promises to be an engaging discussion that highlights the importance of comics in the artistic landscape. The event takes place at 285 Washington St. in Somerville.

If you’re seeking tranquility amidst the summer hustle, Porter Square Books will host a silent reading party on July 8. This low-key gathering invites attendees to immerse themselves in their current reads, providing a serene environment free from distractions. Following the reading session, guests can partake in an optional discussion about their books. This unique opportunity to enjoy literature in a peaceful setting will occur from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge.

Art enthusiasts will also find something to celebrate at LaiSun Keane Gallery on July 11. The gallery will debut a solo exhibition by Boston artist Campbell-Lynn McLean titled “On Hissing Summer Lawns.” This collection is described as a “love letter to abundance, consumption and good weather,” exploring themes of queerness, community, and connection. The opening reception is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at 460C Harrison Ave. C8A.

For families looking to engage their children’s curiosity, the Discovery Museum will host its Nature Play Festival on July 11. This event is packed with activities designed to encourage outdoor exploration, such as invasive plant papermaking, mud kitchens, bug hunts, and log flipping. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 177 Main St. (Route 27), Acton, offering a fantastic way for kids to connect with nature.

Romance readers are invited to join Lovestruck Books for a special Bookworm Bash on July 12. This event will feature various bookish activities, including romance Mad Libs and Jenga with book quotes, alongside a group Q&A with authors Betty Cayouette, Riss M. Neilson, and Amy Neff. The fun takes place from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Boston Hotel, 39 Dalton St.

As Bastille Day nears, Francophiles in Boston can celebrate early with a soirée at The Charles Hotel on July 13. This event promises a taste of French traditions, including accordion music and a captivating 110-year-old waiters race, showcasing their balancing skills and speed. Attendees can enjoy dancing and mingling as a DJ sets a lively atmosphere towards the end of the evening. Join the festivities from 4 to 8 p.m. at 1 Bennett St., Cambridge.

For movie lovers, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is offering an irresistible deal this summer – $7 tickets for all shows on Tuesdays, inclusive of new releases. This special runs from 4 to 11 p.m. at 60 Seaport Blvd., making cinema outings more accessible than ever.

With a lineup of events designed for diverse interests, July promises to be an exciting month filled with art, literature, and community engagement in Boston. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to connect with creativity and fellow enthusiasts as the summer unfolds.

image source from:bostonglobe

Charlotte Hayes