Wednesday

07-23-2025 Vol 2030

Discover Free Summer Events in Boston: July 21-27

As temperatures rise, Boston offers an array of free outdoor activities perfect for enjoying the summer heat.

This week, the much-anticipated Shakespeare on the Common kicks off with the charming romantic comedy, “As You Like It,” while the Charles River Esplanade will host an orchestral concert that promises to elevate the atmosphere.

In addition to these events, locals can also look forward to a fun-filled festival featuring free ice cream and eclectic performances throughout the week.

**Moths to a Flame**

Kick off your week at Kingsley Park for the Moth Ball, celebrating National Moth Week by gathering entomologists, photographers, insect enthusiasts, and curious minds alike.

Last year’s inaugural event attracted nearly 200 attendees, and organizers are excited to raise the stakes this year with a red carpet for those opting to wear moth costumes.

As night falls, participants can engage in a relaxing evening of admiration and learning, with specialized lights and moth screens designed to attract these fascinating insects.

The event is set for July 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Kingsley Park, Fresh Pond Reservation in Cambridge. For more information, visit bostonbirdingfestival.org.

**Park Philharmonic**

Another beloved summer tradition, the Boston Landmark Orchestra, continues its free concert series every Wednesday evening on the Charles River Esplanade.

This week’s concert includes familiar classics from Leonard Bernstein and John Williams, alongside pieces by Florence Price, a groundbreaking Black female composer whose works are gaining deserved recognition.

The concert will kick off with a performance by the Boston String Academy, a talented group of middle and high school students, at 6:30 p.m.

Performances run every Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the DCR Hatch Memorial Shell located at 47 David G. Mugar Way. For details, check landmarksorchestra.org.

**All the World’s a Stage**

Experience classic theater at the 29th annual Shakespeare on the Common as the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company presents “As You Like It.”

Set in the historic Boston Common, the play features Rosalind, the daughter of an exiled duke, who disguises herself as a man while fleeing to the countryside. There, she encounters an array of unique characters and ultimately finds love.

The performances begin on July 23 and run until August 10, with varied showtimes. The venue is the Parkman Bandstand, located at 139 Tremont St. More information can be found at commshakes.org.

**Curb Appeal**

MassArt Art Museum invites families to enjoy their Art on the Plaza event, filled with music and artistic activities.

Taking place on July 24 from 6 to 9 p.m., participants can indulge in complimentary ice cream, partake in a follow-the-leader dance session, play hopscotch, or groove to live performances by A Trike Called Funk.

This charming mobile DJ booth, often operated by DJ Ed Word Galán, mixes an energetic selection of music genres and provides a portable dance floor.

RSVP is required for this family-friendly event located at the Arne Glimcher Plaza, 621 Huntington Ave. Visit maam.massart.edu for further details.

**As Seen on TV**

For fans of Shark Week, Craft Food Halls will host a shark-themed trivia night on July 25 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Participants can compete in four rounds of trivia, with prizes for winners at each round. While participation is free, guests aged 21 and over can enjoy a selection of wines, beers, IPAs, and cocktails from a self-pour tap wall.

RSVP is necessary to secure a spot at Craft Food Halls, 35 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge. Check out craftfoodhalls.com for more information.

**Sand Art**

The weekend will feature the 21st Annual International Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach, where participants from around the globe will showcase their incredible abilities to create stunning sculptures from sand.

This year, sculptors are encouraged to represent the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in their designs. The festival runs from July 25 to 27, beginning each day at 10 a.m. with an array of food vendors available along the beach.

For more details, visit internationalsandsculptingfestival.com.

**Inclusion and Ice Cream**

The Boston Race Amity Festival at Faneuil Hall on July 26 will feature a diverse line-up of musical acts designed to promote cultural unity.

Attendees can enjoy free ice cream provided by Ben and Jerry’s, participate in collaborative mural creation, and delight in performances from various artists throughout the day. The event is open from noon to 6 p.m. at 4 South Market St. Learn more at raceamityfestival.org.

image source from:bostonglobe

Abigail Harper