Boston is gearing up for an exciting holiday celebration as the 43rd annual Harborfest launches from July 2 to July 4.
This festive event is a tribute to the city’s rich maritime and revolutionary history.
The Harbourfest will kick off with an opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing at 11:30 a.m. on July 2, featuring a performance by the Middlesex County Fife & Drum Corps.
Visitors can look forward to historical reenactments, live music throughout the three-day event, and a spectacular fireworks display from a barge at Long Wharf.
Additionally, the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park will host a waterfront concert and an artisan market on the same day.
Concluding the celebration on Independence Day will be the much-anticipated Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the Hatch Memorial Shell.
— Cristela Guerra
In another significant cultural moment for Boston, the iconic Blue Man Group will take its final bow in the city, with the last show scheduled for July 6.
This marks the end of a remarkable 30-year residency, during which this unique stage show has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Boston.
Initially a quirky performance art piece from the East Village in the early 1990s, Blue Man Group has transformed into a cultural phenomenon, gaining fame through its blend of humor, music, and stunning visuals.
The show has also gathered accolades with Grammy nominations and multiple TV appearances, making it famously referenced in pop culture, notably in shows like “Arrested Development.”
Limited tickets are still available for the remaining performances this weekend, providing a final opportunity for fans to experience the unique spectacle.
— Amelia Mason
For families looking for engaging children’s activities, the Puppet Showplace Theater is hosting a summer outdoor series every Saturday through August 30.
These enchanting puppet shows take place at noon at Emerson College’s Stage at UnCommon Corner located in Boston Common.
Each week offers a new production, primarily aimed at children aged 3 to 10.
On July 5, attendees can enjoy “Party Animals,” a vibrant performance by Sarah Nolen, Puppet Showplace Theater’s resident artist, featuring colorful hand puppets and a lively rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack as five friends attempt to throw their first party.
— Arielle Gray
Following the July 4 celebrations, music lovers can enjoy the Summer Boston Celtic Music Festival on July 6.
This festival aims to celebrate the diverse sounds and styles within Boston’s Celtic music scene.
Although the afternoon performances were originally planned to be held outdoors, they have been relocated indoors to Club Passim.
The free afternoon shows will feature acts like the Clare Fraser Trio at 2 p.m., followed by Forsyth at 3 p.m.
Later in the evening, starting at 7 p.m., concert-goers can enjoy performances from the Adam Hendey Band, Matt & Shannon Heaton, and Katie McNally & Neil Pearlman.
Tickets for the evening segment are priced at $28, granting access to all three sets of live music.
— Cristela Guerra
Art enthusiasts should also check out the exhibition titled “Portraits from the ICA Collection,” which runs through January 4, 2026.
This thought-provoking collection features nearly 30 works that examine how contemporary artists perceive themselves and others through various mediums, including photography, painting, and textiles.
Starting July 12, visitors can participate in guided tours led by ICA graduate student lecturers every Saturday at 1 p.m.
These insightful tours require no pre-registration and are included with the museum’s admission fee, making it an accessible opportunity for art lovers to delve deeper into the collection.
— Arielle Gray
image source from：wbur
