Boston is one of the best cities to visit in August, with warm summer weather, outdoor festivals, Red Sox baseball, harbor cruises, live concerts, and plenty of historic attractions to enjoy. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, there are countless things to do in Boston in August for every type of traveler.
In this guide, we've rounded up the best August events, free activities, family-friendly attractions, evening entertainment, and seasonal experiences to help you make the most of your trip. You'll also find tips on Boston's August weather, sightseeing tours, and ways to save money on top attractions with a Boston tourist pass.
We include evening, free, as well as family-friendly things to do, all updated for 2025.
Top 10 Things to Do in Boston in August
August is one of the busiest months to visit Boston, with baseball games at Fenway Park, outdoor concerts, festivals, harbor cruises, and plenty of opportunities to explore the city's historic neighborhoods. Whether you're visiting for a few days or planning a longer vacation, these are our top recommendations for things to do in Boston in August.
If you're looking for even more ideas, don't miss our guides to Boston boat cruises, Boston bus tours, and visiting Fenway Park. Many of the attractions and tours listed below are also included at a discount—or even free—with a Boston tourist pass, making it easy to save money while sightseeing.
1. See a Sporting Event
August is one of the best months to catch a live sporting event in Boston. With baseball season in full swing and other professional teams in action, sports fans have plenty of opportunities to experience the city's exciting game-day atmosphere.
For many visitors, a trip to Fenway Park is a highlight of any Boston vacation. Home to the Boston Red Sox, the historic ballpark is one of the oldest and most iconic stadiums in Major League Baseball. Whether you're a lifelong baseball fan or simply want to experience one of Boston's most famous landmarks, attending a game is an unforgettable summer activity.
In addition to Red Sox games, soccer fans can watch the New England Revolution during the summer season. Check the schedules below for games taking place during your visit.
Baseball
Soccer
Take a look at other sporting events taking place in Boston in August.
These events are also great choices for families visiting Boston in August. If you're traveling with children, be sure to see our Family-Friendly Activities section below for even more ideas.
2. Attend a Concert
Music is everywhere in Boston during August!
You can enjoy live performances in a variety of settings — from historic concert halls and major arenas to outdoor waterfront venues and summer music events.
From world-famous artists performing at large venues to local musicians playing in neighborhood spaces, August is a great time to experience Boston’s live music scene.
Some popular places to catch a concert in Boston in August include:
- Fenway Park — Boston’s iconic baseball stadium also hosts major concerts and special events throughout the year.
- TD Garden — A major Boston entertainment venue known for concerts, sporting events, and large-scale performances.
- Leader Bank Pavilion — A popular outdoor waterfront concert venue featuring performances during the warmer months.
- Cisco Brewers Fenway — Located near Fenway Park, this lively venue combines a beer garden atmosphere with live music and events throughout the year.
- The Middle East — Cambridge — A longtime Boston-area music venue featuring local bands, touring artists, and performances across several intimate stages in Central Square.
- Boston Symphony Hall — A historic venue known for classical performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and other musical events.
- Outdoor venues throughout the city — Parks, waterfront areas, and neighborhood spaces often host summer concerts and live performances.
Music Festivals in Boston
August is a great time to experience Boston’s summer music festivals, with events featuring everything from jazz and local performances to popular music and outdoor concerts.
Some popular music festivals and summer events in and around Boston include:
- Boston Jazz Fest — Seaport District: A free annual celebration of jazz featuring local and regional musicians in Boston’s waterfront neighborhood.
- Charles River Jazz Festival — Hatch Memorial Shell: Enjoy open-air jazz performances along the Charles River featuring local and regional musicians.
- African Festival of Boston — Boston Common: Celebrate African culture through live music, food, fashion, crafts, and performances representing communities from across Africa.
- Riddim & Rum — City Hall Plaza: A lively Caribbean music event featuring live soca performances and a celebration of Caribbean culture.
- Geoffstock — East Boston Yacht Club: An annual local festival featuring live music, comedy, art, and community entertainment.
Festival dates, locations, and schedules change each year, so check official event websites before your visit for the most up-to-date information.
For more ideas after the sun goes down, check out our Things to Do at Night in Boston guide, where you’ll find concerts, evening activities, nightlife, and other ways to experience Boston after dark.
3. Take a Sightseeing Tour
Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore Boston!
With so much history, architecture, and culture to discover, a sightseeing tour is a great way to get an overview of the city when you first arrive. You’ll learn about Boston’s most famous landmarks while discovering stories and hidden details you might miss on your own.
One of the best ways to experience Boston’s history is with a walking tour of the Freedom Trail, where you can visit many of the city’s most important Revolutionary-era sites.
Prefer to explore independently? You can also use our self-guided Freedom Trail tour to discover Boston at your own pace.
Another fascinating area to explore is the North End, Boston’s historic Italian neighborhood, known for its restaurants, bakeries, and charming streets.
If you want to see more of the city in less time, August is also a great month for sightseeing by bus or boat. A Boston bus tour is a convenient way to see many of the city’s highlights, while a Boston boat tour offers a different perspective from the water and is a great choice during the summer months.
Check out our guides to Boston Bus Tours and Boston Boat Tours to help plan your sightseeing itinerary.
4. See a Live Comedy Show
Boston has a fantastic comedy scene, and August is a great time to enjoy a night of live entertainment.
From nationally touring comedians to local performers, you can find comedy shows throughout the city. Whether you prefer stand-up, improv, or smaller club performances, there are plenty of options for a fun evening out.
Some popular comedy venues in Boston include:
- Laugh Boston — A popular comedy club in the Seaport District featuring stand-up performances from local and touring comedians.
- Nick’s Comedy Stop — A longtime Boston comedy club known for stand-up shows and emerging comedians.
Comedy schedules change throughout the year, so check venue calendars before your visit for current performances.
If you’re looking for more evening activities, see our Things to Do at Night in Boston guide for additional ideas.
5. Visit the New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is one of Boston’s most popular attractions and a great choice for families, animal lovers, or anyone looking for an indoor activity on a warm August day.
Located along the waterfront, the aquarium features thousands of marine animals, including sea turtles, penguins, sharks, and the famous Giant Ocean Tank.
Even if you don’t have time to visit the aquarium, you can still see one of Boston’s favorite free attractions: the Atlantic Harbor Seals. These playful seals can be viewed from the outdoor plaza area in front of the aquarium without purchasing a ticket.
The New England Aquarium is a popular attraction, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the busy summer travel season.
6. See Something on the Stage
August is a great time to enjoy theater and live performances in Boston. From musicals and plays to comedy performances and family-friendly shows, there are entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
Boston’s theaters host a variety of productions throughout the year, including Broadway touring shows, local performances, and special events.
Popular places to catch a show include:
- The Citizens Bank Opera House — A historic theater hosting Broadway productions and major performances.
- The Boch Center Wang Theatre — One of Boston’s most iconic performance venues, featuring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, and special events.
- Emerson Colonial Theatre — A historic theater known for Broadway productions, touring shows, and live performances in the heart of Boston’s Theater District.
- Boston Center for the Arts (BCA) — A South End arts complex featuring theater, dance, exhibitions, and live performances.
- Huntington Theatre Company — A respected Boston theater company offering plays, new works, and contemporary performances.
Show schedules change throughout the year, so check theater calendars before your visit for current performances.
For a complete list of theater productions, musicals, and other live performances happening in Boston, check here for a list of other theatre offerings in Boston.
For more evening entertainment ideas, check out our Things to Do at Night in Boston guide.
7. Attend the Boston Jazz Fest
Boston Jazz Fest is a great way to enjoy live music during your August visit. The festival features performances from local musicians and jazz artists in an outdoor setting, making it a fun summer experience for music lovers.
In addition to live jazz performances, visitors can often enjoy food vendors and the lively atmosphere of Boston’s Seaport District.
The event is typically free to attend, making it an excellent option for travelers looking for affordable things to do in Boston.
Festival dates and details change each year, so check the official Boston Jazz Fest website before your visit for the latest information.
Find more free activities and events in our guide to Free Things to Do in Boston.
8. Experience the August Moon Festival
Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood celebrates the August Moon Festival each year with a colorful celebration of Asian culture, traditions, and community.
Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, folk dancing, street vendors, and traditional foods. One of the highlights of the festival is mooncakes, a traditional treat associated with the celebration.
The August Moon Festival is a great opportunity to explore Boston’s Chinatown while experiencing one of the city’s many cultural celebrations.
Festival dates and activities change each year, so check the official event website before your visit for current details.
Don’t forget to explore our guide to Free Things to Do in Boston for more budget-friendly activities.
9. Cheer on Athletes at the Boston Triathlon
Sports fans visiting Boston in August can watch athletes take part in the Boston Triathlon, an exciting event that brings together professional and amateur competitors.
The race features swimming, cycling, and running through Boston-area locations, including scenic areas near the Charles River and other city landmarks.
Even if you are not participating, the Boston Triathlon can be a fun event to watch and experience during your summer visit.
Race dates and course details change each year, so check the official Boston Triathlon website before your trip for the latest information.
10. Save on a Great Meal During Dine Out Boston
Food lovers visiting Boston in August can take advantage of Dine Out Boston, one of the city’s most popular dining events.
Formerly known as Restaurant Week Boston, Dine Out Boston takes place twice a year and gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy special prix-fixe menus at some of Boston’s top restaurants.
During the event, participating restaurants offer discounted lunch and dinner menus, making it a great way to experience Boston’s dining scene while saving money.
Restaurant participation, dates, and menu prices change each year, so check the official Dine Out Boston website before your visit for the most current information.
You can also find similar restaurant events throughout the year in other destinations, including New York City and New Orleans.
Save Money with a Boston Tourist Attraction Pass
If you plan to visit several popular Boston attractions, a tourist attraction pass can be a great way to save money.
These passes bundle together admission to many of Boston’s top attractions, museums, tours, and experiences for one discounted price. Depending on your itinerary, they can help you save compared to purchasing individual tickets separately.
Some attractions and experiences that may be included with Boston attraction passes include:
- New England Aquarium
- Old State House
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Viewpoints and observation attractions
- Harbor cruises and sightseeing experiences
Some passes also offer added convenience by allowing you to plan multiple attractions in advance and, at select locations, save time with easier admission options.
For a detailed comparison of the different Boston attraction passes available, check out our Boston Tourist Pass Comparison Guide.
Things to Do at Night in August
Several of the activities, concerts, and performances mentioned above are great options for enjoying Boston after dark.
Summer evenings are a wonderful time to explore the city, with opportunities to enjoy outdoor movies, waterfront activities, live entertainment, and unique nighttime experiences throughout Boston.
For even more ideas, check out our complete guide to Things to Do at Night in Boston, where you’ll find additional recommendations for evening activities, entertainment, and places to explore after sunset.
Take the Beacon Hill Crime Tour
August is a great time to explore Boston after dark with an evening walking tour.
Our private Beacon Hill Crime Tour takes you into the darker side of Boston history, exploring the crimes, mysteries, and stories that shaped one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.
You’ll discover the history behind the Boston Strangler case, visit locations connected to the investigation, and learn about the people and events that made headlines in Boston’s past.
Due to the nature of the historical crimes and stories discussed, this tour is recommended for participants ages 14 and older.
Private tours are available by reservation.
Visit the Museum of Science
The Museum of Science is a great option for an evening activity in Boston, especially for families and visitors looking for something indoors.
This Boston institution has been inspiring curiosity and discovery for generations, with hundreds of interactive exhibits covering topics ranging from space and technology to biology and engineering.
The museum regularly offers special programs, demonstrations, and events, and select evenings may include extended hours, making it a fun place to visit after many other attractions have closed.
Admission prices and hours can change, so be sure to check the official Museum of Science website before your visit.
You can also save money on admission with some Boston tourist attraction passes. For more information, check out our guide to Boston Tourist Passes.
Take an Evening Cruise
Summer is one of the best times to experience Boston Harbor, and an evening cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Several companies offer sunset, sightseeing, and dinner cruises throughout the summer months. Whether you want to watch the skyline change as the sun goes down or see Boston’s waterfront illuminated at night, a harbor cruise can be a memorable addition to your itinerary.
Some cruises also offer special experiences, including themed cruises, live music, and seasonal events.
For more details, check out our guide to Boston Harbor Cruises to learn about the different options available.
Some Boston harbor cruises may also be included with tourist attraction passes.
See Shakespeare on the Common
One of Boston’s favorite summer traditions is Shakespeare on the Common, an annual outdoor theater event held in Boston Common.
Visitors can enjoy a classic Shakespeare performance under the stars in one of the city’s most iconic public spaces. The event is typically free, making it a great option for travelers looking for affordable evening entertainment.
No tickets are usually required, but arriving early is recommended to find a good spot. Visitors can bring a blanket or chair, and some seating options may also be available for rent.
If you are looking for something to do before the performance, don’t forget that our Freedom Trail Tour passes through Boston Common and is a great way to explore the area earlier in the day.
Enjoy a Beer Garden
A summer evening in Boston is a great time to relax at an outdoor beer garden. These casual spaces are perfect for enjoying local drinks, food, and the city’s warm-weather atmosphere.
One popular option is the Trillium Beer Garden on the Rose Kennedy Greenway, which offers seasonal food, craft beer, and outdoor seating in the heart of Boston.
The family-friendly space often features food vendors and allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors while taking a break from sightseeing. It is a fun stop before or after exploring downtown Boston, the Waterfront, or nearby attractions.
Hours and offerings change seasonally, so check the venue’s website before your visit.
Catch a Movie Under the Stars
Watching a movie outdoors is a fun way to enjoy a summer evening in Boston. During August, parks and public spaces throughout the city often host outdoor movie nights featuring popular films and family-friendly favorites.
Many of these events are free and provide a relaxed way to spend an evening outdoors. Some locations may offer extra activities, refreshments, or entertainment before the movie begins.
Movie schedules, locations, and featured films change each year, so check official Boston event calendars before your visit for the latest information.
FREE THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST
From free concerts and outdoor performances to cultural festivals and historic neighborhoods, Boston offers plenty of ways to enjoy the city without spending a lot of money.
August is a great month to take advantage of Boston’s outdoor spaces and summer events.
For even more budget-friendly ideas, check out our complete guide to Free Things to Do in Boston.
Enjoy Berklee Summer in the City
Music lovers can enjoy free performances throughout Boston during Berklee Summer in the City.
The Berklee College of Music hosts hundreds of free concerts during the summer months, featuring a wide variety of musical styles including jazz, classical, Latin, folk, and contemporary music.
Performances take place at various locations throughout Boston, making it easy to add live music to your itinerary.
Check the official Berklee Summer in the City schedule before your visit for current performance details.
Attend Concerts in the Courtyard at the Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library hosts free outdoor concerts during the summer, offering visitors a chance to enjoy live music in the beautiful courtyard setting.
Performances feature a variety of musical styles and are a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening in the city.
Concert schedules change throughout the summer, and performances may move indoors in case of bad weather.
Check the Boston Public Library events calendar before your visit for the latest schedule.
Enjoy Free Concerts on the Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade is one of Boston’s best outdoor spaces, and summer visitors can often enjoy free concerts at the Hatch Memorial Shell.
The Boston Landmarks Orchestra presents performances ranging from classical music to contemporary arrangements in a scenic waterfront setting.
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy an evening of music with views of the Charles River.
Concert dates and performances change each year, so check the official schedule before your visit.
Celebrate St. Anthony’s Feast
Boston’s North End is known for its incredible Italian heritage, and St. Anthony’s Feast is one of the neighborhood’s biggest annual celebrations.
The festival features religious traditions, parades, live entertainment, and plenty of Italian food vendors throughout the streets of the North End.
While admission is free, visitors may want to bring cash or a card to enjoy the many food options available from local vendors.
Festival dates and schedules change each year, so check the official St. Anthony’s Feast website before your visit.
Enjoy Other North End Festivals
The North End hosts several cultural festivals throughout the summer, celebrating Italian traditions with parades, music, and food.
These neighborhood celebrations are a fun way to experience Boston’s historic Italian district while enjoying free entertainment and local culture.
Festival dates and details change annually, so check official event websites before your visit.
There are a number of free and nighttime festivals taking place in the North End in August.
- San Rocco's Feast | August 1-4, 2025
- Madonna Della Cava Fest | August 9-11, 2025
- St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast and Procession | August 1-4, 2025
- Fisherman's Feast| August 15-18, 2025
- St. Lucy's Fest | August 24-25, 2025
Visit the Fenway Victory Gardens
The Fenway Victory Gardens are a hidden gem in Boston and one of the city’s most unique free attractions.
Located along the Back Bay Fens, these historic community gardens feature hundreds of individual plots filled with flowers, vegetables, and plants.
Visitors can explore the gardens on their own or attend special events, such as the annual Open Gardens event, when additional areas may be available to explore.
The gardens are open to the public and offer a peaceful escape from the busy city streets.
Family-Friendly Activities in August
From outdoor movies and museums to sightseeing adventures and waterfront experiences, the sections above include plenty of family-friendly ideas for your Boston visit.
This section highlights even more activities, attractions, and events that are great options when traveling with kids.
Looking for even more inspiration? Check out our complete guide to Things to Do with Kids in Boston for additional family-friendly attractions and activities.
Take a Duck Tour
August is a perfect time to explore Boston by land and water with a Duck Tour.
One of the most popular family-friendly sightseeing experiences in Boston, Duck Tours take place in amphibious vehicles that travel through the city streets before entering the Charles River for a unique view from the water.
Kids especially enjoy the excitement of the vehicle entering the water while learning about Boston’s history and landmarks from the onboard guide.
Enjoy a Free Family Movie Night
Outdoor movies are a fun way to spend a summer evening with the family.
Throughout the summer, Boston-area locations host free outdoor movie nights where families can relax under the stars while enjoying a favorite film.
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, arrive early to find a good spot, and check local event calendars before your visit for current movie schedules and locations.
Watch Street Performers at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a fun stop for families visiting Boston, especially when the street performers are entertaining visitors.
Kids can watch a variety of performers, including musicians, jugglers, acrobats, and other talented entertainers who have made the marketplace a lively destination for decades.
The performances are free to watch, making this an easy addition to a day exploring downtown Boston.
Experience Boston Lights
The Franklin Park Zoo’s Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience is a unique evening activity for families.
This seasonal event transforms the zoo with large-scale lantern displays, creating a colorful nighttime experience that is fun for visitors of all ages.
Dates and displays change each year, so check the official Franklin Park Zoo website before your visit for the latest information.
Visit a Kid-Friendly Museum
Boston is a fantastic destination for families who enjoy learning and exploring.
From science and history to interactive exhibits and unique experiences, the city offers several museums that are engaging for younger visitors.
Some family-friendly museums and attractions include:
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Museum of Science
- Boston Fire Museum
- The Mapparium
- The Coit Observatory
Some museums are free or offer discounted admission options through Boston attraction passes.
For more ideas, check out our complete guide to Child-Friendly Museums in Boston.
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