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Events Calendar - 2026


Find a multitude of fun events and great things to do, including weekend events, throughout the year, like music, festivals, comedy, outdoor fun, boat cruises, excursions for families and kids, food, wine and beer tastings.

Check out the listings of year-round Fairs & Festivals throughout New England. Also be sure to read our list of Great Things To Do in New England. Whether you're curious about what to this weekend, this month, or this season, we have you covered.

For events specifically related to the anniversary of the American Revolution, please visit our MA250 Events Calendar.

Find the dates you plan to travel or simply search the full events list below.

We welcome the events that are open to the public. Click here to Submit your Event for FREE
Visit our Massachusetts 250 Events Calendar!

-= Featured Events =-

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary at XV Beacon

Feb 16, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026 15 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108

 ID of the event
Step into history as Boston marks the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution. This exclusive package blends the city’s revolutionary heritage with XV Beacon’s signature luxury, offering a refined downtown stay just moments from Boston’s most iconic historic landmarks.

Guests enjoy a $250 Columbus Hospitality dining gift card, a curated historic welcome amenity inspired by 1776 (paired with local Downeast cider), complimentary parking, and a bespoke Boston 250 Historic Guide crafted by the concierge team—perfect for exploring the city’s Semiquincentennial celebrations in style.

Book Dates: February 16 – August 30, 2026
Stay Dates: April 21 – August 31, 2026

Available on select room types. Blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with other promotions.

⚽ The World Cup at XV Beacon

Jun 11, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026 15 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108

 ID of the event
Experience the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Boston with an ultra-luxury, fully curated stay designed for guests seeking the most exclusive and seamless tournament experience. This bespoke journey includes a multi-night stay in a signature suite, daily gourmet breakfast, personalized in-room amenities, and private luxury transportation to and from Gillette Stadium for match days.

Guests are treated to champagne welcome receptions, curated culinary experiences, priority dining reservations, and access to XV Beacon’s dedicated concierge team, who will design a complete itinerary for both match days and leisure time in Boston. Thoughtful welcome gifts and discreet, white-glove service ensure every detail is handled with care.

Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026 (Boston matches on June 13, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29 & July 9, including the Quarterfinal)

Arts & Crafts Shows

ArtWeek SouthCoast

May 8, 2026 - May 17, 2026 across the Southeastern Massachusetts region, Fall River, New Bedford, Dartmouth, Marion, Westport, Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, Somerset, and Wareham Fall River, MA

Join us for ArtWeek SouthCoast — a vibrant, region-wide celebration of art, culture, and community across Southeastern Massachusetts.

ArtWeek SouthCoast brings people together through the work of local artists, performers, cultural groups, creative businesses, and community organizations, creating meaningful experiences rooted in creativity and connection.

Throughout the celebration, neighborhoods across the SouthCoast come alive with performances, workshops, exhibitions, and interactive events designed to inspire and engage visitors of all ages. With dozens of unique experiences to explore, ArtWeek SouthCoast showcases the incredible talent, creativity, and community spirit that make the region so special.

CSEM presents Viennese Impressions: String Quartets from the Age of Enlightenment with the Arrow Quartet

May 22, 2026 - May 22, 2026 66 Winthrop St. Cambridge, MA 02138

For the 2025-26 season finale, CSEM is proud to present the Arrow Quartet, an up-and-coming string quartet founded in 2021 by students from Juilliard’s Historical Performance program with a concert of eighteenth century string quartet works! The Arrow Quartet brings a passion for expanding the classical repertoire and discovering the historical intersections between classical chamber works and music that was performed outside of the concert hall. Viennese Impressions focuses on Mozart’s String Quartet in E-flat major, K. 428, one of six quartets he dedicated to Haydn, often referred to as “the father of the string quartet.” From there, the program also explores the works of lesser-known composers Guiseppe Cambini and Franz Xaver Richter. Prolific and popular in their time, both of these composers also made vital contributions to the development of the string quartet in the 18th. century.

CSEM presents Viennese Impressions: String Quartets from the Age of Enlightenment with the Arrow Quartet

May 23, 2026 - May 23, 2026 130 Newton St. Weston, MA 02493

For the 2025-26 season finale, CSEM is proud to present the Arrow Quartet, an up-and-coming string quartet founded in 2021 by students from Juilliard’s Historical Performance program with a concert of eighteenth century string quartet works! The Arrow Quartet brings a passion for expanding the classical repertoire and discovering the historical intersections between classical chamber works and music that was performed outside of the concert hall. Viennese Impressions focuses on Mozart’s String Quartet in E-flat major, K. 428, one of six quartets he dedicated to Haydn, often referred to as “the father of the string quartet.” From there, the program also explores the works of lesser-known composers Guiseppe Cambini and Franz Xaver Richter. Prolific and popular in their time, both of these composers also made vital contributions to the development of the string quartet in the 18th century.

CSEM presents Viennese Impressions: String Quartets from the Age of Enlightenment with the Arrow Quartet

May 24, 2026 - May 24, 2026 705 Hale St. Beverly, MA 01915

For the 2025-26 season finale, CSEM is proud to present the Arrow Quartet, an up-and-coming string quartet founded in 2021 by students from Juilliard’s Historical Performance program with a concert of eighteenth century string quartet works! The Arrow Quartet brings a passion for expanding the classical repertoire and discovering the historical intersections between classical chamber works and music that was performed outside of the concert hall. Viennese Impressions focuses on Mozart’s String Quartet in E-flat major, K. 428, one of six quartets he dedicated to Haydn, often referred to as “the father of the string quartet.” From there, the program also explores the works of lesser-known composers Guiseppe Cambini and Franz Xaver Richter. Prolific and popular in their time, both of these composers also made vital contributions to the development of the string quartet in the 18th century.

The 43rd Annual Cape Ann Artisans Open Studios

Jun 6, 2026 - Jun 7, 2026 Gloucester and Rockport, MA Gloucester, MA

Annual Cape Ann Artisans
This year’s self-guided tour features 12 unique studios, giving visitors the chance to explore where local art is created while meeting the artisans behind the work. From pottery, quilting, mosaics, and watercolor paintings to eco-friendly recycled glass art and wearable sea glass designs, the event offers an intimate look into Cape Ann’s vibrant creative community.

Guests can follow the newly released brochure map or create their own route through scenic neighborhoods in Annisquam, Rockport, and Gloucester. Along the way, visitors can enjoy artist demonstrations, discover new featured artisans, and experience a wide variety of handcrafted works inspired by the coastal beauty of Cape Ann.

Brochures are available through local visitor centers, hotels, and attractions, or can be downloaded from the Cape Ann Artisans website. Visitors may also enter a grocery gift card drawing and receive complimentary regional magazines while supplies last.

Charity Events

Wrestling For Wishes

May 16, 2026 - May 16, 2026 365 Lindell Avenue Leominster, MA 01453

Join us as World of Hurt Wrestling presents Wrestling For Wishes! This family-friendly evening will be filled with competitive and entertaining wrestling in support of the Make-A-Wish mission of granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Past event participants include Tony Atlas and Doink the Clown, local wrestlers like Liviyah and DJ Powers, and fan favorites including Mikey Cheese and Shockwave the Robot. We'll have concessions, dozens of raffle prizes, and much more. Whether you’re a longtime wrestling fan or this will be your first match, you won’t want to miss this unique event that is fun for the whole family.

14th Annual Walk for Independence!

May 30, 2026 - May 30, 2026 Mount Ida Campus of UMass Amherst, 100 Carlson Ave, Newton, MA 02459 Newton, MA 02459

Join Us for the 14th Annual Walk for Independence! The 14th Annual Walk for Independence is at the Mount Ida Campus of UMass Amherst (100 Carlson Avenue, Newton, MA)! This free event invites you to walk to raise funds for vision loss and celebrate our community coming together to improve the lives of people with vision loss. Attendees will complete a 1, 2, or 3-mile walk around the Mount Ida campus, followed by activities for all ages! Event Timeline: - Registration: 9:00 a.m. - Walk Kick-Off: 10:00 a.m. - Post-Walk BBQ & Activities: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Event Highlights: - Free BBQ & Popcorn - Accessible Activities - Assistive Technology Demonstrations - Event Emcee: Sam Seavey, founder of The Blind Life - And more! Learn More & Register Today: carroll.org/walk

Children & Families

Haverhill KidsFEST

May 16, 2026 - May 16, 2026 137 Monument St. Haverhill, MA 01832

KidsFEST is more than just an event; it is a celebration of childhood, creativity, and community. In bringing back this beloved Haverhill tradition for 2026, Haverhill Education Foundation aims to create a vibrant, inclusive festival featuring: live performances, a diverse array of vendors, friendly competitions, interactive shows and activities, and a spotlight on Haverhill’s talented youth musicians, athletes and artists!

Comedy

Jon Stewart is coming to Tanglewood

Jun 20, 2026 - Jun 20, 2026 Koussevitzky Music Shed, Lenox/Stockbridge, MA 01240

Join us for an unforgettable evening with Jon Stewart—one of America’s most influential voices in comedy and political satire. Known for his award-winning tenure on The Daily Show and his return as host in 2024, Stewart continues to shape conversations around current events with wit, insight, and humor.

Beyond television, Stewart has led impactful projects such as The Problem with Jon Stewart and The Weekly Show, bringing thoughtful dialogue to global issues while championing meaningful social change.

📵 Phone-Free Event Policy
This performance will be a phone-free experience to ensure an immersive and distraction-free environment for all guests.
  • All phones, smart watches, and accessories will be secured in Yondr pouches upon entry.
  • Guests will keep their devices with them at all times and may access them only in designated Phone Use Areas.
  • Devices must be re-secured before returning to the performance space.
  • Use of any non-permitted device during the show will result in removal from the venue.
Guests are encouraged to bring a credit card for purchases inside the venue.

Come experience Jon Stewart live—raw, unfiltered, and fully present—just as it’s meant to be.

Fairs & Festivals

Lotus Festival

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026 Gillette Stadium, 1 Patriot Pl, (Entrance W1/W2) Foxborough, MA 02035

More About the Lotus Festival! This will be for an evening of inspiration, entertainment, networking, and dancing, so buy your tickets so you don't miss: - A thoughtfully curated dinner menu blending rich flavors and bold creativity - An open bar with signature cocktails and classic favorites - A thrilling live auction showcasing one-of-a-kind items and exclusive experiences - Interactive moments that bring our programs in India to life. See the impact you’re helping create - Live performances, dancing, and high-energy entertainment throughout the night - Opportunities to connect, network, and engage with like-minded changemakers united by purpose Come celebrate, connect, and make an impact together.

Films

A Tribute To Eleanor Powell

May 28, 2026 - May 28, 2026 Hope Center for the Arts, 150 Bridge Street, Springfield, MA 01103

 ID of the event
Celebrate the life and legacy of Eleanor Powell, Springfield’s own Hollywood “Queen of Tap,” at this special one-time tribute event. Featuring guest speaker Lisa Royere, co-author of Eleanor Powell: Born to Dance, the program will showcase rare film clips, behind-the-scenes stories, and commentary highlighting Powell’s groundbreaking dance career from Broadway to Hollywood stardom.

Discover how Powell’s journey began in Springfield, where she trained as a young dancer before becoming one of the most celebrated solo performers of the 1930s and 1940s. Guests will also enjoy a Q&A session exploring her iconic performances alongside legends such as Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and other stars of the golden age of film and music.

Food, Wine, Beer

Quincy Presidential Food Tour

May 17, 2026 - May 24, 2026 1250 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA 02169

Embark on a delicious journey through America’s “City of Presidents,” where rich history meets unforgettable flavors.

Now home to a thriving and diverse community, Quincy is best known as the birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. Beyond its presidential legacy, the city also boasts a rich industrial history shaped by granite quarrying and shipbuilding — stories that continue to define Quincy’s character today.

Join expert local guides for an unforgettable two-hour walking tour through the heart of Quincy’s vibrant culinary scene. This intimate small-group experience goes beyond the usual tourist stops, blending authentic local flavors with fascinating presidential history and iconic city landmarks.

Along the way, you’ll discover hidden gems, hear captivating stories, and experience the culture that makes Quincy one of Greater Boston’s most unique destinations.

Why Choose Off The Beaten Path Food Tours?

✓ TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Winner
✓ 5-star average guest rating
✓ Passionate local guides with deep Quincy knowledge
✓ Authentic small-group experiences loved by returning guests

Book your spot today and discover why Quincy is one of Boston’s best-kept culinary secrets.

The Nantucket Wine & Food Festival

May 27, 2026 - May 31, 2026 Nantucket Nantucket, MA 02554

The 28th annual Nantucket Wine & Food Festival, features 50+ events from intimate dinners to grand tastings, welcoming international winemakers, world-class chefs, and passionate food and wine lovers.

Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day Band Concert

May 22, 2026 - May 23, 2026 Performing Arts Center, 95 Southern Eagle Cartway Brewster, MA 02631

This America 250 concert celebrates LIBERTY on Memorial Day weekend and honors all who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of these unalienable rights. Works by John Williams, Glenn Miller and John Philip Sousa. Info: artsempoweringlife.org (Free for Students & Youth)

Museums

Free Museum Admission for All youth at the Cape Cod Museum of Art

Jul 16, 2025 - Jul 1, 2026 60 Hope Lane (just off Route 6A) Dennis, MA 02638

The Cape Cod Museum of Art is thrilled to announce a generous donation from The Design Initiative Inc., an architecture practice deeply committed to designing spaces and supporting organizations that strengthen our community. Thanks to the gift, admission to the museum is now free for all visitors 21 years old and younger for the next year. This initiative opens the doors to students and families, providing access to our permanent collection and inspiring exhibitions year-round. The Design Initiative, led by architect and artist Mary-Ann Agresti AIA, is known for creating public and workplace environments that nurture community.

Music

What Endures – Brahms Symphony No. 4 and Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto with Adrian Anantawan

May 15, 2026 - May 15, 2026 45 Quincy Street Cambridge, MA 02138

Experience an unforgettable evening of timeless music as the Kendall Square Orchestra closes its 2025/2026 season with What Endures — a powerful program celebrating music that continues to inspire across generations.

Led by conductor Kristo Kondakçi and featuring acclaimed violinist Adrian Anantawan, the performance opens with Fate Now Conquers by Carlos Simon, a moving work inspired by Beethoven’s reflections on resilience and hope.

The evening continues with Violin Concerto by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, showcasing soaring melodies and vibrant energy, before concluding with Symphony No. 4 by Johannes Brahms — a masterful finale filled with emotional depth, grandeur, and grace.

Vial - Band at Warehouse XI

May 15, 2026 - May 15, 2026 Warehouse XI Somerville, MA 02143

Get ready for an unforgettable night of live music as Vial takes the stage at Warehouse XI. Known for their energetic blend of rock and alternative sounds, Vial delivers a high-energy performance that’s sure to keep the crowd moving all night long.

Located in the heart of Somerville, Warehouse XI offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for experiencing live music up close. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the band for the first time, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

Gather your friends and enjoy an evening filled with great music, unforgettable moments, and incredible live entertainment.

Brigitte Calls Me Baby: Irreversible Tour

May 15, 2026 - May 15, 2026 939 Boylston St Boston, MA 02115

Experience the genre-blending sound of Brigitte Calls Me Baby, the rising Chicago-based five-piece captivating audiences with their unique mix of vintage-inspired pop and early-2000s indie rock energy.

Following the breakout success of Impressively Average and a nationwide sold-out headline tour, the band brings their signature style to the stage with music from their debut album, The Future Is Our Way Out. Known for shimmering melodies, emotional intensity, and mesmerizing vocals from frontman Wes Leavins, the group delivers a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Elegant, energetic, and emotionally charged, Brigitte Calls Me Baby offers a live music experience you won’t want to miss.

Chameleon Arts Ensemble – Things Seen Right-to-Left: Satie, Vaughan Williams, Brown, Esmail, Ravel

May 16, 2026 - May 16, 2026 66 Marlborough Street Boston, MA 02116

Join Chameleon Arts Ensemble as it concludes its 28th season with an imaginative musical journey inspired by illusion, memory, and dreamlike storytelling.

This captivating program features a rich mix of chamber works, including Phantasy Quintet by Ralph Vaughan Williams, the evocative Jhula, Jhule by Reena Esmail, and The Lotos-Eaters inspired by Tennyson’s legendary voyage. The evening also includes Things Seen Right-to-Left (Without Glasses) by Erik Satie and concludes with Piano Trio by Maurice Ravel — a brilliant showcase of color, texture, and musical illusion.

Filled with imagination and artistic depth, this season finale promises an unforgettable evening of chamber music and creative exploration.

ABRAXAS: Santana Tribute Band

May 16, 2026 - May 16, 2026 Samuel Slater's Hall Webster, MA 01570

ABRAXAS is the ultimate tribute to the music and spirit of Carlos Santana. Guitar virtuoso Ed Antonelli performs inspired renditions from over five decades of Santana hits and instrumentals.

Chameleon Arts Ensemble – Things Seen Right-to-Left: Satie, Vaughan Williams, Brown, Esmail, Ravel

May 17, 2026 - May 17, 2026 66 Marlborough St. Boston, MA 02116

Step into a whimsical world of imagination and illusion as Chameleon Arts Ensemble concludes its 28th season with a dreamlike musical journey inspired by fantasy, memory, and shifting perspectives.

The program features the lush and impressionistic Phantasy Quintet by Ralph Vaughan Williams, alongside Jhula, Jhule by Reena Esmail, a beautifully expressive work for clarinet and piano. Audiences will also experience The Lotos-Eaters, inspired by Tennyson’s surreal voyage, as well as Things Seen Right-to-Left (Without Glasses) by Erik Satie. The evening concludes with Piano Trio by Maurice Ravel — a brilliant masterpiece overflowing with color, texture, and musical brilliance.

This captivating finale promises an evening of artistry, imagination, and extraordinary chamber music.

Fiddle Fire: A Charlie Daniels Tribute Band

May 22, 2026 - May 22, 2026 Samuel Slater's Hall Webster, MA 01570

Fiddle Fire brings the hot fiddling Rock, Boogie Woogie, Country and Blues styles of the Charlie Daniels Band to you in a 2-1/2 hour show featuring their music and behind the scenes stories of how those songs came about. As an outspoken advocate of peace and justice Charlie rallied for a better world. Fiddle Fire promises to carry on that legacy.

Paper In Fire - John Mellencamp Anthology

May 23, 2026 - May 23, 2026 Samuel Slater's Hall Webster, MA 01570

New England's premier John Mellencamp tribute band has been igniting stages across New England with the authentic sounds and high-energy performances of John Mellencamp's illustrious career. Named after one of his iconic hits, Paper In Fire pays tribute to the rock legend whose music has resonated through decades, from the gritty, soulful anthems of the late 70s to his powerful contemporary songs. Fronted by six seasoned musicians who share a deep passion for Mellencamp's music, Paper In Fire delivers a performance that captures the heart and soul of his distinctive sound. Every show is a journey through Mellencamp's extensive anthology, filled with the hits you remember and many more, expertly performed to bring the spirit of the originals to life. From "Jack & Diane" and "Pink Houses" to "Small Town" and "Hurts So Good," their setlist is a testament to Mellencamp's enduring legacy. Whether you're a lifelong Mellencamp fan or discovering his music anew, Paper In Fire promises an unforgettable concert experience that will have you singing along and reliving the magic of one of rock's most cherished artists.

Zaccai Curtis at Shalin Liu Performance Center

May 29, 2026 - May 29, 2026 Shalin Liu Performance Center Rockport, MA 01966

Welcome to the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport, Massachusetts, where music comes alive like nowhere else! Join us for a mesmerizing performance by the incredibly talented Zaccai Curtis. Known for his unique blend of jazz and Latin influences, Zaccai Curtis is sure to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages. The Shalin Liu Performance Center provides an intimate and acoustically perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of music. Located in the heart of Rockport, this venue offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a live performance. With its convenient location and easy accessibility, attending a show at the Shalin Liu Performance Center is a breeze. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Zaccai Curtis live in concert. Grab your tickets now and treat yourself to an evening of exceptional music and entertainment. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a night out on the town, this is one event you won't want to miss. Book your tickets today and get ready for a night to remember!

Outdoor Activities

5th Annual Elements Adventure Walk

May 16, 2026 - May 16, 2026 92 Allen Neck Rd South Dartmouth, MA 02748

The Elements Adventure Walk transforms Round the Bend Farm into an immersive, one-mile journey designed to challenge the body, engage the mind, and nourish the spirit. Through holistic physical and mental obstacles, we invite participants of all ages and abilities to foster deep connections with the earth and one another. This event is perfect for families, friend groups, and team building experiences. Elements Learning Collaborative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating child-centered, nature-based learning environment for students of diverse backgrounds. The proceeds from this event will go towards our scholarship program, ensuring all children have opportunities to participate in our summer camps, homeschool enrichment courses, and nature-based learning programs. Learn more about us at elementslearning.org

Performing Arts and Theater

Meredith Willson’s The Music Man

May 15, 2026 - May 17, 2026 2 Southbridge St. Worcester, MA 01608

Step into the charming world of The Music Man, Meredith Willson’s beloved six-time Tony® Award-winning musical comedy filled with laughter, romance, and unforgettable songs.

The story follows fast-talking salesman Harold Hill as he arrives in River City, Iowa, convincing the townspeople to invest in a boys’ marching band despite knowing little about music himself. But his plans take an unexpected turn when he falls for Marian Paroo, the town librarian, whose influence changes his life in ways he never imagined.

Packed with heart, humor, and classic Broadway energy, The Music Man is a timeless crowd-pleaser for audiences of all ages.

Science & Nature

4th Innovations in Optics, Photonics, and Laser Engineering Conference

May 18, 2026 - May 19, 2026 Downtown Boston from Boston Harbor Boston, MA 02108

Join leading researchers, engineers, and innovators at the 4th Innovations in Optics, Photonics, and Laser Engineering Conference — a dynamic gathering dedicated to exploring the future of light-based technologies.

Centered around the theme “Innovating with Light: From Fundamentals to Future Tech,” this year’s conference highlights the latest advancements in laser systems, quantum photonics, optical materials, imaging technologies, and next-generation engineering solutions.

Designed to inspire collaboration and discovery, the event brings together a global community of scientists, industry leaders, and technology pioneers to exchange ideas, showcase breakthroughs, and shape the future of photonics and laser innovation.

Explore. Exchange. Evolve. Discover how light is transforming tomorrow’s world.

Sports

Spring Cider Run 5K & Donut Dash

May 30, 2026 - May 30, 2026 45 Fern Avenue Amesbury, MA 01913

Run, walk, stroll on the farm. This race combines some of our favorite things - being outside on the farm with family and friends, changing seasons, sipping cider and cider donuts! All ages and levels welcome + encouraged. 5K race routes wiggles through fields, orchards and forest and includes challenging areas with uneven terrain. It's pretty awesome! Kid's Donut Dashes (400m and 800m) start and finish before 5K race begins. So sorry - no pets permitted on the farm. --- Registration: Pre-registration is required. Register early to save! Race is timed and managed by High5EM. --- This race is part of a 3 part series with a Summer Cider Run on July 11 and a Fall Cider Run on November 7.