What’s happening in and around Boston during the World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, kicking off June 11, is expected to draw large crowds to Massachusetts, with matches scheduled at Boston Stadium (aka Gillette Stadium) across six different dates.

But it’s not the only major event happening across the Greater Boston area this summer, as the World Cup also overlaps with plenty of exciting local celebrations.

Whether you live in Massachusetts or are visiting for the World Cup, take a look at these events that promise an unforgettable experience:

GroundBeat Concert Series

The Esplanade along the Charles River will host a series of free waterfront concerts celebrating Boston’s vibrant music scene. All performances take place at the iconic DCR Hatch Memorial Shell at 47 David G. Mugar Way, and each event features live music, vendors, outdoor games and activities for the whole family—plus beautiful views of the Charles River. The concerts announced so far will be held Sunday, May 31; Wednesday, June 3; Wednesday, June 10; and Wednesday, June 17. For the full schedule and to register to attend, click here.

Boston FIFA Fan Fest

From June 12-27, the city will host the fan festival at City Hall. The daily event is free for all ages, with games, music, live entertainment, local vendors, and broadcasts of multiple World Cup matches. Attendees must register in advance, since only 5,000 fans will be allowed in due to security screening.

Guinness Record for the World’s Biggest Soccer Ball

On June 13, Massport will attempt to break the Guinness record for the biggest soccer ball in the world in East Boston. The free community event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Piers Park II. The day will include family activities, games, and live entertainment, though World Cup matches will not be shown. The installation will be open to the public from June 12-18.

Boston Dragon Boat Festival

The 2026 Boston Dragon Boat Festival will be held on Sunday, June 14. This event welcomes more than 70 teams and over 60,000 attendees and athletes. The festival day includes arts and crafts activities, performances, food vendors, and racing competitions.

Bunker Hill Parade

The Bunker Hill Parade commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, the armed forces, and the spirit of American heritage, while celebrating Boston’s historic Charlestown neighborhood. The event will take place on June 14 at 12:30 p.m., and the march runs from Vine Street to Bunker Hill Street, then to Main Street, to Monument Avenue, to Monument Square, to Winthrop Street and ending at Common Street. Considered one of the longest-running parades in the United States, it’s a wonderful chance—if you’re visiting during the World Cup—to experience authentic Boston.

Boston Asian Food Festival

This food festival is scheduled for June 20-21 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Rose Kennedy Greenway on Atlantic Ave. The festival features delicious food, fun games, live performances, live music, and a DJ keeping the energy up all day long. More information here.

Boston Harborfest

From July 2-4, this festival will offer hundreds of activities during Independence Day week at the city’s most iconic historic landmarks. This family-friendly event is Boston’s Official Fourth of July Celebration. Boston Harborfest activities include the annual opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, live music, fireworks, and much more!

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular returns to the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade for its 52nd edition on Saturday, July 4, from 7-9:30 p.m. The Pops concert will feature three very special guest artists: Grammy-winning country superstar Lainey Wilson, three-time Grammy winner Chance the Rapper, and Grammy-winning NOLA icon Trombone Shorty. The event will conclude with a stunning fireworks show that will light up the Charles River, synchronized to music performed by the Boston Pops starting at 9:15 p.m.

Sail Boston

Boston is an official port of Sail250, a global gathering of tall ships and military vessels celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The Tall Ships return to Boston Harbor from July 11-16. This spectacular event offers crews, cadets, and visitors from around the world an unforgettable experience and a first-class maritime celebration. Come see why Tall Ships America named Boston its Port of the Year in 2009 and 2017.