More about: 10 Things to Do in Boston in June
After Boston's harsh winter, there's nothing better than enjoying the outdoor attractions that June has to offer. From walks along the Charles River to Gay Pride celebrations, there are activities for everyone. Everything there is to do and see in Boston throughout the year is amplified in June.
Join me and I'll tell you in this article what are the best things to see and do in Boston during the month of June. I'll also give you some tips on how to save money on the main activities so you can make the most of your visit to the city this month.
1. Be amazed by the Boston Dragon Boat Festival
You can celebrate the Annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival during the month of June in Boston. It is a festival featuring a race of dragon-shaped boats, decorated and painted in bright colours in the Hong Kong style.
Around 50 teams of rowers from all over New England and other parts of the United States take part in this event, racing along the Charles River between JFK Street and Western Avenue.
In addition to the dragon boat race, you can enjoy the cultural programmes that accompany this event every year. There are interesting theatrical performances, art demonstrations and crafts.
You can also enjoy the delicious Asian food sold at the stalls during this event. This is the oldest Dragon Boat Festival in the United States and one of the oldest in the West.
It is important to note that all programmes at this event are free and suitable for the whole family. Chinese dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, dance, music and much more are also included.
Practical information
- Where: on the banks of the Charles River in Boston.
- When: dates change from year to year, so it is advisable to check the event website.
- Price: free
2. Attend one of the events during Boston Gay Pride Month
Boston is one of the cities in the United States where Gay Pride Month is celebrated with the most enthusiasm. Throughout the month of June, there are various cultural activities, such as cinema, theatre, parades and concerts.
There are also special gastronomic events during Gay Pride Month in Boston that are really worth checking out. After dinner, the fun doesn't stop, as many venues offer special dances.
The activities during Gay Pride Month in Boston are varied and there is something for everyone, whether you prefer the wild nightlife or more low-key activities.
3. Take part in Juneteenth celebrations in Boston
June is the most important month for people of African descent throughout the United States. On 19 June, the United States celebrates and commemorates the anniversary of an important event, when enslaved people in parts of Texas learned of their liberation in 1865.
** Juneteenth** is the name given to this annual event, which is celebrated in Boston and throughout the United States in a festive and exciting way.
The events that accompany the Juneteenth celebrations throughout June include delicious food, art shows, music concerts, dancing, and above all, the remembrance of the history of slavery and freedom.
You can check the Juneteenth events calendar to see which special activities you would like to participate in.
If you want to know more about these events , watch this special Juneteenth programme.
4. Take part in the Bunker Hill Day celebrations and attend the parade
Bunker Hill Day is one of Boston's official holidays and is celebrated annually around 17 June. Some activities also take place before and after that date, depending on the annual celebration schedule.
Bunker Hill Day is the anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, also known as the Battle of Breed's Hill. This important battle, which took place on 17 June 1775, was part of the Siege of Boston, which took place during the American War of Independence.
The Battle of Bunker Hill is considered the first major battle of the American Revolution.
The famous Bunker Hill Day Parade is part of the city's culture and has been a tradition since 1786. It is an event eagerly awaited by everyone and, above all, one of the best activities to do with children in Boston.
Children love to see the participants, of all ages, dressed in period costumes, spreading their joy to everyone involved.
You can find all the details about the Bunker Hill Parade on the event's official Facebook page.
5. One of Boston's most iconic activities, a cruise on the Charles River
June in Boston is one of the best months for outdoor activities, thanks to its wonderful weather. One of the things you cannot miss is a cruise on the Charles River.
There are different companies that organise cruises on the Charles River at very affordable prices and in strict compliance with all safety regulations.
The great advantage of taking a cruise on the Charles River in June is that the weather is warm but not stifling, and the sun is not as harsh as in the height of summer, so you can enjoy the trip in a more relaxed manner.
There are several options for cruises on the Charles River, and you are sure to find one that suits your tastes.
6. Enjoy the start of summer in the city at the Boston Harbor Hotel
During the month of June, you'll have the chance to enjoy live music, dancing and moonlight movies at the Boston Harbor Hotel. Each night's schedule features a specific and different musical genre. Also, once a week, there is a fun movie line-up. All this entertainment is free!
In addition, those attending these shows can order food and drinks from the hotel's restaurant and outdoor bar. These activities are very popular with Bostonians and also with dozens of tourists who join them to enjoy these free outdoor events.
Practical information
- Where: Boston Harbor Hotel, Rowes Wharf
- When: throughout June.
- Price: depends on the event you attend
7. Take part in another of Boston's favourite parades: the June Day Parade
During the month of June, the city of Boston is filled with special parades. If you are in the city at this time, take advantage of them and attend; you will not regret it. Every year, in early June, the largest military parade on the east coast of the United States takes place. This ceremony has been an annual tradition since 1638.
Some of the participants in the June Day Parade include the National Guard, the USS Constitution, the United States Navy, the Old and Honourable Artillery, the Washington Light Infantry, and many other historical military organisations. This parade is free and open to the public.
If you want to learn more about the historical events that shaped the city of Boston and its surroundings, you can book one of the guided tours of the city.
8. Take part in the Feast of St. Peter
About 45 minutes north of Boston, in the coastal town of Gloucester, the Feast of St. Peter is celebrated at the end of June.
This festival is a long-standing tradition in honour of the patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter. You can get there by train for around €11 per person, departing from Boston's North Station.
During the Feast of St. Peter, visitors can enjoy music concerts, parades, attractions, games and the famous 'Greasy Pole Contest', one of the favourite events of regular participants in the celebration.
The Greasy Pole Contest is a competition in which men dress up in extravagant costumes and try to be the first to grab a flag at the end of a very slippery pole.
The brave winners go down in local history as legends, and the best part of the contest is that they receive free drinks all night long.
9. The Beacon Hill Art Walk, one of the best activities in Boston in June
The Beacon Hill Art Walk takes place on the first Sunday in June every year, from noon until 6 p.m.
On this day, Beacon Hill residents open their private gardens and courtyards to allow artists to exhibit and sell their work.
This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to tour the private homes of Beacon Hill while viewing original, handmade works of art.
Thousands of people are estimated to attend each year. This is a popular, free event with a festive atmosphere where families can enjoy performances by volunteer musicians who play in various gardens throughout the day. Around 100 artists of a wide variety of styles usually take part.
The Beacon Hill Art Walk is an event not to be missed. If you are an art lover, you will love it.
Practical information
- Where: throughout the north side of Beacon Hill.
- When: the first Sunday in June.
- Price: free
10. Explore the city's parks
Boston is a city with many green spaces to enjoy. Due to its extreme climate during the winter months, Bostonians are unable to enjoy them much during the colder months.
For this reason, many of the city's residents choose the month of June to stroll through the city's parks and squares, enjoying the beautiful variety of flowers and trees in all their splendour.
You can take advantage of this time of year to get to know the city well and do some of the 10 best things to do in Boston in spring.
Temperatures in Boston during the month of June
In June, the first heat of summer begins, but for much of the month it can be quite windy and humid, especially in the first few weeks.
Temperatures hover around 24 degrees Celsius, but drop dramatically at night, reaching 16 to 18 degrees.
Keep in mind that rain is possible, so it's a good idea to pack clothes for rainy days in your suitcase.
Tourist numbers in Boston in June
As the weather improves, the city begins to attract more foreign tourists. In June, due to the large number of historical and patriotic events, Boston and its surroundings are also destinations for many domestic tourists.
For these reasons, when planning your travel itinerary, it is advisable to purchase and reserve tickets online for the attractions you plan to visit to ensure your place. It is also a good idea to book excursions from Boston to nearby places of interest in advance to guarantee your place.
Are prices in Boston very high in June?
During the high season, it is common for prices to increase slightly, both in shops and in hotels and services in general.
A good way to save a lot of money during the month of June is to purchase one of the Boston tourist passes that offer free admission to many attractions and also significant discounts at shops, restaurants and transport.
What to pack for a visit to Boston in June
When packing your bags, remember to include:
- Swimwear, as the weather is warmer and you may want to go to the beach or enjoy your hotel's swimming pool.
- Lightweight, comfortable clothing so you can explore the city comfortably.
- Comfortable footwear, as you are sure to do a lot of walking.
- A hat to protect you from the sun during your walks.
- Sunscreen, essential if you are going to be doing outdoor activities.
- Sunglasses.
- A coat for the evening, as it tends to get quite cool after sunset.
- Slightly more formal clothing in case you go to a concert or show in the evening.