12 Things to Do in Boston This Week · July 16–19, 2026

Arts & Culture

The Road to Revolution: Massachusetts and the Independence Movement

An ongoing exhibition exploring Massachusetts' pivotal role in the American independence movement, open daily downtown.

Friday, July 17, 2026 10:00 AM · Downtown Boston

Unbraid: Hair, Clay, and Craft

An exhibition at the MFA Boston exploring the cultural and artistic intersections of hair, clay, and handcraft traditions.

Through Sunday, July 26, 2026 · MFA Boston, Fenway

Paranormal Activity

The live stage adaptation of the hit horror franchise plays a limited run at the Emerson Colonial Theatre.

Through July 30, 2026 7:30 PM · Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street, Boston

Festivals & Special Events

Festival Betances: Boricua Legacy

A vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican culture, music, activism, and community in the South End's Villa Victoria neighborhood.

Saturday, July 18, 2026 · South End, Boston

Free Events

DCR Summer Nights at Carson Beach with Eliza and the Vibes

Free live music, beach games, and community fun at Carson Beach as Eliza and the Vibes perform for the DCR Summer Nights series.

Thursday, July 16, 2026 · Carson Beach, Boston

Boston Parks and Recreation Neighborhood Concert Series

A summer-long free outdoor concert series bringing live music to Boston neighborhoods, running through early August.

Through Monday, August 3, 2026 · Various Boston parks

Music & Nightlife

Women's Networking Night

An inclusive evening for women professionals to connect, meet potential business partners, and build community at Aloft Seaport's WXYZ Lounge.

Wednesday, July 22, 2026 6:00 PM · Aloft Seaport, WXYZ Lounge, 401 D Street, Boston

John Mulaney at Cape Cod Melody Tent

Emmy-winning comedian and storyteller John Mulaney performs a two-night run at the beloved Cape Cod Melody Tent.

Friday, July 24, 2026 · Cape Cod Melody Tent

Souls of Mischief plus STL GLD at City Winery

West Coast hip-hop legends Souls of Mischief perform live at City Winery Boston with opener STL GLD.

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 · City Winery, 80 Beverly Street, Boston

Sports

Run to Home Base 2026: Team Backyard

The 17th Annual Run to Home Base charity race at Fenway Park, supporting veterans mental health, with Team Backyard Boston participating.

Saturday, July 25, 2026 10:30 AM · Fenway Park, 4 Jersey Street, Boston

Food & Drink

Life Alive Pop-Up at Backyard

Life Alive Organic Café pops up at Backyard Boston for a special morning of healthy eats and community vibes.

Friday, July 24, 2026 7:30 AM · Backyard Boston, 5 Necco Street, Boston

Outdoors & Active

16th Annual Mattapan on Wheels

A free community bike ride celebrating its 16th year, starting from 350 River St in Boston.

Saturday, July 18, 2026 8:00 AM · 350 River St, Boston