Back in 2013, Mike Snow and Brian Appel dreamt up a solution for the lack of any truly huge music festivals in New England. Their vision? A Massachusetts festival that melted together the country’s biggest acts with local up-and-comers. For a region whose tourism revolves around freezing beaches and colonial reminiscing, Boston Calling gives people a brand new reason to visit Beantown. Within its first few years, it quickly solidified itself as a Massachusetts must-see with industry giants like Eminem, Vampire Weekend and Metallica headlining. The festival isn’t strictly defined by its genre, though it does lean indie-rock. This year, expect to hear folk and bluegrass from Tyler Childers’ haunting West Virginia wail, synthy R&B grooves from Bad Rabbits, and wistful dream rock from Paper Lady. If you need a break from the four stages of performances, take a spin on the 100-foot ferris wheel for some air. Hit up some of the over 30 local food trucks serving up dumplings, BBQ and flatbreads, or become the reigning lawn game champion of Boston (self-appointed, of course).
Boston Calling once sported a twice-a-year lineup, one festival in the spring and the other in autumn. In 2016, the festival settled on being a three-day Memorial Day Weekend romp. The following year, thanks to explosive ticket sales, it moved from City Hall Plaza to Harvard Stadium. That transition took the cramped, brick venue from downtown to the more laidback, grassy lawn out in Allston. All you’ll need is a buttered lobster roll and a brew.
The Specs
- Around 40,000 people are expected to attend.
- Tickets are available at 4 levels: GA, GA+, VIP and Platinum.
- A 1-Day GA ticket will run you $189, while a 3-Day GA pass is $383.
- Need local recs? Check out Fifty Grande’s Boston guide.
FAQs
Where does Boston Calling take place?
Harvard Athletic Complex, 65 North Harvard Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02134
When does the fest start?
The fest begins on Friday, May 24 and wraps on Sunday, May 26.
What is the closest airport to Boston Calling?
Boston Logan Airport (BOS) is closest to the venue. Hop on the Silver Line, the free bus, into downtown Boston, and from there take the Red Line to Harvard. Otherwise, a taxi or rideshare is your best bet.
What’s the parking situation?
There’s no on-site parking for Boston Calling. If you’ve gotta drive, you can test your luck trying to find street parking or splurge for a parking garage. The cheaper option? Park at a suburban MBTA station and take the T into the city.
Can I bring kids?
All ages are welcome at the festival. Kids under 10 gain free entry and don’t require a wristband.
Can I bring a bag?
Anything smaller than a one-pack fanny pack is OK to bring in, but anything larger must be clear. All bags are subject to search.
Who are this year’s headliners?
Ed Sheeran, Tyler Childers, The Killers, Leon Bridges, Trey Anastasio and Classic Tab, and Hozier.
Who can I expect to hear there?
Ed Sheeran, Tyler Childers, The Killers, Leon Bridges, Trey Anastasio & Classic Tab, Hozier, Renee Rapp, Megan Thee Stallion, Young the Giant, The Revivalists, Luke Hemmings, Lovejoy, David Kushner, Cannons, Beach Weather, Ric Wilson, Madi Diaz, Maris, Divine Sweater, Kieran Rhodes, Kei, JVK, Justin Clancy, The Wolff Sisters, Khruangbin, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Jessie Murph, d4vd, The Red Clay Strays, Tanner Usrey, Bad Rabbits, The Castellows, Motherfolk, Senseless Optimism, Toritori, Ward Hayden & The Outliers, Paper Lady, Cakeswagg, Highwater Haulers, Chappell Roan, Blondshell, Royel Otis, The Heavy Heavy, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Francis of Delirium, Stefan Thev, The Thing, Fleshwater, Zola Simone, Billy Dean Thomas and Tysk Tysk Task.
Playlist
Poster
