Spring is here, and Cambridge is buzzing with festivals, outdoor adventures, and plenty of opportunities to soak up the sunshine. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or just looking for the perfect patio to sip a cocktail, this list has something for you. Grab your sunglasses, embrace the season, and start checking off these spring bucket list items.
1. Dine Outdoors at Cambridge’s Best Patios
Patio season in Cambridge is a glorious time of year. So make sure to indulge early and often. From the rooftop at Saigon Babylon to the garden-like setting at Oleana or the outdoor patio at Lavash Bar & Grille, Cambridge’s many fantastic outdoor dining spots offer a chance to soak in the warm weather with good food and great company.
2. Kick Off Festival Season at Harvard Arts Festival
Cambridge’s creative energy shines at this four-day festival (May 1–4) that features many free performances and activities. Taking place across Harvard’s campus, it’s packed with music, theater, dance, and visual arts performances by Harvard students and faculty. It’s the perfect way to celebrate spring with some culture.
3. Marvel at the Blooms in Mount Auburn Cemetery
Mount Auburn Cemetery is one of the most beautiful spots in Cambridge. In spring, the historic, 175-acre landscape is a haven for birders as the flowering shrubs and trees attract thousands of migrating birds. From red-winged blackbirds and grackles to scarlet tanagers and Baltimore orioles. Formal and informal bird walks occur almost every morning during migrating season. The Friends of Mount Auburn offers guided tours, which typically last 90 minutes. Fees may vary, but visit their website for more information.
4. Celebrate at MayFair in Harvard Square
Harvard Square transforms into a lively street festival on Sunday, May 4 with live music, artisan vendors, delicious food, and beer gardens. As part of MayFair, savor the global flavors and sounds at the Asian Street Food & Music Festival. It’s the 40th edition of a spring tradition you won’t want to miss!
5. Indulge in Local Eats at Food Festivals
Inman Square comes alive on May 18 for Inman Eats & Crafts with local restaurants serving up their best dishes alongside craft vendors. A few weeks later, cheer on the best bread bakers at Le Grand Prix Elmendorf du Pain. The Parisian-style street fair arrives in East Cambridge on June 8 as bakers submit baguettes for a chance to be named area’s best – and the official bread supplier of the Consulate General of France in Boston. Both are delicious ways to support small businesses and celebrate spring.
6. Celebrate Pride in Cambridge
There are so many ways to celebrate Pride in Cambridge. From Pride the City’s Annual Pride Brunch in June to Lamplighter’s Pride celebrations and food and drink specials throughout the city. Here’s a list of 20 ways to celebrate–more details on 2025's celebrations to come!
7. Rock Out at Boston Calling Music Festival
The biggest music festival in New England, Boston Calling is the perfect way to spend the long weekend. Luke Combs, Dave Matthews Band and Fall Out Boy are three of the big-name artists that will create an electric atmosphere at the must-attend event from May 23–25.
8. Celebrate Culture and Tradition at the Boston Dragon Boat Festival
The oldest dragon boat festival in the U.S., the Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival features 70 teams and more than 50,000 attendees. Taking place June 8, the 46th annual event includes arts and crafts, performances, food trucks and racing–a fun event where families and friends can enjoy the spring weather and be part of the community.
9. Dance Your Heart Out at the Dance for World Community Festival
This free festival on June 7 brings dance styles from around the world to Cambridge. Watch performances, take part in dance lessons, and join in on the fun!
10. Explore Cambridge’s Gorgeous Gardens
Spring blooms are at their peak, making it the perfect time to stroll through Cambridge’s stunning gardens. Check out the Urban Park Roof Garden or Picasso’s sculpture in Bergstrom Garden at MIT. Or check out our guide for 10 gardens to visit in Cambridge to see nature in full bloom.
Spring in Cambridge is bursting with energy, and there's no better time to get out and explore. While you’re visiting Cambridge, download the Scavify app to get rewarded for exploring! Our citywide scavenger hunt takes you through Cambridge’s historical firsts and revolutionary landmarks, like Fort Washington, the last remaining Revolutionary War fortification in the Boston area. Don't forget to tag us in your adventures!
