From neighborhood porches to waterfront parks, summer in Cambridge is filled with rhythm, color, and creativity. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the community atmosphere, the city’s calendar is packed with events that bring people together. Here’s your guide to the festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations happening across Cambridge this season.
Danehy Park Summer Concert Series
Beyond festival weekends, Danehy Park also serves as a gathering space for free live music throughout the summer. The Danehy Park Summer Concert Series presents a rotating lineup of genres including rock, soul, Latin, and folk. Families bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets, and the park offers plenty of space for kids to play while the music fills the air. These concerts are casual, community-driven, and a great way to enjoy a warm evening outdoors.
Boston JerkFest
Boston JerkFest returns July 11–12, bringing the bold flavors and vibrant spirit of Caribbean culture to Cambridge. The festival includes a wide variety of Caribbean food vendors, a Rum and Brew Tasting for adults, live reggae and soca performances, and cooking demonstrations. There are also activities and menu options designed for younger attendees. It is a lively and flavorful celebration of Caribbean food and music.
Cambridge PorchFest
The first-ever Cambridge PorchFest will be held in Cambridgeport and Central Square, taking place on July 19–20, from 12–6 PM. Porchfest is a grassroots music festival that turns porches and front yards into performance spaces for local musicians. The event highlights a wide range of genres from folk and blues to hip-hop and jazz. Visitors can walk, bike, or drive between sets while discovering new artists and enjoying the casual, welcoming environment. It is a true community event with no central stage and no tickets required.
CX Summer Nights
Located in Cambridge Crossing, CX Summer Nights offers a casual evening of music, food, and local flavor. On the third Thursday of summer months, you can enjoy performances from local bands, browse goods from area makers, and unwind on the lawn with bites from food trucks and beverages from local breweries from 5:30–8:30 PM. Kick back and relax with plenty of space for families, groups of friends, and neighbors. Each night is free to attend and makes great use of the summer sunset!
Cambridge Jazz Festival
The Cambridge Jazz Festival returns to Danehy Park July 26–27 with a lineup of national and local jazz artists. The festival features two full days of live music, local food vendors, a dedicated jazz museum experience, and open lawn seating that invites visitors to come and stay awhile. It is one of Cambridge’s most anticipated summer events and reflects the city’s long connection to the arts. The event is free and open to all ages.
Salsa Squared in Harvard Square
Salsa Squared is taking over Harvard Square for their 10th annual celebration of Latin music and dance on July 26 from 7–10 PM. The event includes live salsa bands, food vendors, and free dance lessons open to the public. Attendees are invited to join in or simply enjoy the music and movement from the sidelines. It is a festive evening that celebrates culture and community through music and dance.
Dine Out Boston
Dine Out Boston offers an opportunity to experience local restaurants at accessible prices through special prix-fixe menus. The summer edition takes place August 3–16, and includes a wide range of participating Cambridge restaurants, from casual spots to fine dining establishments. It is an ideal time to try new dishes or return to favorite places. Reservations are encouraged as tables fill up quickly!
Cambridge Carnival
Cambridge Carnival is a large-scale celebration of Caribbean culture, featuring a costume parade, live music, dancing, and authentic cuisine. The parade travels through city streets on September 7, ending in a public festival with food, entertainment, and activities for all ages! With its elaborate masquerade costumes and high-energy performances, the Carnival is one of Cambridge’s most colorful and widely attended events.
Urban Park Movie Nights
Urban Park in Kendall Square hosts a free outdoor movie series throughout the summer months. Screenings include family favorites and well-loved classics, all set against the backdrop of the Cambridge skyline. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy a relaxing evening outside. The series offers a low-key, enjoyable way to spend a warm night in the city.
Cambridge Science Carnival
The Cambridge Science Carnival transforms Donnelly Field into an interactive celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The event features more than 100 exhibitors and hands-on activities, including live experiments, performances, and creative learning experiences for all ages. It is designed to be engaging, educational, and accessible. Join thousands of attendees from across the region for this celebration of accessible science education on September 21 in the Kendall/MIT Open Space.
These are just a few of the highlights filling Cambridge’s summer calendar. For even more ways to spend a sunny afternoon or a warm night out, check out our full list of upcoming events!
