Summer 2026: Celebrate Soccer, Sailing and Spirit in Cambridge
In Summer 2026, Cambridge welcomes the world during a season of global sport, historic milestones, and waterfront celebrations. Near the excitement and rich with experiences of its own, Cambridge offers vibrant neighborhoods, memorable dining, and everyday moments that invite you to stay awhile.
Global Men’s Soccer Tournament 2026 Matches at Boston Stadium
The expanded international men’s soccer tournament comes to North America in summer 2026, with the Boston region selected as a key host destination. Boston Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts will host seven matches between June 13 – July 9, including group-stage play, a Round of 32 match, and a Quarter-Final — drawing teams and fans from around the world.
Visitors can plan their trip around these match dates while exploring Cambridge before and after game days, with plenty of opportunities to experience the international fútbol excitement throughout the city.
Sail Boston®
One of the world’s largest maritime celebrations returns in summer 2026 as Sail Boston® joins the national Sail250® commemoration. From July 11–16, 2026, tall ships and naval vessels from around the globe will gather in Boston Harbor as part of America’s 250th anniversary, creating a once-in-a-generation waterfront spectacle.
Visitors can plan their trip around Sail Boston festivities while exploring Cambridge before and after time on the waterfront. From scenic river views and outdoor spaces to dining, culture, and summer events, Cambridge offers plenty of ways to soak up the spirit of Sail 250® and enjoy the celebration beyond the harbor.
MA250 — Massachusetts Celebrates America’s 250th
In 2026, Massachusetts commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence, reflecting on the revolutionary ideas and events that helped shape the nation. Cambridge played a critical role in the early days of the American Revolution, serving as a center for leadership, planning, and pivotal moments that unfolded long before independence was declared.
Visitors can experience this history by exploring Cambridge’s streets, landmarks, and cultural institutions, where the spirit of the Revolution still resonates today. Whether you’re interested in America’s founding story or simply curious about the city’s past, Cambridge offers meaningful ways to engage with the ideas that sparked a nation — alongside vibrant neighborhoods, dining, and everyday moments that invite you to stay awhile. Find out more about Cambridge’s revolutionary and innovative history here.
Getting Around During Summer 2026
Cambridge offers convenient access to many of the region’s biggest Summer 2026 moments, making it an ideal home base throughout the season. With well-connected public transit and easy regional access, getting to major venues — and back to Cambridge’s neighborhoods, dining, and nightlife — is straightforward.
Getting to Boston Stadium (Gillette Stadium)
On match days, regional transit partners will offer expanded service to Boston Stadium in Foxboro, including additional Commuter Rail options. Public transportation is expected to be the easiest way to travel, and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead using official transit resources as schedules are finalized.
While parking is available at the stadium, public transit is recommended. Visitors staying in Cambridge can easily travel to and from match days — and return to a walkable city with plenty to explore before and after the game.
Fourth of July Fireworks Along the Charles River
Independence Day is a highlight of Summer 2026, with the annual Fourth of July fireworks lighting up the Charles River. Viewing areas along the Cambridge side of the river — including riverfront parks, restaurants, and stretches of Memorial Drive — offer a memorable way to experience the celebration, with scenic vantage points, open spaces, and a festive atmosphere that’s easy to enjoy from many Cambridge neighborhoods.
Whether you’re watching from a park or restaurant, or spending the evening along Memorial Drive, celebrating the Fourth of July from Cambridge puts you right along the river — and close to dining, culture, and places to continue the celebration afterward.
Getting to Boston Harbor & Waterfront Events
Boston Harbor will be the centerpiece of Sail Boston® and Sail250® celebrations, with tall ships, waterfront programming, and special events throughout the harbor. From Cambridge, visitors can reach waterfront areas using a combination of public transit, walking, and water-based transportation options.
Whether you’re heading out for a day on the waterfront or returning for an evening in Cambridge, staying here keeps you connected while offering a more relaxed place to unwind.
Plan Your Visit to Cambridge
Accommodations
Cambridge has the region’s largest inventory of hotel rooms outside Boston. Find your home away from home at one of our iconic hotels, boutique lodging or quaint B&B’s. Click here to discover them.
Plan Your Trip
From must-see attractions to dining, events, and hidden gems, our AI trip planner helps you build a personalized Cambridge itinerary in minutes. Click here to create a custom plan you can bookmark, share, and explore with your travel companions.
Food & Drink
From MICHELIN Recognized restaurants and James Beard Award–winning chefs to casual cafés and neighborhood favorites, Cambridge is a foodie’s playground. Whether you’re planning a celebratory meal or grabbing a quick bite between activities, there’s something for every taste. Click here to discover where to eat, drink, and enjoy Cambridge’s local flavor.
Things to Do
Summer in Cambridge means our annual Riverfest, CityWide Dance Party, Jazzfest, along with events dedicated to celebrating everything Summer 2026. Click here to help plan your next activity, or come say hi to our volunteers at our Visitor Information Center located in the heart of Harvard Square inside the Cambridge KiOSK.
Nine Neighborhoods, One City
Get to know all nine of Cambridge’s unique neighborhoods — from historic squares to lively cultural hubs. Explore pre-made itineraries designed to help you experience each area’s highlights, hidden gems, and local flavor with ease.
Getting Around
The best way to see Cambridge is to utilize the public transit system, either the subway (or “T”) or public bus, but there are other ways, too. Click here for comprehensive information on how to get to and around Cambridge.
