Memorial Day Long Weekend: Free Museums, Historic Spots, & Free Things To Do 🖼️🇺🇸 (May 22-26, 2025)
Boston’s pulling out all the stops this Memorial Day Weekend—picture fireworks over Seaport, 37,000 flags flying in the Commons, and free entry to your favorite museums. Whether you're honoring, exploring, or dancing at Boston Calling, this guide has you covered. (May 23rd to May 27th, 2025)
What's Poppin': Memorial Day Long Weekend In Boston 🖼️🇺🇸
😍 What's New In Boston This Week
Boston is embracing Memorial Day Weekend with heartfelt tributes and vibrant festivities. The Garden of Flags at Boston Common is a moving tribute, as over 37,000 American flags are planted on Boston Common, each representing a Massachusetts service member who gave their life in service since the Revolutionary War. This annual display, organized by the Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund and Home Base, offers a poignant space for reflection. Also, get ready for Boston's biggest music event of the year! Boston Calling returns to the Harvard Athletic Complex from May 23rd to 25th, featuring headliners Luke Combs (Friday), Fall Out Boy (Saturday), and Dave Matthews Band (Sunday). The festival also boasts performances by Avril Lavigne, Vampire Weekend, T-Pain, and many more.
🌦️ Boston Weekend Weather Check
Here's your Memorial Day long weekend forecast:
- Thursday, May 22: Partly cloudy with a high of 68°F (20°C).
- Friday, May 23: Sunny and warm, high around 74°F (23°C).
- Saturday, May 24: Mostly sunny, high near 76°F (24°C).
- Sunday, May 25: Partly cloudy with a chance of afternoon showers, high of 72°F (22°C).
- Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day): Sunny and pleasant, high around 75°F (24°C).
Note: Weather forecasts are subject to change. Please check local forecasts closer to the date.
🇺🇸 Memorial Day Free Activities
🎆 Memorial Day Fireworks
Honor our fallen heroes with a breathtaking tribute of fireworks on the waterfront. Enjoy the spectacular display that will light up the sky in a symbolic celebration of sacrifice and service.
- When: Saturday, May 24th | 9:00PM - 9:30PM
- Where: 85 Northern Ave, Seaport
- Admission: Free
🌿 The Garden of Flags
Over 37,000 American flags are planted on Boston Common, each representing a Massachusetts service member who gave their life in service since the Revolutionary War.
- When: Thursday to Monday, May 22nd to 26th | All Day
- Where: Boston Commons
- Admission: Free
- Details: The Garden of Flags
🖼️ MFA Memorial Day Open House
Experience art and culture at the Museum of Fine Arts with free admission for Massachusetts residents. Enjoy music, dance, art-making, and more.
- When: Monday, May 26th | 10:00AM - 5:00PM
- Where: Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Memorial Day Open House
🆓 ICA Free Admission
Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art for free. Explore contemporary art exhibitions. Advanced timed tickets are required and can be reserved.
- When: Monday, May 26th | 10:00AM - 5:00PM
- Where: Institute of Contemporary Art, 25 Harbor Shore Dr, Boston
- Admission: Free (Reservation Required)
- Details: ICA
Hidden Gem In Boston: Historic Creek Square 🕰️
🕯️ What Is Creek Square?
Tucked away in Boston's historic Blackstone Block, Creek Square is a small, cobblestone plaza that offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Once part of a bustling maritime district, the square is surrounded by some of Boston's oldest brick buildings, including the Ebenezer Hancock House, built around 1767. This area was integral to Boston's early commerce, connecting Mill Creek to the Town Cove, facilitating trade and transportation in the 17th century.
💎 What Makes Creek Square A Hidden Gem?
Beyond its historical significance, Creek Square is a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Its narrow alleys and preserved architecture transport visitors back in time, offering a unique atmosphere that's both educational and picturesque. The square's proximity to landmarks like the Boston Stone and the Union Oyster House adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and casual explorers alike.
📍 Creek Square Is Worth A Visit
- Where: Creek Square, Boston, MA 02108
- How to Get There: Accessible via Scott Alley from North Street, just north of Faneuil Hall. Alternatively, enter through the Bostonian Hotel arcade further east on North Street.
This Weekend: Free and Cool Things To Do in Boston 🆓 🎉
🍿 Boston Landing Outdoor Movies
Enjoy free admission, a live DJ to set the mood, and exciting themes each week, all while savoring delicious food and beverage options on-site. Bring your friends, family, and a blanket, and join in for a series of fantastic films under the stars.
- Movie: Mean Girls
- When: Thursday, May 22nd, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Where: Boston Landing, 80 Guest Street, Brighton
- Admission: Free
- Details: Boston Landing Movies
🎶 Sam Sessions Mini Music Festival
Rock all through the evening with 6 local artists performing back-to-back sets on two stages to get Boston ready for Boston Calling.
- When: Thursday, May 22nd, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Where: Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, 30 Germania St, JP, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Mini Music Festival
🛍️ Memorial Day Weekend Thrift Bazaar
Over 100 small local businesses are popping up at The Charles River Speedway in Boston to sell art, vinyl, vintage, & more!
- When: Saturday to Sunday, May 24th to 25th, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Where: The Charles River Speedway, 525 Western Ave, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Brighton Bazaar
🍹 Drag Brunch & Bingo
Live drag performances with sketch comedy, bingo rounds, themed cocktails, and interactive chaos!
- When: Saturday, May 24th, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Where: Time Out Market Boston, 401 Park Drive, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Drag Brunch & Bingo
🌮 'Best Margarita in Fenway' Competition
This is a free fiesta where Fenway's finest restaurants battle it out with their zesty concoctions. Sample, compare, and crown the Margarita King or Queen!
- When: Sunday, May 25th, 1:00 PM – 5:00PM
- Where: Time Out Market Boston, 401 Park Drive, Boston
- Admission: Free
- Details: Margarita Competition
