Best Summer Festivals, Fireworks & More North of Boston

Summer North of Boston comes alive with festival season in full swing—where seaside music drifts on the ocean breeze, harborfront celebrations light up the waterfront, and arts, culture, history, and heritage take center stage. From beloved fishing village traditions to headline outdoor concerts, bustling street fairs, and community block parties, every week brings a new reason to celebrate. Fill your days and nights with fresh coastal flavors, live music, family fun, and unforgettable moments that capture the spirit of a North Shore summer.

Enjoy a Serenade by the Sea at Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport

Now through July 12th, attend a concert with stunning acoustics during Rockport Music’s Chamber Music Festival featuring many of the world’s finest chamber ensembles and soloists.

Celebrate Black History, Culture, Freedom & Achievement at North Shore Juneteenth’s Annual Event on Lynn Common

Enjoy music, performances, food, and educational programming for all on June 20th.

Attend the North Shore Pride Parade & Festival

Support the LGBTQ+ communities across the North Shore in downtown Salem on June 27.

Take in the Iconic Greasy Pole Competition During Gloucester’s St. Peter’s Fiesta

Gloucester’s annual waterfront celebration featuring the Greasy Pole competition, parades, religious processions, music, and maritime traditions. St. Peter’s Fiesta spans across June 24-June 28. The Greasy Pole event will be held on Saturday June 27.

Watch Marblehead Harbor Light Up with Spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks During the Festival of Arts

A beloved North Shore tradition featuring fine arts, photography, concerts, film, and literary events in the picturesque town of Marblehead. Held July 1-5 in Downtown Marblehead.

Peruse Vintage & Exotic Cars at Misselwood’s Concours d’Elegance in Beverly

July 17-19, a scenic oceanfront showcase of rare and classic automobiles will take place on the grounds of the Misselwood Estate at Endicott College. The event pairs a car show with sweeping Atlantic views, making it one of New England’s most picturesque automotive events and a standout summer tradition on the North Shore.

Experience the Heart of Newburyport at the Annual Yankee Homecoming Festival & Parade

A week-long celebration with concerts, waterfront events, road races, family activities, and fireworks, July 25-August 2 all around Newburyport.

Go Back in Time in Style at the Roaring Twenties Lawn Party at the Crane Estate in Ipswich

Attend the  Gatsby-era celebration on August 1-2 featuring jazz bands, swing dancing, vintage cars, lawn games, picnics, and period dress on the estate’s spectacular grounds.

Rock Out by the Sea at the RiverFest Music Festival at Salisbury Beach

On August 22, this beachfront music festival will feature regional and national acts, food vendors, and a lively Salisbury Beach atmosphere.

Insider tip: Starting 7/5, Beachfront Fireworks Show every Saturday in the Summer at Salisbury Beach!

Get Salty During the Labor Day Weekend Gloucester Schooner Festival

Historic schooner races, harbor tours, and celebrations of Gloucester’s maritime heritage all along the waterfront September 4-6.

Experience Lawrence’s Bread and Roses Heritage Festival

Step into a pivotal chapter of American history during this vibrant Labor Day Weekend celebration. On September 7, enjoy live music, cultural performances, international cuisine, and family-friendly activities that honor the legacy of the 1912 Bread and Roses Strike while showcasing the diverse communities that make Lawrence unique.

Photo Credits: Gloucester Schooner Festival by NBCVB; Shalin Liu Performance Center Courtesy of Rockport Music; North Shore Pride Courtesy of John Andrews/Creative Collective; Marblehead Festival of Arts Courtesy of Discover Marblehead/Melissa Stacey; Yankee Homecoming Parade, Newburyport by NBCVB; Gloucester Schooner Festival by NBCVB