Boston Calling

Coachella might be what everyone talks about in California and Tennesse might have Bonnaroo, but in Massachusetts, the big summer concert festival is the lesser-known Boston Calling.

This Beantown event takes place at the highly accessible City Hall plaza, and typically runs Friday night through Sunday. The all-day performances are staggered between the two stages at opposite ends of the plaza, referred to as the “red” and “blue” stages. Above the platforms and sea of screaming fans loom the surrounding city buildings, creating an interesting acoustic sound not found at most other outdoor venues.

The festival won the praise of both fans and critics alike because of its selection of well-known bands showcased on the same stage as up-and-comers. The most recent installation of the event featured artists like Beck, Tenacious D, My Morning Jacket, Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals, Run The Jewels and The Pixies among others. This egalitarian approach, featuring rap, rock, and alternative, creates a sort of community in the crowds as people share their diverse experiences.

While guests are not permitted to bring in their own drinks (other than one sealed bottle of water), there are numerous vendors around the plaza selling an assortment of drinks like Sam Adams beer and others selling food.