After what feels like an eternity of hibernating indoors in the winter cold, a few much-needed months of flip flops, sunshine and warm weather are finally here. So break out a pair of Lady Gaga shades, put on a sundress and make the most of summer by taking in a few of the fun outdoor events Boston has to offer this time of year. From drive-in movies and ice cream novelties to kayaking and picnics, Boston is the ultimate summer playground.
The SoWa Open Market: To market, to market. The SoWa Open Market is the perfect place to spend a Sunday afternoon. Peruse the stands as artisans and vendors tempt passersby with everything from handcrafted jewelry to painting, and the smell of freshly baked bread wafts through the air. Located in the South End, the SoWa market is a chance to see an eclectic smattering of local artistry. Open every Sunday from May 16 to Oct. 25, except holidays.
Charles River Canoe & Kayak: Cool off from the summer heat with an afternoon paddling along the Charles. With four rental locations throughout the area — Boston, Cambridge, Newton and Natick — it's easy to grab a canoe or kayak with friends (they've even got a 10-person canoe!) and spend a few hours splashing about as you take in views of Boston. Rentals range from $15 to $24 per hour (Paddleboston.com).
Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl: What Super Bowl? Ice cream lovers everywhere will find themselves in dessert heaven in June with the 27th Annual Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl. Over the course of this three-day event — yes, three whole days of ice cream! — over 40 flavors will be served up by participating sponsors like Ben & Jerry's and Cold Stone to support cancer care and research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. So go ahead — indulge in some ice cream for a good cause from June 8 to 10 at City Hall Plaza. Tickets are $8 (Scooperbowl.org).
Fireworks with the Boston Pops: There's nothing like celebrating the Fourth of July with a Boston Pops Orchestra concert. Whether you're a tourist or a Boston native, the Boston Pops is famous for entertaining crowds overlooking the Charles. Performances begin at 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 3 and 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. Saturday's performance will be followed by the fireworks show at 10 p.m., kicking off with the finale of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture."
Revere Beach National Sand Sculpting Festival: If Tisch Library's Tibetan sand mandala struck your fancy, watch artists from around the world compete in the annual Revere Beach National Sand Sculpting Festival. This popular event draws huge crowds as sculptors turn sand into full-blown masterpieces right before your eyes. So hop on the T to Wonderland station to catch a look at sand sculptures that will put your childhood sandcastles to shame. The event runs from Thursday, July 15 to Saturday, July 18.
The Charles River Esplanade Hatch Shell: The "Hatch Shell" is an outdoor stadium in Esplanade Park overlooking the Charles. In its 15-year run, the Oldies 103.3 Free Summer Concert Series has become a summer favorite for Boston residents. From Motown to classic one-hit wonders, the Hatch Shell offers up live concerts all summer long beginning at 7 p.m. Mix things up a bit as you grab a few sandwiches and some friends for a nighttime picnic by the Charles with some good ol' oldies background music (Celebrateboston.com).
Mendon Drive-In: Do it old-school with a drive-in movie on a Saturday night. Established in 1954, the Mendon Twin Drive-In is one of the few drive-ins still in existence. While Cadillacs would definitely add to this throw-back experience, Mendon offers up classic drive-in fair and double-feature films seven days a week, starting May 28. Tickets are $20 per carload (Mendondrivein.com).
Coit Observatory: Sure it's a little cheesy, but why not spend the night stargazing at the Coit Observatory at Boston University? The observatory offers free admission every Wednesday night after 8:30 p.m. all summer long. On a clear night, even Boston's bright lights can't stop you from seeing the stars.
Arnold Arboretum: As April showers bring May flowers, the Arnold Arboretum offers an incredible display of Mother Nature's beauty. Ditch the streets of Boston for an afternoon of strolling along one of the many pathways through the arboretum, which is open from sunrise to sunset 365 days of the year.
Boston Harborfest: This six-day summer festival highlights all that the historical city of Boston has to offer. From the annual Concert Series to the popular Chowderfest, the Harborfest includes over 200 events, making it the perfect way to take in a bit of Boston history with fun, food and friends. The event runs from June 30 to July 5 (Bostonharborfest.com).
