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Things to Do for Kids in Boston in August 2026
Salem Maritime Festival
Salem —FREE
August 1, 2026
The Salem Maritime Festival will take place at the SMN Historical Park on Derby Street for the Salem Heritage Days Parade and Festival, celebrating both the 250th anniversary of America and the 400th anniversary of Salem. The day will kick off the Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta. Website
Yankee Homecoming in Newburyport
Newburyport — FREE
Through August 2, 2026
Head to Newburyport for the annual celebration of Yankee Homecoming. This week-long celebration features a parade, fireworks, live music, and vendors. Events include a cornhole tournament, a road rally, and an exhibition of artwork from all over New England. Website
Falconry & the Medieval World: A Live Bird Presentation
Hammond Castle Museum, Gloucester
August 7, 2026
Falconry is the sport of hunting with a trained bird of prey. It is also the demanding art of training a predatory bird, by nature wary of people, to hunt cooperatively with a human partner. Website
Fisherman's Feast
North End — FREE
August 13-16, 2026
This annual event began in Boston in 1910 and is based on a tradition that goes back to the 16th century in Sciacca, Sicily. Website
Bolton Fair
Lancaster
August 14-16, 2026
The carnival is rolling into Bolton. Spin and whirl on the rides, try your luck on a game, and indulge in some tasty carnival treats. 2026 marks the 143rd Bolton Fair. Website
2026 Perseid Meteor Shower Campfire and Camp out
Lincoln
August 15 - 16, 2026
The Perseid Meteor Shower happens once a year, and the Farrington Nature Linc has some of the best seats in the house! The evening will include a night hike, a campfire with s’mores, stargazing away from city lights, staying overnight in a tent, and a light breakfast. Website
16th Annual African Festival of Boston
Boston —FREE
August 15, 2026
Explore "The biggest African Festival of New England" featuring African music, drum call parade, African-style face painting, health & wellness, children & family pavilion and a day of Afro-fashion show through performances by local and internationally known African artists. Website
Gloucester Waterfront Festival
Gloucester — FREE
August 15-16, 2026
Enjoy the gorgeous water views while shopping at the 40th annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival, featuring artists and craftsmen selling everything from jewelry to fine art to toys. Website
The Marshfield Fair
Marshfield
August 21-31, 2026
The Marshfield Fair is a traditional American country fair begun in 1867 that features amusement rides, a midway, fair food, and farm and animal exhibits. Website
The White Barn Farm Watermelon Festival
Wrentham — FREE
August 22, 2026
From good food to kids' activities to laid-back farm vibes, the Watermelon Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Website
Riverfest Music Festival
Salisbury —FREE
August 22, 2026
The 24th Annual Riverfest Music Festival is a free show open to the public. This year the Spin Doctors are headlining the show! Website
Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
Various Locations — FREE
August 25, 2026
On select days throughout the year, all national parks in the United States are open to the public with no admission fee. Yay! Website
St. Anthony's Feast
North End —FREE
August 27-30, 2026
Celebrate with the North End as they honor patrons Saint Anthony and Saint Lucy with colorful parades, religious services, strolling singers, live entertainment, and of course, an abundance of great Italian and American food. Website
Annual Fruitlands Kite Festival
Harvard
August 29, 2026
Soak in the panoramic views from the Fruitlands hillside as vibrant kites dance across the summer sky. Bring a kite from home to join the spectacle. Website