As the weather warms up and summer approaches, these popular outdoor venues are beginning their performance season. No matter where you might find yourself in Massachusetts in the next few months, there’s likely a show happening near you. Summer is not complete until you have seen a memorable performance in one of these unique Massachusetts venues.
Tanglewood – Lenox & Stockbridge
The summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is a must-see for anyone looking to take in a special performance in a one-of-a-kind location. The venue is made up of two stages, a library, and three music schools. Tanglewood is best known for the amazing shows the BSO puts on regularly, and has been host to such acts as James Taylor, The Pretenders, Yo-Yo Ma, and guest conductor John Williams. Each summer their Festival of Contemporary Music in late July showcases current works from innovative composers.
Jacob’s Pillow – Becket
One of the premiere performance spaces for dance, Jacob’s Pillow is a unique venue that can’t be missed. The 220-acre National Historic Landmark is the home of America’s longest-running international dance festival, which welcomes dozens of dance companies from all over the world each year. They also run several community programs each year to educate and get people excited about the art of dance. The festival showcases a wide variety of dance styles, often including ballet, hip hop, flamenco, modern dance, and more.
Indian Ranch – Webster
What’s better than going to a concert? How about seeing a show and then walking back to your campsite to fall asleep under the stars. You can do just that at Webster’s Indian Ranch, which has 200 campsites in addition to a lakeside amphitheater. Indian Ranch has been hosting concerts since 1946. Many of the top country artists past and present played Indian Ranch, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, Brad Paisley, LeAnn Rimes, Kenny Chesney, Elle King, and many more.
Hatch Memorial Shell – Boston
The Hatch Memorial Shell is well known for being the site of the annual Boston Pops Fourth of July concert, but the venue host events all summer long. In addition to the Pops, you can catch local artists, watch a classic movie with Free Friday Flicks, or take a stroll around the riverside Esplanade with beautiful views of the Charles River. Even when there isn’t a performance happening, the Hatch Memorial Shell is a perfect place to stop by and relax with a book or a picnic.
Leader Bank Pavilion – Boston
Since 1994, this 5000-seat outdoor amphitheater in Boston’s lively seaport district has welcomed acts from all over the word. Overlooking Boston Harbor, the pavilion is easily accessible via the MBTA’s Silver Line, and provides a stunning backdrop for concerts. Famous artists who have played here include The Fray, Darius Rucker, Charlie Puth, Aretha Franklin, and many more.
Xfinity Center – Mansfield
For many, the summer is not complete before seeing a show at Mansfield’s Xfinity Center – an outdoor amphitheater located about an hour southwest of Boston. The sprawling lawn can accommodate nearly 20,000 music fans with choices between reserved, covered, and general admission seats. Past acts have included Niall Horan, Imagine Dragons, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Post Malone, and Kesha among many others. The venue has been the site of several live records and filmed specials, including The Who, Jimmy Buffet, and Oasis.
These iconic Massachusetts outdoor venues have something for every music fan, from classical to country, hip-hop to yacht rock, and everything in between. Performances from talented artists set against beautiful natural backdrops create magic moments visitors will never forget. Stay informed about upcoming events sent straight to your inbox by signing up for our Arts and Culture newsletter at www.visitma.com/sign-up.
