If you managed to snag tickets to this weekend’s Boston Calling, you’re in for a stellar line-up that’s sure to have you rocking for three days straight. From Friday, May 23 through Sunday, May 25, our city’s very own City Hall Plaza will once again be transformed into free-roaming festival grounds, complete with two stages (Red and Blue). Like last year, you can expect to bounce from one stage to the other to catch performances from the over 20 artists on the bill.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, we know it’s a lot to take in. Although spontaneity is always part of the fun of going to a music fest, a little planning can’t hurt — here’s what you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable Boston Calling experience.
Festival Rules
Gates will open at 6 PM on Friday and at 12 PM on Saturday and Sunday. The first act will take the stage at 6:45 PM, 1 PM, and 1:05 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, respectively.
Re-entry is not permitted on Friday, but you can come and go freely on Saturday and Sunday.
What to bring:
- A sealed (or empty) water bottle
- Food and snacks (but not candy)
- A rain jacket or poncho (the forecast calls for rain)
- Hat/sunglasses/sunscreen
What not to bring:
- Bags larger than 12″ by 12″
- A professional camera
- An umbrella
- Chairs/strollers
- Walkie-talkies
Travel
The main entrance is located on Congress St. across from the Haymarket T station.
MBTA: Get off at Park Street (Red/Green Line), State Street (Orange/Blue Line), or Haymarket (Orange/Green Line). Government Center is closed.
Car: Park at Government Center Garage (50 Sudbury St.) for a discounted $15. Parking passes are available for pre-purchase here.
Food and Drinks
Even though bringing in outside food is allowed, you don’t have to leave the venue to grab a bite to eat. There will be plenty of food vendors on site. We recommend:
For those of you 21+ guests with a valid ID, check out the Sam Adams beer vending areas. Beer and wine will be served.
Who to See
Let’s face it: Unless you have incredible endurance, you probably won’t make it to every set. But don’t schedule a breather during these must-see acts — you’ve been warned.
Friday
- Jack Johnson at 9:30 PM (Blue Stage)
Saturday
- Magic Man at 1 PM (Red Stage)*
- The Neighbourhood at 3:50 PM (Red Stage)
- The Head and the Heart at 7:05 PM (Blue Stage)
- Death Cab for Cutie at 9:30 PM (Blue Stage)
Sunday
- Tigerman WOAH! at 1:40 PM (Blue Stage)*
- Phosphorescent at 5 PM (Blue Stage)
- Tegan and Sara at 6:05 PM (Red Stage)
- Bastille at 7:10 PM (Blue Stage)
*Local band
Rain or shine, we’ll see you there! Stay tuned for full coverage of the festival.