Boston Pride

June feels like the true beginning of summer. Trees are full, patios and rooftops are open, and Bostonians are eager to spend as much time outdoors as possible. The city’s calendar reflects this energy with Pride celebrations, charity festivals and the reopening of seasonal harbor activities.

Boston Pride typically includes a large parade, a post parade festival and many related events throughout the month. The parade route often winds through Back Bay, Downtown and the South End, and sidewalks along the way fill with families, students, longtime residents and visitors. Floats and marching groups represent community organizations, small businesses, large employers and civic institutions. After the parade, parks and blocks near the festival site stay busy well into the afternoon.

The Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl is another beloved June event. This all you can eat ice cream festival invites guests to sample flavors from numerous ice cream and frozen dessert brands in exchange for a ticket whose proceeds support cancer research and care at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Live entertainment and simple activities make it easy to visit for a few hours and leave with a satisfied sweet tooth.

June is also when the Harborwalk and Boston Harbor Islands step into the spotlight. The Harborwalk connects neighborhoods along the water, from Charlestown and the North End to the Seaport and Dorchester, offering views of docks, ferries, public art and the skyline. Ferry service to islands such as Spectacle and Georges resumes in earnest, and visitors can hike, explore historic forts, sit on beaches or simply enjoy a picnic with views back toward downtown.

Evenings are long and often comfortable. Outdoor concerts, small festivals and movie nights appear in parks across the city. Rooftop bars and waterside terraces are especially popular, and it is easy to stretch a simple dinner into a full evening outside.

ExploreBoston.com tips for June

• Use our Pride weekend planner for the parade route, festival location and recommended MBTA stops. We also list nearby food options that work well for groups and families.
• Check the ExploreBoston.com events calendar for Scooper Bowl dates, and consider pairing the festival with a museum visit or short downtown walk to make a complete outing.
• Visit our Harborwalk and Harbor Islands guides to compare island choices, ferry departure points and suggested itineraries for families, hikers and visitors who simply want scenic views and a picnic.