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Boston's Summer Arts Scene Heats Up With New Exhibits, Outdoor Shows, and Film Screenings

From the MFA's latest blockbuster to free concerts on the Esplanade, here's what's happening in the city's arts and entertainment scene this week.

By Boston Things-to-do Desk · Published July 20, 2026

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Boston's Summer Arts Scene Heats Up With New Exhibits, Outdoor Shows, and Film Screenings — AI illustration

Summer in Boston means the arts are in full swing. This week, the city offers a packed lineup of museum exhibitions, outdoor theater, live music, and film events-something for every taste and budget.

Museums and Galleries

The Museum of Fine Arts on Huntington Avenue opens "Fabergé in Boston" on July 15, featuring more than 200 jeweled objects from the House of Fabergé, including the famed Imperial Easter eggs. Tickets start at $25 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. The exhibit runs through October 12.

Over at the Institute of Contemporary Art on the South Boston Waterfront, "Sarah Sze: Timelapse" continues through September 7. The exhibition spans the artist's career with immersive, mixed-media installations that use everyday objects to explore time and memory. Admission is $20 for adults, free for members and youth under 18.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in the Fenway is hosting its annual summer concert series, "Gardner Nights," every Thursday evening from 5 to 9 p.m. through August 27. This week's performance features Boston-based jazz ensemble the Divinity Roxx Trio. Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for students, and admission is free for members.

Outdoor Performances and Screenings

The Boston Landmarks Orchestra continues its free summer concert series at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. This Wednesday, July 15, the orchestra performs Dvořák's Symphony No. 9, "From the New World," conducted by Christopher Wilkins. The show starts at 7 p.m. and is first-come, first-seated.

Shakespeare in the Common returns to Boston Common on July 17 with a production of "The Tempest" directed by Paula Plum. Performances run nightly at 8 p.m. through August 9, with a pay-what-you-will preview on opening night. General admission is free, with reserved seating available for a $20 donation.

The Museum of Fine Arts is also hosting its Summer Outdoor Film Series, with screenings on the museum's lawn behind the West Wing. This Friday, July 17, the program features a restored 35mm print of Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest." Gates open at 7 p.m., the film starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for members.

Live Music and Nightlife

The Sinclair in Harvard Square continues its summer concert series with a July 16 show by indie rock band Lake Street Dive. Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door.

For jazz fans, Wally's Jazz Cafe on Massachusetts Avenue hosts an evening with the Jerry Bergonzi Quartet on July 15, starting at 9 p.m. Cover is $10. The club, which opened in 1947, is the oldest Black-owned jazz venue in the United States.

What to Know Before You Go

Many venues require advance ticket purchases and masks remain optional. Some outdoor shows may be canceled due to weather.

For a full list of events and ticket links, visit the city's official arts calendar at boston.gov/arts or call the Boston Visitor Information Center at 617-536-4100.