Boston Labor Day Weekend 2024

Boston offers activities galore to make the official end of summer unforgettable. The program caters to all tastes. You can choose between harbor fireworks, whale watching, a trip to Cape Cod, or merely another beach holiday.

Whale Watching Cruise

Apart from the fireworks, Boston Harbor is a getaway for a whale encounter. Early fall is a perfect time for viewing the gentle giants on a cruise to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. You can spot acrobatic humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, and sometimes pilots, along with other marine wildlife. An average trip lasts for 3.5-4 hours, and the adventure starts from Long Wharf. Make sure to come in advance to take the most convenient seats on the top deck and bring a light jacket, sunscreen, and a hat.

Trip to Provincetown, Cape Cod

A long weekend is an excellent occasion to plan a trip out of the city. Provincetown, which is situated at the eastern tip of Cape Cod, is a great destination to explore for a day or longer. This picturesque village boasts scenic lanes, art galleries, clothing boutiques, excellent seafood restaurants overlooking the water, gorgeous sunsets, and, of course, the beach!

Provincetown is easily accessible by the "Fast Ferry," but it has to be booked in advance, especially on a holiday weekend. The journey by a comfortable passenger-only catamaran will take 1.5 hours. Provincetown Ferry departs from the Long Wharf. Alternatively, you can go by car, which is a 2-hour drive. Also, you may get some inspiration from other road trip itineraries from Boston.

Chill out at a City Beach

If you prefer to stay in the city and enjoy the outdoors, a beach weekend is the most convenient choice. The beach season in Boston area continues all the way up to mid-September, yet depending on the weather, Labor Day could be the last chance to take in the sun. The local favorites include Carson Beach, Savin Hill Beach and Dorchester Shores Reservation, Orient Heights Beach, M Street Beach, and many more.

Fireworks over Boston Harbor (August 29, 2024)

Labor Day Fireworks over Boston Harbor open the long weekend of celebration on Thursday evening. The show usually begins at 8 pm. The fireworks are launched from the barges near the North End and the Seaport. A cruise boat will be the most winning option for the best spectacle. Alternatively, you may view the show from Christopher Columbus Park or Long Wharf in the North End and all along the Downtown Waterfront. Fan Pier in the Seaport District is another great spot, as is Piers Park in East Boston. Just bring a sweater as the evenings are chilly, especially near the water.

ICA Boston Free Admission Day (September 2, 2024)

On Labor Day, the ICA offers free admission for visitors of all ages. On September 2, visitors can see the Firelei Báez and Hew Locke: The Procession on their closing day, as well as the Tau Lewis, Wordplay, and Igshaan Adams exhibitions. Tickets will be available for reservation starting at 10 AM on Sunday, September 1.

USS Constitution Museum Free Admission Day (September 2, 2024)

On Labor Day, the USS Constitution offers free admission for active-duty military families. Active-duty U.S. Sailors conduct tours and answer questions about "Old Ironsides," typically between 10 am and 6 pm. Bring your family to spend time together and have a wonderful experience.

Concerts (September 3-6, 2024)

After Labor Day Weekend, residents and city guests can also continue the celebration and attend concerts, like Peter Hook & The Light at Paradise Rock Club on September 3, Cigarettes After Sex at TD Garden on September 4, or Rob Zombie & Alice Cooper at Xfinity Center on September 6.