Boston Calling Festival Returns with Major Changes for 2025

BOSTON, MA — The Boston Calling Music Festival is set to kick off this Memorial Day weekend, promising music lovers three days of exhilarating performances at the Harvard Athletic Complex. The festival, occurring from May 23-25, 2025, introduces a new main stage design, replacing the previous dual stage setup.

This year, a massive rotating stage will allow for seamless transitions between acts, ensuring minimal waiting time for festival-goers. Festival organizer Mike Snow stated, “That’ll allow patrons really all the way around the site to see what’s happening and all the bands will play on that stage.” The layout aims to reduce overcrowding and enhance the audience experience.

Alongside the new stage, Boston Calling will feature additional water refill stations to keep attendees hydrated during the event. An indoor arena returns, set to host performances by Berklee College of Music jazz students, enhancing local talent representation. Organizers Brian Appel and Mike Snow emphasize the importance of creating a relaxing environment for attendees amidst the festival excitement.

The weekend will feature an impressive lineup including headliners TLC, Sheryl Crow, Luke Combs, Fall Out Boy, and Dave Matthews Band. Set times for the opening day highlight TLC at 4:40 p.m. and Luke Combs, closing day one at 8:55 p.m. Other noteworthy performances include Avril Lavigne, Vampire Weekend, and Public Enemy.

Tickets for Boston Calling 2025 are still available in various price tiers, including discounted options for students, military personnel, and educators. Food options will also be plentiful, with multiple new vendors offering culinary delights ranging from fried chicken sandwiches to New Haven-style pizza.

As attendees prepare for the festival, a detailed bag policy is in place, allowing only certain sizes and types to enhance safety. Prohibited items include coolers, weapons, and all tobacco products. The festival encourages the use of public transportation, given the lack of on-site parking. The main entrance is easily accessible from the Harvard Square station on the Red Line.

The forecast for the weekend indicates mostly cloudy skies on Friday with a chance of showers, while Saturday and Sunday are expected to bring warmer temperatures and clearer skies. Festival organizers ensure that attendees’ safety is a top priority with a zero-tolerance harassment policy and enhanced security measures.