Boston Calling

Boston Calling is a city event, and there is no camping inside the complex. There are, however, multiple campgrounds located within an hour’s drive from the event. Many are in state parks with beautiful views. These campgrounds provide some silence away from the crazy festivities going on in town.

There are many campgrounds in the area that allow for RV camping, some with space for larger RVs with pull-through sites available. If you really want a break from the city, check out a state park, like Wompatuck State Park or Harold Parker State Forest. In addition to peaceful camping spots, the parks provide hiking trails, pond access, and plenty of areas to explore. This is an amazing way to enjoy the Boston area before, during, or after the festival. If you’d like to enjoy more creature comforts while in town, you’ll find plenty of full-service campgrounds and RV parks within easy reach of the event or MBTA lines.

Boston Calling is located in a huge event space beside the Harvard Athletic Complex. Once on site, the best way to get around the festival is to walk. Expect big crowds, but no vehicles of any type on the grounds. If you are staying close to the event, you can ride the MBTA, bike, scooter, or other options to get to the venue.

It will be slightly warm in Boston in May so be sure to wear cool clothing. New England weather can be unpredictable, so layers are recommended. Wear a hat and sunglasses, as the sun could be out in full force. Because of all the walking, your choice of shoes will be critical. Whether you prefer sandals or tennis shoes, wear something comfortable to make sure your feet don’t hurt during or after the event.

To avoid sunburn, it is recommended that you pack and wear plenty of sunscreen. You can carry a clear bag of essentials with you to during the festival, and this is something to include! Also, be sure to have your Driver’s License or ID to get in and out of the event with your wristband. You can bring a non-pro camera and refillable water bottle, but you won’t be able to bring in chairs, umbrellas, tents, or strollers. Lockers are available for you to store items you might need access to throughout the event.

To be sure that you don’t become dehydrated, drink plenty of water throughout your time at Boston Calling. You’ll be allowed to bring a water bottle that you can refill at water stations and fountains throughout the site.

There is no camping at Boston Calling, so you won’t be able to bring your gourmet game and cook on site, but you can go all out back at your campground. Whether you use the oven in your camper or grill some hotdogs at the campfire, the opportunities are endless. Since campgrounds are farther out, you’ll find multiple stores where you can pick up groceries and supplies. Some RV parks have stores on site where you can buy some firewood or anything you might need.

If you choose to eat in Boston, there are many excellent places all around the Harvard Athletic Complex. Whether you want ramen, seafood, oysters, Italian, Indian, or hamburgers–there is something for everyone. The options are endless, and most of these options are located less than a mile away, so walking is the best way to go.

While you are at Boston Calling make sure and check out the vendors. Rest assured, you’ll find an incredible variety right at the venue. You can expect a variety of fair-type foods at the festival, such as pizza, funnel cakes, pretzels, hamburgers, corn dogs, and hot dogs. You may also find specialty and street fare from gourmet donuts to Mexican bowls and even sushi. The food here will definitely satisfy you while taking in the show, and you can keep things simple by linking a credit or debit card to your wristband.