Americans love their music festivals. They’re responsible for the some of the biggest and best music events the world over. And for every US music city there usually comes a festival or two that brings the big indie and pop acts to that particular town.
For Boston though having a major music festival isn’t a given like it is for its city compatriots. Perhaps that’s why in 2013 when this festival decided to enter the metropolis’ almost non-existent music festival scene it decided on a name that hailed upon Boston’s music troops to prove that the city not only deserved a big festival, but that there were enough music enthusiasts in the Massachusetts capital to support one.
It seems rather silly that it took so long for a festival like Boston Calling to exist and even more asinine that there would be any worry that it wouldn’t be prosperous.
Although having The National, The Shins, Of Monsters And Men, Andrew Bird, The Walkmen, Youth Lagoon and Fun. booked amongst others probably didn’t hurt the chances of the inaugural year being a success.
But then again we couldn’t say that we knew it would be so successful that we thought the festival would come back just a few months later in September with another event.
That’s just how thirsty the people of Boston were for a decent large-scale music festival.
By calling the city’s music fans to the heart of Boston’s concrete jungle in 2013 the festival undoubtedly made an impressive and symbolic first statement that would ensure even the most unaware listeners in the city would be in tune for the next edition of the event.
In 2014 Boston Calling followed-up its incredible first year with another two events. In May it booked Jack Johnson, Death Cab For Cutie, Modest Mouse and Edward Sharpe amongst others.
For the second 2014 edition The National will return to headline the festival as you can see by the September lineup below.
If that hasn’t convinced you to snap up tickets to Boston Calling then check out the video below and read through our six-step guide to the event for even more incentives to hit up this festival.
1. Book Ahead Before It’s Too Late
Boston Calling second 2014 event will be held across September 5th, 6th and 7th. You may think you have a few weeks up your sleeves to plan but in reality for overseas travellers like us its best you book and book soon. Set aside some time to visit your travel agent or hit up the interwebs and purchase the cheapest flights you can! Tickets are still available for the event but there’s no telling how quick they might sell out. Three day passes will set you back US $175 (aprox $187 AUD), two-day $135 ($144), while Saturday and Sunday passes are valued at $75 ($80) just as Friday passes are worth $50 ($53).
2. Spend Up Big On VIP Tickets
Sick of slumming it with the masses? Tired of experiencing a festival through someone else’s phone or watching the back of punters’ head instead of the stage? Well if you’re willing to splurge a few more dollars VIP could be just what the doctor ordered. VIP allows you your own exclusive entrance, VIP lounge access, a private bar, private restrooms and more. A three-day VIP pass is valued at US $375 (aprox $401 AUD), a two-day pass is $350 ($374) while VIP day passes will set you back $185 ($197) for Saturday and Sunday or $150 ($160) for Friday.
If money really isn’t a worry you can go further by purchasing a group sky box with 15 of your friends. Luxury furnishings, private restrooms, champagne bottle service, complimentary lunch and dinner options, a private bar and professional photography is included.
To purchase tickets to the event head here!
3. Accommodation In Boston
When booking accommodation in Boston keep in mind that festival is easily accessible by public transport. What this means for you is that you have broader range of accommodation options to choose from if convenience is something you’re worried about. For hostels we’d recommend the likes of Backpackers Hostel & Pub, Friend Street Hostel & Café,Hostelling International and 40 Berkeley.
4. What’s The Best Way To Get To The Festival Site?
Boston Calling is incredibly easy to access by public transport and as we mentioned it above regardless of where you’re situated it should still be convenient to get to the event. The main entrance of the event is located on Congress Street, which means you should take the T to the Haymarket or State Street Stations. Plan your journey ahead of the festival here.
5. What Delicious Grub Can I Expect At The Festival?
With most of the food stalls located along the Cambridge Street corner there are several different food options for punters to choose from. While what’s on the menu differs from year to year in the past the vendors such as Chipotle, Chick & Rice Guys, American Flatbread, Tasty Burger, Roxy’s Grilled Chees and Bon Me have all catered for the event.
6. While You’re In Town Experience The Best Of Boston’s Music Scene
Boston may not be held up quite as high as other American music cities like Nashville, Austin or New York but that doesn’t mean that music enthusiasts will left wanting in this metropolis. As evidenced by our music city guide to Boston there’s plenty of record stores, music venues and bands that are worth checking out.
Read Tone Deaf’s guide To Boston’s music scene here!
Need more information? Head to the official Boston Calling website for the answers to all your questions.
