Boston weather is hard to predict. If you don't like the weather, just wait a minute it will change!
While it's certainly true that New England weather can change on a dime (a random 65 degree day in the dead of winter, anyone?), generally speaking winters are bitterly cold and snowy and summers are hot and humid. The best time to visit is during the Fall and Spring. Fall brings cooler, crisper air (although there is still the chance for an Indian summer) which makes walking around the city a much more enjoyable experience than in the shirt-sticking-to-your-back temperatures of a typical Boston summer day. And with the change of season from summer to fall, the leaves turn to glorious colors. Plus, the fall also brings the excitement of baseball playoff season (and perhaps a shot at another World Series title), the beginning of football season and other sporting events such as the Head of the Charles Regatta where hundreds of collegiate rowers take to the waters. Sports are a major part of the Boston experience, so there's no better time to see it for yourself.
The springtime can bring unexpected rain and temperatures ranging from freezing to sweltering, but there's just something about Boston in the Spring that you can't beat. The snow is gone (usually) and the flowers in the Garden are starting to bloom. People are happy to shed their heavy coats (as long as some freak cold spell doesn't occur) and you can take in a stroll along the Charles or down Newbury Street in relative comfort.
When it comes to traveling in Boston, it never hurts to pack an umbrella and a jacket because you never know what Mother Nature will throw at you on a day-to-day-basis. Layers of clothing are always recommended.
Here are some annual events to look forward to:
January
L Street Brownies take a dip New Year's Day in South Boston.
Boston Wine Expo held at the Seaport World Trace Center features 400 wineries representing 13 countries. Have a sip!
February
See some great college hockey at the Beanpot tournament at the TDGarden.
Come see the dragons dance as Chinese New Year is observed in Chinatown.
Think warm while it's cold outside and visit the New England Boat Show at the Boston Convention Center.
March
Restaurant Week kicks in with prix fixe menus throughout the city.
The Boston Flower and Garden at the Seaport World Trade Center brings a hint of spring.
South Boston shows its pride at the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
April
The Boston Red Sox celebrate opening day at Fenway Park.
Swanboats at the Public Garden start their season.
Patriot’s Day is observed in the city and in Lexington with reenactments.
The Boston Marathon, the world’s oldest annual Marathon is run from Hopkinton to Boston.
May
Lilac Sunday acknowledges one of the thousands of flowering plants at the Arnold Arboretum.
A musical moment not to miss can be found at Symphony Hall with the Boston Pops Orchestra.
Many colleges and universities have their commencements this month so hotel rooms can be at a premium.
June
Ice cream! You scream! We all scream for ice cream! The annual Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl takes place on City Hall Plaza.
Boston Harborfest is a favorite to visitors and residents alike as Americans celebrate the birth of the nation.
July
Boston Chowderfest, also known as chowda, is held at City Hall Plaza.
We continue to recognize Independence Day with concerts at the Hatch Shell and a tremendous fireworks display on July 4th.
August
Restaurant Week revisits giving everyone an opportunity to try even more eateries!
The North End holds many festivals including the Annual Fisherman’s Feast.
If you are ready for some football, the New England Patriots report to training camp.
September
The city gets busy as college students return around Labor Day.
The Boston Arts (Ahts) Festival is a nice showcase of Boston’s talents held at Columbus Waterfront Park.
October
With beautiful fall leaves as a backdrop, the Tufts 10K For Women is run starting at the Boston Common.
The Head of the Charles Regatta, the world’s largest 2-day regatta, rows its way to the Charles River.
The Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins start their hockey season.
November
The Frog Pond on the Boston Common opens for skating (weather permitting!).
Don’t miss a true tradition! See the Boston Ballet’s version of the Nutcracker.
December
To get into the holiday spirit, witness tree lightings on the Boston Common and the Prudential Center.
You know Boston is a sports town. The Boston Celtics basketball team starts their season.
Last, but certainly not least, ring in the New Year by celebrating First Night, a day and night filled with family friendly activities featuring local artists as well as a parade, ice sculptures, and two fireworks displays!
