Things To Do in Boston This Weekend: October 3-October 5
October in Boston kicks off with an exciting weekend filled with jaw-dropping light displays, live music, family-friendly festivals, and arts and cultural events. Whether you’re checking out Boston Lights, catching…

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October in Boston kicks off with an exciting weekend filled with jaw-dropping light displays, live music, family-friendly festivals, and arts and cultural events. Whether you're checking out Boston Lights, catching David Byrne's "Who Is the Sky?" tour, or visiting Fall Fest on the Greenway, there's much for everyone to take advantage of this weekend.
Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience
- What: Family-friendly lantern event
- When: Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, from 5 to 10:30 p.m. (additional dates through Nov. 2, 2025)
- Where: Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston
- Cost: General Admission starts at $19.95, with a 4-Pack of tickets starting at $67.95, under two are free (EBT and WIC card holders receive discounted tickets)
Get ready to shine at the all-new Boston Lights event. Stroll through a breathtaking world of glowing lanterns and interactive displays inspired by global habitats, from rainforest canopies to undersea reefs. This year's highlight is a mystical forest, featuring floral light tunnels, mythical creatures, and a towering 22-foot illuminated owl. Experience China's heritage through traditional lanterns showcasing pandas, peacocks, and dragons.
An Evening With David Byrne — "Who Is the Sky?" Tour
- What: Live musical show with David Byrne
- When: Thursday, Oct. 2 through Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, at 8 p.m.
- Where: Boch Center, Wang Theater, 270 Tremont St., Boston
- Cost: Tickets start at $79.50
David Byrne is hitting the road with a brand-new live tour in support of "Who Is the Sky?," his first album since 2018's "American Utopia." Known for his inventive, theatrical performances, Byrne will be joined by a 13-member band of musicians, singers, and dancers to create a dynamic, visually striking show. This tour promises to continue Byrne's legacy of pushing the boundaries of music performance while also utilizing clever, immersive stagecraft.
Fall Fest on the Greenway
- What: A day of festive, family-friendly fun
- When: Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Rose Wharf Plaza, Atlantic Avenue and High Street, Boston
- Cost: Free admission; vendors will have items available for purchase
Celebrate the season at Fall Fest on the Greenway. Enjoy an evening of free family fun with face painting, pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, glow mini golf, and an inflatable obstacle course. Browse artisan vendors, savor bites from local food trucks, and dance to festive tunes by @itsjayvibez. As the sun sets, cozy up for a special screening of "The Addams Family" (1991) on the lawn. Supported by Meet Boston, Mass Cultural Council, and the Greenway Business Improvement District, this event is part of the 2025 Greenway ARTbeat Series. A perfect way to welcome autumn — no RSVP required.
Other Events
Boston's first weekend of October is packed with exciting happenings, from lively cultural celebrations to standout live performances. Here are a few can't-miss events to help kick off the month in style:
- 5th Annual Oktoberfest at The Tall Ship: Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Tall Ship Boston, 1 E. Pier Drive, Boston
- MassQ Ball 2025: Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, 125 Arborway, Boston
- Maz Jobrani Live: Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, at 7 p.m. at The Wilbur, 246 Tremont St., Boston




