Things To Do in Boston This Weekend: April 24-April 26

Boston events this weekend cater to a wide range of tastes, including the free, festive energy of Japan Festival Boston on the Common, the candlelit intimacy of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons reimagined by a string quartet, and the pure mastery of Joshua Bell at Symphony Hall. Whether you're drawn to cultural celebration, rock anthems, or classical virtuosity, this weekend offers something worth clearing your calendar for.

Japan Festival Boston is the largest Japanese festival on the East Coast. Founded in 2012 to mark the 100th anniversary of Tokyo's gift of cherry blossom trees to Washington, D.C., this volunteer-run festival has become a cherished community tradition. You can look forward to food, music, dancing, vendors, interactive workshops, cosplay fashion shows, and more. All proceeds go toward keeping the festival going for future generations.

Few musicians command a stage quite like Joshua Bell. For nearly four decades, the celebrated violinist has captivated audiences worldwide with a rare combination of technical brilliance and genuine emotional depth. From Baroque masterworks to contemporary commissions, Bell's expansive repertoire reflects an artist equally at home across musical eras, and his animated presence brings audiences closer to the music with every bow stroke. Whether he's performing a beloved classic or new material, Bell is committed to every note.

Experience Candlelight: Coldplay and Imagine Dragons like never before. The Beacon Street Quartet will perform chart-topping hits inside a breathtaking historic sanctuary, all under the warm glow of candlelight. Enjoy an intimate 60-minute concert featuring favorites such as "Fix You," "Viva la Vida," "Believer," and "Radioactive." Part of the acclaimed Candlelight concert series, the performance is ADA-compliant, and seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis in each zone.

Sunday offers something for every pace, whether you're paddling the Charles, hunting for vintage treasures in the South End, or headbanging at MGM Music Hall. Check out these Boston weekend events with your family and friends:

Boston's stages stay busy long after the weekend fades. From hip-hop and R&B to the thundering finale of Beethoven's Ninth, there's no shortage of live music to carry you through the week: