We’re now in the dog days of summer, where the weather is sunny and hot, and we all want to spend time with friends and family outdoors. Luckily for you, Boston has a summer calendar full of events for music and theatre lovers of all ages. We’ve pulled together a short guide to the events, performances, and festivals we’re looking forward to most in the upcoming weeks!

From August 1st to the 4th, The Commonwealth Shakespeare Company is putting on a series of performances as a part of the Free Shakespeare on the Common series. As the title suggests, the plays are free, and take place at the Parkman Bandstand in the Boston Common. Check out their website for which plays are when, and at what times.

Also on August 1st until the 4th, The New England Dance Festival takes place at the Boston Marriott in Newton. This four day event includes dance lessons, social dances, workshops, classes, competitions, a Saturday night party, and much more! This event is for dancers of all levels, so grab yo0ur dancing shoes and check their site for events and online registration.

Each year, one of the most famous jazz festivals takes place in New England. The Newport Jazz Festival is fast approaching, and kicks off from August 2nd to August 4th. Located in Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island, the event sees 50 performances from established and emerging talents from all over the world. Buy your tickets now — single day and multiple day passes are still available!

If blues is more your thing, the Onset Blues Festival is happening in Prospect Park on August 3rd. Renowned musicians from all over the world will come together to perform in a gorgeous park overlooking the picturesque harbor in the Victorian village of Onset, Massachusetts.

For those in the city, the entire month of August sees a series of free one-hour music performances in the Courtyard of the Central Library on Boylston Street. The series Concerts in the Courtyard kicks off on August 2nd and runs through the 30th. The performances are free on Wednesdays at 6pm and Fridays at 12:30pm. If it rains, the performances will take place in Rabb Hall. Be sure to check the schedule for more information.

GO Boston is ready to get you and your group wherever you need to go. You can count on our reliable and safe drivers to get you to the performance and back, navigating notorious Boston traffic so you can focus on enjoying the party.

Photo Credit:  Flickr: noahbloom