The best Boston events in August 2024

A blockbuster summer activity is seeing a movie under the stars. Sure, you can catch the biggest releases in air-conditioned comfort at one of Boston’s top cinemas, but outdoor movie screenings are really one of the best ways to enjoy a summer night in Boston. With themed screenings hosted by local movie theaters, museums, parks and more, there are plenty of fun flicks to catch this year. Check out our full calendar of outdoor movies in Boston.

Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience—aka “zoo lights,” colloquially—returns to Franklin Park Zoo more boldly and brightly than ever. Opening August 2 and running nightly through November 3, the illuminating experience has expanded its footprint in the park this year, with new, forested areas decked out in light displays. The annual event features all-new immersive walkthroughs, enchanting interactive elements and photo opportunities at every turn—including a stunning, 115-foot octopus; colorful butterflies, luminous blossoms, an erupting volcano, traditional lanterns and more.