SugarHill at SugarHill at Playwrights Horizons Downtown, Presented by Dramatic Question Theatre

The DQT PRESENTS series is our way of getting you face-to-face with the great work that Dramatic Question Theatre is developing. Each season, we pick a few pieces from our new play development programs and present them as staged readings at Playwrights Horizons Downtown’s Robert Moss Theatre.

Boston Calling Music Festival

Boston Calling Music Festival is making its highly anticipated return to the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston, Massachusetts, from May 23 to May 25. This annual festival has become one of the premier music events in the United States, attracting thousands of fans from across the country.

The 2025 edition promises an eclectic lineup that spans multiple genres, bringing together some of the biggest names in music. With country, alternative rock, hip-hop, and pop acts on the bill, this year’s event ensures that every attendee will find something to enjoy.

Venue and Dates

The festival will take place at the Harvard Athletic Complex, a venue known for its spacious outdoor setting, which provides ample room for multiple stages, food vendors, and interactive experiences. Boston Calling 2025 is scheduled to run for three consecutive days, starting on Friday, May 23, and concluding on Sunday, May 25.

The festival’s layout and organization have been praised in past editions, offering fans an immersive experience with easy access to performances and entertainment options.

Luke Combs Headlines Friday, May 23

Country music sensation Luke Combs is set to kick off Boston Calling on Friday, May 23, delivering a powerhouse performance that will set the tone for the festival. Combs, known for his deep, soulful voice and chart-topping hits, has cemented his place as one of the biggest names in country music today

Luke Combs has dominated country music charts with hits such as “Hurricane,” “Beautiful Crazy,” and “Beer Never Broke My Heart.” His latest album has further solidified his status, with multiple singles reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His live performances are known for their high energy, emotional depth, and ability to connect with audiences, making him an ideal choice to open the festival.

Fall Out Boy Rocks Saturday, May 24

Alternative rock giants Fall Out Boy will take over the Boston Calling stage on Saturday, May 24. With their signature blend of pop-punk, emo, and stadium rock, Fall Out Boy is expected to bring a dynamic and high-energy show that will electrify the crowd.

Fall Out Boy has built a massive following with hits like “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” “Thnks fr th Mmrs,” “Centuries,” and “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark.” Their ability to blend emotional lyrics with explosive instrumentals has made them a staple in the alternative rock scene. Fans attending the festival can expect a setlist packed with nostalgia-inducing anthems and new material from their recent albums.

Dave Matthews Band Closes Out Sunday, May 25

On Sunday, May 25, the legendary Dave Matthews Band will headline the final night of Boston Calling. Known for their intricate musicianship, improvisational jams, and devoted fan base, Dave Matthews Band’s presence at the festival adds a layer of musical depth to the weekend’s lineup.

With a career spanning over three decades, Dave Matthews Band has delivered timeless classics like “Crash Into Me,” “Ants Marching,” “The Space Between,” and “Don’t Drink the Water.” Their ability to blend rock, jazz, folk, and world music elements has set them apart as one of the most influential live bands of all time. Their Boston Calling set is expected to be a highlight of the festival.

Other Must-See Performers at Boston Calling 2025

Beyond the headliners, Boston Calling 2025 boasts an impressive lineup of artists that spans multiple genres. From rock and hip-hop to pop and R&B, festival-goers will have a chance to see a diverse range of performers throughout the weekend.

Indie rock fans will be thrilled to see Vampire Weekend return to Boston Calling. The band’s unique sound, blending baroque pop with Afrobeat and indie influences, has garnered them a massive following. Songs like “A-Punk,” “Diane Young,” and “Harmony Hall” will surely get the crowd dancing.

Legendary hip-hop group Public Enemy is also set to perform, bringing their politically charged anthems and iconic stage presence to the festival. With classics like “Fight the Power” and “Bring the Noise,” Public Enemy’s performance will be a powerful moment for hip-hop fans in attendance.

Pop-punk queen Avril Lavigne will take the stage, delivering hits from her early 2000s reign and her latest releases. Fans can expect to sing along to anthems like “Sk8er Boi,” “Complicated,” and “My Happy Ending.”

T-Pain, the mastermind behind some of the most infectious hooks in hip-hop and R&B, will bring his signature Auto-Tune sound to Boston Calling. His hits “Buy U a Drank,” “Bartender,” and “I’m Sprung” remain fan favorites that will get the festival crowd moving.

Sublime, known for blending reggae, punk, and ska, will provide a laid-back but energetic set. Tracks like “Santeria” and “What I Got” are festival anthems that will add a nostalgic element to the weekend.

Legendary R&B group TLC will treat festival-goers to a set filled with timeless hits like “Waterfalls,” “No Scrubs,” and “Creep.” Their influence on the genre remains undeniable.

Nine-time Grammy Award winner Sheryl Crow will bring her extensive catalog of hits to the stage, including “All I Wanna Do,” “Soak Up the Sun,” and “If It Makes You Happy.”

Breakout artist Remi Wolf adds a fresh, eclectic twist to the lineup with her funky, energetic sound. Songs like “Photo ID” and “Sexy Villain” have made her one of the most exciting new voices in pop.

Enhancing the Festival Experience

Attending Boston Calling is about more than just the music. Fans can explore a variety of entertainment options, including food trucks, interactive exhibits, and exclusive merchandise.

For attendees looking to add an extra layer of excitement to their festival weekend, exploring the best sports betting apps in Massachusetts can be a great option. With the NBA and NHL playoffs happening around the same time, festival-goers can place bets on their favorite teams while enjoying the music.

Final Thoughts on Boston Calling 2025

Boston Calling 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting music festivals of the year, with a lineup that balances nostalgia, diversity, and high-energy performances. Whether fans are there for the country stylings of Luke Combs, the rock anthems of Fall Out Boy, or the timeless jams of Dave Matthews Band, the festival offers something for everyone.

With additional performances from Vampire Weekend, Public Enemy, Avril Lavigne, T-Pain, Sublime, TLC, Sheryl Crow, and Remi Wolf, this year’s event is set to be an unforgettable experience.