There’s a reason experiencing a concert outdoors at Tanglewood is such a beloved New England experience and this season is shaping up to be no different. This year, classical concerts presented by the Boston Symphony Orchestra are being taken to all new heights with a music and movement series as well as Yo-Yo Ma’s “We the People” series which is set to be a big highlight. From collaborations with the Boston Ballet and other dancers to joint performances with different soloists, this season is really not one to be missed.
How do I plan a day or weekend at Tanglewood?
Spending a day or night on the grass while listening to live music is hard to beat and well worth a day or weekend trip! If you head up for a whole weekend, you’ll be lucky enough to catch several performances. But even a day trip can be a pretty unforgettable experience. The BSO’s full schedule has now been released and there are plenty of options that cater to all – whether you’ve got a whole weekend to spare or just an evening.

Are there dining options available?
You can really customize your Tanglewood experience to be anything you like. If you’re the type of person who likes to show up and see where the night takes you, there are plenty of on-site dining and drink options. Alternatively, make sure you’ve got everyone’s top choices on hand by packing a picnic to bring with you! You can bring a hamper with whatever you like, if you prefer to enjoy the concert on the lawn with all your favorite snacks to enjoy.
What happens if it rains?
Concerts go ahead no matter what the weather brings – so definitely come prepared for all elements! You do have the choice of purchasing seats in the shed, which will mean the coverage of a roof – but lawn tickets mean exposure to the elements, so plan ahead with any protective gear.

What are some of this season’s highlights?
Because the concert range is selected to cater to all tastes and preferences, there really is no way to go wrong when it comes to selecting a concert to attend. The BSO music and movement series should be on your agenda, with the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 with Seong-Jin Cho featuring dancers of Boston Ballet a definite highlight. On August 4, there’s a Tanglewood on Parade Evening Concert with activities kicking off at 2pm for some pre-show excitement. Plan your visit now – no matter what type of experience you’re after.