Summer in Gloucester, MA
Summer is the perfect time to visit Gloucester, with sunny beaches, fresh-caught seafood, and endless opportunities to get out on the water. Enjoy vibrant festivals, waterfront dining, and long coastal walks while soaking up the best of the season. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an action-packed day by the sea, Gloucester delivers with something for everyone.
Beach Parking & Reservations
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, non-residents must reserve parking in advance via the Blinkay mobile app or website. Reservations can be made up to 10 days ahead, and are non-refundable (but booked days can be banked for a later date). Once you’ve reserved and paid (no cash accepted), entry is granted via license plate recognition—so make sure your vehicle info is accurate
.For details, fee info, FAQs, and to download Blinkay, visit the city’s official Beach Information page.
Featured Beaches
Gloucester offers a variety of beach experiences:
Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach — Classic sandy stretches with concessions, lifeguards, restrooms, and showers.
Stage Fort Park, Half Moon, and Cressy’s Beach — Historic park setting with picnic areas, playgrounds, accessible beaches, and a visitor center.
Niles Beach, Pavilion Beach, and Plum Cove — Smaller and more secluded, these beaches are quieter and often require resident parking stickers.
Annual Summer Festivals
Enjoy festivals throughout the summer in Gloucester. Here are just a few of our annual favorites:
St. Peter’s Fiesta — Gloucester’s Italian American community hosts annual events on the weekend closest to the Feast Day of St. Peter, June 29. Features the Greasy Pole Contest, Seine Boat Races, and more.
Culture Splash — Every Thursday night in July and August, Culture Splash offers free arts and culture events on both sides of the harbor connected by the harbor shuttle.
Gloucester Schooner Festival — Every Labor Day Weekend, Gloucester Harbor comes alive with the sight of magnificent schooners under sail. The event draws vessels from near and far for parades, sails, deck tours, and the Mayor’s Cup Races.
5 Can’t-Miss Events at This Year’s Gloucester Schooner Festival
Every Labor Day weekend, Gloucester, Massachusetts transforms into a bustling celebration of maritime history, community spirit, and—of course—majestic schooners. Now in its 41st year, the Gloucester Schooner Festival returns from Wednesday, August 27 to Sunday, August 31, 2025, bringing with it a full slate of family-friendly events, sailing opportunities, and more.
Set Sail From Gloucester Harbor: 7 Coastal Adventures Around Cape Ann
Gloucester, MA, offers endless ways to experience its coastal beauty, and there’s no better way to do it than by getting out on the water. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection to the area’s rich maritime history, Gloucester has something for everyone.
Raise Your Glass: Discover the Best Tequila Cocktails in Gloucester, MA
Gloucester, MA is not just a haven for seafood lovers but also a hidden gem for tequila enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of classic margaritas or innovative tequila concoctions, Gloucester has a vibrant bar scene that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Summer Events
Plan Your Visit
Plan your perfect spring getaway and find seasonable things to do in Gloucester with our guide to the best places to shop, stay, dine, and explore this season!
Shop
Spring is the perfect season to explore Gloucester’s charming shops and discover unique local treasures.
Stay
Stay in one of Gloucester’s charming inns, hotels, or B&Bs, offering comfortable accommodations by the sea or in the heart of downtown.
Dine
Dine at Gloucester’s local restaurants, serving fresh seafood and seasonal dishes perfect after a day of exploring.
Things to Do
From seasonal events to outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to experience during your visit to Gloucester.
Funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism.
