In Boston, every season feels like it could be the backdrop for a love story. Spring is bursting with new blooms, and summer has golden-hour harbor views. Fall offers vibrant foliage, while winter provides a dazzling, snowy landscape. So, what are the best months to get married in New England? Lucky for couples looking to wed in the region, there really is no wrong time.
Here’s everything you need to know about when to get married in Boston so you have the special day you’ve always dreamed of.
May, June, September and October tend to be the months with the best weather in Boston. These months offer mild temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for capturing the most beautiful photos.
If you want the famous New England foliage and comfortable, cool air, the best months to get married in Massachusetts are September or October. October is expected to have peak foliage, while September is slightly warmer. If you want comfortable weather and vibrant colors, these are ideal months for your wedding.
If you’re prioritizing your budget, consider the cheapest wedding months, which are typically January through March. These are off-season dates, which means lower pricing, but colder temperatures and earlier sunsets.
Spring in Boston is a soft, romantic time. It’s full of fresh flowers, cool breezes and that crisp, after-winter glow. It’s also a popular choice for couples who want that classic New England charm without the crowds summer and fall can bring.
Boston’s spring weather can be mild, lovely and a little unpredictable. Temperatures typically range from the low-40s to the mid-60s, but can drop lower. April showers will give way to full blooms in May, including cherry blossoms, magnolias and tulips. March and April will come with slightly lower venue costs, while May generally marks the start of rising peak-season costs.
Spring always means a chance for rain in New England. Always have a solid backup plan for your outdoor ceremony. If you’re considering a May wedding, keep in mind that Boston has lots of colleges with graduation weekends. Combine that with Memorial Day, and guests will typically see increased hotel pricing and reduced availability.
Spring weddings are perfect for couples who love lush, garden-inspired aesthetics and soft, romantic palettes. Boston’s iconic backdrops — Beacon Hill, the Charles River paths and the Public Garden — come alive in spring. Couples also prefer the spring for its slightly lower pricing and increased vendor availability compared to peak months.
Summer is the best time to go to Boston if you and your soon-to-be spouse want a high-energy celebration. Packed patios, sunny waterfronts and warm nights can make your wedding festivities that much more fun. If you love the heat and golden sunshine, this time of year is ideal.
June is your summer wedding sweet spot. It’s got long, sunny days and average temperatures in the 70s. July and August bring the heat and humidity, plus peak tourist seasons. Venues, hotels and restaurants will book faster. On the plus side, all the waterfront venues and Boston views truly stand out.
The season’s popularity and sunshine come with higher costs. Heatwaves are always a possibility, so make sure to have some shade at your wedding. If you’re looking at early July, you’ll want to avoid Fourth of July events and traffic.
Summer is a great time to vacation in Boston. Your guests can stay for a long weekend and explore the sights without having to bundle up for the cold. Summer weddings here mean outdoor ceremonies and seaside photos. Plus, this time of year lends itself to unparalleled golden-hour portraits.
Fall was made for New England weddings — rich color, crisp air, that hint of Old-World mystery and a timeless, cinematic glow. September and October are the most popular months for weddings. They’ll usually book out earlier than any other season. Temperatures cool down from summer, ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. It’s the perfect temperature for outdoor ceremonies and city pictures. Combine that with peak foliage, and you have some of the most iconic Boston wedding aesthetics.
All that natural beauty means additional demand. This is the priciest and most competitive time of year for couples. Boston’s most famous venues and vendors are highly in demand, so you have to book fast and early. If you want a fall wedding in Boston, consider booking at least a year in advance to secure your preferred date. Make sure to watch out for major area events, like the Head of the Charles Regatta, college parent weekends and Columbus Day. All of these events will increase traffic and hotel costs.
The foliage is the standout factor for choosing a fall wedding. All the natural leaf colors provide a breathtaking backdrop for your photos without requiring extra decor. Outdoor fall ceremonies feel cool and relaxing — the absence of heat and humidity makes everyone feel more comfortable. Fall couples often love working seasonal flavors and textures into their wedding menu. Local cider and harvest-inspired dishes really make your wedding stand out.
November is going to be your hidden gem for fall. There’s still some foliage hanging around, so you get the colors without the higher price tag. It’s cooler, especially after sunset, but not too cold to be outside.
December to February is winter in Boston. Couples who love candlelight and falling snow get a fairytale setting for their wedding. Expect cold to freezing temperatures, shorter days and some snow. While there are fewer outdoor moments, the trade-off is finding indoor settings that come alive with holiday decorations and unique architectural details. Winter weddings in Boston often feel like stepping into a snowglobe, suspended in time.
The biggest consideration for winter is the weather. Snowstorms, holidays and icy weather can lead to travel delays, especially for out-of-town guests. Outdoor photos might be more limited, but you can always wear a puffy coat in between shots. Make sure to plan around earlier sunsets, school breaks and holidays to avoid higher hotel rates and packed locations.
Winter has the best months to get married if you want budget-friendly rates. Venues and vendors have more availability, and the off-season provides you with more flexibility for customization. If you prefer moody, cinematic, or cozy aesthetics, winter is the perfect time for you. Think candlelit aisles, jewel tones, velvet and elegant portraits.
Shutter and Sound is a curated, multi-city team serving couples in Boston, Massachusetts and throughout New England. Every photographer and videographer is trained to deliver the consistent, signature style you see in our portfolio.
If you’re planning a Boston wedding, reach out to us today to get started.