Private Events
Plan a Unique, Fun Event
The Harbor Islands can serve as a great setting and beautiful backdrop for many special occasions—from corporate events to birthdays, wedding receptions to retreats. Having your event on the islands combines unique natural beauty with the opportunity to support Boston Harbor Islands national park area.
Summer Shack Catering provides professional catering service on both Georges and Spectacle Islands, with evening clambakes on Spectacle.
Thompson Island Conference Center offers outdoor venues, and quiet meeting and conference spaces. Plus, there's professional catering and overnight accommodations.
No matter where you choose to hold your event, we’ll help you arrange everything to ensure that your event is fun and successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hold a group outing on the islands?
Yes, groups are welcomed in the Harbor Islands. Georges and Spectacle Islands are the most common for group outings. If you will be bringing more than 10 people to the islands, you may be eligible for group ferry rates. If you plan to bring a group of 25 or more, you must fill out the DCR’s Special Use Permit, then make the appropriate boat reservations.
Can I hold a catered event on the islands for my group?
Vendors currently offer full-service catered events on three islands, including clambakes and picnics. For events on Spectacle or Georges Islands contact the Summer Shack Catering at 617-669-8552. For events on Thompson Island contact the Thompson Island Conference Center at 617-328-3900, ext. 107 or 110.
Are there any snack bars?
Georges and Spectacle Island have snack bars with excellent food. Both are open seven days a week from the second Saturday in June to Labor Day. Before and after these dates (fall and spring "shoulder" seasons), they are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Ferries from Boston and Quincy are stocked with snack items and refreshments.
Is alcohol allowed?
Use of alcohol by individuals and groups is prohibited at the Boston Harbor Islands, unless part of a park event that holds a liquor permit. In general, visitors may not bring alcohol to the islands.
Yes, groups are welcomed in the Harbor Islands. Georges and Spectacle Islands are the most common for group outings. If you will be bringing more than 10 people to the islands, you may be eligible for group ferry rates. If you plan to bring a group of 25 or more, you must fill out the DCR’s Special Use Permit, then make the appropriate boat reservations.
Vendors currently offer full-service catered events on three islands, including clambakes and picnics. For events on Spectacle or Georges Islands contact the Summer Shack Catering at 617-669-8552. For events on Thompson Island contact the Thompson Island Conference Center at 617-328-3900, ext. 107 or 110.
Georges and Spectacle Island have snack bars with excellent food. Both are open seven days a week from the second Saturday in June to Labor Day. Before and after these dates (fall and spring "shoulder" seasons), they are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Ferries from Boston and Quincy are stocked with snack items and refreshments.
Use of alcohol by individuals and groups is prohibited at the Boston Harbor Islands, unless part of a park event that holds a liquor permit. In general, visitors may not bring alcohol to the islands.