Your complete guide to Boston Calling 2018

BOSTON — This year marks the second of Boston Calling ‘part two’ as the bigger and better music festival gets ready to unveil its sophomore effort at the Harvard Athletic Complex this weekend.

What began as a biannual music festival on City Hall Plaza ballooned into a sprawling, once-a-year circus last summer when three stages and a Ferris wheel were erected on the various fields that play home to Harvard’s athletic teams in Allston.

The new-and-improved festival was met with spectacular shows from Mumford and Sons, Chance the Rapper and Tool, but ran into snags with its massive increase in attendance.

Concert-goers complained of long lines from outside the festival, all the way to the food and drinks.

But a revamped layout and the experience of last year’s first foray into Allston promises to improve the experience this year.

So with that, here’s what to expect!

FOOD

This year’s general admission food lineup has it all. From ramen and rice to smoked barbecue and ice cream – you can get whatever you desire. %

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Ikea will even be debuting its vegetarian hot dog at the festival. It’s mostly made of kale, lentils, quinoa, onion, carrots and spices. The hot dog has already been debuted globally and is massively popular, but this will be the first place you can try one in the United States.

You can see a full menu of food and drink options here.

SETUP

After long lines plagued last year’s festival there’s really only one major layout change this year. The Ferris wheel has been moved to the back of the festival near the two main stages. Last year, the Ferris Wheel – which was very popular – sat in the center of the festival. That should alleviate some of the congestion right in the center of things.

But the layout will feel familiar to those who showed up last year.

LINEUP

This year’s lineup feels like a throwback with the Killers, Jack White and Eminem as the headliners, but plenty of fresh faces will keep the earlier shows interesting.

I haven’t actually seen the Killers live, but reports indicate their live shows have gotten better over the years. So that’s my pick of the headliners.

OUR PICKS

Friday – Don't miss Portugal. The Man. This veteran indie band broke into the mainstream with massive air play for their recent single 'Feel It Still.' I caught them at Forecast Festival a few years ago and their energy will draw you in. If you're going to see The Killers, you should make a stop at Portugal.

Saturday – Don't miss St. Vincent. Anne Erin Clark (A.K.A St. Vincent) studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston before she joined the band Polyphonic Spree. Her solo effort nabbed her several album of the year awards in 2014 and she deserves your love. Imagine a cross between Chvrches and Florence and the Machine, but one that predates both and is a single person.

Sunday – Don't miss Alvvays. Sure, everyone might tell you to go see Fleet Foxes and The Decembrists for a little nostalgia jam, but Alvvays is addicting. Their 'jangle pop' – as their music has been described – is at once airy and aloof, but also energetic and intense. If you're into Lord Huron, you'll probably like these guys.

TRANSPORTATION

Harvard's Athletic Complex isn't a far walk from the Harvard Square T Stop on the Red Line -- and that's probably the best way to get there. You can also access the fields from the 66 and 86 bus lines.

There will also be bicycle parking on site, but there won't be any car parking. So the best way is really to take the T or the bus -- unless you really want to get out of a taxi or Lyft on Soldier's Field Road.

Knowing Allston is decidedly less convenient for most people than City Hall Plaza, organizers put together a short video to help you out with getting to the festival.

CHANGES
These are the biggest changes the festival says it has made to the event.

• The largest food and drink lineup to date with over 150 menu items and expanded craft brewing options
• Additional entrance lanes
• Stronger wi-fi
• More activations and art installations
• Bigger video screens
• A brand new 20,000 square foot VIP & Platinum lounge
• An all new Platinum level viewing experience

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

• Sunscreen
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Non-professional film and digital cameras
• 1 Factory-sealed bottle of water (non-glass container)
• A small clear plastic bag (no backpacks are allowed inside the festival)
• Valid Driver's License for will-call and/or to purchase alcohol
• Comfortable footwear

MORE: What to bring, what not to bring to Boston Calling

You can find even more information, transportation guides and frequently asked questions here.

Cox Media Group