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Boston Punk Bars

Boston has a rich history of music and punk rock plays its part in that history. While legendary Boston bars like The Channel have closed their doors, there are many other venues where you can catch a glimpse of your favorite punk bands. Well-known punkers the Dropkick Murphys originated in the city and own part of McGreevy's in Boston.
  1. McGreevy's Boston

    • Baseball and punk rock go hand in hand at McGreevy's as legendary punk rock band the Dropkick Murphys helped rebuild McGreevy's status as America's oldest sports bar. Singing about McGreevy's at a Boston Red Sox game, Ken Casey (Dropkick Murphys) revived awareness of the bar. With the help of baseball historian Peter Nash, he reopened the bar with original owner Nuf Ced's vision in mind. Today, bar patrons are likely to include punk rockers and baseball aficionados.

      McGreevy's Boston

      911 Boylston St., Back Bay

      Boston, MA 02115

      617-262-0911

      mcgreevysboston.com

    The Middle East

    • This Boston mainstay has been open since the 1970s, serving good food and loud music ever since. The upstairs and the downstairs are separate venues offering live music nightly. Bands can be indie, rock, punk and much more. Cover charges vary depending on the band (usually under $20) and it's sometimes a few bucks cheaper if you purchase tickets in advance. Shows are 18+ unless otherwise noted.

      The Middle East

      472-480 Massachutets Avenue

      Cambridge, MA 02139.

      617-864-3278

      mideastclub.com

    O'Brien's

    • A mix of punk rock, rock and hardcore keep this Boston mainstay busy. Cover charges range from $4 to $10 depending on the lineup. Local bands and the local music scene are supported and the club welcomes all genres of sound. O'Brien's sister bar Great Scott also hosts live music and was once known for "Ska Night" on Sundays. Shows are generally 21+ but they do have 18+ shows frequently. Check the listings for updated information on upcoming shows.

      O'Brien's

      3 Harvard Ave.

      Allston MA 02134

      617-782-6245

      obrienspubboston.com

    The Paradise

    • Since 1977, the Paradise has been bringing live music to Boston. Legendary hardcore band Dead Kennedys are among the many punk bands that have played at this venue. The Paradise hosts live music every night with a capacity of more than 700 people, yet it remains intimate. Most shows are 18+ but it also has the occasional all ages show. The website has up-to-date listings of upcoming bands.

      Paradise Rock Club

      967 Commonwealth Ave.

      Boston, MA 02115

      617-562-8800

      thedise.com

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