Methods for the selective functionalization of calix[4]arene at the upper rim are described. The diametrically substituted calix[4]arene dimethyl ether 2, obtained from the treatment of calix[4]arene 1 with methyl iodide in the presence of $K_2CO_3$, is converted to the two isomeric p-diacetylcalix[4]arene dimethyl ether 3 and 6 by direct substitution and by Fries rearrangement of corresponding diacetyloxycalix[4]arene dimethyl ether 5 respectively. Diametrically substituted p-diacetylcalix[4]arene 8 was also prepared by Fries rearrangement of calix[4]arene tetraacetate 7 using a limited amount of $AlCl_3$.