Massachusetts Avenue Celebration

Massachusetts Avenue transformed into a moving celebration with colorful costumes, brass bands, and social activism.

First-Time Parade Attendee

Cindy Manson, 59, of Arlington saw the parade for the first time despite working on Massachusetts Avenue.

“It’s so fun to see so many different people playing so many different kinds of music”

Community Participation

Joanne Sullivan, 79, volunteered at the festival for the first time with her friend Charlo Maurer, 73.

“It’s really impressive that a lot of these bands come from other states and cities”

DePAVE the Way Demonstration

DePAVE the Way staged a mock depaving demonstration using foam and imitation sledgehammers.

“We wanted to do is basically bring what we do in the yards and driveways out into the streetscape and show people this”

Hot Dog Distribution

Greg Nadeau, 59, of Somerville gave away 500 free hot dogs to parade spectators.

“We give out hot dogs, and most importantly, we give out serendipity”

Family Experience

Janet Taylor, 50, introduced her 7-year-old daughter to the parade’s music and community spirit.

“It’s really cool to see that grouped with music and how that can communicate to many generations”

First-Time Emotional Impact

Andre Sloan, 26, and Paulina Hammond, 25, felt emotional seeing the parade for the first time.

“I was tearing up at the beginning, just seeing all these people coming together”