City of Belonging Festival
The Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA) launched the annual City of Belonging Festival in observance of Immigrant Heritage Month by unveiling the You Belong Here banners at City Hall’s Mezzanine Gallery.
The large-format banners will hang in the Mezzanine until July 19. After this, they will be displayed at different locations for a You Belong Here banner tour to continue spreading the message of belonging across the city for the remainder of 2025. MOIA welcomes community requests for banner display.
The gallery launch will take place on May 21 at 1 p.m. and include food, photos, and a speaking program. The event is open to the public, but registration is requested.
MOIA designated 2025 as the Year of Belonging with the You Belong Here campaign to integrate its goals of creating a more inclusive Boston while addressing pressing challenges, such as public sentiment and policy shifts on immigration. The campaign supports immigrant communities through grants, empowers resilience with morale-boosting messaging, and inspires action through events.
“Our immigrant families and communities play a critical role in making Boston more welcoming, resilient, and joyful,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “MOIA’s City of Belonging initiative supports our work in making Boston a home for everyone and ensuring that all residents across our neighborhoods are connected to their communities.”
The campaign aims to ensure Boston remains a community where residents feel welcomed, respected, and valued, regardless of background. This awareness campaign prioritizes diversity, equity, and social cohesion for residents across Boston’s neighborhoods, sharing one message, “You Belong Here,” in the city’s 12 main languages. The large-scale banners are also in these languages, and the campaign design has already been featured in digital billboards across the city, most recently at Opening Day in Fenway Park.
MOIA will host free events for the City of Belonging Festival. These include:
- May 29 - Belonging in Boston: LGBTQIA2S+ Panel in collaboration with MOLA
- June 12 - Belonging in Boston: MOIAxSofar Sounds Community Concert
- June 17 - Belonging in Boston: You Belong Here Print Workshop, register here!
- June 29 - Belonging in Boston: MOIAxDaybreaker Movement and Dance Party
- Stories of Belonging: A comic series with original stories on MOIA’s social media
- Independent community events sponsored or endorsed by MOIA
"The celebration of all people is integral to the heart of the City of Boston," said Monique Tú Nguyen, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office for Immigrant Advancement. "Through partnerships with local nonprofits with over $2 million in grant investment, we're building a City of Belonging where every resident feels connected to Boston and each other. We’re excited to continue sharing our message of belonging and celebrating our diverse city all month with the City of Belonging Festival."
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Questions? Contact:
Immigrant Advancement
About the Initiative
The celebration of all people is integral to the heart of the City of Boston. We want residents to feel both a sense of belonging in the City and to each other, and to know that Boston belongs to you. Through building a City of Belonging, we want to ensure that Boston includes people of all backgrounds, and that we are a City where all immigrants feel a deep sense of connection, acceptance, and inclusion.
A City of Belonging is more than just a place. It's a community where newcomers feel welcomed, respected, and valued, regardless of their cultural background or origin. It's a city that prioritizes diversity, equity, and social cohesion. It's a home where immigrants can thrive and fully participate in all aspects of economic, civic, social, and cultural life.
Calendar of Community Events
CalendarJoin us for a family-friendly panel discussion titled “Developing a Queer-Immigrant Consciousness,” an event kickstarting both Pride Month and Immigrant Heritage Month. This event will include family activities and structured networking, as well as a panel centering the lived experiences of queer immigrants through the lens of economic integration, ecosystem building, and collective care. Panelists will share their stories, insights, and strategies for navigating employment, systems, and community networks while affirming their intersectional identities. MOIA collaborated with MOLA for this event.
The Urban Farming Institute's "Grow Series" is a free, hands-on workshop series focused on teaching practical skills for growing vegetables at home. It's designed for both beginners and experienced gardeners, with rotating topics covering everything from soil preparation to harvesting. Register at info@urbanfarminginstitute.org or 617-989-9920.
The Mayor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion is hosting a reception to celebrate the winners of the 2025 Legacy Business Awards. This year we had over 1,450 nominations and 65 businesses were invited to apply.
The evening will commence with an award ceremony, followed by a reception with hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar. There will be live music and entertainment, and a chance to meet this year's awardees.
The ceremony will honor businesses for their significant impact on the Boston community. Mayor Michelle Wu, elected officials, City of Boston staff, and members of the Boston community will attend.
Doors open at 5 PM, and the ceremony begins at 5:30 PM. Register here.
Get ready to move to the rhythm! Join us on the iconic Hatch Memorial Shell along Boston’s Esplanade for Salsa at the Shell, an unforgettable evening of live Latin music, youth-powered talent, and community celebration.
Produced by Boston Music Project, the concert features dynamic performances by Boston Music Project youth musicians alongside collaborators from FutureBOS and BCYF Creates. The energy builds with a headlining set by the sensational Angel Subero and Latin Logic—but not before a spirited interactive salsa dance lesson to get everyone up and moving.
Bring a blanket, your dancing shoes, and your crew. Come celebrate the joy of music, the power of community, and the rhythms that bring us all together. Register here.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the "Festival of Sacrifice," is a major Islamic holiday that celebrates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, during the Hajj pilgrimage, and lasts for several days. Muslims observe Eid al-Adha with special prayers, visits to family and friends. Come celebrate with henna, calligraphy, food, craft activities, and live performances! This event is open to all.
Location: Bolling Building, 2300 Washington Street, Roxbury, MA 02119
Join us for a community concert featuring up-and-coming local artists curated by SoFar Sounds, including an open mic opportunity for interested artists! The event will celebrate MOIA’s City of Belonging Festival, particularly Immigrant Heritage Month, and will be a family-friendly community space. Light food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Register here.
Come celebrate Cape Verde's 50th anniversary of independence! There will be food, dance, poetry, community, and an open celebration. Please contact alima2@bostonpublicschools.org for any questions.
Location: Bruce C. Bolling Building, 6th Floor, 2300 Washington Street, Roxbury, Boston, 02119
The Turkish American Cultural Society of New England (TACS) is celebrating Immigrant Heritage Month on June 14th by hosting a community concert. This special program will be a part of our traditional Boston Turkish Film and Music Festival, creating a platform to connect through arts and culture with other immigrant communities. The concert's central theme is "migration," and it is titled "Mülteci" (Refugee). A poignant original composition also titled "Refugee" will be featured. The concert will take place at the prestigious Goethe-Institut Boston from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm and will feature distinguished musicians from the Berklee College of Music.
Location: Goethe-Institut Boston, 170 Beacon Street, Boston, 02116
Learn more about the event here.
Boston Public Art Triennial IS the city’s first and only public art organization dedicated to supporting artists and communities in presenting bold contemporary public art that opens minds, conversations, and spaces, resulting in a more vibrant, open, and equitable region. Neighborhood Weekends offer an experience for all ages, highlighting 18 vibrant public art works in Charlestown, Dorchester, Downtown (Back Bay, Fenway, Downtown Crossing), East Boston, Mattapan, and Roxbury. Each weekend focuses on a different neighborhood, with Triennial 2025 sites brought to life through site activations consisting of performances (dance, music, spoken word), workshops, projection mapping and screenings, Public Art Ambassador and curator tours, and social gatherings. Visitors can meet new people and explore how public art can transform the city!
Location: Charlestown. Lot Lab, 15th Street, Boston 02129
Experience Haitian pride like never before! Top performers, delicious food, and comedy come together for an unforgettable celebration. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/boston-kulture-festival-tickets-1307018289889.
Location: Reggie Lewis Center, 1350 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120
LiteWork Events & Kickback Boston are outside for Juneteenth—and you’re invited! Join us for a night of music, movement, and celebration as we take over the Seaport for a high-energy tribute to Black freedom and culture!
This isn’t just another party—it’s a statement. Our presence is powerful, and our freedom deserves to be celebrated everywhere. We’re filling the Seaport with the sounds, joy, and excellence.
Come through in your flyest fit, grab a drink, and let the DJs take you on a journey from classics to current hits! Tickets here: https://posh.vip/e/who-all-gon-be-there
Location: The Grand, 58 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210
Join us for a printing workshop led by artist Julia Csekö and design a message of belonging. This program is part of our current exhibition "City of Belonging" in partnership with the Mayor's Office of Arts & Culture.
Bring a t-shirt, tote bag or piece of natural fabric that you would like to print on with a message that expresses that you belong here. Take it home or gift it to someone who needs to hear this. No experience needed, all ages welcome! Registration is requested. Register here.
Directions: This event will be hosted at the top of the stairs of the Mezzanine Gallery located on the 3rd floor. Please enter on Congress Street (across from Faneuil Hall), pass through security, and take the elevators to the 3rd floor.
Location: Boston City Hall Mezzanine. 1 City Hall Square, Boston 02203
Learn more about the event here.
Boston Public Art Triennial IS the city’s first and only public art organization dedicated to supporting artists and communities in presenting bold contemporary public art that opens minds, conversations, and spaces, resulting in a more vibrant, open, and equitable region. Neighborhood Weekends offer an experience for all ages, highlighting 18 vibrant public art works in Charlestown, Dorchester, Downtown (Back Bay, Fenway, Downtown Crossing), East Boston, Mattapan, and Roxbury. Each weekend focuses on a different neighborhood, with Triennial 2025 sites brought to life through site activations consisting of performances (dance, music, spoken word), workshops, projection mapping and screenings, Public Art Ambassador and curator tours, and social gatherings. Visitors can meet new people and explore how public art can transform the city!
This year’s theme is Mental Wellness, and we’re turning the park into a joyful, healing space where families can connect, unwind, and celebrate the start of summer together. Our summer kick-off is more than just a party—it’s a movement to uplift our youth, honor our community, and remind each other that healing, joy, and justice are deeply intertwined (basketball tournaments, food trucks, speakers, dance, etc).
Location: Jeep Jones Park, 2221 Roxbury Street, Boston, 02119
Join Eastie Farms to celebrate the longest day of the year, the beginning of Summer, the change of seasons, the rhythms of nature, and our harmony with those rhythms! There will be food and beverages and room to dance, so we hope you take the chance! Register here.
Location: 6 Chelsea Terrace, East Boston, MA 02128
The Celebrating What Unites Us series highlights a country of origin whose people started to immigrate to Boston many years ago. The series has been inspired by the Park design and geometric features that tell the story of the immigrants and contributions being made. Surrounding the Park’s Labyrinth are the words: Art, Science, Service & Commerce in tribute to contributions being made by all immigrants.
A key intent is to build common ground and community, celebrate all that unites and connects us, and bring people together, all while doing our part to diminish the isolation and loneliness. Please RSVP at hello@armenianheritagepark.org
*Rain date: June 29
Location: Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway, Boston
In partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, this one-day event will highlight the many vibrant cultures we serve at Chica Project through musical performances, dance lessons, arts and crafts, and food. It will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our diverse community and the incredible young women we support. Feel free to stop by anytime from 12 to 6 p.m. to join!
Location: BCYF Gallivan, 61 Woodruff Way, Boston, MA 02126
Join us for a TPS Workers Exhibit that explores the idea of home and whether, after decades of working and contributing to America's economy, building their lives in the US and participating in all aspects of American civic life, TPS workers feel they are home in the United States of America. The exhibition will be available for viewing to the public.
Location: 1 City Hall Plaza Boston, MA 02203
In 2021, Sonoma Maple Schuyler Tenants Association and Project Right invited the Boston Food Forest Coalition to connect with neighbors and explore building a food forest park. After years of doorknocking, community design, and overwhelming support, the park broke ground in 2023 and completed construction in 2025! They are now ready to open the doors for Maple St. Food Forest to the public.
This event will include special remarks from city officials, as well as music, food, and beverages. Interpretation will be offered in Spanish and Haitian Creole.
Location: 44 Maple Streeet, Boston, MA 02130
Join us for a community concert featuring Daybreakers and the Belong Center! Held on City Hall Plaza, this concert will feature musical performances, activities led by the Belong Center, and giveaway bags of light bites.
Location: Boston City Hall Plaza: 1 City Hall Square
Time to celebrate iyo kowdi luuliyo!
~ Boston, are you ready for the third Annual Somali Independence Day? It's here, and we can't wait to kick off the festivities! Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the vibrant history of Somalia with our amazing community!
Somalia Haa Noolaato
Location: Jeep Jones Park | 2221 Roxbury Street, Boston, 02119
Open Streets, the popular car-free event series, will return to Blue Hill Ave. in Roxbury, Centre Street in Jamaica Plain, Dorchester Ave. in Dorchester, and Hyde Park Ave. and River Street in Hyde Park. Open Streets allow local businesses to expand into the street and safely make space for music, games, bicycling, and community tabling in Boston’s neighborhoods.
During Open Newbury, thousands of pedestrians enjoy food, shopping, and dining along the mile-long, eight-block stretch from Berkeley Street to Mass. Ave. in the Back Bay. These events build on Mayor Wu’s commitment to reimagining our streets and making Boston the best city in the country for families.
All Open Streets events take place from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Streets will be closed to vehicular traffic starting at 9:00 a.m. and reopen at 4:00 p.m. Parking will be prohibited along the route from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
Location: Blue Hill Ave from Warren St. to Quincy St.
The Urban Farming Institute's "Grow Series" is a free, hands-on workshop series focused on teaching practical skills for growing vegetables at home. It's designed for both beginners and experienced gardeners, with rotating topics covering everything from soil preparation to harvesting. Register at info@urbanfarminginstitute.org or 617-989-9920.
Location: 487 Norfolk Street, Mattapan, MA 02126
Boston Little Saigon Cultural District invites the community to join the 2024 Chợ Đêm, Boston Little Saigon Night Market in Fields Corner, Dorchester.
Special attractions include a diverse line-up of entertainment, games, and activities for all ages, a beer garden, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and street food including chicken wings, skewers, crawfish, and more!
Night markets are outdoor street festivals that feature food vendors, artisans, merchandise vendors, games, entertainment, and photo opportunities. They can be found all over Vietnam and are one of the most beloved experiences for both locals and tourists. Having a Vietnamese-centered night market in the Boston Little Saigon Cultural District will not only highlight the community but also provide a cultural experience for nostalgic residents who grew up in Vietnam and locals who yearn for new experiences.
Boston Little Saigon Cultural District is rich with culture and history. The night market will be a fun way to get a “taste” of everything Boston Little Saigon has to showcase in a fun-filled evening.
Location: Fields Corner, Dorchester Avenue between Gibson Street and Adams Street, Including Town Field Park
Join Piers Park for a day of free kayaking, music, and food! Bilingual sailing instructors will be present in Spanish, English, and Portuguese.
Location: Piers Park, 99 Marginal St, Boston, 02128
Join GREMC for an open-air, public community art initiative! GREMC invites people of all backgrounds, regardless of artistic experience, to participate in a collaborative public artwork that reflects the beauty, voice, and spirit of our neighborhood. We believe that art in public spaces fosters a sense of belonging, wellness, and pride, especially in underserved and culturally rich communities like ours. There will be trained artists to help guide families and individuals in participation.
Location: Erie-Ellington Playground, 53 Erie Street in Dorchester, MA 02121
Highlighting a country of origin whose people started to immigrate to Boston many years ago. The series has been inspired by the Park design and geometric features that tell the story of the immigrants and their contributions. Surrounding the Park’s Labyrinth are the words: Art, Science, Service & Commerce in tribute to contributions being made by all immigrants.
A key intention is to build common ground and community, celebrate all that unites and connects us, and bring people together, all while doing our part to alleviate isolation and loneliness.
Location: Armenian Heritage Park, Atlantic Ave &, Mercantile St, Boston, 02110
Chinese Progressive Action’s Block Party is a community-building event to bring together Chinatown residents. There will also be recreational activities, as well as informational and educational tables. This will be the 11th annual Chinatown Block Party!
Location: Maple Place and Johnny Court., Chinatown
Slam Theatre is a great outdoor American variety show taking place on Thurs. July 24th at 6PM outside Boston City Hall on top of the rooftop of the Civic Pavilion. Come experience a multidisciplinary theatrical performance featuring several 10-minute play performances, written by up and coming Boston playwrights Monica Jimenez, Mark Seabrooks, Faith Verrill and more. A 10-minute multi media dance performance by artist Flor Delgadillo. During and in between the plays, some of Massachusetts' finest spoken word and story slammers, such as Massachusetts' Poet Laureate Regie Gibson, Boston’s Poet Laurette Emmanuel Oppong-Yeboah and more!and Boston’s Poet Laurette Emmanuel Oppong-Yeboah, will recite poems and true stories while being accompanied by live improvisational jazz by The Blake Newman Group. Themes of the evening will touch upon family, friendship, what does it mean to be American and more. You do not want to miss a second of this experimental multidisciplinary art event! Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/slam-theatre-2025-tickets-1393078317749?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm-source=cp&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing
Location: Civic Pavilion Rooftop, 5 Congress St, Boston MA 02203
Highlighting a country of origin whose people started to immigrated to Boston many years ago. The series has been inspired by the Park design and geometric features that tell the story of the immigrants and contributions being made. Surrounding the Park’s Labyrinth are the words: Art, Science, Service & Commerce in tribute to contributions being made by all immigrants.
A key intent is to build common ground and community, celebrate all that unites and connects us, and bring people together all while doing our part to also diminish the isolation and loneliness.
Location: Greenway, Boston
Who's Involved:
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Questions? Contact:
Immigrant Advancement
