City of Belonging Festival

Join 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.

Register here. 

Location: Civic Pavilion, 5 Congress St Boston MA 02203

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: Urban Farming Institute, 487 Norfolk Street Mattapan, MA 02126

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.

Location: Calderwood Pavilion, 575 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116

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.

Location: Charles River Esplanade, Storrow Dr, Boston, MA 02116

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

3rd Annual Eid Al-Adha Boat Trip: Spectacle Island is a 114 Acre Island with beaches & hiking. Join us 4 Eid AlAdha, 114 Acres and a Mu (servant) & African Arabian Nights.

Location:  66 Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110

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.

Location: Civic Pavilion, 5 Congress St Boston, MA 02203

In partnership with the Adius Arts Initiative and KickBack Boston, we’re celebrating the final weeks of “Witnessing Humanity: The Art of John Wilson.” Explore the landmark exhibition and join us for a DJ set from Mez.Wav in Taste as we give flowers to the Roxbury artist who created the beloved sculpture Eternal Presence, affectionately known as the “Big Head,” on the grounds of the National Center of Afro-American Artists (NCAAA). At 7:30 pm, join us in the exhibition to learn more about Wilson from Edward Saywell, chair of Prints and Drawings; and Jordan Cromwell, interpretive planner.

Drinks and snacks are available for purchase in Taste. 

This event is included with general admission. Thanks to the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund, you can pick up a free admission pass ahead of time at the Roxbury, Egleston Square, Uphams Corner, Grove Hall, Parker Hill, Mattapan, or Central Library branches of the Boston Public Library. Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis and valid through June 22, 2025.

Location: 465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115

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, MA 02119

Enjoy theatrical adaptations of Joyce's celebrated book Ulysses with the Here Comes Everyday Players and music by the HCE Trio.

This is a free event  but registration is advised at 617-265-5300.

Location: 540 Gallivan Blvd Dorchester, MA 02124

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

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!

Learn more about the event here.

Location: 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!

Location: Reggie Lewis Center - 1350 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120

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 02201

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, 02210

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, 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, Atlantic Ave &, Mercantile St, Boston, MA 02110

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, 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, 02201

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 Street, Boston, 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, Boston, 02201

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, 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. 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. in Roxbury

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, 02126

Boston Little Saigon Cultural District invites the community to join the 2025 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, Dorchester, 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. and Mercantile St., Boston, 02110

Chinese Progressive Association’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.

Location: Boston City Hall's Civic Pavilion Rooftop, 5 Congress St, Boston, 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: Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway