Somerville to celebrate nation’s 250th Anniversary and all who serve with ‘Salute to Service’ parade

On May 12, 2026, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

In a special reimagining of the annual Memorial Day Parade for the nation’s semiquincentennial, the city invites veterans, community groups, and local organizations to join a Salute to Service parade on Saturday, May 16.

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The City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services is proud to host Salute to Service, a parade honoring all who serve our country and our community and the nation’s 250th anniversary as a free and independent democracy.

The parade will take place on Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16, pulling forward the annual Memorial Day parade observance and transforming this year’s parade into a special observance of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and a recognition of all who serve our nation and in civic life locally.

The city’s Memorial Day remembrance ceremony will take place Monday, May 25, at Somerville Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, as it does every year, to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Veterans, veteran-owned businesses, community organizations, and local groups are invited to take part in the parade or volunteer during the day’s events.

Salute to Service

The parade will step off at 11 a.m. from City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) and proceed west via Highland Ave., Cedar St., and Franey Rd., ending at Trum Field.

Veterans, veterans and related organizations, first responders, Somerville community groups, organizations, and veteran-owned or local businesses are encouraged to join the parade.Marching bands, color guards, marchers and walkers, wheelers and rollers, vehicles with riders, motorcycles, dance and drill teams, honk bands, and more are all welcome.
Volunteers are needed to provide day-of event support.
Attendees, mark your calendar now to come show your support and gratitude to those who serve and to celebrate 250 years of democracy.

For more information, visit somervillema.gov/salute or call 617-625-6600 x4700.