Annual Festival Featuring Local crafts, Performances, Children’s Activities, Food & More Returns on Saturday, July 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.— Artwork by Sarah Gay

Where else except the City of Somerville can you support local artists, sample a global array of food and join a Punk Rock Pollinator Parade? Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council are inviting the community to do all that and more at the City’s annual ArtBeat Festival on Saturday, July 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in Davis Square (rain date: Sunday, July 14, at the same time). 

This year’s ArtBeat  also celebrates the debut of Somerville’s Pollinator Action Plan, a hyperlocal roadmap to protecting, nurturing, and growing the city’s native pollinator populations. Attendees can check out Pollinator Alley, where there will be art, activities along with planting and habitat building tips to rewild our city!

The festival will be held throughout Davis Square, including Seven Hills Park, Elm Street, and Holland Street (streets closed to traffic). Entrance to the event is free, but attendees who make a suggested donation of $3 will receive an ArtsBeat dog tag. Attendees are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bottles with free water available at the Quench Buggy in the center of the festival. 

To learn more, including the 2024 ArtBeat schedule, and descriptions and photos of all performers, please visit: somervilleartscouncil.org/artbeat/2024

MBTA Red Line Closure and Bus Information 

MBTA Buses Routes: 87, 88, 89, 90, 94, 96 will be rerouted from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on due to the red line closures at Davis Sq train station. Shuttle stops will be relocated to Mass Ave. Please see www.mbta.com for full detour information.