– Photos by Jackie Rossetti

The fourth annual Riverfest sponsored by Federal Realty Investment Trust and the City of Somerville was held last Saturday along the Mystic River waterfront across from the active development of the new Assembly Row neighborhood. It featured music, street performers, local food favorites such as Red Bones and a host of activities and games for children and families.  It concluded with a spectacular fireworks display along the Mystic River.

“Each year as members of the community return to enjoy this annual event they see the transformation of the Assembly Row neighborhood and feel the excitement building. Just since last year Assembly Square Drive, which will run through the heart of the 50 acre urban center, has nearly been completed. The MBTA is preparing to break ground soon on the new Orange Line T Station, the park design is well underway and Avalon Bay will begin construction in the fall on 450 housing units,” said Somerville Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone. “Riverfest has become an event our City looks forward to every year, and I thank Federal Realty and our nonprofit partners for making it such a success.”

“We look forward to Riverfest every year because it gives us an opportunity to showcase the progress we’ve made towards creating the largest new neighborhood since the Back Bay. What better way to do that than while benefiting local charities,” said Don Briggs, president, Federal Realty Investment Trust – Boston, “When complete, Assembly Row will have something for everyone to enjoy and truly compliment the community it serves.”

Proceeds from food sales will benefit Not Just Lego, a new after school program at the Arthur D. Healey School in Somerville.