As summer draws to a close, Boston is buzzing with a variety of outdoor festivals that celebrate creativity and cultural heritage. This weekend, residents and visitors alike can engage with a range of events focused on uplifting women and gender-expansive creatives, hip-hop culture, Ukrainian heritage, and the world of tea.
One of the standout events is the We Make Noise Festival, taking place on Saturday, August 23, in Downtown Crossing. This festival, hosted by the nonprofit We Make Noise Boston in collaboration with Mass NOW and supported by the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, emphasizes empowerment for women and nonbinary artists.
The music lineup features notable performers, including Maine singer-songwriter Lady Lamb, Naomi Westwater, and Big Body Kweeng. Beyond musical performances, the festival will showcase a visual art gallery in partnership with the Boston Art Review, alongside vendor opportunities through the Boston Women’s Market. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and entry is free, making it an accessible celebration for the community.
On the other side of the river, the Evolution of Hip-Hop Festival will also occur on Saturday in Somerville’s Union Square. This annual event is now in its 11th year and will take place in an open parking lot near the Independent Restaurant and plaza.
Festival-goers can expect performances from talented rappers, spoken word poets, and dancers, with notable acts such as FM Collective, DROCasso, and Fatboy Shotty. Additionally, fashion reps and visual artists will showcase their work, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. Co-produced by the Somerville Arts Council and Yvette Wilks of Wilks Productions Consultancy, the festival is free to attend and runs from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Also on Saturday, the Ukrainian Independence Day Festival will celebrate 34 years of independence from the Soviet Union at City Hall Plaza. Organized by the Ukrainian Cultural Center of New England, the event will kick off with a traditional flag-raising ceremony.
Attendees will have the opportunity to taste delicious Ukrainian cuisine, including the beloved pyrizhky. Cultural performances will be featured, including a presentation by the MIT Ukrainian Folk Dance Ensemble. Vendors at the festival will offer traditional Ukrainian goods, such as jewelry and textiles. Starting at noon, this festival is free and pays tribute to the vibrant Ukrainian culture.
Tea enthusiasts will also find a special treat at the Northeast Tea Festival, taking place this Saturday at Somerville’s Center for Arts at the Armory. This festival invites guests to sample a diverse selection of teas from countries including Nepal, Japan, Taiwan, and India.
Alongside tea tastings, the event will host lectures and workshops covering various topics, such as creating autumn blends and discussing the historical significance of Chinese teas during the American Revolution. General admission tickets are $15, while VIP tickets can be purchased for $30 in advance. Prices will increase at the door, with general admission costing $30 and VIP tickets at $50.
Lastly, theater lovers should note that the production of ‘The Wiz’ will enjoy its final performances on Sunday, August 24, providing one last chance to experience this beloved show before it concludes.
This weekend is set to be a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community, inviting everyone to get outside and take part in the festivities.
image source from：wbur
