24 Hours of Culture (BIPOC Arts)

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council, in proud partnership with Circle Squared, are excited to present ‘24 Hours of Culture’, a celebration amplifying the diverse cultural heartbeat of the Somerville and Greater Boston on Saturday, August 16 (Rain date: August 17), at Union Square Plaza and Stone Park, from 4 to 10 p.m. 

Designed to uplift Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) voices and showcase local artists, performers, and community leaders, 24 Hours of Culture invites residents of all ages to engage with live performances, public art, and hands-on workshops. This event is free to attend and open to all ages. 

“Somerville is a city that thrives on creativity, inclusivity, and civic pride. Events like 24 Hours of Culture bring us together to celebrate who we are, and who we can become, through the arts, culture, and shared experiences.” said Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. 

Event highlights include: 

• Live performances from KAE ALAYAH, Forte, and DJ High Fadility
• Mural & Banner Making: Help co-create a visual piece representing community resilience 
• Zine Making with Guerrilla Mag: DIY publishing and storytelling 
• Afro-Futurism workshop 
• Collective Envisioning: A participatory space to reflect on what culture, healing, and joy look like in our neighborhoods 
• Lawn games, local vendors, and interactive exhibits 

“A welcoming, joyful space built for connection and creative expression. 24 Hours of Culture is about highlighting the best parts of our community to create the world we want to see.” said event producer Cidjud Felix. 

For more information, visit: somervilleartscouncil.org/events/24-hours.  

About Circle Squared 

Circle Squared is a BIPOC led and centered cultural curatorial organization amplifying communal agency as means to create the world we want to live in. Follow Circle Squared on Instagram (@circle.squared2) and use #24HoursofCulture when sharing event photos.