Boston to Host 5th International India Day Parade on Aug. 9, Featuring 15 Floats
Annual event at Christopher Columbus Park will mark India's 79th Independence Day with floats, cultural performances and community celebrations.
BOSTON — The Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA)–New England will host the 5th International India Day Parade on Sunday, Aug. 9, at Christopher Columbus Park in Boston to celebrate the 79th anniversary of India’s Independence.
The free public event will begin at 11 a.m. and will be held under the theme “Festival of Freedom & U.S.-India Friendship.”
The parade will feature 15 floats, cultural performances and participation from community organizations, veterans, first responders and members of the Indian-American community from across New England.
The event’s grand marshals are Col. Inder Preet (IP) Singh, a recipient of the Yudh Seva Medal and military veteran, and Maggie Lehman, a U.S. Navy intelligence specialist. The chief guest will be Raghuram S. Sastry, the first Consul General of India in Boston.
Following the parade, activities at Christopher Columbus Park will include a ceremonial flag hoisting, dance and music performances, exhibits by community and nonprofit organizations, a vendor marketplace and a festival featuring Indian cuisine presented by The Treasury Restaurant of Burlington. Food gift cards and giveaways will also be available for parade participants, registered children and senior citizens.
Organizers said the event is expected to draw families, community leaders, elected officials, veterans, first responders and visitors from across New England.
FIA-New England Executive Director Deepak Rathore said during a planning meeting that this year’s parade is expected to be the organization’s largest celebration to date, highlighting freedom, democracy, cultural diversity and the relationship between the United States and India.
The organization also thanked Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey for issuing a proclamation recognizing Aug. 15, 2026, as “India Day” in Massachusetts for the fifth consecutive year.
The parade begins at Christopher Columbus Park, 100 Atlantic Ave. Admission is free and open to the public. The venue is accessible by the MBTA via Government Center, Aquarium, Haymarket and State Street stations, and several nearby parking garages will also be available for attendees.
