FIA-New England to Host Fifth International India Day Parade August 9

The Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England has announced the 5th International India Day Parade, which will take place on August 9, 2026, at Christopher Columbus Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

According to a statement from FIA New England, the event is one of New England’s largest celebrations of India’s Independence, its “cultural heritage, and the enduring friendship between India and the United States.”

This year’s parade will commemorate the 80th anniversary of India’s Independence under the theme, “Festival of Freedom & U.S.-India Friendship.”

The celebration will feature 15 colorful floats, a vibrant cultural program, and participation from community organizations, veterans, first responders, and thousands of attendees representing the diversity of the Indian American community across New England.

The Grand Marshals for this year’s parade are:

• Colonel Inder Preet (IP) Singh, Yudh Seva Medal (Veteran), recognized for his distinguished military service and leadership.
• Ms. Maggie Lehman, a U.S. Navy Intelligence Specialist, who is being honored for her dedicated service and commitment to the nation.

The event’s Chief Guest will be Raghuram S. Sastry, the first Consul General of India in Boston. According to FIA New England, his presence marks another milestone in strengthening India-U.S. relations and supporting the growing Indian American community in New England.

During a joint planning meeting, FIA New England Executive Director Deepak Rathore said this year’s parade will be the largest and most vibrant edition to date, “celebrating freedom, democracy, cultural diversity, and strong partnership” between the United States and India.

The organizers also expressed gratitude to Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey for issuing a proclamation designating August 15, 2026, as “India Day” in Massachusetts for the fifth consecutive year. FIA New England’s leadership said the Governor’s “India Day” proclamation has become a cherished tradition that recognizes the significant contributions of the Indian American community to the Commonwealth.

Following the parade, the celebrations will continue at Christopher Columbus Park with a ceremonial flag hoisting, cultural performances by dance and music groups, community and nonprofit organization exhibits, a vendor marketplace, and a Festival of Indian Cuisine featuring authentic Indian dishes presented by The Treasury Restaurant of Burlington, Massachusetts.

Food gift cards and special giveaways will also be distributed to parade participants, registered children, and senior citizens.

Families, community leaders, elected officials, veterans, first responders, and visitors from across New England are expected to attend the celebration.

Event Details

• 5th International India Day Parade
  Sunday, August 9, 2026
  11:00 AM
  Christopher Columbus Park
  100 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA

Admission: Free and Open to the Public

Nearby Parking (5–10 Minute Walk)

• Harbor iParkit Garage – 299 Milk Street (closest covered parking)
• Best Hourly & Monthly Parking (Harbor Garage) – 70 E India Row
• International Place Parking – 55 Purchase Street
• Garage at Post Office Square – 112 Congress Street
• South Station Parking Garage – 700 Atlantic Avenue (10–15 minute walk)

Public Transit
Take the MBTA Blue Line or Green Line to Government Center, or the Blue Line to Aquarium Station. Christopher Columbus Park is just a short walk from both stations. The area is also within walking distance of Haymarket and State Street stations.

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