Fluff Festival: Marshmallow Madness in Somerville
Updated for 2025
Celebrate Marshmallow Fluff at the Fluff Festival in Union Square
Boston’s Union Square transforms into a sticky, sweet wonderland on May 31, 2025, for the 20th Annual Fluff Festival, a quirky celebration of Marshmallow Fluff’s legacy. Hosted by Union Square Main Streets, this free, family-friendly event runs from 12-6 p.m. as part of the WBUR Festival Street Fair. Expect a day packed with Fluff-inspired food, midway games, live performances, and unique activities honoring the iconic spread invented right here in Somerville. Whether you’re a Fluff fanatic or a curious foodie, this festival is a must-visit for Boston food lovers. Here’s your guide to the Fluff Festival, optimized for fun and flavor!
What to Expect at the Fluff Festival in Union Square
The Fluff Festival, officially titled What the Fluff? A Tribute to Union Square Innovation, celebrates the 1917 invention of Marshmallow Fluff by Archibald Query. This year’s 20th anniversary promises a “Flufftastic” lineup of events, from food vendors serving creative Fluff dishes to interactive games and live music. Held in Somerville’s Union Square, the festival draws locals and tourists alike for a day of community, creativity, and marshmallow madness.
Fluff Festival 2025 Schedule and Highlights
The festival’s packed schedule ensures non-stop entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of the key attractions:
Fluff’n Jam Stage Performances
Get ready to dance at the Fluff’n Jam Stage, hosted by Emcee Majic Alphonse from the Dojo @ Somernova. The stage features a diverse lineup of local talent:
2:00 p.m.: Julie Rhodes & The Electric Co. (soulful rock)
2:45 p.m.: Welcome by Mayor Ballantyne
3:00 p.m.: The Velvet Dirtmunchers (indie vibes)
3:45 p.m.: Flutterby "Fluff" Faeries (whimsical performance)
4:00 p.m.: Tenille Ja'Nae (R&B grooves)
4:45 p.m.: Somerville High School Step Team (high-energy dance)
5:00 p.m.: Mayor Joe Flufftastic Innovation for Impact Award Presentation
5:15 p.m.: FM Collective (eclectic jams)
DJ Mega Majic and DJ Dezzy will keep the beats flowing all day, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
Shenanigans Stage: Hilarious Fluff-Themed Games
Hosted by the festival’s beloved Archibald Query impersonator, the Shenanigans Stage offers laugh-out-loud activities:
2:00 p.m.: Marshmallow Toss
2:15 p.m.: Fluff Jousting
2:50 p.m.: Fluff on the Nose
3:05 p.m. & 4:05 p.m.: Fluff Musical Chairs
3:40 p.m. & 4:40 p.m.: Fluff Limbo
5:05 p.m.: Fluff Jousting (round two)
5:40 p.m.: Fluff Hairdos (sticky styling fun)
These playful competitions are perfect for kids and adults alike, adding a dose of whimsy to the day.
Midway Games and Family Fun
The Midway Games Area brings boardwalk-style excitement with free-to-play games like Fluff Bowling and Fluff Ring Toss. Win prizes and enjoy the nostalgic charm of these Fluff-themed challenges.
Innovation Alley by Somernova
Explore Innovation Alley, where young inventors showcase their creations alongside a S’Mores-making bot. Relax in the Inno Alley Lounge for a break from the festival buzz.
Parkour with Parkour Generations Boston
Thrill-seekers can try parkour under the guidance of Somerville’s expert instructors, adding an adventurous twist to the day.
Flufftastic Photo Ops
Strike a pose with colorful Fluff character cutouts designed by local artists Nathaniel Devarie and CultureHouse. These Instagram-worthy spots are perfect for capturing the festival spirit.
Flufftastic Food and Vendors
No Fluff Festival is complete without indulging in marshmallow-inspired treats. Local food vendors are serving up creative dishes, from Fluff-stuffed empanadas to Fluff-topped cocktails. Here are some highlights:
Bloc Cafe: FlufferNutter Ice Cream, Fluff Cupcakes, FlufferNutter Smoothies
Buenas: Fluff chocolate chip cookie empanadas
Hotbox: Nutella Fluff melt on housemade milk bread
Union Square Donuts: FlufferNutter Donut and Latte
Remnant Brewing: The Great Kerfluffle Stout and Fluffertini
Explore additional vendors like Gracie’s Ice Cream, Machu Picchu, and Masala Square Indian Kitchen for more Fluff-inspired bites. Craft vendors, including Elissa Surabian Art LLC and Zooguu, offer unique Fluff-themed goods, while community booths like Somerville High School Robotics add local flair.
Fluff Festival Merch and Shopping
Show your Somerville pride with limited-edition 2025 Fluff Festival merchandise, available at the merch tent on Somerville Ave near Parenting Journey. Choose from T-shirts, tank tops, hats, sweatshirts, tote bags, and koozies. Can’t wait until May 31? Order online now at the Fluff Vault through Union Square Main Streets’ store.
Voravut Ratanakommon (Spicy V) rocking Fluff Merch!
Getting to the Fluff Festival 2025
Union Square is best accessed by foot, bike, or public transit due to limited parking. Here’s how to get there:
By Green Line: Take the MBTA Green Line to Union Square Station, then walk to the East Entrance near Gracie’s Ice Cream.
By Bus: Note that Route 87 buses will be detoured from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Connect at Somerville Ave at Stone Ave or Loring Ave.
By Bike: Use the free bike valets provided by MassBike at both festival entrances.
By Foot: The festival is a 25-minute walk from Lechmere, East Somerville, Porter, Harvard, Central, or Sullivan Squares.
If driving is unavoidable, park on the outskirts of Union Square to avoid congestion.
Flufftastic Offerings Beyond the Festival
Can’t get enough Fluff? Local businesses are rolling out Fluff-inspired specials in the lead-up to and during the festival. Highlights include:
BARRA: Specialty Fluff cocktail
maca boston: Fluff macas and FlufferNutter macaron croissants
Union Tavern: Pumpkin beer with a Fluff and brown sugar rim
Bow Market: Marshmallow Fluff Micro Museum (open September 19-30)
Check the full list of participating businesses on the Fluff Festival website for more sticky treats and deals.
Why the Fluff Festival Matters
The Fluff Festival isn’t just about marshmallows—it’s a celebration of Somerville’s innovative spirit and tight-knit community. By honoring Marshmallow Fluff’s local roots, the event brings together residents, businesses, and visitors for a day of joy and connection. Thanks to sponsors like Middlesex Federal and Nicewicz Family Farm, plus the dedicated Fluff Planning Team, this free event continues to thrive.
Share Your Fluff Festival Experience
Capture the fun and share your Fluff Festival moments on Instagram with the hashtag #ForeverFluff and tag @flufffestival
Whether you’re tossing marshmallows or savoring a FlufferNutter donut, let the world see how you Fluff!
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the 2025 Fluff Festival in Boston
The 20th Annual Fluff Festival on May 31, 2025, promises a day of sticky, sweet fun in Boston’s Union Square. From live music and Fluff-themed games to mouthwatering treats and local crafts, there’s something for everyone at this beloved Somerville tradition. Mark your calendar, grab your Fluff merch, and join the marshmallow madness.
If you’re looking for more festivals check out our guide featuring 21 festivals in 2025!
