HONK! parade brings music to the streets of Somerville, Cambridge
The HONK! festival brought together over thirty bands in Cambridge and Somerville on Sunday, celebrating street music and activism. The parade marched from Davis Square to Harvard Square, coinciding with the 46th annual Oktoberfest. Organizers confirmed that 32 bands participated, with 11 hailing from Massachusetts and others traveling from cities like Seattle and New Orleans. This year, a new HONK!
U conference debuted, featuring presentations and workshops focusing on the evolution of street music activism. Although international bands were absent, virtual performances streamed from Brazil, Chile, and Italy, enhancing the celebration. The inaugural HONK! Festival took place in 2006 with twelve unplugged mobile bands, and since then, similar events have emerged worldwide. Organizers stated that the festival aims to show how joyful music can uplift communities during difficult times.
The event underscores the belief that creative expression in public spaces fosters solidarity and hope.