Boston Police officials and organizers of this Sunday’s Dominican Festival in Franklin Park briefed the media on Thursday about precautions they are taking before the large-scale event.
The festival has a long history in Boston. It includes a parade on Centre Street, Columbus Avenue, Seaver Street and into the park. In recent years, it has begun to draw much larger numbers and at times has overwhelmed surrounding neighborhoods during and after the festival. In 2024, five people were shot on the Playstead during the festival.
“The organizers have planned a family-friendly event this Sunday and we wanted to make sure the expectations for visitors and participants meet our expectations,” said Police Commissioner Michael Cox during a press conference at BPD headquarters in Schroeder Plaza. “There are going to be large crowds and people should know there is no parking. We encourage those coming to take public transit because parking will be very, very difficult to come by. We encourage people to come to the event, come and enjoy a family-friendly event. We want to make it clear so that everyone follows the rules.”
Dominican Festival President Luis Matos speaks about the festival, while Vice President Yoleney Ynio (left) stands by. Seth Daniel photo…