Springfield’s streets are about to, once again, host the biggest showcase of Puerto Rican pride in Massachusetts.
On September 14, the 35th anniversary of the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade arrives with a brand-new Pa’lante 5K, turning the parade route into a runway for culture, community, and celebration.
Honoring African influences
This year’s theme, “Afro-Boricua,” honors the African influences that have shaped Puerto Rican culture for generations.
It’s a milestone moment for a parade that goes beyond floats and marching bands and celebrates legacy, identity, and Springfield’s role as one of the Commonwealth’s cultural capitals.
“Springfield has over 150,000 residents, and more than 55,000 are Puerto Rican,” said Jayne Astacio, Springfield resident, Puerto Rican, and first-year parade organizer. “We’re welcoming everyone and anyone to come and have fun with us.”
The day starts early at 8:00 a.m. with the Pa’lante 5K, beginning at Kenefick Park and finishing at Main and Bridge Street. The parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m. from Wason Avenue and Main Street, marching toward Boland Way.
Expect hundreds of marchers, floats, dancers, and musicians bringing Springfield to life.
Parade highlights for 2025 include
- A live performance by Madison Curbelo of The Voice.
- Vendors traveling in from New York, Worcester, and Rhode Island with authentic Puerto-Rican food and crafts.
- Community honorees recognized for their contributions.
- A family-friendly celebration at Tower Square Park, featuring food, face painting, and kids’ activities.
- An official after-party at MGM Springfield to keep the energy going.
22News reporter Sara Bien-Aime will emcee the festivities, adding a broadcast spotlight to one of the city’s most powerful cultural traditions.
Organizers emphasize that the parade has expanded significantly in recent years, particularly post-pandemic, with stronger institutional partnerships and deeper community investment.
Its mission has remained steady: to uplift and empower the community by celebrating Puerto Rican culture, challenging stereotypes, and leaving a lasting legacy.
As Astacio put it: “There’s a lot of firsts this year. But more than anything, it’s about showing off our culture and why Puerto Ricans are proud of who we are.”
Registration to march in the parade is open until September 10.
Parade breakfast, the annual launchpad
Every September, in the days before the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade, the community gathers for the Parade Breakfast, a tradition almost as beloved as the parade itself.
The breakfast brings together community leaders, elected officials, business owners, and residents to celebrate Puerto Rican culture, honor this year’s parade theme, and raise funds to keep the event thriving.
The business angle – how your business can participate
The Springfield Puerto Rican Parade is an economic engine. Tens of thousands of spectators pack Main Street, creating one of the biggest foot-traffic surges of the year in downtown Springfield.
Local restaurants, cafés, and shops often see a bump in sales, while vendors and food trucks set up along the route to reach an audience they couldn’t find anywhere else in Western Mass.
Businesses can take part in the parade in several ways.
Sponsorships & parade participation
Sponsorships and parade participation, whether with a float, a marching group, or a branded presence, offer exposure to a massive and diverse crowd.
While the deadline for this year’s sponsorships has passed, organizers encourage businesses to start planning now for 2026 to maximize impact.
Selling at the Parade
Setting up at the parade is also an option for food trucks, local restaurants, and vendors.
The mix of regional and out-of-state vendors shows the appetite for visibility here, and Springfield-based businesses are especially well-positioned to benefit.
From selling food and merchandise to showcasing services, the parade is an unmatched chance to connect with the community and visitors alike.
PHOTOS: Courtesy of The Springfield Puerto Rican Parade
CONTRIBUTOR
Inc413 News Team
The Inc413 news team compiles business stories from across Western Massachusetts and beyond. Our primary focus is on stories that have an impact on small businesses, entrepreneurs, and the people they employ.
