Citing Budget Concerns, Framingham Cancels 'Stars & Stripes' Event: Report

FRAMINGHAM, MA — While the country prepares to wish itself a happy 250th birthday, Framingham has called off its annual pre-Independence Day celebration, citing budget concerns.

“Like many communities across the commonwealth, the city of Framingham is facing significant budget constraints,” a spokesperson said in a statement Wednesday afternoon to CBS Boston.

“Due to limited staffing resources and ongoing financial challenges, including budget cuts and school and municipal layoffs, the city has made the difficult decision to cancel the annual Stars & Stripes event scheduled for June 2026.”

The event typically features music, food and a fireworks display over Farm Pond.

Framingham Mayor Charlie Sisitsky recently proposed a $398.1 million spending plan that trims spending across nearly every department, the MetroWest Daily News reported last week.

To read the CBS Boston coverage, click here.

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