We’ll make the day shine together—rainbows and all. 🌈

Think: a pride parade on the water!

Fabulously decorated human-powered boats of all types—canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, rowing shells, dragon boats, kinetic sculptures, and more—will paddle around the Mystic River basin in Somerville & Medford MA, to celebrate LGBTQIA+ people and their allies.

Free and open to all, this is a family-friendly non-alcoholic event to showcase the Mystic River is for EVERY BODY.

Participants: bring your own boat and launch from Blessing of the Bay Boathouse dock, or rent boats there for a half-day at Paddle Boston. Boats launch 11 AM until 11:45 AM. Boat registration is highly encouraged so you will receive email updates and instructions.

Spectators: all are welcome along the riverbanks, at Macdonald Park in Medford and near Blessing of the Bay Park in Somerville. The Flotilla commences 12-noon until 1 PM. Just show up and cheer!

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Participants: Boats launch 11 AM to 11:45 AM
Spectators: Flotilla commences 12-noon to 1pm

The Mystic River Pride Flotilla is brought to you by the Mystic River Watershed Association and Gentle Giant Rowing Club