The India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) is set to commemorate India’s 79th Independence Day with an exciting lineup of cultural, civic, educational, and sporting events throughout August 2026. As one of New England’s oldest and largest Indian American nonprofit organizations, IAGB continues its longstanding tradition of bringing together communities to celebrate India’s rich heritage while strengthening the bond between India and the United States.

From official flag-raising ceremonies and a grand India Day celebration to a first-ever tennis ball cricket tournament and student scholarship awards, this year’s celebrations promise to unite families, community leaders, students, and local organizations across Greater Boston.

Distinguished Guests to Honor India’s Independence Day

Adding prestige to this year’s celebrations, IAGB is honored to welcome distinguished leaders who represent diplomacy, innovation, and community leadership.

Chief Guest

• Mr. Raghuram S., Consul General of India, Boston

Guest of Honor

• Ms. Anu Chitrapu, Senior Vice President & Technology Executive, Bank of America

Their participation reflects the growing cultural and civic partnership between India and the United States while inspiring the Indian American community through leadership and public service.

Official Flag Raising Ceremonies Across Greater Boston

The Independence Day celebrations begin on August 1, 2026, with official Flag Raising Ceremonies organized in partnership with several Massachusetts towns. These events symbolize democracy, unity, diversity, and community collaboration.

Flag Raising Schedule

Saturday, August 1, 2026

• Westford Town Common | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Burlington Town Common | 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Saturday, August 15, 2026

• NARA Park Amphitheater, Acton | 3:00 PM

Sunday, August 16, 2026

• Sharon Community Center | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Saturday, August 22, 2026

• Chinmaya Mission Boston, Andover | 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Community members, elected officials, families, and local leaders will gather to honor India’s independence while celebrating shared democratic values.

IAGB India Day 2026 – “Colors of India”

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026

Time: 2:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Venue: NARA Park Amphitheater, Acton, Massachusetts

The highlight of the month-long celebration is IAGB India Day 2026, themed “Colors of India.” This signature event showcases India’s vibrant traditions through music, dance, cuisine, and community engagement.

Visitors can expect an energetic celebration featuring cultural performances, family-friendly activities, delicious food, and opportunities to connect with organizations serving the Indian American community.

India Day Highlights

• More than 20 cultural performances by local artists and dance academies
• Interactive Flash Mob and Dance Along led by Swasti Bhargava
• Grand Finale DJ Hour presented by Xtreme Productions
• Over 25 community booths featuring cultural exhibits and family activities
• Exciting raffle draws and trivia games
• Free admission for all visitors
• Complimentary parking

Sponsors

Grand Sponsor
Apna Bazar Farmers Market

Food Partner
Craft Indian Kitchen

IAGB Launches Its First-Ever Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament

Adding a new sporting tradition to this year’s celebrations, IAGB introduces its inaugural Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament.

Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026

Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 Noon

Venues

• NARA Park Amphitheater
• Macpherson Field, Acton, Massachusetts

The tournament celebrates cricket’s enduring popularity within the Indian community while encouraging teamwork, healthy competition, and community participation.

Awards include:

• Champion Trophy
• Runner-Up Trophy
• Best Batter Award
• Best Bowler Award

Every registered participant will receive a complimentary event T-shirt.

Recognizing Academic Excellence: IAGB Senior Scholarship Awards 2026

Education remains a core pillar of IAGB’s mission.

Supported by the Kapasi Family Foundation, IAGB will award two scholarships of $500 each to graduating high school seniors entering college in Fall 2026.

Students participated by submitting essays based on this year’s inspiring theme:

“Colors of India – Stories That Inspire.”

The scholarship recipients will be recognized during the India Day celebrations on August 15, 2026, at NARA Park.

Strengthening Community Through Culture and Civic Engagement

Throughout August, IAGB’s programs celebrate far more than India’s Independence Day.

These initiatives promote:

• Cultural preservation
• Youth leadership
• Community service
• Civic participation
• Family engagement
• Cross-cultural understanding
• Stronger U.S.–India relationships

By organizing events across multiple Massachusetts communities, IAGB continues to create meaningful opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to experience India’s diverse traditions and vibrant culture.

About IAGB

Founded in 1962, the India Association of Greater Boston (IAGB) is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving Indian culture, promoting community engagement, and strengthening relations between India and the United States.

Over the decades, IAGB has organized major community events including India Day, Republic Day celebrations, educational initiatives, youth programs, cultural festivals, and civic engagement activities that serve thousands of families across New England.

Celebrating Unity, Heritage, and Community

As India marks its 79th Independence Day, IAGB invites families, students, professionals, and community members across Greater Boston to participate in a month-long celebration filled with culture, unity, education, and civic pride.

Whether attending a flag-raising ceremony, enjoying the vibrant performances at India Day, cheering during the cricket tournament, or celebrating student achievements, every event reflects IAGB’s enduring mission of bringing communities together while honoring India’s remarkable heritage.

Registration details, visit www.iagb.org

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