Boston Police Share Safety Advisory Ahead of Dominican Parade

Ahead of the Dominican Parade on Sunday, Boston Police are sharing important safety information as thousands of people are expected to take part in the annual celebration.
According to the Boston Globe, Police Commissioner Michael Cox said additional officers will be on the ground along the parade route, which runs from Hyde Square in Jamaica Plain to Franklin Park in Dorchester. Officials are also reminding attendees that disorderly behavior will not be tolerated and are asking people to leave the area once the festivities end.
Cox emphasized that the parade is meant to be a family-friendly celebration. Police say they’ve learned from past incidents surrounding large events and have worked to address potential safety concerns ahead of Sunday.
The parade kicks off around noon, and drivers should also expect road closures along Centre Street, Perkins Street, Columbus Avenue, and Walnut Avenue.
You can read the full report from the Boston Globe.
Here are a few simple BPD dos and don’ts that will be enforced:
Dos
- Have Fun! Enjoy the festival, the music, and the celebration!
- Be Respectful: Treat fellow attendees, event and City staff, as well as park neighbors with respect.
- Look Out for Kids and Pedestrians: Stay alert.
- Clean Up After Yourself: Dispose of all trash & recycling in bins, keep the park clean.
- Follow All Parking & Entry/Exit Regulations: Obey posted parking restrictions and follow designated entry/exit points for a safe, smooth flow of traffic.
- Plan Ahead for Walking: Expect to walk a distance from off-site parking areas to the festival grounds. Wear comfortable footwear.
- Use Designated Transportation: Consider using public transit, rideshares, or designated walk routes to reach the park.
- Obey Permitted Areas: Follow all posted signage and instructions from event staff and local authorities.
- Leave the park as soon as the event concludes. The park will be closed at that time.
Don’ts
- No Parking On Site or in Surrounding Area: Seek alternative transportation
- Don’t Bring Unauthorized Vehicles: Mopeds, motorized scooters, and off-road vehicles (ATVs/dirt bikes), or speaker cars are strictly prohibited inside the park
- Don’t Speed: Keep your speed low on surrounding streets to protect pedestrians and fellow drivers.
- Don’t Try to Drive Through Closed Roads: Circuit Drive and Franklin Park Road will be closed to all through traffic during the event and the existing Summer overnight closures from 8:00pm-5:00am..
- Don’t Play Amplified Music: High-decibel or excessively loud personal music from a sound system or vehicle is not permitted in the park, and may be seized.
- Don’t Bring Prohibited Items: Possession of any weapons or fireworks are strictly forbidden, and will be enforced..
- Don’t Consume Alcohol or Marijuana in Public: Public consumption of alcohol and marijuana is illegal.and prohibited!
Be safe out there and enjoy the day!
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
