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What the Fluff? Festival spreads the love in Somerville

Celebrate the city’s most prized invention: marshmallow fluff.

Union Square sign with marshmallow and bread

Take part in Somerville’s quirkiest tradition this year.

Photo by @nate_devarie

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Jam’s for s(m)uckers.

In Somerville, lip-smacking marshmallow Fluff reigns supreme in sandwiches, and there’s a festival to declare it. The What The Fluff? festival returns this Sunday, Sept. 24 to honor the city’s legendary + creamy sandwich spread, which was concocted by confectioner Archibald Query in the early 20th century.

For year No. 18, the festival will occupy a stretch of Somerville Avenue between Dane Street and Warren Avenue, swirling Fluff-themed fun in Union Square from 3 to 7 p.m.

Here’s the rundown of the afternoon.

Getting there

  • The MBTA will offer shuttle service to Union Square, due to the current service suspension between Lechmere and the Union Square Station.
  • Three shuttles will run between the East Somerville Station and Union Square Station from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • The Route 87 bus can make connections to Somerville Avenue at Stone and Loring Avenues.
  • Bike valets will also be available on Somerville Avenue at the corners of School Street and Warren Avenue, courtesy of MassBike.

Sticky shenanigans

Indulge in Somerville’s invention from a distance by checking out live entertainment on the Fluff’n Jam Stage, featuring music from local artists like Grace Givertz + The White Owls. Adventurous guests can get their hands dirty at the aptly-titled Shenanigans Stage, which will bring a sticky twist to musical chairs, jousting, and limbo. Review the full schedule.

Can’t-miss treats

Find these experimental takes on Fluff favorites throughout the festival.

  • Oysters FLUFFefeller — Bluefin
  • Fluffernutter donut — Union Square Donuts
  • Canned Fluff cocktails — Nook Somerville
  • Orange Creamsicle Cocktail topped with Fluff — Saus at Bow Market
  • Fluff Naan and Fluff Samosas — Masala Square Indian Kitchen

UPDATE: This article now reflects the festival’s rain date, Sunday, Sept. 24.

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