Somerville is about to get sticky. The What the Fluff? Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary this fall, and Union Square is once again transforming into a sugary playground for kids, adults, and anyone who has ever had marshmallow stuck to their sleeve.

A Festival Born From Fluff

Marshmallow Fluff was invented in Somerville in 1917 by Archibald Query, and it quickly became New England’s favorite spreadable confection. Beloved for everything from fudge recipes to hot chocolate toppers, Fluff earned cult status with the Fluffernutter sandwich, a pairing of peanut butter and Fluff that still fills lunchboxes across the region.

The festival itself began in 2005 as a cheeky way to honor Somerville’s claim to fame. Over the last two decades it has grown into one of the city’s biggest annual celebrations.

What to Expect at the 20th Anniversary

Live Music and Performances: Local bands keep the energy high all day long.
Food Vendors: Classic Fluffernutters, creative Fluff desserts, and a few savory experiments.
Family Activities: Crafts, games, and hands on experiments that are safe and very sticky.
Sticky Contests: From Fluff jousting to relay races, this is where things get hilariously messy.
Local Makers and Businesses: Union Square shops and artisans bring their own creative spin.

Why It Matters

The Fluff Festival is part block party, part food fight, part history lesson. It celebrates Somerville’s quirky spirit and proves that something as simple as a marshmallow spread can become a cultural icon. For 20 years, thousands of people have come together to laugh, eat, and enjoy a reminder that community can be as light and sweet as Fluff.

Thinking About Living Near Union Square?

Events like this are just one reason people fall in love with Somerville. Union Square blends history, arts, food, and community in a way that is hard to match.

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Note: Event details can change. For the latest schedule and vendors, check the official Fluff Festival website.