SOMA Living October 2025

Maplewood Village bursts with color and sound on Sunday, October 19th, as the Maplewood Art Walk & Music Fest returns for its 16th year. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Maplewood Avenue, Highland Place, and Baker Street transform into a pedestrian friendly art gallery and music venue. Local artists set up exhibits along the streets, while musicians, merchants, and children’s activities create a lively atmosphere for families. Erin Rose Baldry, Executive Director of Maplewood Village Alliance effuses, “The Maplewood Village Alliance is thrilled to continue to host the Art Walk and Music Fest again this year. I am extremely excited to see all the hard work and dedication of everyone involved come to fruition. It is always rewarding when the community comes together like this. We truly have amazing local talent, both artists and musicians.” ART WALK MAPLEWOOD ART WALK & MUSIC FEST FILLS VILLAGE STREETS WITH CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY

Geralyn Robinson, event founder and chair, organizes the festival with passion. “I always feel thrilled to organize this fantastic event,” Geralyn explains. “It provides an opportunity for our local artists to exhibit and sell their work. It really is a perfect day for people looking to buy art and hear live music, while spending the day in historic and charming Maplewood Village.” Families can enjoy music on Baker Street and Highland Ave, with a DJ spinning tunes at Highland Place and Maplewood Ave. For lineups, maps, and updates, visit maplewoodartsandculture.org. Sponsors and volunteers make this weather permitting event possible.

The Maplewood Halloween Celebration returns to Maplewood Village on Friday, October 31, from 3 to 5 p.m. Families can dance to a DJ, pop into a photo booth, and show off their creativity in costume contests. Inspirational Dance Studio will bring energy with a performance. Dancette Pratts from the studio said, “We are excited to perform again at the Halloween Parade! Last year’s performance was so well received!” SOMA CHAMBER SPONSORS BELOVED HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION

The SOMA Chamber of Commerce sponsors the festivities and rallies partners to make it happen. Chamber President Norman Woolley said, “The Maplewood Halloween Celebration is a cherished tradition. The Chamber is proud to sponsor it, and while not everyone knows we’re behind the scenes, it’s about giving back and creating lasting memories.” Mayor Nancy Adams added, “The Halloween Parade is a wonderful reflection of what makes Maplewood special: It’s filled with creative people with a great sense of community.” Executive Director Chris Dickson underscores the teamwork behind the scenes. “We could not do it without the support of Maplewood Township, our members, and many sponsors.” He noted the event’s longevity. “The Halloween Celebration is a beloved SOMA tradition, and the Chamber of Commerce is proud that we have been able to host the event for almost 30 years,” said Dickson. Local businesses can still join the fun as sponsors. “This is a great, cost-effective way for local businesses to get in front of the community in connection to a universally loved event,” said Dickson. For details, email executivedirector@ somachamber.org or visit www.somachamber.org.

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