Move Over, Kerouac: Check Out These New Works from Lowell Authors
Lowell has inspired many famous writers, from wanderer Jack Kerouac and poet Lucy Larcom to the famous gothic Edgar Allen Poe. Today, Lowell continues to influence modern authors to write new works about life, history, and the human experience. Check out these four brand-new releases from Lowell writers that continue the city’s rich literary tradition while adding a new, modern spin.
Steven O’Connor- This is No Time to Quit Drinking: Teacher Burnout and the Irish Powers
Steven O’Connor is an English teacher at Greater Lowell Technical High School, and is inspired to write both by Lowell and his Irish heritage. He has published an astonishing 14 short stories and two full-length novels, and is known for his rich description and knowledge of Lowell. Inspired after hearing that the comic novel is “dead,” O’Connor’s newest release and third novel, This is No Time to Quit Drinking: Teacher Burnout and the Irish Powers, is a comic novel about a teacher whose life is plagued with problems (a banshee hunter, a haunted house, and a hit man to name a few). This new page-turner is the perfect book to read on a stormy night with a cup of tea handy, and is a unique, refreshing book for both the newcomers to the genre as well as the seasoned veterans.
T.R. Monaghan- Sweet, Sweet Jayne
T.R. Monaghan grew up in Lowell, so her first novel is set there during the 1970’s. Partly inspired by her memories and the city itself, Sweet, Sweet Jayne is about a young girl from a troubled family. When Jayne is hired to be a runner for a prominent gang, she quickly becomes entangled in Lowell’s underworld, but her new life is threatened by a crooked FBI agent looking to crack down on crime. Monaghan’s fictional work is inspired by real events in Lowell during the ‘70’s, drawing from research she conducted at the Pollard Memorial Library and an interview she conducted with a friend who was a rookie police officer in Lowell during that time. Her book is currently available on Amazon, and she’s already excited to begin working on her second novel about Lowell.
A.G Reidy: dinkweed
Also set in Lowell during the 1970’s, dinkweed explores the lives of three brothers growing up in a hardscrabble part of the city. Through a collection of short stories, we follow older brother Gary’s trials of love, status, and self-image all while guiding his younger siblings through lives of their own. It’s a nostalgic look at coming-of-age in a Lowell that is very different from the present, and touches on themes of self-discovery and growing up. Author A.G Reidy also grew up in Lowell, and was inspired to publish her first collection of short stories partly by her own experiences of perseverance and growing up in the city.
Richard P. Howe Jr. and Robert Casper: Community and Country: Greater Lowell Veterans Council 1919-2019
Written and compiled by former Greater Lowell Veterans Council Commander Robert Casper and Greater Lowell Veterans Council Historian Richard P. Howe Jr., this new book is a history of all veterans' organizations in Lowell, past and present.
Throughout 100+ years of existence, over 30 organizations have held membership in the Greater Lowell Veteran’s Council. This book illuminates the important work done by these organizations with photos and detailed descriptions of monuments, groups, and people who have contributed to the rich history of Lowell’s veteran population. History lovers and native Lowellians will learn something new not only about the Lowell Memorial Auditorium and other veterans monuments throughout the city, but also more about Lowell’s unique history and its long-standing support of community and country.
Whether you’re into crime, comedy, or history, new authors from all over Lowell always have something to offer. For more Lowell writers and new works, including poetry, Richard P. Howe has a great list of recent releases: http://richardhowe.com/city-resources/
Summer Festivals and Fun Happenings in Lowell
While the Lowell Folk Festival may be over there are still more festival celebrations and activities around the corner to entertain you for the rest of the summer! As we enter August, visit Lowell and discover all there is to like about our city. Mark you calendars, because these activities are a great way to end your summer on a high note!
1. Lowell Southeast Asian Water Festival
Lowell has a rich culture that enhances the city, attracting people from across the country and providing the perfect setting to preserve and share the cultural heritages of the Southeast Asian Community. Add the Southeast Asian Water Festival to your list of festivals and join in as the city celebrates the culture with endless food, crafts, performances and of course the famous Dragon boat races!
2. Brazilian Food Festival
What's better than spending your afternoon eating exquisite traditional Brazilian food? The Brazilian Food Festival is for all the foodies out there, as it brings live music, authentic Brazilian dishes and delicious desserts for all to enjoy. Come experience Brazilian culture at this free event held at JKF Plaza. All proceeds will benefit Life Connection Center, bringing healthy meals to the homeless community.
3. Lowell Summer Music Series
The music scene is always vibrant in Lowell as the Lowell Summer Music Series continues all summer long! Although the Folk Festival has come to an end, Boarding House Park music festivities haven't, as artists are lined up for all to listen. Boarding House Park is perfectly located near an abundance of local restaurants, so you can enjoy a bite to eat before or after the concert! Make a night with family and friends and discover why Lowell is the place to visit for a great night out.
4. Family Festival
Every summer the Center for Hope and Healing transforms Shedd Park into a mini carnival with endless activities, food, music,face painting and more. This year's Family Festival will also include zumba, yoga and sports. according to the Center for Hope and Healing, "This family friendly event raises funds to support survivors of abuse and serves as an opportunity to increase awareness of violence prevention education in our community." This event is a great way to have fun while supporting a great cause.
5. Made in Lowell: Friday Nights!
Looking to celebrate the end of a long week? Well, we have just the event that will get you outdoors and keep you entertained for hours! Friday Nights! is returning to The Mill Yard with delicious food, beautiful art, music and a beer garden. Lowell’s non-profit Made in Lowell hosts Friday Nights every second Friday of every month until October, so if you haven’t experienced this event you will definitely want to stop by!
Lowell is a hotspot for festivals and summer fun, so come take a trip on the wild side and discover why There’s a Lot to Like about Lowell.
The Lowell Ultimate Neighborhood Guide
Lowell's neighborhoods are a diverse reflection of the city's many populations, each with its own character and history. The eight distinct neighborhoods include: Pawtucketville, Centralville, Highlands, The Acre, Downtown, Back Central, South Lowell and Belvidere.
Some maps also break the neighborhoods down even further to include Lower Belvidere, the upper and lower Highlands and Ayres City, but this guide will focus on the distinct eight.
#Pawtucketville
Pawtucketville is the largest of Lowell's neighborhoods. Occupying the city's northwest area north of the Merrimack River, the neighborhood is mainly residential with lots of open space, parks and other green places for leisure and recreation.
Pawtucketville is an attractive summer destination in the city because of its location along the Merrimack River. Visitors can swim, kayak, fish and even take boat tours along the river. Parks such as the Vandenberg Esplanade and Lowell Heritage State Park are perfect places for summer activities. The Lowell Tyngsboro Dracut State Forest provides an environment for quiet hikes, birdwatching and crosscountry skiing. Other parks in the neighborhood include the Gannon Family Memorial Park, Father Maguire Playground, Fels Park and the Flaggy Meadows Playground.
Also located in Pawtucketville is the historic Hawk Valley Farm on Varnum Avenue. Hawk Valley Farm has been connected to the Varnum family since the 1660s. Today, the grounds still feature the old Varnum House from the 1700s along with various ruins and foundations from centuries past. Hawk Valley Farm is part of an urban land trust that preserves green space in the city to educate visitors of the now urban area's agricultural past.
Other attractions include UMass Lowell's North Campus with its Lydon Library, Costello Center and the Cushing Field Complex.
#Centralville
In Lowell's northeastern corner is the Centralville neighborhood. Separated from Pawtucketville to the west by Beaver Brook and with the Merrimack River along its southern border, Centralville is also a highly residential neighborhood with acres of green space.
The McPherson Playground, with basketball and tennis courts, baseball diamonds and pool is the perfect play area for recreational sports. Another large park, Gage Field, is located across the street behind the Robinson Middle School.
The Robinson Middle School parking lot and the Christian Hill Reservoir are two high points with great vistas of the city and are ideal for stargazing, appreciating city vistas and enjoying Lowell's 4th of July fireworks. Riverfront Park runs along the neighborhood's southern border. The park features the Merrimack River Bike Path, a river level, paved path from Beaver Brook to Duck Island. The park is a great area for summer picnics, jogging, fishing, and spotting hawks, herons, eagles and other wildlife.
#Highlands
Lowell's Highlands neighborhood is situated in the southwest section of the city. At the neighborhood's northern point is UMass Lowell's South Campus. The neighborhood's central section is mainly residential, and the diversity of the neighborhood is indicative of the city's overall culture. Much like Pawtucketville and Centralville, the Highlands features green spaces
and parks. Two active parks are Hadley and Callery Parks.
The Merrimack River serves as the neighborhood's northern border. Its riverfront, directly across the street from UMass Lowell's South Campus, is a scenic area for UMass Lowell students, locals and tourists and is a great place for fishing, picnics and relaxation.
#The Acre
The Acre is a neighborhood west of Downtown Lowell. It is a small neighborhood but is full of vibrancy and activity. The neighborhood is densely populated with a blend of small businesses.
North Common, the Acre's largest park located in the middle of the neighborhood, is an oasis from the urban landscape. North Common includes a public pool as well as basketball courts, making the park a summer destination that is relatively close to downtown.
Western Avenue Studios and Lofts anchor the southwest corner of the neighborhood with over 300 working artists at the studios. Decatur Way is a public, outdoor art space where local art is featured and runs between Merrimack and Salem Street from University Crossing to the LHA's Mercier Center.
#Downtown
Downtown Lowell is full of activity and nightlife as well as unique small businesses and restaurants, each lending its individual flair and personality to Lowell's downtown scene.
Downtown includes: The Tsongas Center, Lowell National Historical Park, Boott Cotton Mills Museum, New England Quilt Museum, Pollard Memorial Library and Lowell City Hall as well as historic canals, such as the Eastern Canal and Upper Pawtucket Canal, and numerous businesses, restaurants and cafés. Check out Lowell's downtown restaurants and cafes here.
Another fun feature of Downtown Lowell is its extensive trolley system. Trolleys are operated by the Lowell National Historical Park and run from spring through fall.
#Back Central
Back Central is located south of Downtown Lowell. It holds the distinction of being the smallest of Lowell's neighborhoods however Back Central has an exciting mix of businesses and residences. A noteworthy feature of Back Central is South Common, a large park located
at the corner of Highland and Thorndike Streets.
#South Lowell
South Lowell, an area also known as Ayres City, is a residential neighborhood that features three large cemeteries at its center. The cemeteries are Westlawn Cemetery, Edson Cemetery and St. Patrick's Cemetery. Surrounding these three cemeteries are many residential roads.
The Concord River flows through the neighborhood and provides a scenic location for nature lovers and relaxation seekers. Muldoon Park features a boat launching spot on the Concord River.
#Belvidere
The Belvidere neighborhood, along with Lower Belvidere, is situated in the southeast corner of the city. The neighborhood is the secondlargest of Lowell's distinct eight. Belvidere is separated from the rest of Lowell by the Merrimack and Concord Rivers.
In Lower Belvidere is the historic Lowell Cemetery, known for its green space and natural serenity. The cemetery features ornate headstones in a parklike landscape, making it a beautiful destination that functions as a public art display surrounded by nature. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Belvidere also features more green space and parks. Rogers Fort Hill Park and Shedd Park are perfect relaxation spots. The Wyman Bird Sanctuary.
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Written by Henry St. Pierre
To find a more comprehensive list of Lowell's restaurants and other businesses from each neighborhood, please visit www.likelowell.com.
Even More Reasons Why Lowell is Heaven for Creatives
Art entrepreneurs create opportunities, jobs, culture, products and services that help drive our economy. With over 600 artists and makers residing in Lowell, the city has a great infrastructure that provides invaluable support to the creative community. (Read the first part of the article here).
1. Creative Resources
Over the last 10 years the Lowell Cultural Council Program (LCC) has supported hundreds of community-based projects in the arts, humanities and sciences annually allocating funding within the Lowell community on behalf of the Massachusetts Cultural Council. These funds provide economic support for community events that reach residents of all ages. This year alone the LCC funded 42 projects for a total of $61,645.
Pictured above is Barbara Poole's 'Veils of Color', a public art project funded by the LCC.
2. DIY Community
The spirit of do-it-yourself is alive and well in the city. Organizations like DIY Lowell, a citizen-led initiative that connects and empowers Lowellians, are essential to creating positive change. Residents can submit ideas and implement small-scale community projects to enhance the quality of life in the city's neighborhoods.
For PARK(ing) Day Lowell, DIY Lowell and the National Historical Park transformed three metered parking spaces on Merrimack Street into a pop-up park for the day.
3. Cultural Partnerships
The Cultural Organization of Lowell provides information, advocacy and services to individuals, organizations, institutions and agencies involved with the local creative economy. Commonly known by the acronym "COOL" this nonprofit plays a key role in the city helping to strengthen the vitality and economic growth of arts and culture in Lowell.
4. Makers Culture
As the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, Lowell continues to attract makers and innovators. Organizations like Lowell Makes are succeeding in efforts to bring together local artists, engineers, makers and thinkers to provide the tools and learning resources where individuals can gain and practice modern skills with a community of creative-minded people making all kinds of things.
5. Inspired Innovation
The first of its kind in Massachusetts, New Vestures is a fashion and textiles co-working makerspace. Founded in 2012 by artist, designer & educator, Diana Coluntino, New Vestures aims to support a community of fashion designers, entrepreneurs and innovators who believe that creative, sustainable apparel, textile design and manufacturing practices will improve lives and better the world.
For more information on these organizations and more public arts attractions in Lowell, please visit likelowell.com.
The 8 must-go-to events in Lowell in 2017
There Is A Lot To like about events and festivals in Lowell. From neighborhood parties to the largest folk festival in the nation. Did you know that more than 2,500 events are happening every given year in Lowell?
There Is A Lot To like about events and festivals in Lowell. From neighborhood parties to the largest folk festival in the nation. Did you know that more than 2,500 events are happening every given year in Lowell?
As you make your plans for this year, make sure to plan for our 8 must-go-to events of the year. There are for sure plenty more events worth attending, but these 8 are unique and special to us. Remember, you have plenty of other days to go on vacation!
1. Winterfest (Feb. 24-25)
Lowell’s Winterfest will fuse the city’s warm, inviting culture and cold, New England winter weather. Downtown Lowell will transform into a fun, safe, frozen wonderland. Along with the returning and very popular Soup Bowl Competition, Microbrew Craft Beer Showcase and all yu can eat Chocolate Festival, there will be a wider range of food and drinks provided by Lowell eateries and breweries, including Phoenix Rising Pizza, Spiceventure, Tutto Bene Wine & Cheese Cellars, Merrimack Ales and Navigation Brewing Company.
JFK Plaza will convert into an ice skating rink, ensuring family fun. Beautiful lights on the canal will illuminate downtown, including Lucy Larcom Park, which will become the Magical Winter Garden. There will also be a heated, on-site restaurant, The Lodge, which will offer plenty of comfortable seating and serve as an oasis from the cold weather. Winterfest will also feature live music, performed by nationally-known U2 cover band, Joshua Tree, and the local band rising to stardom, Western Education. Those are only a couple of the bands playing!
Lowell’s Winterfest will be a great weekend for people of all ages, so be sure to mark the event on your calendar. To buy tickets and to learn more about Winterfest, please visit www.lowellwinterfest.com. Also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellWinterFest/.
2. Beards & Brews (March 11)
Beards and brews. It does not get much better than that. The Red Antler Apothecary, located in Mill No. 5, and Made in Lowell are partnering to host Beards & Brews -- which is exactly what its name describes -- for its third year. There is going to be plenty of beer – provided by breweries such as Navigation Brewing Company, Merrimack Ales, St. Killians and Wachusett, just to name a few – along with a grand amount of facial hair. Categories for best beard, mustache, and whiskerinas are all featured in the friendly competition.
There is also going to be plenty of food, including vending by Mill City Cheesemongers and Cuesta’s Fiestas. It is not a true shindig without music, so bands including Sunday Mourning will perform. It is greatly urged to purchase tickets early.
To learn more about Beards & Brews and to purchase tickets, please visitwww.madeinlowell.org/beards-brews. Go buy some beard oil too! To let them know you are interested in attending, please visit their Facebook event page atwww.facebook.com/events/1616939908600424/.
3. Lowell Summer Music Series (summer)
The Lowell Summer Music Series is an annual series of concerts at Boarding House Park. The concerts last throughout the summer, ensuring there is a time when you can make it! Amazing talent drops by Boarding House Park at 40 French St. and there is also plenty of amazing food with convenient parking nearby. Tickets can be purchased at the event, but children 12 and under are free!
More information is being updated as time moves along, so be sure to check out their website at www.lowellsummermusic.org and their Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellSummerMusic to check out past performances and to learn about this year’s performers when information is available.
4. Lowell Folk Festival (July 28-30)
The Lowell Folk Festival is an annual event that the city of Lowell is known for. Thousands of people attend the event every year. 2017’s Folk Festival will be the 31st installment of the event and will be a showcase of the city’s diverse populations and their traditional music. Downtown Lowell is transformed into a mini world as cultures from across the Earth are represented through song, dance and food.
Five stages across Downtown Lowell will be the areas of performance, and attendees can either grab a blanket and relax near one stage, or see what every stage has to offer.
The Lowell Folk Festival is the longest-running, free folk festival in the country! To learn more about the Folk Festival, please visit their website at www.lowellfolkfestival.org. Follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellFolkFestival/.
5. Southeast Asian Water Festival (Aug. 19)
Lowell has one of the highest populations of Southeast Asians outside of Southeast Asia, and they have been an integral part of the Lowell community. Their rich culture has contributed greatly to making Lowell as historic and diverse a city as it is.
Thousands of people both local and abroad come to Lowell to experience the Southeast Asian Water Festival, which is dedicated, as their website puts it, “to the preservation, protection and sharing of the cultural heritages of the Southeast Asian Americans of Greater Lowell, Massachusetts area.”
The festival began in 1997 as a celebration of Lowell’s Khmer population, but by 2002 the festival expanded to also incorporate the Thai, Vietnamese, and Laotian communities. To find out more about the Southeast Asian Water Festival, please visit their website at www.lowellwaterfestival.com. Follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LSEAWF/.
6. Lowell Art & Makers Festival (Sep. 16-17)
The Art & Makers Festival is a brand-new festival coming to Market Street in Downtown Lowell. The festival will be a two-day celebration of art in a city known for its culture. Over 60 tents will showcase creativity from local artists, showing why Lowell is such a cool city. There will also be food, music and stage and street performers.
The festival’s website features a link to apply to be a part of the festival as an artist, performer, business sponsor, and more. To apply now and to learn more about the Art & Makers Festival, please visit www.cultureiscool.org/lamf-overview. Follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellArtMakerFest/.
7. Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race (Sep. 23)
The Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race is a wacky sporting event, and the only one of its kind in New England. The race features teams going head-to-head in machines-mixed-with-art, or as the event’s website puts it, “all-terrain, human-powered vehicles with an art twist.” The event is free and fun for all ages, and a great portion of Lowell will be part of the race track.
Spectators and attendees will have the opportunity to chat with teams beginning at 9 a.m. and can see the awesome kinetic sculptures up close. The race itself will begin at 11 a.m. at Market St., take a dramatic path through the city, and finish at Market St. at around 4 p.m. It is encouraged to bring smiles, wear costumes, and to prepare for a very fun day of live music, letting loose, and plenty of food. See how the worlds of STEM and art can blend together to create something truly spectacular!
To learn more about the Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race, please visit their website at www.lowellkinetic.com. Follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellKinetic/.
8. City of Lights (Nov. 25)
The City of Lights Parade is an annual celebration that takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The entire day is full of family-friendly fun to ring in the zeitgeist of the holiday season. Lowell is transformed into a holiday wonderland with plenty of food, entertainment, winter mascots, activities, and free transportation between destinations.
The parade itself is a spectacular, bright and fun way to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. More information will be made available as time passes, so be sure to check out www.likelowell.com for more information about the event and also follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LowellCityofLightsParade/.
Another Year - Another Reason to Celebrate!
From kids' activities to a Craft Beer lovers dream...Winterfest has you covered!
#Winterfest 2017
From kids' activities to a Craft Beer lovers dream...Winterfest has you covered!
On February 24-25 catch Lowell's annual Winterfest weekend in downtown Lowell, featuring everything from a carousel and free ice-skating to an all-you-can-eat chocolate festival.
Activities include a microbrew showcase, north bowl soup competition, games, activities, the family fun zone and outdoor amusements.
#OVERVIEW
Lowell Winterfest transforms JFK Plaza and Lucy Larcom Park in downtown Lowell into a magical, winterize park. A cold-weather proof festival, Winterfest includes a skating rink in the heart of downtown, lodge, winter market with local artisans and beer garden, heated tents, holiday trees, fire pits and plenty of cozy seating.
Winterfest is one of Lowell's must-experience winter attractions, offering family-friendly activities by day with amazing light shows, delicious food and drinks by night.
#NEW FOR 2017
New this year, the two sites will include more seating indoors and out, a viewing deck next to the skating rink, expanded food options from local eateries and artisans (think amazing hot chocolate, holiday treats and more), twinkling lights and pretty cool events.
Plus, the winter market and beer garden will offer the added bonus of outside firepits and seating will make a perfect base camp for an all-day hangout at Winterfest.
2017 special events will include the annual Soup Competition, Microbrew Showcase, a Glow Party, live entertainment and much more.
Main New Attractions:
#1 - JFK Ice Rink
The centerpiece of this year's Winterfest experience on JFK Plaza is the Ice Rink, a medium-sized ice skating rink. A new Lowell tradition, the Ice Rink is a family-friendly outdoor activity. On-site skate rentals available..
#2 - The Lodge
After a few laps on the Ice Rink, warm up inside The Lodge, an onsite restaurant within a heated tent, comfortable seating and refreshments from local restaurants.
Whether you're skating or just looking for a winter retreat, The Lodge is a place for a relaxing break with a menu of tasty bites. Warm up from the cold with a cup of coffee or grab something stronger. The bar at The Lodge features local craft beers, wine and spiked hot beverages.
While you take a break from the frosty weather enjoy a good book, oversized games and entertainment.
#3 - Magical Winter Beergarden
For the weekend of Winterfest parts of Lucy Larcom Park will be transformed into a magical winter beergarden featuring food, music and craft beers. Find the best Lowell based food trucks, craft brewers and wine merchants and enjoy local bands with the backdrop of illuminated canals.
ADMISSION
General admission to Lowell's Winterfest is
FREE. Admission to the JFK Ice Rink is free as are skate rentals. Convenient, safe parking is available close by.
Admission to special events as follows:
Soup Competition: $5 p.p. (12+ competitors) Tickets available day of only
Microbrew CraftBeer Showcase: $30 pre-sale / $35 day-of (no food included)
Glow Party: $5 p.p. (Cover only) Tickets available day of only
5 Reasons Lowell is Heaven on Earth for Creatives and Lovers of Art
If you're up to take a day trip, or to stay the weekend, here are 5 reasons why Lowell is Heaven on Earth for you. Whether you're the creative kind or you are a lover of art.
5 Reasons Lowell is Heaven on Earth for Creatives and Lovers of Art
Just a few weeks ago, I started a conversation with a dear friend of mine about art. Our goal was to come to an understanding of what art is. You see for me, art is "nice". It's also necessary, and it makes rooms pretty. For my friend, art is paintings. We were joined by another friend who cooked a great meal for us, and as we saw his culinary presentation, we silently commented, "what a piece of art"!
Art is all around us. Art Is The Handmade of Human Good is Lowell's motto and is part of our seal. We embrace it, we love it, and, we live it.
Lowell has as diverse an art and creative community as any. An estimated 800 artists call Lowell home. In Lowell, art is a thread of public connections and is part of our everyday lives.
If you're up to take a day trip, or to stay the weekend, here are 5 reasons why Lowell is Heaven on Earth for you. Whether you're the creative kind or you are a lover of art.
1. Public Art.
With over 12 public art installations that are carefully curated and designed to pay homage to Lowell's rich history and heritage, Lowell is worth taking that trip. Short and long self-guided walking tours are a treat in every season. And plenty of choices to dine and refuel will make for a well-rounded experience.
Image: Markus Haala
2. Western Avenue Studios & Lofts
From contemporary artists like Markus Haala to glass artists like Ivy Pompei, Western Avenue Studios (WAS) and Western Avenue Studios Lofts are a diverse artist community of over 300 artists. Did we mention that WAS is the largest artist community of this kind in the northeastern United States? And with ever-changing exhibits at the Loading Dock Gallery, WAS is surely worth a visit.
Image: Mary hart
3. ALL Art Gallery and Gates Block
It's winter now, but you might have spotted artists like Bill Bradbury last summer on the streets of Lowell, painting illustrations, cartoons, streetscapes or other scenic views. Bill is one of about 230 artists at ALL. ALL of course stands for Arts League of Lowell, a community of artists established in 2004 to celebrate and foster creative community in Lowell. ALL is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Lowell, within walking distance from parking areas and garages.
And while you're visiting ALL, stock up on art supplies and more at Van Gogh's Gear, the best art supply store in Lowell.
4. The Brush Art Gallery
Right down the street from the ALL Gallery is The Brush Art Gallery. The Brush is a staple for art in Lowell. Rotating exhibits from diverse artists and amazing community outreach to schools and other partner organizations make "The Brush" a one-of-a-kind place to visit.
5. Creative Economy at its best
In recent years new ventures in Lowell's creative community have emerged and have given a new and exciting spin to what creative community means in Lowell. Be it Uncharted Gallery, a kind of fusion of art and bistro that will excite your mind with the art on display and your taste buds with the culinary creations served, or Gallery Z, a café and artist collaborative- Lowell's innovative, creative economy is expanding its offerings daily.
Also stay tuned for part II/III of this series and check out these places while you wait: The Hearing Room / Art Up at the Lowell Community Health Center / Whistler House Museum of Art/ Decatur Art Way
9 Reasons to visit Lowell this fall
The leaves are changing and the days are getting shorter. Fall is upon us and so are lots of great things to do in Lowell. Here are our 9 top picks why you should visit Lowell this seasons. There's A Lot To Like in the city!
1. City Of lights
Ring in the holidays in Lowell and join us for this year's City of Lights Parade and Holiday Celebration, Saturday, November 26, from 12 - 7PM. ! Take the afternoon to stroll the city streets and enjoy live performances, holiday shopping, photos with Santa, AND the crowd favorite, our Annual Hot Chocolate Competition! The daytime fun leads to the nighttime extravaganza -- The City of Lights Parade and City Hall Lighting -- which marks the City's official start to the holiday season!
2. Dine Out Lowell
There is no question that Lowell is the cultural hub of the Merrimack Valley. This Fall, Dine Out Lowell is your opportunity to experience Lowell's culinary culture. From November 26 to December 4, 2016 come and experience the vast variety of restaurants and menus. From casual to fine dining, there's something for everyone. Take advantage of "Happy Hour Parking" in the Joseph M. Downes Garage in the Canalway Cultural District.
3. Monster Bash & Halloween Stroll
Celebrate the Halloween season in Lowell at the Annual Monster Bash & Halloween Stroll, Saturday, October 29, from 12 - 3PM. Enjoy downtown trick-or-treating, costume contests, kids games, and get spooked at Monster Bash's all ages annual haunted house!
Image by Tory German
4. Mill No. 5
Mill No. 5 is the perfect destination for shopping and entertainment. You can find unique gifts and items in one of the 11 eclectic shops, or shop for locally and artisan food, cheese, wine and more. Different markets happen weekly, and between the café, lounge and movie theater there is always something going on. Mill No. 5 is located in Lowell's Hamilton Canal District, with conveniently located parking in the Edward J. Early Garage.
5. Western Avenue Studios - Open Studios
So much to see at First Saturday Open Studios at Western Avenue Studios! - Every month artists open their doors to the public from 12 - 5PM, so that you can come browse their latest works - you'll be amazed at what you find. Talk to artists about their work and what inspires them. It'll take you more than one visit to check out all the art you'll find at Western Avenue.
6. Take a walk along the Greenway
Reserve your spot for this popular Merrimack River Hike & Picnic, Saturday, November 19, from 9AM - 2pm. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy this fantastic 8 mile hike along the Merrimack River. More info >>>
7. Angkor Dance Troup Event
Angkor Dance Troupe is collaborating with Merrimack Repertory Theatre to produce an original piece first performed during a Cultural Exchange at the Royal University of Fine Arts in Cambodia called Pin Panhchapor (The Harp and Five Colors of Harmony). The production will take place November 18 and 19, 2016. Tickets are available here.
8. Fall Foliage in Lowell
Fall could easily be renamed to "Instagram Season" here in Lowell. Fall foliage is one of Lowell's many hidden secrets. Lowell's foliage season usually begins mid to late-September and extends into late October. The 'peak' foliage can be found at many different times and places as the season unfolds. The best places to experience fall foliage in Lowell include Lowell Heritage Sate Park, Dracut-Tyngsboro-Lowell State Forest, The Concord Greenway, Fort Hill Park, And the Canalway and Riverwalks. We suggest you book your stay at one of Lowell's Hotels and plan your trip early!
9. The Canalway Cultural District
The Canalway Cultural District is home to many of Lowell's top attractions. With more than a dozen public art installations, public parks, over 14 annual festivals and events, countless concerts along with performances that range from intimate gallery openings to mayor athletic events year-round. There's A Lot To Like for everyone. Did you know that the Canalway Cultural District offers a wide variety of dining options to satisfy your personal tastes and budget? The district is home to more than 40 restaurants and coffee shops in walking distance to many attractions. Enjoying a relaxing meal before a show or cap off the evening with cocktails and dessert add to a pleasurable experience in the Canalway Cultural District.
5 Things to do in Lowell before the end of September
As we say around here: There's a lot to like in Lowell every day. There's a lot to do as well. Here are 5 great things to do you don't want to miss before September ends.
As we say around here: There's a Lot To Like in Lowell every day. There's a lot to do as well. Here are 5 great things to do that you don't want to miss before September ends.
1. Lowell Kinetics Race.
For the first time ever, Lowell is home to a race of a different kind. Kinetic Sculptures are all-terrain, human-powered art sculptures, engineered to race over road, water, mud and sand. Kinetic sculptures are amazing works of art; many are animated with moving parts like blinking eyes, opening mouths and heads that move side to side and up and down. These machines of art are usually made from what some people consider “junk” or better put, recycled materials. You don't want to miss these amazing machines on Saturday, September 24, 2016.
Image from owellkinetic.com
2. Whistler House Museum
Still Lifes Exhibit. Ranging from George Loftus Noyes and his post-impressionistic floral arrangement to Arshile Gorky, who painted modernist pink roses. Still Lifes are speaking loudly. This new exhibit starts at eh Whistler House Museum on September 28, 2016.
Image from whistlerhouse.org
3. Lowell Reads Block Party
Food, folks and fun for the whole family right along Decatur Street and the new Decatur Art Way. Join us for a good old fashioned block party featuring—dancing and eating, games and activities for kids, plus an outdoor family friendly movie at sundown. Lowell Reads Block Party is happening September 28, 2016.
Image from facebook.com/events/1636046123352092/
4. The Lowell Challenge
Take The Lowell Challenge, it's a fun way to explore the city and to find out first hand that There's a lot to like! This guide was created by a friend of Lowell and we challenge you to be challenged! Better yet, share your experiences on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and let us know about it by using one (or all) of these hashtags: #Lowell, #LikeLowell, #ILikeLowell, #ThingsToDo
5. Culinary Adventure
One of the greatest ways to Explore Lowell like a Local is to visit and discover any of Downtown Lowell's great eateries. From sushi to farm-to-table, there is a place for everyone. Just head down to Merrimack Street, park in the John Street Garage and find 14 restaurants within walking distance that will make your taste-buds happy.
Written by Tobias Marx, Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.