A Glimpse Ahead to the Fast-Approaching Winterfest

As the New Year is throwing the Northeast with it coldest winter punches, New Englanders could use a reminder of the positives occurring in the cold months.  Luckily for us, Winterfest is just around the corner.  On Friday, February 22nd from 5-10pm and Saturday, February 23rd from 11am-10pm, there will be opportunities for folks of all ages to enjoy the festivities together. 

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Musicians

Winterfest is known for bringing something new to the city every year, and this year will be no exception.  There will be a mix of fresh tunes to hear this February.  The Squires of Soul are a Lowell-based funk and soul band who implement unique instruments into their songs, such as the harp and vox egg.  Lily Black is bringing their talents from Boston to Lowell and introducing the city to their very own genre, punk/pop indie dance. 

There will also be fresh spins on old classic songs performed by cover bands, such as the “call out of work the next day” band, Hal Holiday & The Tones.  To wind down from the excitement of Hal Holiday, the Evan Goodrow Band will be soothing the crowd with their soulful pieces. It’ll be quite the challenge for you to not feel good or sing along with this years musician lineup! 

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Food + Drink

Your taste buds will be as pleased as will your ears at Winterfest.  Food vendors will line the streets with comfort food and other delectable eats.  The soup competition will also be making its annual appearance at the event, with anticipated flavors such as sweet coconut and savory chicken.  Judges, who have a great love for the city, and for great flavor, will be coming together to determine the year’s best soup.  There will also be beverages available for all ages!  

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Family Fun

There are also plenty of activities queued for familial fun and for younger event-goers.  Face painting and games will be readily available, and the fan-favorite carousel will be taking riders for a spin.  In terms of “spinning”, the outdoor ice rink on JFK plaza will also be back to allow people of all ages to show off their skating skills.  After taking a whirl on the ice, families will get to meet with special royalty and character visitors. Families can also hop aboard the hay wagon ride at Larkin Park any time between 12-3pm on the 23rd.

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The Tangible and Intangible Take-Away

With an extensive line-up of jewelry, snacks, and accessories at the winter market, you will definitely want to bring your wallet to grab one of these special products.  Rosie’s Cafe can offer your palate a feel-good, breakfast food experience. For those looking to get their hands on something exceptional, Environerd Studios offers eco-friendly games for everyone to enjoy. While you’re snacking and playing, you mustn’t forget about your furry friends! Your four-legged loved ones can peruse items from Morgan’s Dogdana. 

Amidst the endless shopping available to you, what is priceless and most important are the lasting memories and fun you’ll experience by stopping in at Winterfest.   

Intimate Music Venues: Where Lowell Comes to Listen

Whether you’re looking for a rock show to amplify your weekend, or an acoustic singer song-writer performance to enjoy with a date, Lowell has plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and other venues where you can find the live music you’re looking for.

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The Hearing Room

The Hearing Room is a friendly, casual listening room run by local music lovers where you can catch musicians, ranging from acoustic singer songwriters to full bands. Every Tuesday the venue hosts an open mic night where anyone can sign up and play. There is no entry fee, but listeners are encouraged to donate $5-10 dollars to the performers. The Hearing Room also hosts a wide variety of professional music performances. On October 12th, attend a singer-songwriter and acoustic rock show featuring Rob Noyes, Joseph Allred, and Karen Zanes.

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Coffee & Cotton

Not only is Coffee & Cotton a cozy, rustic coffee shop tucked away in Mill No. 5, but it’s also a music venue for many acoustic artists. On October 13th come see the fun loving pianist and singer-songwriter Fiona Corinne, and the nostalgic indie/emo band Louse from southern New Hampshire. The show is free, but be sure to check out the Coffee & Cotton menu for the perfect coffee, beer, wine or snack to compliment your listening experience.

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Olympia’s Zorba Music Hall

You can always find live music playing on the weekends at Olympia Restaurant’s Zorba Music Hall. On October 12th, the Joe Cocker tribute band With My Friends takes to the Zorba Music Hall stage. Doors open at 7 PM for dinner, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy some authentic Greek cuisine before the 9 PM show.

To purchase tickets and see a full calendar of events visit http://zorbamusichall.com/

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Luna Theater

Jazz is still very much alive in Lowell! The very chic and comfortable Luna Theater, located at Mill No. 5, presents Luna Sessions every Thursday night at 8:05 PM, where talented local musicians come together to perform whichever jazz songs feel right that night. Entry is free, but you’ll want to bring some money for some freshly popped popcorn or a local craft brew sold at the concession bar.

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Cobblestones

On Sundays, Cobblestones Restaurant serves brunch from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM where patrons can listen to live music while they eat. Enjoy menu favorites while listening to different local artists every Sunday. Musicians play from 11:15 AM to 1:45 PM. Upcoming performers include: Yolanda Baker Music, Seraphina James, Katrina Marie, and Andrew Marshall Music.

To see the entire brunch menu visit http://cobblestonesoflowell.com/menu/

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Warp & Weft

The relatively new restaurant Warp & Weft has established itself as a place where the community can connect, enjoy innovative cocktails and meals made with only fresh ingredients, and listen to live music. Every Thursday night at 9 PM the restaurant hosts an open mic where local artists or bands can play in front of a supportive audience and audience members can get a glimpse of up-and-coming local talent. Warp & Weft will also host a special one year anniversary party on October 13th, featuring Ariel Strasser (Pop Singer/Songwriter, Jazz), Serial Thrillers (Pop, Rock, Alternative), Jenny and The Gents (Pop, Folk), The Blue Ribbons (Rock).

For more information on events at Warp & Weft you can visit https://www.warplowell.com/

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UnchARTed

The creators of UnchARTed have reenvisioned the concept of the art gallery and created a space where locals enjoy pizza, craft beer, artwork, and live music all in the same room. This trendy spot is always bringing in new local artists and musicians to decorate their walls and play fresh music for their visitors. On October 13th, UnchARTed welcomes four artists to their gallery: The Fallen Stars, Prateek Poddar, Hunter, and Dandy Candy. The show will consist of music ranging from folk and blues to alternative rock. The show starts at 7 PM. 

To see more shows hosted at UnchARTed visit  http://unchartedgallery.com/live-music/

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The Town and The City Festival

Toward the end of October, Lowell welcomes over 50 artists to The Town and The City Festival: a 2-day music and arts festival that will take place in various event spaces, bars, cafes, and galleries throughout downtown Lowell. The performances take place on October 19th and 20th, and present a diverse mix of musical genres. The Luna Theater, Coffee and Cotton, Christ Church United, Gallery Z, Uncharted Gallery, and the Parker Gallery at the Whistler House Museum of Art will host performances for all ages, while the Zorba Music Hall, Warp & Weft, The Old Court, and Dudley’s will host 21+ shows.

For ticket information and a full schedule of performances visit https://www.thetownandthecityfestival.com/

Re-Discovering Lowell: An Intern Experience

As my time in the  Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (CASE) comes to an end, I am reflecting on my experiences with the City of Lowell over the past six months.  I grew up just one town over from Lowell, but never really experienced it. To me, Lowell was the Tsongas Center and the Mills. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to work in CASE, thanks to the internship program at UMass Lowell, but I am sad to say goodbye!
 

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Learning about Lowell's history throughout my school years and actually experiencing it are two completely different things! Going on a canal tour was one of my favorite things that I have done here at CASE. The Park Rangers are full of knowledge that they are eager to share with you; it is contagious! If you would ask any of my former teachers, I am sure they would say that I was not always mentally present, but the canal tour was so awesome I don't think I had the option of becoming distracted! What made it even better was that it was clear that the Rangers love what they do and really appreciate Lowell's history.

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This city is a true melting pot. All the different cultural groups make every day new, interesting, and vibrant. Most days I can hear a few different types of music; all of it unique and meaningful. The culture here allows for small businesses to thrive because the people understand the importance of tradition and self-expression. The talent that fills this city makes it so you feel like you're traveling to different countries when all you really need to do is cross the street.

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The array of cultural activities includes by music festivals and smaller music venues in the summer months. The Lowell Summer Music Series is one of the coolest experiences I have had attending a concert. I saw Mikky Ekko and Fitz and The Tantrums perform at the beginning of the summer. I was able to get seats right in front of the stage and I was mesmerized by the performances. I do not know of any other venue that provides this type of intimacy. So many people put a lot of work in to make opportunities like this available, many of them volunteers. This city has a great pool of people who want to provide good times and even better memories- I am looking forward to seeing the list of performers for next year's concert series!
 

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With my last day being August 22nd, I am glad to say that Lowell is no longer just the Tsongas Center or the mills to me. Lowell is filled with new things to be discovered every day. Whether it is art, music, food or learning about a new culture-there is always something to celebrate. CASE staff made me feel so welcomed in the office and I will miss working with them, but I couldn't ask for anyone better to really show me what Lowell has to offer.

Things to Do in Lowell Before Summer Ends

Back to school specials may be starting up, but we aren’t ready to think about summer ending just yet! There are many August happenings in Lowell that you will not want to miss out on. End your summer with a bang and celebrate, explore and make memories with us!

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On August 5th, immerse yourself in the island's warmth and traditions at the Puerto Rican Festival. From 12 PM- 10 PM, come to JFK plaza to experience more music, craft vendors, and delicious food!

Then on August 11th, The 17th Annual Blues’ N Brews Festival will rock JFK Plaza starting at 1:30 PM. The festival has decided to make Lowell its new home!  This event will feature performances by Matt Schofield, Dana Fuchs, John Nemeth and Erin Harpe. The brews will include ciders, ales, lagers, meads and more. Festival proceeds go to different charities. There will be craft vendors, food trucks, food booths, prizes and giveaways! Get more information and buy tickets here.

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The 22nd Annual Southeast Asian Water Festival takes place on August 18th. The festival runs from 8 AM – 8 PM along Pawtucket Boulevard. There will be no shortage of things to do throughout the day- food, live music and dancers, vendors and the traditional boat races. More than 60,000 people travel to Lowell to experience and preserve the Southeast Asian heritage at this annual festival.

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There’s no better place to make family memories than the ball park. Catch a Spinners game before the summer ends! Not only are the Lowell Spinners fun and exciting to watch, but Lelacheur Park has something for everybody to do! The "Foul Ball Fun Zone” will put smiles on everyone’s faces, adults and kids alike! There are carnival games, rides and bouncy inflatables. Find the Spinners schedule here.

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More music, cuisine and culture are in store at the the Brazilian Food Festival. Come experience Brazilian culture at this free event held at JKF Plaza on August 25 from 11 AM - 9 PM. All proceeds will benefit Life Connection Center, bringing healthy meals to the homeless community.

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If you have not made it on a canal tour yet, we recommended you do so! There are a few different options for tours to take, but all of them are enjoyable and provide a different way to learn Lowell’s history. You can read the first-hand experience our intern, Michelle, had here, or check out their website for more information!

As always, make sure you keep up with our calendar to stay up to date with all events around the city!

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Lowell Folk Festival: A Summer Must-Do

It's that time of year again! The 32nd Annual Folk Festival will be will be returning to downtown Lowell with a full lineup beginning with the parade of flags from Lowell's City Hall Plaza to Boarding House Park on Friday July 27th, at 6 PM and then continuing with the finest in traditional music, craft and food throughout the weekend. There is so much culture to be shared and even more memories to be made; this is a summer festival you won't want to miss! 

The Music

First and foremost, Folk Fest is a showcase for music from all different cultural backgrounds. The festival features five stages of traditional music, from Africa, Hawaii, Columbia, France, Cape Verde and much, much more! Check out the list of this year's performers on the Folk Festival website which includes a map and more information on what to expect! 

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The Food

There will be over a dozen different ethnic groups sharing their delicious cuisines. From Polish to Greek, Asian, Latin, Burmese and everything in between,  all the different aromas will be guiding you on a trip around the world without having to leave Lowell! The food booths will be set up in various locations so you are able to ignite not only your taste buds, but all your other senses while enjoying the art and music all around you.

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The Local Culture

Make sure you stop by Destination Lowell along Merrimack Street! Destination Lowell presents Lowell's vibrant culture and highlights why Lowell is a great destination to enjoy history, art and creative activities all within feet of each other. It's no secret that our Canalway Cultural District is lively and the perfect destination for a summer day. Come check what this year's Destination Lowell has to offer and experience for yourself why "There's a Lot to Like about Lowell!"

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The Artisan Crafts

The Lowell Folk Festival in collaboration with the Brush Art Gallery & Studios, presents Art in the Courtyard: an arts and fine crafts marketplace. This exciting collaboration will provide an opportunity for visitors to view and purchase some of the finest art and craft works being produced.

Art in the Courtyard takes place on Saturday, July 28, noon - 7:30 pm and Sunday, July 29, noon - 6 pm in the shaded, brick-lined courtyard between the National Historical Park Visitor Center and the Brush Art Gallery. 

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The Fun

Festival-goers are in for great fun along Shattuck Street with numerous interactive opportunities.The Lowell National Historical Park Staff will be organizing interactive crafts for all ages. Everyone is invited to try out the traditional games offered by the Recreation Department, which will include ring toss, bean bag toss, muffin tin game, and the ever popular box hockey which was invented in Lowell.

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Lowell Summer Music Series Experience

This past Sunday, June 17th, I went to see Mikky Ekko and Fitz and The Tantrums perform at Boarding House Park as part of the Lowell Summer Music Series. The overall experience was a lot of fun and the intimate venue made for a really awesome show.

I went to the concert with my friend Valerie, and we were determined to get the full experience at Boarding House Park. You are allowed to show up in the morning and put your chairs and blankets down to grab your spot. Valerie and I got in line at 6:58 AM and there were about 20 people in line already. The great thing about this venue is they have different sections for guests with bigger chairs and guests with small chairs and/or blankets, so everyone is able to see the artists performing. We had brought a blanket, so were able to get a spot right in front of the stage.

After going about our day, we went back to Boarding House Park at 6:00 PM. We quickly headed towards our spot that we had reserved 11 hours earlier, and we were happy to see that no one had moved the blanket. The people who sat adjacent to us were so friendly and kind. The atmosphere was great; everyone was just there to have a good time.  The show started at 7:30 with a Park Ranger giving a quick introduction making sure all of the sponsors for LSMS did not go unnoticed.

Mikky Ekko was the opening act, and he and his band put on a great show. You could see that he truly loves what he does and the impact that music has on him. During one of their songs Mikky actually came into the audience and interacted with fans while performing.  After their set, we got to meet Mikky himself and his drummer, Gavin. They were so down to earth and kind- I felt like I was just chatting with some friends.

After a brief intermission, it was time for Fitz and The Tantrums. They came onto the stage and made it very clear that we had to be up dancing and singing along with them! The crowd did not hesitate to do just that. There was a middle school aged kid right in front of us who just might be Fitz and The Tantrums biggest fan; he knew every word to every song and was dancing the whole time. It was so fun to watch him enjoying himself so much and even better to be so close to the stage and see how much fun the band was having as well. Fitz and Noelle, the singers, knew how to keep the energy up in the crowd. They are both so vocally talented by themselves, but their voices accent each other so wonderfully when they sing together it really elevates their music to another level.  Ending the night with canons shooting confetti,  Fitz and The Tantrums were a blast to see in concert and I know the people surrounding me felt the same way!

Overall, my night at Boarding House Park at the Lowell Summer Music Series was an awesome experience. Getting up early to reserve my spot and being able to trust that no one will touch it is not something you can do at most places. The venue provides an intimate setting and it really does not have a bad seat. This type of experience is not something you are able to have very often without having to pay hundreds of dollars. LSMS provides this amazing venue and experience for such an affordable price and I look forward to going to more shows!

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Check out the schedule for the rest of the Lowell Summer Music Series here.

A Summer of Celebrations

There is so much to celebrate in Lowell throughout the summer!  There are multiple festivals scheduled for the next few months that you will not want to miss! Join us as we celebrate not only what makes our community so unique, but also what brings us all together!

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On Saturday, June 16th, Merrimack Street will be transformed into a pixie marketplace for the Midsummer Dream Festival. From 12- 10 PM, this festival will celebrate music, art, theater, magic and costume for both kids and adults. The marketplace will include vendors, crafting areas, a cosplay contest, a fairy house promenade and a traveling production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dream” that will lead you on an exciting journey through downtown from scene to scene.

Also on June 16th, the African Festival runs from 11 AM- 7 PM at the Sampas Pavilion, 500 Pawtucket Boulevard. This year’s theme for the festival is "African Culture: Our Strength, Our Heritage, Our Gift to Mankind." It will feature live music, dancers, crafts, food and more!

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Lowell celebrates Independence Day at LeLacheur Park! Starting at 7 PM on July 4th, there will be tons of activities for families to enjoy, including fireworks starting at 9 PM! Get there first! The first 2,000 attendees get a free American Flag. The Swampland Kids Area will be open and there will be balloon animals and face painting. You can sit in the stands to watch the fireworks or bring your own blanket and sit in the outfield. Click here for more information.

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July 27th-29th it's the Annual Folk Festival! Folk Fest always provides the best in traditional music, ethnic foods and artisan crafts. All weekend there will be an abundance of live music, family activities and more to enjoy. Performing artists range from blues to salsa to beatboxing and everything in between! The craft area will have rug hooking, Norwegian Rosemaling, wooden flute making and more. There is no better way to spend a weekend than enjoying delicious food, live music and great people!

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On August 5th, immerse yourself in culture at the Puerto Rican Festival. From 12 PM- 10 PM, come to JFK plaza to experience more music, craft vendors, and delicious food!

The 17th Annual Blues’ N Brews Festival will rock JFK Plaza on August 11th. This event is rain or shine and will feature performances by Matt Schofield, Dana Fuchs, John Nemeth and Erin Harpe. The brews will include ciders, ales, lagers, meads and more. There will be craft vendors, food trucks, food booths, prizes and giveaways!

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On August 18th, the 22nd Annual Lowell Southeast Asian Water Festival will run from 9 AM to 7:30 PM at the Heritage State Park’s Vandenberg Esplanade. Spend the day along the Merrimack River and enjoy South East Asian food, live music, dancers, vendors and traditional boat races.

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There are many other events planned for the coming months in Lowell. Make sure you check out the calendar so you don’t miss out on the fun!

Get Inspired in Lowell

Lowell is home to many artists, musicians, actors and other creative people. Having all this creative spirit generates a vibrant atmosphere that continues to help local artists follow their dreams and do what they love. Here are some ways that people in the City of Lowell can help inspire you as well.

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Art

From the month of March through May, local artist Dave Phaneuf’s work will be on display at TreMonte Pizzeria. Dave’s work is of local buildings and reflects his love of historic architecture and recording of subtle street views. His work is done in detailed pen and ink, enabling you to see the beauty in something you may have previously seen as mundane. Find out more about Dave's display here.  Another local artist, Scott Stephens, will have his work on display from March through May as well. Scott’s artwork will be displayed at the Mandarin Asian Bistro. Scott, a graduate of Lowell High, is showing his intricately layered collages that are inspired by his music, travels and his studies at Mass College of Art. Check out Scott’s work and challenge your mind to interpret these elaborate collages. Find out more about Scott's display here.

Western Avenue Studios is a five acre complex that nurtures the arts and artists. The complex has three buildings that consist of 250 work only studios, 50 live/work lofts and cooperative artist run gallery, The Onyx Room Performance space. Whitsett Guitar Works and Navigation Brewing Company are also located here. Western Ave Studios has created an inspiring and supportive community for the artists who utilize their spaces, and many of them host classes in their studio. There is a wide range in the types of classes you can take. If you want to experience this creative hub for yourself, check out their website here.

An exhibit that incorporates both art and history opens on March 24th at the Mogan Cultural Center. The Branding Lowell exhibit will highlight the branding and design used in Lowell since its founding in 1836 up until the present day. Many of the local artists will be in attendance on opening day.

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Music

The Lowell Philharmonic Orchestra provides classical and pops music, and provides concerts that are comfortable and engaging for all ages. Founded in 1987, they have performed all around the greater Merrimack Valley, with a mission to inspire others through music, foster future generations of musicians and music lovers by actively encouraging area youth to become involved with local music. The LPO incorporates young musicians into their winter family concert each year and high school students are encouraged to join.

The Hearing Room is an art center and listening room that hosts regular events for local artists to share their work. Every Tuesday, they host an open mic night that welcomes music, poetry, storytelling, or comedy, encouraging original material. On Thursday’s The Hearing Room hosts a “mostly acoustic jam” where all levels of experience, genres, ages, and voices are welcome. Twice a month there is a songwriters club that makes sharing your materials and getting feedback (if you want) much easier as this event is informal and supportive. For more events at The Hearing Room, click here.

The Luna Theater is another spot that offers regular events. Every Thursday, the Luna  hosts the “Luna Sessions,” with live jazz music being played by some of the most talented local artists. They also host “Weirdo Wednesdays,” an evening of Cult Cinema from all eras and multiple genres. This event is free and you don’t know what will be showing until 7:30 PM on Wednesday nights! Keep up with the events at the Luna Theater by checking our calendar.

Lowell’s Fall Entertainment: Music, Theater and Film Happenings

With the official arrival of fall, Lowell looks forward to the entertainment-filled events happening throughout September and October. Music, theater and film events will showcase Lowell's creative talent. These opportunities for experiencing music, theater and film are available to all ages, skill levels and those who would like to explore the many entertainment options that Lowell has to offer.

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Photo courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox

UML Philosophy & Film

Starting Monday, September 25th, this free monthly film series takes place at the Luna Theater. Films start at 7:35 p.m. and are followed by a discussion with attendees and the lecturer. Explore topics such as political violence, personal identity & agency and philosophy in relation to the movies Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Prestige and Fight Club.

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Photo by The Hearing Room

Mostly Acoustic Jam/Song Party

This Thursday, September 28th and every Thursday thereafter, join fellow musicians at The Hearing Room from 7 to 10 p.m. for the Mostly Acoustic Jam/Song Party. This free event is open to all ages and skill levels. Jam to the genre of your choice, whether rock, blues, bluegrass or more.

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2017 Sundance Film Festival Short Film Tour

At the Luna Theater starting at 5:05 p.m. on September 30th, viewers will enjoy seven short films selected from this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Films range between 5 and 19 minutes long and include a variety of genres. Discover short films created by international filmmakers that are sure to entertain film buffs and inspire filmmakers.

Ticket pricing available here.

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Photo by The Hearing Room

Tuesday Night Open Mic

On Tuesday, October 3rd, bring your talent to the stage at The Hearing Room from 7 to 10 p.m. for Open Mic Night. Participate in music, poetry, storytelling and comedy performances every Tuesday. People of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Participants and spectators are encouraged to bring their own works and refreshments.

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Photo courtesy of the Merrimack Repertory Theatre

Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s Silent Sky

From October 18th to November 12th, the Merrimack Repertory Theatre will run the production of Silent Sky. Playwright Lauren Gunderson’s play tells the true story of New England astronomer Henrietta Leavitt. This production’s themes consist of bold love, boundless determination and the vast magnitude of the cosmos. Audiences can expect a thrilling story for the heart, mind and soul, and a fun time for family and friends alike.

Tickets and times available here.

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Six Things to Do in Lowell That Your Kids Will Love

By Allison Lamey - Lowell’s rich history, compact size, and diverse mix of festivals and events make it a great city to explore with kids. I asked my kids (three boys aged 9, 6, and 2) what they like to do most in Lowell. Here are some of their favorites.

1. Music, Art, Theatre, Oh My! 

There’s no better place to cultivate an appreciation for the arts in your kids than in Lowell.
The Cultural Organization of Lowell maintains a calendar of exhibits and events that are sure to please kids of any age.  Some of our favorites include the Lowell Summer Music Series free concerts at Boarding House Park and the many community events organized by Made in Lowell.  For the budding artist in your home, many galleries in Lowell offer youth classes and you can watch artists at work during first Saturday of each month at Western Avenue Studios.  My six year old is particularly fond of the glass blowing demonstrations at Mill City Glassworks!  

2. Free Movies

Our go to spot on a rainy afternoon is the Magical Mystery Movie Club at the Luna Theatre in Mill No. 5.  Every Sunday at 11:30 a.m. they show free movies, rated G or PG, that are unannounced until the start of the show – hence the “mystery”!  House lights are kept a bit brighter than normal and you’re free to come and go so there’s no pressure to keep active kiddos confined to a seat for 90 minutes.  As an added bonus the seats are so comfortable your little one (or you) may get in an unexpected nap.  

3. Trolleys

Trains are a big favorite in my house so the National Park Service trolley rides are a go to activity for us.  They offer free rides between the Visitors’ Center and the Boott Mills Museum throughout the day.  For a longer, more educational experience NPS offers several guided tours, for a small fee, that delve into the history of the canals and mills that shaped Lowell.  When you’re done your little ones can make believe they’re a trolley conductor on the child-size replica at Mack Plaza.  

4. Picnics on the Waterfront

Lowell offers several great spots to lay down a blanket and picnic along the Merrimack River.  Our favorite spots include the Vandenberg Esplanade along the VFW Highway, Sheehy Park on Pawtucket St. near UMass Lowell South Campus, and the Riverwalk behind the Tsongas Arena.  All three locations have walking paths that are stroller, bike, and pet friendly.  The Esplanade and Sheehy Park are also a great spot to watch rowers and kayakers.  

5. The Lowell Spinners 

Lowell proudly boasts its minor league baseball team, the Lowell Spinners, and it affiliation with the Boston Red Sox.  The stadium offers great views from any seat, fun entertainment between innings, and a kids’ play area if your little ones get restless.  The affordable prices mean you can bring the whole family and still have money for peanuts and cracker jacks. 

6. Eat!

Lowell’s growing reputation as a cultural food hub means there’s something to please everyone no matter how sophisticated their taste buds may be.  Lowell has a great variety of restaurants offering classic American cuisine and ethnic dishes representative of Lowell’s diverse population. While we have our favorites in every neighborhood our kids love to eat downtown where they can people watch until their meals arrive.  You can check out the great variety of restaurants here.  My nine year old wants to make sure I also mention that after dinner you can pick up a yummy treat from one of several downtown shops including Sweet Journey, Little Delight’s Bakery, or Sweet Lydia’s. Dessert is healthy for you when it’s made local, right?