Merrimack Valley always has something incredible to do, but summer is when it really shines. That’s because there are incredible summer festivals to check out throughout the whole season. Whether you’re a music lover or enjoy a good race, check out these annual events that will be bringing summer fun and excitement to Merrimack Valley.
Lowell Summer Music Series
If you love live music, you’ll love the Lowell Summer Music Series! Entering its 34th year, this annual event has become a beloved staple of the city. You’ll get to enjoy open-air concerts at the beautiful Boarding House Park, which is located within the Lowell National Historical Park. Buy a ticket to your favorite performers, bring a blanket and some lawn chairs, and enjoy a summer night filled with music.
On weekends between June 21 through September 15, 2024, there’s a new musician and concert to experience. From classic rock to jazz to bluegrass, there’s a sound for every ear to enjoy. On weekdays there are also lots of fun events that are free for kids, including children’s entertainers, hip hop dance lessons, and animal shows.
Lowell Folk Festival
For folk music enthusiasts, you need to come to Lowell on the last full weekend in July. The Lowell Folk Festival is the largest free folk festival in the nation so it can’t be missed. From July 26-28, 2024, come for three days of traditional music, dance, craft demonstrations, street parades, dance parties, and delicious ethnic foods.
For 37 years this festival has been a Lowell staple, and it attracts up to 150,000 people every year, from locals to out-of-towners. That’s why the fun isn’t limited to a single stage. The shows are hosted on five outdoor stages throughout downtown Lowell, so everywhere you go you’ll find incredible folk entertainment.
Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race
Looking to finish off the summer with a bang? From the crossroads of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics comes an incredible racing spectacle: the Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race! On September 21, 2024, watch teams race kinetic sculptures through streets, water, mud, and sand. Few sights compare to the human-powered, all-terrain artwork racing throughout Lowell.
The race is free for spectators to come and enjoy, and there are tons of fun things to do for the whole family. Experience a theatrical opening ceremony that must be seen to be believed. You can bring your bike and ride along behind the race. Chow down at food trucks, play lawn games, and listen to live music. At the Family Fun Zone, the whole family can enjoy activities like face painting, bubbles, street performances and tons of dancing.
Summertime is one of the best times to visit Merrimack Valley, and Lowell’s incredible festivals are one of the biggest reasons. Start planning your summer getaway for this year, next year, and many summers after.
Lowell Independence Day Celebration
July 4 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Rain date July 7 | Location TBD
Independence Day festivities in Lowell! Food, fireworks, and family-friendly fun to salute the Fourth.
https://www.likelowell.com/4th-of-july
Day Puerto Rican Festival
August 3 – 4 | JFK Plaza, 50 Arcand Drive.
This lively summer festival features live performances by local and international artists, Puerto Rican food, and a variety of activities for the entire family.
https://mosaiclowell.org/event/puerto-rican-festival/
Southeast Asian Water Festival
August 19 | Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Boulevard
A free cultural event that attracts thousands of spectators from all over the country. Every third Saturday in August, people come to Lowell for the blessings, foods, crafts, performances and (of course) the boat races.
https://www.lsawaterfestival.org/
Multicultural Festival
August 10 | JFK Plaza, 50 Arcand Drive
Come learn about and celebrate the diverse international cultures we have in our community! This festival features traditional artifacts, attire, and food.
