Lowell’s City of Lights Celebration Returns Nov. 29
The City of Lowell will host its annual City of Lights celebration on Saturday, Nov. 29, featuring a parade that starts at 4:30 p.m. on Jackson Street and culminating with…
Photo: Lowell City of Lights/Facebook
The City of Lowell will host its annual City of Lights celebration on Saturday, Nov. 29, featuring a parade that starts at 4:30 p.m. on Jackson Street and culminating with the lighting of Lowell City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack. This event is part of the city's preparations for the U.S. bicentennial in 2026.
According to a City of Lowell news release, the parade travels from Jackson Street through Central Street and Merrimack Street to Lowell City Hall, with the lighting ceremony around 5:15 p.m.
This year, the theme for the celebration is "Holiday Folklore and Fairytales," featuring Yuletide lore and family-friendly activities tied to winter activities. Additionally, grand marshals for the parade will honor local elders from across Lowell, while a new Warm-Up Concert will be held at the review stand before the parade begins.
Here's a look at the schedule of events taking place for the celebration:
- Festival of Wreaths from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (The Brush Art Gallery)
- Holiday Market from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Dutton Street Market)
- Open studios from noon to 5 p.m. (Western Avenue Studios)
- Seasonal storytime from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. (Pollard Memorial Library)
- Holiday card crafting from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. (Arts League of Lowell)
- Photos with Santa from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (Lowell City Hall; the line closes at 2:30 p.m.)
- Holiday treat decorating from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Little Delights Bakery)
- Marshmallow roasting with the Rotary Club of Lowell from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (in front of Lowell City Hall)
- Hot Chocolate Competition from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (various businesses)
- Holiday movie screening at 2 p.m.; doors open at 1:30 p.m. (MCC Academic Arts Center)
- Warm-Up Concert from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. (Arcand Drive Review Stand)
- Storefront decorating competition beginning at noon (various locations)
- City of Lights Parade from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Jackson Street to Arcand Drive)
- Lighting of Lowell City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack at approximately 5:15 p.m.
"City of Lights has become an integral part of Lowell's festival offerings, and we're thrilled to bring the event back again this year," said City Manager Thomas A. Golden Jr. in an event news release. "We look forward to welcoming all to sample delicious drinks in the Hot Chocolate Competition, explore the decorated storefronts throughout Downtown Lowell, and take in the parade."
Visit the City of Lights website for more information or call the Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events at 978-674-4260.
