Lowell, Massachusetts is an energetic and fun community that has a long and storied history. Recently named as one of the top communities to live in Massachusetts by Boston Magazine, Lowell has great public transportation, activities, entertainment, and community spirit. This atmosphere has cultivated a vibrant and creative art community that welcomes visitors and fans of art with open arms. For the past 16 years, the City of Lights Parade has been attracting thousands people from all over Massachusetts and the entire region. There are few better locations in the Northeastern United States for a festival celebrating art, holidays, and the community.
This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season and get to know the Lowell community. You’ll experience an all day celebration that showcases many events including art exhibits, art auctions, marketplaces filled with unique items, live holiday music, and even a live classic radio play. The City of Lights Parade is an event for the entire family. Kids can get their picture taken with Santa, participate in art exhibits, sample different hot chocolates, and enjoy a live magic show. The celebration is capped off by the bright and entertaining City of Lights Parade (COL), where you’ll enjoy live music, beautiful floats, and a festive downtown atmosphere that all leads to the tree lighting at city hall, completing the festivities. ResortsandLodges.com interviewed Susan Halter, the Director of COOL/Cultural Affairs & Special Events at the JFK Civic Center, about the parade and community celebration.
RAL: Tell me about the event.
SH: City of Lights parade is in its 16th year. The event attracts over 5,000 people annually. We tend to attract all ages and backgrounds. Families with kids come to see Santa and the interactive programs like art making and the magic show. Singles and friends come out for the official lighting of the downtown area. What makes our celebration exciting is the festive feeling and the coordinated lighting of Lowell’s City Hall and the Wannalancit Mill Christmas Tree.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event. What can I expect as an attendee?
SH: We have so much going on and there are so many locations! The best way to keep track of them all is by visiting the event website.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
SH: While there are no lodging specials during the parade, there are some wonderful events at nearby hotels and resturants. The Stonehenge Inn and Spa, for example, offers wondeful wine dinners during the holidays.
RAL: What does the parade mean to the community?
SH: City of Lights is the official kickoff to Lowell’s holiday season. You’ll find activities and shopping events all day followed by the parade at night, featuring local floats and regional marching bands. Many restaurants and businesses participate in the hot chocolate contest or this year’s new Gingerbread House competition. This is a feel good event that’s guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
SH: If you live in the Merrimack Valley, the City of Lights Parade and Holiday Stroll is a great opportunity to continue your Thanksgiving Day celebration. Shop at local stores and galleries, featuring one of kind gifts produced by local craftsman. Enjoy dinner at one of Lowell’s fantastic international restaurants, or stop in for a classic film at our independent movie theater. Join in the holiday spirit with thousands of other revelers and make your holiday last!
For more information about the parade and the Lowell area please visit their website.