City of Lights Returns November 29 - a Lowell Tradition

The City of Lowell is delighted to announce the return of City of Lights, set to take place on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The annual parade and festival are a tradition for families across the region, ushering in the holiday season.

The City of Lights parade will step off from Jackson Street at 4:30PM, turning left down Central Street, then left onto Merrimack Street, ending at Lowell City Hall. Local organizations and businesses will participate with floats and walking groups. The parade culminates in the lighting of Lowell City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack. In celebration of Lowell's culture and history as we prepare for the Bicentennial in 2026, the City of Lights grand marshals will honor local elders from across the City. New in 2025, the review stand will host pre-parade live music during the Warm Up Concert. This year, City of Lights embraces global winter traditions and tales with a "Holiday Folklore and Fairytales" theme - enchanting visitors with displays of Yuletide lore and stories out of time.

The City of Lowell invites families and community members to take part in a day of celebration and festive activities, including:

• Festival of Wreaths from 11:00AM to 5:00PM (The Brush Art Gallery)
• Holiday Market from 11:00AM - 6:00PM (Dutton Street Market)
• Open Studios from 12:00PM - 5:00PM (Western Avenue Studios)
• Seasonal storytime from 12:30PM - 1:15PM (Pollard Memorial Library)
• Holiday card crafting from 12:30PM - 2:00PM (Arts League of Lowell)
• Photos with Santa from 1:00PM - 3:00PM (Lowell City Hall)
  • Please note the line closes at 2:30PM
• Holiday treat decorating from 1:00PM - 4:00PM (Little Delights Bakery)
• Marshmallow roasting with Rotary Club of Lowell from 1:00PM - 5:30PM (in front of Lowell City Hall)
• Hot Chocolate Competition from 2:00PM - 4:00PM (various businesses)
• Holiday movie screening at 2:00PM, doors open at 1:30PM (MCC Academic Arts Center)
• Warm Up Concert from 3:30PM - 4:15PM (Arcand Drive Review Stand)
• Storefront Decorating Competition beginning at 12:00PM (various locations)
• City of Lights Parade from 4:30PM - 5:30PM (Jackson St to Arcand Dr)
• Lighting of Lowell City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack at approximately 5:15PM

City Manager Thomas A. Golden, Jr., expressed his excitement, stating, "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. 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."

In support of making the fun accessible to all Lowellians, a family quiet space will be available to the public during the event. This location is open to neurodivergent individuals, nursing parents, or those who may need a break. Pollard Memorial Library will have a dedicated quiet space in its meeting room from 1:30PM to 4:30PM. More information regarding this space will be available online.

The City of Lowell continues to prioritize public safety and emergency preparedness. The City is actively working within emergency management to decrease the risk of elopement or wandering children, enhancing protections for our most vulnerable residents.

Mayor Daniel P. Rourke remarked, "Lowell kicks off the holiday season each year with City of Lights, and it has become a beloved tradition for all. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with the community and experience everything that makes us Lowell, while uplifting our local organizations and businesses. From the Rotary's marshmallow-roasting stand to decorating seasonal treats at Little Delights, our partners make City of Lights special every year."

For more information about City of Lights, visit lowellcityoflights.org or contact the Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events at (978) 674-4260.