11/21/2025
By Patricia Coffey
Lowell's City of Lights Festival & Parade takes place on Saturday, November 29, 2025. This beloved annual event is a cherished tradition for families across the region, ushering in the holiday season with joy and community spirit.
Keep an eye out for UMass Lowell’s Marching Band — they’ll be performing in the parade!
Families and community members are invited to enjoy a full day of celebration and festive activities throughout downtown Lowell, including:
- Festival of Wreaths | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | The Brush Art Gallery
- Holiday Market | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Dutton Street Market
- Open Studios | Noon – 5 p.m. | Western Avenue Studios
- Seasonal Storytime | 12:30 – 1:15 p.m. | Pollard Memorial Library
- Holiday Card Crafting | 12:30 – 2 p.m. | Arts League of Lowell
- Photos with Santa | 1 – 3 p.m. | Lowell City Hall (Please note: the line closes at 2:30 p.m.)
- Holiday Treat Decorating | 1 – 4 p.m. | Little Delights Bakery
- Marshmallow Roasting with the Rotary Club of Lowell | 1 – 5:30 p.m. | In front of Lowell City Hall
- Hot Chocolate Competition | 2 – 4 p.m. | Various businesses
- Holiday Movie Screening | 2 p.m. (doors open 1:30 p.m.) | Middlesex Community College Academic Arts Center
- Warm-Up Concert | 3:30 – 4:15 p.m. | Arcand Drive Review Stand
- Storefront Decorating Competition | Begins at Noon | Various locations
- City of Lights Parade | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Jackson Street to Arcand Drive
- Lighting of Lowell City Hall and the Wannalancit Smokestack | Approximately 5:15p.m.
For the complete schedule and maps, visit the Lowell City of Lights website.