LOWELL –  The Healey-Driscoll Administration today kicked off another summer of free activities for young people across Massachusetts during an event at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell.

The Summer Nights Program, administered through the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), runs throughout July and August, offering thousands of young people free recreational, educational and leadership programs.

Governor Maura Healey joined DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle and local leaders at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell this morning to launch the program’s twelfth season.

“Every child deserves the chance to have a fun, active and memorable summer, regardless of what their family can afford,” said the Governor. “Summer Nights gives young people a safe place to be with friends, discover new interests, build confidence and create memories that will last long after summer ends. Programs like this are part of what makes Massachusetts a great place to grow up.” 

Summer Nights offers recreational and educational activities for participants between the ages of 13 and 21 living in Massachusetts’ urban communities. Since its inception in 2015, the program has expanded from just four community partners to over 100 organizations and nonprofits. Last year, approximately 30,000 children and teens participated in Summer Nights programs.

“The DCR Summer Nights program is an amazing investment in our young people and community,” said Lowell Mayor Erik Gitschier. “By providing free, safe and engaging activities throughout the summer, this partnership helps ensure that Lowell’s youth have the opportunity to stay active, build friendship and leadership skills. Thank you to Governor Healey, her administration, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell for putting this together.” 

“The DCR Summer Nights program continues to bring tremendous energy and opportunity to communities across Massachusetts and we are proud to see Lowell once again playing a leading role in its success,” added Lowell City Manager Tom Golden. “By partnering with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, we’re able to offer our young people safe, enriching and engaging activities that build confidence, encourage leadership and strengthen community connections.  Programs such as the Outdoor Adventure Club and the Peace League Basketball series highlight Lowell’s commitment to supporting youth with meaningful experiences that help them grow, explore, and thrive. We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued partnership with DCR and look forward to a vibrant, positive summer for all our families.” 

Programming runs through late August and includes basketball, volleyball, dance, martial arts, fishing, kayaking, rowing, camping, swimming, theater, STEM activities, nature exploration, cooking, painting and more. Participants can also take part in leadership development, health and wellness programming, academic tutoring, career and college readiness programs, media production and other educational opportunities.

“DCR has been a great partner for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell,” said Joe Hungler, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell. “The Summer Nights program helps provide a safe place for teens to have fun, make friends, eat and join programs like Peace League basketball, outdoor adventures, sound recording and art. Our teens look forward to it every summer.” 

For a full list of programming, please visit the DCR Summer Nights webpage.