Lowell – The 2025 Lowell Caribbean Festival took place this past weekend at the John F. Kennedy Center and City Hall, bringing the community together in an atmosphere full of music, culture, and joy. This year’s event was dedicated to the Dominican Republic, highlighting the richness of its cultural heritage and the contributions of its people to the city of Lowell.
The festival was directed and organized by Betsy Toro and Nancy Torres, two renowned community leaders committed to promoting Caribbean culture. The event was hosted by Gaby Robles and Lissy -África- Rivas, who animated the day with enthusiasm and charisma.
Opening Ceremony and Recognitions
The celebration began at noon with a welcome prayer led by Pastor Carmen Bermúdez, followed by the National Anthem performed by Inés Elder. The opening ceremony continued with a ribbon-cutting alongside council members Erik Gitschier, Rita Mercier, and Corey Robinson, who were also recognized for their work at City Hall.
Throughout the day, recognitions were also given to prominent figures such as Pastor Carmen Bermúdez, as well as Dominican representatives Felicita Espinal, Pamela Blanco, and Yvonne Francisco. Special tributes were also presented to artists W La Letra and Jey Kova.
Artists and Performances
The Lowell Caribbean Festival brought together a wide variety of talents that energized the audience with music and dance. Participating artists and groups included Abimael y su Jazz, Manny y su Bachatarengue, Caribbean Storm Salsa Group, Mandy y Sabor Latino, Lowell Bomba Dancers, DJ Snow, DJ Specialist, Kirliana La Dura de la Bachata, El Mo, Lizandra Almeida and Danielle with Samba de Brazil, Samba Moves and Vibes, W La Letra, and Jey Kova, along with the entertaining clown show by Bumburun and the folkloric performance by Cultura Latina Dance Academy.
One of the most anticipated moments was the official presentation of the queens, who graced the stage with elegance and charisma, representing the beauty and pride of Caribbean culture. This act was warmly applauded by the audience, celebrating the tradition and symbolism of this cultural representation.
Caribbean Cuisine
In addition to music and dance, the festival provided a space to enjoy typical Caribbean foods. Attendees savored traditional dishes and delicious tropical desserts, accompanied by refreshing drinks such as shaved ice treats and Caribbean cocktails, allowing the community to experience the authenticity and diversity of Caribbean cuisine, making the festival a full sensory experience.
The festival concluded with a performance by the New England Carnival Association, dazzling the audience with a show full of color, music, and tradition. Stunning costumes and folkloric outfits from the Dominican carnival transformed the stage into a cultural explosion, while the vibrant rhythm of merengue got everyone dancing in an unforgettable finale that captured the festive spirit and cultural richness of the Dominican Republic.
With a strong turnout, live music, folkloric dances, and a family-friendly atmosphere, the Lowell Caribbean Festival reaffirmed its mission to highlight cultural diversity and honor the legacy of the Caribbean community in the city, celebrating Dominican roots on this occasion.
(Story originally published in Spanish at Lowell Corazon Latino)
