by Danny Rourke

As the Mayor of Lowell, I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the 2024 Lowell Folk Festival an outstanding success. This event showcases the vibrant culture and spirit of our city, and it could not have been possible without the collective effort of so many dedicated individuals and organizations.

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our incredible city workers. CASE (Cultural Affairs and Special Events) for working from September-July organizing and managing various aspects of the three-day festival, from logistics to community outreach. The Lowell Police Department (LPD) and Lowell Fire Department (LFD) ensured the safety and security of all attendees with their unwavering commitment and professionalism. Our Department of Public Works (DPW) staff worked tirelessly to keep the festival grounds clean and orderly, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.

The producing partners of the Lowell Folk Festival— the City of Lowell, Lowell National Historical Park, the Lowell Festival Foundation, National Council for the Traditional Arts (NCTA), Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Greater Lowell Community Foundation — deserve special recognition. Their expertise and dedication in curating a diverse lineup of performances and activities made this year’s festival truly unforgettable.

Our volunteers are the heart and soul of the festival. Hundreds of individuals generously donated their time and energy to assist with everything from setting up stages to guiding visitors. Their enthusiasm and dedication are what make the Lowell Folk Festival such a welcoming and enjoyable event for all.

A big thank you goes out to our sponsors, businesses, and donors. Your generous contributions and support are invaluable to the festival’s success. Local businesses provided essential services and hospitality, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. Your partnership ensures that the Lowell Folk Festival continues to thrive and grow each year.

To our global food vendors, thank you for bringing a taste of the world to Lowell. Your culinary delights added an extra layer of excitement and joy to the festival, allowing attendees to embark on a gastronomic journey without leaving the city.

To the attendees, thank you for joining us and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that makes Lowell so unique. Your presence and participation bring the festival to life, creating an atmosphere of joy, unity, and shared experiences.

And finally, a special thank you to Mother Nature for blessing us with perfect weather throughout the festival. Your cooperation was much appreciated and added an extra touch of magic to the event.

Together, we have once again demonstrated the power of community and collaboration. The success of the Lowell Folk Festival is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community. I look forward to seeing you all next year for another fantastic Lowell Folk Festival!

You can follow Mayor Rourke on Facebook, X and Instagram at @MayorRourke.