Lowell Folk Festival: 38 Years of Music

The 38th annual Lowell Folk Festival is poised to deliver another unforgettable experience, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, and storytelling. With a diverse lineup of performers from across the globe, the three-day event promises to be a celebration of cultural heritage and artistic expression.

A Stellar Musical Lineup

The festival prides itself on its exceptional musical offerings, and this year is no exception. From bluegrass to salsa, Cajun to Irish folk, the stages will resonate with a rich variety of sounds.

• Crooked Road Revival: This bluegrass group will kick off the festivities on Friday evening.
• Solas: This Irish band, a returning favorite from the festival’s early years, will grace the Boarding House Park stage.
• Edwin Perez Y Su Orquesta: Get ready to dance the night away with this high-energy salsa dura group.
• BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: Experience the heart and soul of Cajun music with this renowned ensemble.
• Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials: Prepare for a dose of electrifying blues from this legendary group.
• Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners: Featuring three generations of polka musicians, this family band will have you dancing in the aisles.
• Bamba Wassoulou Groove: This band from Mali blends traditional Wassoulou music with modern Malian-style electric guitar, creating a unique and captivating sound.
• Red Baraat: This Brooklyn-based dhol and brass band infuses North Indian and Pakistani rhythms with a contemporary flair.

Dance and Cultural Performances

Beyond the music, the festival offers a wealth of dance and cultural performances that provide a glimpse into diverse traditions.

• Angkor Dance Troupe: This Lowell-based troupe will return for a sixth time to perform traditional Cambodian dance, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the start of the Cambodian genocide and celebrating the vibrant Cambodian community in Lowell.
• Gene Tagaban: A Tlingit storyteller, comedian, musician, and dancer, Tagaban will share traditional stories and teachings from his Alaskan heritage, offering a moment of connection to oral traditions.

Event Details and Schedule Highlights

The festival action begins with a parade on Friday, July 25th, starting at 6:15 p.m. at the intersection of Arcand Drive, Dutton, and Merrimack streets. The parade will proceed down Kirk Street, culminating on French Street near the Boarding House Park stage. The official kickoff will follow immediately at 6:35 p.m., leading into the first musical act.

Saturday, July 26th:

• 12:00 p.m.: Angkor Dance Troupe at the Saab Family Foundation Stage at Market Street.
• 12:15 p.m.: Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners at the Dance Pavilion.
• 12:00 p.m.: Gene Tagaban at the Richard K. and Nancy L. Donahue Stage at St. Anne’s Churchyard.
• 2:20 p.m.: Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners at the Market Street stage.
• 3:25 p.m.: Bamba Wassoulou Groove at the Market Street stage.
• 5:50 p.m.: Bamba Wassoulou Groove at the Dance Pavilion.
• 9:20 p.m.: Bamba Wassoulou Groove at Boarding House Park.

Sunday, July 27th:

• 1:00 p.m.: Gene Tagaban at the St. Anne’s stage.
• 1:05 p.m.: Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners at the Dance Pavilion.
• 2:30 p.m.: Gene Tagaban at John and Merrimack streets.
• 3:10 p.m.: Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners join The Bullock Brothers and Oghlan Bakshi at the Market Street stage.
• 4:25 p.m.: Bamba Wassoulou Groove at the Dance Pavilion.
• Red Baraat: Closing performance on Sunday, promising an energetic finale.

Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Joy

Despite facing financial challenges, including the loss of a National Endowment for the Arts grant, the Lowell Folk Festival remains committed to providing a joyous and inclusive experience for all. Organizers have worked diligently to secure additional sponsorships and rely on the support of the community through merchandise sales, beverage purchases, and donations.

In a climate of uncertainty, the festival stands as a beacon of celebration, embracing diversity and fostering a sense of unity. The organizers are determined to ensure that the festival continues to thrive, bringing people together through the power of music, dance, and storytelling. The spirit of the Lowell Folk Festival is one of resilience, community, and a deep appreciation for the richness of human culture.