About Us

In the vibrant city of Lowell, Massachusetts, a group of passionate individuals came together in 1981 with a shared vision of celebrating and preserving Puerto Rican culture. Recognizing the importance of their heritage and the need for a platform to showcase it, they founded the Lowell Puerto Rican Festival. This annual event has since become a cornerstone of the community, bringing together Puerto Ricans and people from various backgrounds to honor their shared heritage.

The founding of the Lowell Puerto Rican Festival was driven by several key factors and motivations:

We are deeply committed to preserving our Puerto Rican heritage and ensuring that future generations would have a strong connection to their roots. We recognized the importance of celebrating Puerto Rican traditions, music, dance, art, and cuisine as a way to preserve and promote our rich cultural heritage in a new land.

We  aim to create a sense of unity and belonging among the Puerto Rican community in Lowell by organizing an event that showcases our culture, we seek to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community, pride, and solidarity.

We recognize the need to raise awareness and the understanding of Puerto Rican culture among the wider community and believe that by sharing our traditions, customs, and history, we could bridge cultural gaps, break down stereotypes, and promote diversity and inclusivity.

We also aim to celebrate the achievements of Puerto Ricans in Lowell and beyond, by highlighting the contributions of Puerto Ricans in various fields such as arts, music, business, education, and community service. We aim to inspire and empower younger generations to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on society.

Since its inception, the Lowell Puerto Rican Festival has grown in scale and significance. It has become an eagerly anticipated annual event that attracts thousands of attendees, both from within the local Puerto Rican community and beyond. The festival has evolved into a multi-day celebration, featuring a diverse range of activities, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the best of Puerto Rican culture.

The festival's program includes live music concerts by renowned Puerto Rican artists, traditional dance performances, art exhibitions featuring Puerto Rican artists, culinary experiences with authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, educational workshops on Puerto Rican history and traditions, and a vibrant parade that fills the streets of Lowell with colorful displays of Puerto Rican pride.

Over the years, the Lowell Puerto Rican Festival has become a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and community engagement. It has served as a platform to showcase the richness and diversity of Puerto Rican culture, while also fostering understanding and appreciation among the broader Lowell community. The festival has created lasting connections, nurtured talent, and provided opportunities for cultural exchange, economic growth, and social cohesion.

As the festival continues to thrive and evolve, it remains true to its founding principles of cultural preservation, community unity, cultural awareness, and celebrating the achievements of Puerto Ricans. It stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and vibrancy of the Puerto Rican community in Lowell, and serves as a beacon of pride and inspiration for all who attend.