Celebrating 35 Years of Music in the Park
On June 30, 1990, a small but spirited performance by the Mandala Folk Dance Ensemble kicked off something big: the very first show of what would become the Lowell Summer Music Series. That evening, folding chairs filled the green at Boarding House Park as families, neighbors, and music lovers came together under the open sky.
Pictured: Our very first show: Mandala Dance Ensemble, June 30th, 1995
Thirty-five years later, we’re still here—bringing world-class music and unforgettable performances to the heart of downtown Lowell.
What started as a modest community effort has grown into one of Massachusetts’ most unique and enduring live music traditions. Each summer, the series transforms Boarding House Park, a former parking lot turned vibrant green oasis, into a stage for some of the best nights of the summer. Over the course of 35 years of concerts (with a brief pause for COVID), this space has evolved into a cherished venue where thousands of great memories have been made.
A Community Vision
From the very beginning, this series has been a true community endeavor—brought to life by local partnerships, hard work, and a shared belief in the power of live music. Among those most instrumental to its founding and success are Peter Aucella, who created the series and continues to serve as its General Manager, and the late Senator Paul Tsongas, whose vision for Lowell’s revitalization through the arts and preservation still resonates today. Tsongas was a champion of community and culture—not just for Lowell, but for the entire Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The vision and plans for the venue came from the Lowell Historic Preservation Commission.
We are also deeply grateful to our longtime partners at the Lowell National Historical Park, who have not only given us a home at Boarding House Park but have supported the series with steadfast belief and cooperation. This partnership is one of the finest examples of how national parks can help power vibrant civic life. The Lowell Festival Foundation has played an essential lead role as the nonprofit support for the Series.
The success of LSMS has also been driven by an incredible team of staff and volunteers over the years. People like John Marciano, whose commitment and leadership helped elevate the caliber of artists on our stage, and the many others who’ve staffed gates, moved gear, handled tech, and made this series feel like home—for artists and audiences alike.
(Pictured here: the original 1990 summer schedule—proof that it’s always been about great music in a great place.)
A Stage for Everyone
In the years since that first folk dance ensemble, the Lowell Summer Music Series has hosted legends, icons, and rising stars—from classic rock and soul to indie, folk, blues, and funk. We take pride in curating a lineup that offers something for every music fan, whether you're a lifelong concertgoer or just discovering the joy of live performance.
As a self-sustaining nonprofit, we’re driven not by corporate agendas but by a love for music, community, and accessibility. Our mission has always been to bring great music to a beautiful downtown park, and to do it with heart, humility, and style.
Where We Started, Where We’re Going
We’re proud to present these incredible performances each summer, including nationally touring headliners, a Free Fun For Kids series for families, and special one-off events that highlight the cultural richness of Lowell.
2025 marks our 35th season, and we’re celebrating with one of our most exciting lineups yet—featuring artists like Grace Potter, Los Lobos, The Wood Brothers, Kaleo, Big Head Todd & the Monsters, and many more.
We’re also proud to remain part of a larger creative movement in Lowell. This city has always had a deep artistic soul, and today it’s more alive than ever—home to music venues, festivals, and cultural institutions like Merrimack Repertory Theatre, the Lowell Folk Festival, and the soon-to-open Kerouac Center.
Thank You
To everyone who has set up a chair on the grass, danced under the stars, volunteered behind the scenes, or helped build something lasting—thank you! You’ve helped us create something truly special.
Here’s to 35 years of live music in the park—and to many more!
CLICK HERE FOR A GALLERY OF ARTIST PERFORMANCES OVER THE YEARS.
