A big part of the Festival is the food.  More than a dozen cultures share their ethnic foods, ranging from African and Asian to Filipino and Portuguese.  Many food booths are operated by social groups and churches, much as at an old-time fair. This year, in addition to the wide array of ethnic foods offered by non-profit groups, three for-profit eateries will be selected randomly through a lottery to set up booths on John Street.

“We want to provide sales opportunities to some of our local establishments,” says Bernie Lynch, Lowell City Manager.  “Featuring these locally-based vendors will enhance the assortment of culinary offerings during this national event.”

 “We’re very fortunate,” says Michael Creasey, Superintendent of Lowell National Historical Park. “Lowell has an incredible array of restaurants and local eateries. By involving local vendors in the Festival, we can really demonstrate how this city is a destination place for world food and culture.”

How it works: Local food establishments are encouraged to submit applications to Andy St. Onge (astonge@lowellma.gov; 978-970-4257) by Friday, July 11th to enter a lottery to become one of three participating vendors in the Lowell Folk Festival. Applications are available online. Completed applications must be accompanied by a $1600 fully-refundable bank check or money order. No cash or personal checks will be accepted. Businesses will be notified about their participation by Monday, July 14th. Any businesses not selected will receive a full refund of their deposit.

The Lowell Folk Festival is presented by Lowell National Historical Park, Lowell Festival Foundation, the National Council for the Traditional Arts, the City of Lowell, and the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information on the festival, contact Lowell National Historical Park at 978-970-5200 (TDD 978-970-5002) or visit online at www.lowellfolkfestival.org.