Lowell Celebrates 200 Years with WinterFest 2026

Bicentennial festivities kick off with winter festival featuring celebrity chef Buddy Valastro

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Lowell, Massachusetts is kicking off its bicentennial celebration with the annual WinterFest event, featuring live music, art, community activities, food, and a special birthday cake created by celebrity chef Buddy Valastro. The festival will take place on Saturday, February 29th from noon to 10pm along Merrimack Street in downtown Lowell, with the historic Old City Hall building serving as a backdrop to the celebrations.

Why it matters

Lowell's bicentennial marks an important milestone for the city, which was incorporated in 1826. WinterFest provides a festive opportunity for the community to come together and commemorate Lowell's rich history and bright future. The inclusion of celebrity chef Buddy Valastro and a custom bicentennial cake sculpture adds extra excitement and draw to the event.

The details

WinterFest 2026 will feature a variety of family-friendly activities, including live music, art exhibits, food vendors, and games. The highlight will be a special appearance by Buddy Valastro, owner of Carlo's Bakery, who will create a one-of-a-kind birthday cake for the city. A non-edible bicentennial cake sculpture will also be on display throughout the festival. The event is free and open to the public.

  • WinterFest 2026 will take place on Saturday, February 29, 2026 from 12pm to 10pm.
  • Lowell was incorporated as a city on March 1, 1826, making this year's bicentennial celebration.

The players

Buddy Valastro

Owner of Carlo's Bakery in New Jersey, who will create a special birthday cake for Lowell's bicentennial celebration.

Lowell Historic Board

The organization that provided historical details about the Old City Hall building, which will serve as a backdrop for the WinterFest festivities.

Rockland Trust

The bank that is now based in the rehabilitated Old City Hall building.

YouthBuild of Greater Lowell

The organization that refurbished the non-edible bicentennial cake sculpture for display during the festival.

Refuge Lowell

The organization that created the custom topper for the bicentennial cake sculpture.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

A 30-second commercial titled 'One Tank Away' is airing throughout Massachusetts to encourage people to attend the WinterFest 2026 celebrations.

The takeaway

Lowell's bicentennial celebration at WinterFest 2026 showcases the city's rich history, community spirit, and commitment to supporting local businesses and organizations. The inclusion of celebrity chef Buddy Valastro and the custom bicentennial cake sculpture add extra excitement and draw to this once-in-a-lifetime event.