Don’t Miss WinterFest in Massachusetts This February

Winter 2026 is halfway through, and I’m not going to lie — it has been a long one. The bitter cold temps and constant barrage of snow have left many of us (myself included) feeling cooped up and restless. Although sunshine and warm weather may be a ways off, February is still a great time to get out and have some fun. Fortunately, one of the state’s best winter festivals is just around the corner, and this year's schedule is jam-packed with entertainment. Bundle up in a warm winter coat, and don't forget the mittens, because Lowell WinterFest in Lowell, Massachusetts, is a fabulous local event you won’t want to miss.

For more than 25 years, the Lowell WinterFest has been a beloved winter festival in Massachusetts, taking place in February each year. Offering residents and visitors alike a way to beat the winter blues, this is one winter celebration you shouldn't miss! This year, the Lowell WinterFest is scheduled for one day, Saturday, February 28, 2026.

The fun at Lowell WinterFest kicks off Friday at 11 a.m. and lasts into the night. From 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., you can test your skills with both curling and LED air hockey right on Merrimack Street. Also starting at 11 a.m. is St. Anne's Chocolate Festival, where you can try tasty chocolate treats at St. Anne's Church.

The Experience Lowell Arts Market will open for sales of homemade crafts and specialty items from noon until 8 p.m. This is a great opportunity to shop from a variety of unique artisan vendors while supporting local businesses. Live music will start playing at noon at the Rockland Trust Music Tent in the bank's parking lot, with music playing throughout the afternoon until 10 p.m. Put your dancing shoes on and come see and support your favorite local bands!

Several other popular activities will return this year, including the annual Soup Bowl Competition at the Lowell Masonic Center from noon until 2 p.m. Attend this delicious event and help decide which local restaurant cooks the best chowder and soup. There is a small fee to attend this part of the Lowell WinterFest.

Head over to Palmer and Middle Street to see the amazing fire performances by Cirque de Light. You can also watch the artists as they demonstrate their carving techniques as they create intricate ice sculptures on Palmer Street. You can also try your hand at the all-day local scavenger hunt. If you win, you will earn bragging rights for the next year. Food trucks, a youth mural competition, displays of Lowla Bear artwork, and the Interactive Art & Place Making experience featuring LED swings, igloos, a giant Lite-Brite, performers, and plenty of photo ops will be available all day. This is one of the best family-friendly winter events in Massachusetts, so don't miss it!

Have you attended Lowell WinterFest in the past? What was your favorite part of the festivities? This year's WinterFest coincides with the city of Lowell's bicentennial, so it's sure to be a special year! Find more information about this fantastic festival on the Lowell WinterFest website and the Lowell WinterFest Facebook page. The festival is free to attend, although there is a fee for the soup competition.

For even more cold-weather fun in Massachusetts, check out these unforgettable places and some of the state's best cool and calming winter hikes. And while you are in Lowell, stop in the Four Sisters Owl Diner for a delicious breakfast before heading to the festival.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Massachusetts winter trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.