Lowell African Festival 2025 Celebrates African Heritage and Community Unity

For Immediate Release
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Location: JFK Plaza, Lowell, MA

Lowell, MA – The city of Lowell was alive with color, music, and community spirit on June 21, 2025, as the annual Lowell African Festival returned to JFK Plaza. Organized by the African Cultural Association (ACA), this year’s festival drew a diverse crowd, including city officials, community leaders, and residents from across the region. The event was graced by the presence of Mayor Daniel Rourke, who delivered inspiring remarks during the official opening ceremony.

A Brief History of the Lowell African Festival

Founded in 2000, the Lowell African Festival was established to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Africa, and to foster understanding and unity among the city’s growing African immigrant population and the wider community. Over the past 25 years, the festival has become a cornerstone of Lowell’s cultural calendar, featuring music, dance, food, and educational activities that highlight the vibrancy of African heritage.

The festival is the flagship event of the African Cultural Association, Inc. (ACA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The ACA’s mission is to bridge the gap between the African continent and the United States through economic, educational, and social empowerment. The ACA provides a vital support network for African immigrants and promotes cultural exchange and opportunity for all.

Festival Program Highlights

The 2025 festival featured a full day of performances and activities, including:

• African Roots Band: Opening and closing the festival with lively music sets.
• DJ Musical Mixes: Keeping the energy high between live performances.
• Mr. O and The LCCPS Percussion: Showcasing the rhythms of African drumming.
• Afrobeats Dance Boston: Electrifying dance performances.
• Traditional West African Masquerade Dance Ensemble: Bringing tradition to life with colorful costumes and dance.
• Fashion Show: Highlighting both traditional and modern African attire.
• Parade of Flags: Representing the nations of Africa in a vibrant procession.

The formal opening included the singing of both the African and U.S. national anthems, followed by Mayor Daniel Rourke’s official welcome and the ceremonial lighting of the festival. Mayor Rourke commended the ACA for its dedication to inclusion and cultural celebration, emphasizing the importance of unity in Lowell’s diverse community.

About the African Cultural Association

The African Cultural Association (ACA) is dedicated to supporting and empowering Africans in Lowell and beyond. Led by President Benjamin T. Opara, Secretary Jackie Wangutusi, Treasurer Levenia Furusa, and board members Vladimir Seldaña and Zoe Arthur, the ACA offers programs and events year-round to promote cultural pride, economic opportunity, and social cohesion.

The ACA invites new members, volunteers, and donors to join their mission. Contributions are tax-deductible and directly support the continuation of the festival and other community initiatives.

As another successful festival concluded with the Parade of Flags and a vote of thanks, the spirit of unity and celebration was evident throughout JFK Plaza. With the continued support of Mayor Daniel Rourke and the dedicated ACA team, the Lowell African Festival promises to remain a highlight of the city’s cultural life for years to come.