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Lowell License Commission approves summer festival and one‑day liquor permits
Summary
The commission approved multiple amplified‑entertainment permits and one‑day liquor licenses on June 25, 2026 for downtown summer events, including the Lowell Folk Festival permits, the 29th Southeast Asian Water Festival, a temple celebration, and the Dominican Festival; most applicants reported TIPS‑certified bartenders and event safety plans.
At its June 25 meeting, the Lowell City License Commission approved a slate of summer event permits and one‑day liquor licenses intended to support downtown festivals and cultural celebrations. The approvals included permits for a Western A Studios block party and multiple stages of the Lowell Folk Festival (July 23–26), the 29th Southeast Asian Water Festival (August 15 at Sampus Pavilion), amplified worship services at Carowak and Shed parks, a temple celebration (July 3–5) and the Dominican Festival on June 27 at JFK Plaza.
Applicants told commissioners they had safety plans and TIPS‑certified bartenders. Eric Sack said the Southeast Asian Water Festival is in its 29th year and involves activities including boat racing that are coordinated with the safety department. Vinnie Bunasi, who identified himself as president of the temple, said prior celebrations had run smoothly and confirmed bartenders would be certified. Katherine Apollo described gospel outreach events with attendance that “varies” and said she had secured park permits; commissioners clarified the amplification permit was limited to sound and not a license for religious activity.
A handful of items were deferred or scheduled for follow‑up: the ratification of an application by Suzanne Hodge was postponed because the applicant was not present, and a sidewalk‑stand permit for Marramac Textile Company was noted and will be rescheduled. Commissioners moved to approve the listed festival and event permits with routine conditions; no formal opposition was recorded for these items at the meeting.
The approvals clear the way for a packed downtown events season; applicants and organizers were encouraged to coordinate with police and parks staff on safety and logistics.
