Family events in Lawrence, MA

At Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsboro State Forest, participants help gather data for a nationwide project that connects people with place while monitoring mercury in the Merrimack River Watershed. This program suits anyone curious about insects, air pollution, or the life that thrives underwater. Activities include wading into a pond, so wear suitable footwear such as rain boots or old sneakers. Advance reservations are required. To reserve a spot, call 978 970-5000.

An evening of live music, food, and family fun fills Riverside Park. The Latin Jazz Band delivers high-energy rhythms that invite dancing. A variety of food trucks will serve local favorites, and a kids' zone keeps little ones busy with games and outdoor activities. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and your appetite. Admission is free and the event is suitable for all ages.

Children and teens are welcome at a relaxed weekly meet-up focused on chess, where participants can play, pick up new strategies, and connect with peers. The drop-in format suits all experience levels, with friendly games and guidance from mentors. Taking place at Nevins Memorial Library, this gathering offers a supportive way to build skills and make new friends.

A Puerto Rican festival takes place in Lowell, Massachusetts. Its title references both the United States and Puerto Rico.

Sports Zone 101 offers a high energy summer program in Methuen for kids who want to play a wide mix of games. Participants rotate through soccer, dodgeball, football, kickball, pickleball, hockey, basketball, and more while building sportsmanship, learning strategy, and exploring fun sports stats. Every participant receives a pack of sports cards each day. The season includes rotating themes such as NE Patriots Week, Cartoon Week, Kids vs. Coaches Week, Mystery Week, and a Grand Finale Week. Full day and half day options are available, along with drop in days, with pricing at $150 for residents and $160 for nonresidents for full day, $115 and $125 for half day, and $40 and $50 for drop in.

This free summer series offers evening activities most nights, with futsal at DCR Riverfront Park and the SLE/Breen School courts, soccer at Pavilion Park, and cooking classes and game nights in Beyond Soccer’s enrichment space. Created to help families balance work schedules and supported by a DCR Summer Nights grant, the program aims to reach more than 300 youth and teens.

BCI is celebrating summer with a sensory-friendly carnival at its Lowell Learning Center, which provides ABA therapy for children with autism and Down syndrome. Children can take part in carnival-themed activities and more, and the experience is designed for the whole family and friends. This event is free and open to the public.

The Lawrence Public Library courtyard transforms into a lively summer hangout with live music, board games, free arts and crafts, karaoke, and food trucks. Bring friends, family, and even the dog to enjoy music, games, and creative activities in the open air. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.