Lowell Folk Festival

Bostonist had the pleasure of attending the Lowell Folk Festival yesterday afternoon. We caught a variety of musical acts, ranging in influence from French to Mexican to Native American, and also enjoyed a step dancing panel. Reveillons played traditional Quebec folk, spiced up with some world music and even a suitcase. The Ahkwesahsne Women Singers were accompanied by native dancers, who taught crowd members some steps; during the Alligator Song (adopted from the Seminole Indians), dancers swing their partners around like alligator tails. The Mariachi Estampa de America performed a short and sweet set in the street, and Helder Moutinho's voice boomed out over the main stage. Step dancers from many traditions explained their dance traditions, showed some steps, and even collaborated with one another for a percussive riot. In addition to great music, the festival also featured various ethnic foods, games for kids, collaborative art, fried dough, and--naturally--a person in sheep's clothing.

Also check out Chris Wraight's Lowell Folk Festival Photoset. He caught many more acts than we did, and even got some great step dancing shots.