Fresh Food, Local Roots, Campus Community
In 2022, the Rist Institute for Sustainability & Energy at UMass Lowell launched the Indoor Farmers Market in collaboration with Mill City Grows and a vibrant network of local vendors. As an extension of our Urban Agriculture Program, this initiative brings the community together to celebrate fresh, local food—right here on campus. The winter market makes it easy for students, faculty, and staff to shop local, discover new businesses, and experience the best of what Lowell has to offer, even during the colder months.
Taste the Acre
In 2023, Taste the Acre joined the Indoor Farmers Market, bringing the bold flavors and rich heritage of the Acre neighborhood to campus. This initiative celebrates the diverse and exceptional food businesses rooted in one of Lowell’s most historic and culturally vibrant communities. The Acre has long served as a welcoming gateway for immigrant families, a legacy reflected in the neighborhood’s thriving and eclectic culinary scene.
Taste the Acre aims to spotlight these local gems, attract new customers to the neighborhood, and collaborate with business owners to grow their impact. The program is supported in part by the Acre Transformative Development Initiative, led by MassDevelopment, and is a powerful example of how food can connect culture, community, and economic opportunity.
Thank You for Making the 2024-2025 Season a Success!
Thank you to all the vendors and attendees who made this past season a success! We’re deeply grateful for your support, enthusiasm, and commitment to building a more sustainable and connected campus community. Stay tuned for updates on next season—we can’t wait to welcome you back!