NOVEMBER 2023: NALLIE PASTURES

Steve Hall is 36 and has been farming most of those years.

This being Dracut, it’s not a unique upbringing. But Hall’s farm story followed a different trajectory than most.

His farm, which he calls Nallie Pastures (named after his dog), ...

October 2023: New England Ghost Project

Who doesn’t like a good ghost story? Especially with Halloween looming.

Ron Kolek sure does, and he’s got more than a few of them.

Ron is the founder, executive director and lead investigator of the New England Ghost Project, based right...

September 2023: M.L. Shaw's Country Kitchen and Gifts

Like the dairy farm that shares its name, M.L. Shaw’s Country Kitchen and Gifts is about generations.

The popular breakfast and lunch stop opened in 1986 when Warren Shaw and his sister, Ruth – themselves part of the fourth generation o...

August 2023: Dadiala Family Dentistry

Dr. Onkar Dadiala has been in Dracut for just over two years, but his dental practice is already a valued member of the community.

Dr. Dadiala joined Dr. Ian Barwick’s practice in 2021 and, upon the latter’s retirement in 2022 after mor...

July 2023: Nutrition Junction

Arnold Thuku chats with a customer while concocting a shake.

The guy’s telling Arnold he’s trying to lose some weight, start lifting, get back into shape, but he doesn’t have the time.

“You make the time..!”...

JUNE 2023: HAMMAR'S STUDIO

School ends on Friday, June 16, in Dracut. What are your kids going to do the following week? And the week after that?

Need some ideas? Hammar’s Studios has a bunch.

Hammar’s Studio is Dracut Economic Development’s Business of the Month for June 2023.

Locate...

May 2023: Lenzi's Catering

Mike Lenzi received the call on Friday, September 14, 2018.The day before, a series of gas explosions had rocked the communities of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover, just a few miles up Route 110 from Lenzi’s Catering. Crews from NiSource, the parent c...

April 2023: Kal's Automotive Center

Kal Hamze will tell you he’s living “a true American dream.” It’s hard to argue with him.

The owner of Kal’s Automotive Center escaped civil war in Lebanon to come to America in 1987. Within seven years, he had graduated from Northeastern University with a...

March 2023: Daigle Tax Service

Al Daigle was a senior at Bishop Guertin High School when he was introduced to the world of tax returns.

This was 1980, so things were somewhat simple. As the oldest of seven children, he was expected to learn the family trade, started by his father, Alber...

February 2023: Kenwood True Value Hardware

Old Man Winter usually makes his presence felt in February -- February 2021 was the coldest in the last 30 years. And with the cold come snow, frost and ice.

Kenwood True Value Hardware is Dracut Economic Development’s February Business of the Mo...

January 2023: SMART Defense Tactics

Aaron St. Louis wants you to be able to defend yourself. He wants it so much, he’s willing to bring the training to you.

Aaron, an expert in self-defense, started his business, SMART Defense Tactics, out of his Spare Street home in Dracut after e...

December 2022: Enterprise Bank

Enterprise Bank had several reasons for wanting to open a branch in Dracut. First of all, the company had no branches on the north side of the Merrimack River. Then there was the fact that Dracut was (and still is) a growing town with an economy to match....

November 2022: The Arbors at Dracut

Aging is a fact of life. Like taxes, it’s not a desirable fact, but it’s a fact nonetheless.

Some prefer to age in solitude, in the home in which they raised their family. Others prefer company, the day-to-day fellowship that only comes...

October 2022: Sean's Property Services

Sean Welch was a corrections officer in Concord when he realized that wasn’t what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.

The Dracut resident was 17 when his first daughter was born (he has three girls now), and he knew he would need a career ...

September 2022: Brox Farm

In a summer during which water has been at a premium, it’s impressive that Dracut’s farms are still managing to grow and sell its produce.

Brox Farm is a prime example. Its irrigation pond can barely pass for a puddle these days.

&ld...

August 2022: New View Remodeling & Construction and Fine Line Kitchen Designs

Gregg Looney got into the construction business almost by accident.

Trained as a registered nurse and armed with a nursing degree from Rivier College (after a stint at the University of Massachusetts Lowell), he worked long hours at several health-care fac...

July 2022: Scola's Restaurant

Scola’s has been around for 31 years and has earned a reputation as a fine-dining experience in Dracut.

This month, new owners – the third group – take over the ovens.

Andrew Corbin and Parag Corbin Patel have bought Scola&...

June 2022: Shaw Farm

If you ask 10 people in Dracut what the most well-known business in town is, probably seven of them will say Shaw Farm. And for good reason.

Shaw Farm has been around since 1908 and celebrates its 115th year in 2023. In a town known for its many farms, Sha...

May 2022: Farmer Dave's

The seeds of Dave Dumaresq’s future were planted early in life, when he would ride his bike down from Marsh Hill to Brox Farm on Broadway Road in Dracut to work the land when he was still a preteen.

“I worked with John Brox at Brox Farm...

April 2022: Owen and Ollie's Restaurant

On April 5, 2007, a new restaurant opened in a Dracut location loaded with history and, in the 15 years since, has survived a recession, a bankruptcy filing and a pandemic while managing to create its own lore as one of Dracut’s most popular res...

March 2022: Four Oaks Country Club and Grazie Italian Restaurant

There may be snow on the ground, but it’s March, and that means golf season can’t be more than a 9-iron away.

The folks at Four Oaks Country Club, 80 Meadow Creek Drive in Dracut, are hoping spring starts a little early this year, as it...

February 2022: Wignall Animal Hospital

Everyone knows pets are just four-legged family members. A pet can be a faithful companion, a trusted confidant, a snuggly comforter.

And like any other family member, pets need to be properly cared for.

Folks have been entrusting care of their pets to Wign...

January 2022: Essex Silver-Line

If you drive Lakeview Avenue regularly – and, really, who in Dracut doesn’t? – you have likely driven past a company that is recognized internationally as a leader in its field.

Essex Silver-Line, producer of one of the most p...

December 2021: Lily Mack Farm

In Dracut, you know it’s officially the Christmas season when Lily Mack Farm has its trees and wreaths on display.

On November 26 – the day after Thanksgiving – the Guthrie family started their 11th season running Lily Mack. R...

November 2021: Lucky Burner Service and Oil Delivery

How does a 25-year-old guy from Dracut start his own business in the competitive world of oil?

If you’re Leo Vezina and it’s 1976 and you’ve just left your job as a manager with Litchfield Oil, you get Lucky.

No, really, he got...

October 2021: Mama's Italian Restaurant

“When you’re hungry, come to Mama’s!”

Folks in Dracut have been hearing that for 32 years now, and for good reason. They know that when you go to the 1140 Lakeview Avenue restaurant for lunch or dinner, you may arriv...

November Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

October Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

September Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

August Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

July Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

June Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

May Newsletter

Check out what is happening at the Dracut Senior Center!

April Newsletter

Find out what is happening at the Dracut Senior Center!

March Newsletter

Find out what is happening at the Dracut Senior Center!

February Newsletter

Find out what is happening this month at the Dracut Senior Center!

Dracut commends Lazy River Products

Furtado's Eatery ready to serve

The Furtados are back in the restaurant business!

Tony and Brenda Furtado, former owners of Scola’s Italian Restaurant in Dracut, sold that business in 2022 and returned to the workaday world. A year of that was enough. While they may have though...

Fitness Court opens in Dracut

FITNESS 1: Students from Dracut High School demonstrate how to work the various stations at Dracut’s Fitness Court, now open to the public at Veterans Park. (PHOTO BY PAULA CHAUSSE)

FITNESS 2: From left at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for ...

In any event, here's who to call

The rise of fall brings one of the busiest event seasons of the year, with Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas, never mind the fact that it’s a big time for reunions, weddings and other large get-togethers.

If you need some help plann...

Cloverland Home: Not-so-common scents

Laura Gaudette is a homebody. She likes to get cozy, curl up, put on some music, light a candle. She likes it so much, in fact, that she decided to start her own candle business to help others feel as cozy at home as she does.

Cloverland Home arose from an...

Get your money in order

Need help with your financial plan? Don’t have a financial plan? Want to start one?

October is Financial Planning Month, so now is as good a time as any.

Check out these Dracut businesses for assistance with your financial planning. And tell them ...

Why be vanilla? Try Black Sheep Craft Ice Cream

Have you ever had a craving for ice cream, but something beyond the chocolate-vanilla-coffee-strawberry variety? Sure, most ice cream stands in the area have more out-of-the-box flavors, like rum raisin or salted caramel or purple cow.

But most stands don&...

Dads and daughters driving businesses

The truck grabs your attention instantly. After all, plenty of trucks feature a business name that includes the words “and Son(s).” Not many, however, boast “and Daughter.”

That eye-catching truck belongs to Marc L&a...

Romano's -- the Original -- is back in Dracut

Paul Romano has tried to quit the pizza business. It’s just that he’s not a good quitter.

So he’s back at Bridgewood Plaza, 1794 Bridge Street, Suite 10, a spot he left in the mid-1980s after selling his Romano’s Piz...

Dog-tired? Let someone else walk your pooch

September 8 is National Dog Walking Day. Dracut has a couple of experienced dog-walking businesses if you’re in the bark-et for that type of service, or if you’re just too dog-tired. Tell them Dracut Economic Development sent you. Let ...

Dracut Rotary, Economic Development collect backpacks and supplies for schools

The Dracut Rotary Club teamed up with the Town of Dracut’s Economic Development to collect about 300 backpacks, along with other school supplies, for Dracut schoolchildren.

The backpacks were donated by local businesses, residents and agencies, i...

Go "out" to eat

August 31 is Eat Outside Day, and if you haven’t seen the forecast for Thursday, it calls for sunny skies and a 0% chance of rain and low humidity. Perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco.

If you don’t feel like preparing your own lunch o...

Sugar Coated Cakes: New name, same quality

Jennifer Gryckiewicz opened her small bakery in Bridgewood Plaza, 1794 Bridge Street, Unit 13A, in 2010, and it didn’t take long for Sugar Coated Bakery to make a name for itself.

Aside from being one of Dracut’s go-to bakeries for cust...

Say cheese

World Photography Day is August 19, and while the intention is to celebrate photography in general, not necessarily professional photographers, Dracut Economic Development will take this opportunity to focus on those who earn a living making snap decision...

Dracut welcomes KRANE Homes

KRANE Homes opened its doors at the Papanotas Plaza, 1095 Lakeview Avenue, on August 12, with a block-party atmosphere that saw several other businesses in the plaza join in the festivities.

Among those joining the celebration were VTEX Strength & Fitn...

Keep on truckin'

If asked what type of business is most prevalent in town, Dracut residents would most likely say coffee shops or hair salons or pizza places.

In actuality, construction is number one with 64 businesses. Right behind that, though, is the Trucking & Deli...

And the winners are ...

Celebrate Dracut's farmworkers

August 6 is Farmworker Appreciation Day, and if you haven’t noticed, Dracut has a few working farms. And they don’t run themselves. So let’s show some appreciation for the folks who keep Dracut’s farms running.

Here’s a look at those farms. As usual, if yo...

Owner of 2 pubs donates to Dracut Food Pantry

Ed Morgan found himself with some extra funds recently. What with 50/50 raffles at the two bars he owns in Dracut – Joker’s Lounge and The Rally Cap Pub – and some extra dough he picked up renting out Joker’s parkin...

Cone or cup?

It should come as no surprise that the month of July has a lot of “holidays” centered around ice cream.

July 16 is both National Ice Cream Day and Sundae Sunday.

July 20 is National Ice Cream Soda Day.

July 23 National Vanilla Ice Cream Day. (Dracut Economic...

Roll into lobster season

It’s time for lobster. Just look at the calendar. June 15 is National Lobster Day.

So where can you tuck in your bib and sink your claws into the crustacean in Dracut? Glad you asked. Here’s a list. Tell them Dracut Economic Development...

Sweet day for cupcakes

May 8 is National Give Someone a Cupcake Day.

So who sells cupcakes in Dracut? Glad you asked.

• Amanda Panda Party is a home-based business that offers custom cupcakes with the standard flavors, but also Orange Dreamsicle, Kahlua, and Root Beer; and fillings...

Ribbon cut for Farm Stand at Farmer Dave's

Dave Dumaresq bought the 30 acres of farmland at 437 Parker Road, once tilled by the Leczynski family, in 2006, with a pledge to make it “a model for future agriculture” in Massachusetts.”

Seventeen years later, Farmer Dave is...

Sing us a song

National Karaoke Week starts Sunday, April 23, and runs through, April 29. And who doesn’t love a little karaoke?

OK, well, some people do. And those folks can sing to their heart’s content at three different Dracut establishments. (Other establishments ma...

Care for your car

April is National Car Care Month. You may already know that Kal’s Automotive Center, 1543 Bridge Street, is Dracut Economic Development’s April Business of the Month, but you also know there are many businesses in Dracut – close to 50 -- that will take ca...

Roast-beef Royal-ty comes to Dracut

Royal House of Roast Beef & Pizza opened at 464 Lowell Street in Methuen in 1985. Over those 38 years, Royal has become synonymous with terrific roast beef. And now they’re in Dracut.

Owner Magdi Mikhael decided to open a second shop at 1489 Broadway R...

Cupcakes for Charity

Nobody wants to see a perfectly good pastry go to waste – and certainly not the folks at Sugar Coated Bakery, who painstakingly bake and decorate all of the sweets at the shop in Bridgewood Plaza, 1794 Bridge Street, Unit 13A.

Inevitably, though,...

East Dracut, get ready to scream for ice cream

Here’s the scoop: Ice cream is coming to East Dracut! And not just any ice cream. Anyone who knows their ice cream knows there are three stands in Dracut – all of them in the western part of town: Frosty boy Dracut mass, Mike&...

'Grazie' at Grazie

The family of Arthur Ducharme were looking for a nice place to celebrate the World War II Navy veteran's 98th birthday, and Grazie Italian Restaurant fit the bill. Happy birthday, Mr. Ducharme, and "Grazie" for your se...

Snow problem

Need a snow plow? Dracut has plenty of options. Give these folks a call.

 AJ Steel, 978-715-5447

All American Landscaping, 978-853-0950

A Precise Maintenance, 978-937-1322

Bruce’s Landscaping, 978-970-3553

Carroll Lawn Care, 978-601-8861

Coll...

New home for Joel's Auto Repair

Joel Luna’s regular customers don’t have too far to go if they want to continue having him fix their cars.

Joel moved his repair shop about two miles down the road -- from his previous spot at 72 Bridge Street in Pelham to his new locat...

Out on a limb

High winds and heavy rains are coming in tonight and into Friday, with gusts up to 65 mph expected.

If you have a tree down in your yard, do you know who to call? Here are some Dracut companies that do tree removal and maintenance. Tell them Dracut Economi...

Crafty people in Dracut

Some folks like to give – and receive – a handmade item for the holidays, like a customized piece of jewelry or a uniquely scented candle.

Dracut has a large variety of home-based crafters who have gifts a plenty on their websites and/o...

Lo Kai turns 50

If you’ve never been to the Lo Kai, you’re not really a Dracut resident.

The Lo Kai opened at 1655 Lakeview Avenue in 1972, so if you live in town, you can’t say you haven’t had time to visit.

On Sunday, December 4, o...

Grazie earns an Oscar with new executive chef

The new chef at Grazie Italian Restaurant in Dracut comes with a pretty impressive palate pedigree.

Oscar Figueroa took over as executive chef of Grazie, at Four Oaks Country Club, in September 2022. Owner Cindy Kuenzler hopes Grazie is “the fina...

Taken to the cleaners

Spring is here! But with spring comes spring cleaning.

If you’re not up for that this year, Dracut has plenty of businesses that will clean your home or place of business for you, so you can enjoy. Tell them Dracut Economic Development sent you. ...

Steak and cheese, please

Who’s up for a nice steak-and-cheese sub (or cheesesteak, if you prefer)?

The cheesesteak, of course, originated in Philadelphia, but Dracut has some pretty good ones, too, and since March 24 is National Cheesesteak Day, why not indulge?

Of course...

Go solar

Thinking about going solar? March 21 is National Renewable Energy Day, so it’s as good a time as any.

Renewable energy, of course, includes more than solar; hydroelectric, wind and biogas are also viable alternatives. But solar is, by far, the mo...

Shaw family thankful for support after barn collapse

Warren Shaw called it the “worst day I’ve ever had on this property” when the barn housing Shaw Farm’s 85 cows collapsed on March 14, killing six of the cows.

Warren was not at the farm at the time of the collapse, shortly after noon, having left for lunch...

Dining Around Dracut

Wondering what to do for dinner on Monday, March 20? Why not try eating at more than 25 different places – all under one roof?

Dining Around Dracut returns to Lenzi’s, 810 Merrimack Avenue, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., where 28 local eaterie...

Get your scallops here

March 12 is National Baked Scallops Day. Are you now hungry for scallops? Dracut Economic Development is, too. Several Dracut eateries can satisfy your scallop urges.

Below are the Dracut establishments that have scallops on their regular menu. Others coul...

The pipes are calling

Saturday, March 11, is World Plumbing Day, and while Dracut Economic Development never wishes a plumbing problem on anyone – much less on a Saturday – stuff happens.

The good news is, Dracut has you covered, with more than 30 plumbers w...

Magnolia Siteworks has concrete plans

Cherie Morrissey has the accounting background, and her husband, Brenton, has the construction experience. On that solid foundation, the Dracut couple have built a successful business that provides stone, concrete and drainage services.

The Morrisseys star...

Pet sitters in Dracut

So you just got a new job, and you’re not sure what to do with your dog or cat. You don’t want to leave them alone, but you don’t have a relative or friend who can come every day to check up on them.

Well, since March 1-7 is N...

Brox bringing back Farmer's Market

It may be the dead of winter, but Brox Farm is preparing for spring -- and beyond.

The farm, which held several popular pop-up festivals on Saturdays last summer, is planning to hold a Farmer’s Market every Sunday, starting May 7, from 9 a.m. to ...

Chili and chowder

It’s a great time for a nice hot bowl of chili, isn’t it? And not just because February 23 is National Chili Day. Any day is good.

Not a fan of chili? How about some good, old-fashioned New England clam chowder – just in time ...

Pancakes and bacon -- what's better

It’s a banner week for breakfast lovers. February 21 is International Pancake Day, and the entire week -- Feb. 19-25 – is National Pancake Week. If that’s not enough, February 26 is National Bacon Day (as if every day isn&...

Toothache? Who ya gonna call?

February 9 is National Toothache Day, and while we’re not quite sure why toothaches get their own day, we are quite sure that Dracut has you covered when it comes to dentists who can treat your toothache.

Affordable Dental Care, 1168 Lakeview Ave...

Bellacure Nails & Spa opens

Bellacure Nails & Spa has opened at 1863 Lakeview Avenue in Dracut. On February 1, Dracut Economic Development held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for owner Kate Ouk, who worked for several other nail salons in area towns before opening her own in Dracut. ...

This family's business is starting businesses

The Petros family of Dracut has really taken Dracut’s home-business bylaw to heart.

No less than four businesses are run out of the house between dad John, mom Phyllis and daughter Victoria.

In June 2021, Dracut Town Meeting voted to amend the zon...

The heat is on -- or is it?

OK, so winter has been pretty tame so far. But cold temps and wind chills are in the forecast for this weekend (Feb. 3-5). Is your heating system ready for it? If not, Dracut has you covered with dozens of HVAC contractors available. Give them a call if t...

'One Stop Print Shop' times 2

Carbon Colors is celebrating nearly 15 years as Dracut’s “One Stop Print Shop” by opening its second location in town.

Now, if you have a commercial or digital printing job – for instance, a sign or direct mailer &am...

Top Donut -- and spinach pie

Ever since Robin and Wendy Ley put their three Top Donut shops – including the one at 1895 Lakeview Avenue – on the market earlier this year, folks in Dracut have been wondering what will happen to their beloved morning coffee-and-doug...

Shared kitchens a hot item in Dracut

When Barry Shannon opened his space in Dracut’s Tennis Plaza earlier this year to produce his Barry’s Hot Sauce, he knew the space would be woefully underutilized.

While he uses the space in the plaza at 1794 Lakeview Avenue a couple da...

Photo synthesis

It’s not that Jenn Plante didn’t like working as a physical therapist. It’s just that she likes taking photos more.

After getting a taste of photography as the photo editor of the newspaper at her alma mater, Amesbury High Sch...

Cheers to Everybody's Sports Place!

Cheers!

Dracut has a new neighborhood tavern, and owners Dan and Dalila Melo are hoping it’s the type of place where everybody knows your name.

In fact, they’ve named the spot -- at the corner of Textile Avenue and Honora Avenue, the for...

Bettencourt Insurance puts a premium on Dracut

Working for Allstate Insurance in Lowell, Leslie Bettencourt spent a few years racking up awards as the top producer year after year.

“From 2015 to 2017, I was the top producer for Massachusetts and New Hampshire,” Leslie says. &ldq...

Have a pizza and beer

October 9, is International Beer and Pizza Day. And because what’s better than beer and pizza, we have compiled a list of some places in Dracut to celebrate the special day. Enjoy!

** Billy’s Market, 636 Merrimack Avenue.

** Brothers Spo...

Hammar's gets to the art of the matter

Looking for a place to hold a birthday party, or for your kids to attend art camp, or just to take a one-day workshop to brush up on an artistic skill?

Hammar’s Art Studio is officially up and running at 1934 Lakeview Avenue, the Beaver Brook Mil...

Holistic health for pets

August 30 is National Holistic Pet Day, and while Dracut has several high-quality pet-care shops, three boast holistic, or more natural, methods of health care.

For more information on Dracut’s holistic options, check out the following.

** Four Pa...

Keller Williams hopes for Success in Dracut

As real-estate agents, Tim Desmarais and Karen Couillard know the old adage: “Location, location, location.”

So when they were driving around Dracut one day recently, they drove by the intersection of Broadway Road and Arlington Street ...

Dracut Exhaust, Downtown Barbell get a lift

Dan Greenhalgh was feeling a little cramped in his car shop at 25 Victory Lane. Dracut Exhaust & Brake does a thriving business, and after 11 years in the building, he was starting to feel a bit cramped.

Then the building next door at 15 Victory Lane -...

Step back in time at Saja Farm

If you stop by Saja Farm, you might feel as though you stepped back in time a few decades, back to a simpler time when folks bought their fruits and vegetables from the local farm and were able to chat with the farmer about the weather, the current crop a...

Get marooned at the Sandbar

One day in late summer of 2021, Zach DeBay and his father, Rick, decided to grab a bite to eat at a restaurant overlooking scenic Long Pond on the spot where the Club Fleur de Lis stood for several decades.

A year later, they own the place.

“We he...

Dracut tailor-made for KK Tailoring & Custom Design

Kate Kamer grew up around people with serious sewing skills.

“My dad’s side did dressmaking, and my mom’s side did quilting and blankets,” Kate says. “It’s in my blood.”

For 13 years, Kat...

Dracut businessmen form cannabis connection with Nova Farms

What started several years ago as a partnership between two Dracut businessmen culminated on June 16, as Nova Farms --- Dracut’s fourth and final retail cannabis dispensary -- officially opened its doors with a daylong celebration.

Nearly five ye...

Don Tito's opens in Dracut

Now that Gil Martinez finally owns his own restaurant, he’s determined to make the most of it.

Don Tito’s Mexican Grill, one of the most highly anticipated new businesses in Dracut in recent memory, opened on June 15 at 34 Broadway Road...

Get your grilling fix at Asados

Tatianna Cuervo loves her dad’s cooking, especially when he grills. So one day, she told him he should open his own restaurant.

And that’s how Asados Firewood Grill began.

Orlando Cuervo was busy enough with his business, Orlando&rsq...

V.I.S.E. grip in finances

Dracut Economic Development participated in a Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony for V.I.S.E. Bridge at 2100 Lakeview Avenue, Dracut, on June 9.

V.I.S.E. Bridge (the acronym stands for values, integrity, service and excellence) bega...

Cuisines collide at Coco's Cafe

Cathy and Angel Fana had a good thing going with their restaurant in Lawrence. Opened in 2017, Coco's Cafe & Catering was located in a Lawrence mill building and did a strong business. Until last year, when the building was sold and the new o...

Hair today

We told you a few days ago that hair salons would get their time in the spotlight, and that day has arrived. Specifically, May 27 -- National Hairstylist Mental Health Awareness Day -- has arrived.

On May 19, Dracut Economic Development spotlighted barbers...

Sizzling scissors

Take a drive through Dracut and you’ll see that anyone with hair has it made. There are many places to get your hair cut. Today, May 19, is National Barber Mental Health Awareness Day, so we at Dracut Economic Development present to you Dracut&a...

Witness the fitness

So New Year’s came and went, as did your resolution to get fit. Well, it’s not too late. Saturday, May 7, is National Fitness Day, and with beach season coming, it’s a good time to revisit that resolution.

You may have noticed...

Lets dance!

(April 29 is International Dance Day. Dracut has several quality dance studios, so Dracut Economic Development thought this would be a perfect day to highlight them.)

** 5-6-7-8 Dance Studio, 1934 Lakeview Avenue, Unit 4 (Bridgewood Plaza), 978-957-8668, w...

Bailey's Buds making its own history in Dracut

The historic mill that once housed the Butterworth factory, which made its name in the production of textiles in the early 1900s, now houses another historically significant enterprise: the cultivation of cannabis.

Dracut Economic Development held a ribbon...

Hug a plumber today

(April 25, is National Hug a Plumber Day, so Dracut Economic Development thought it would be nice to highlight a Dracut plumbing company in advance. Hugs are optional.)

Steven Polizzotti worked for other plumbing companies for 15 years before he decided to...

Nurturing Little Angels for 40 years

It’s safe to say that the Town of Dracut takes care of its little ones. There are about 20 centers for day care, preschool, pre-kindergartens and kindergarten.

April 21 is National Kindergarten Day, and one of Dracut’s providers for the...

The 411 on 4/20

Today is April 20, or, in cannabis lingo, 4/20. So because Dracut currently has four cannabis facilities, with a fifth set to open this spring, we here at Dracut Economic Development figured we’d spotlight these businesses on this high holy day....

Being kind to lawyers

April 12 is International Be Kind to Lawyers Day, and in that spirit, we here at Dracut Economic Development thought we’d be kind and let you know about the fine lawyers with offices in Dracut.

If we left any out, let us know and we’ll ...

Fresh as a Daisy

Kari Landino started her cleaning business about a year ago from her home on Carle Drive in Dracut after about 25 years working in the construction business.

The inspiration to start her own company came from having to clean out her vacation home on Lake O...

John MacDonald receives Varnum Award

Congratulations to John MacDonald, a member of the Dracut Economic Development Committee. John received the Varnum Award at the Board of Selectmen's meeting on March 22, 2022, mainly for his work with veterans over the years.

The Varnum Award is g...

Dapper Dog coddles canines

March 23 is National Puppy Day, so what are you going to do for your puppies?

Why not bring them to Dapper Dog, for a little bit of TLC (tail, legs and coat).

Dapper Dog owner/groomer Brenda Carpenter and groomer Adam LoCicero will make sure your pooch is t...

Hardys offer 'peace at a difficult time'

Some folks think Paul and Jennifer Hardy have a depressing job. They couldn’t disagree more.

 After operating Blake Funeral Home in Chelmsford since 2010, the couple purchased Dracut Funeral Home from the Gacek family in 2020.

 T...

'Unleash the champion within' at CKS

CKS Fitness is all about helping you to “unleash the champion within.”

Christopher “CK” Mulenga offers “high-intensity” personal training at CKS, 1595 Lakeview Avenue, Suite 6, in Dracut, that inc...

Get healthy at Nutrition Junction

Arnold Thuku came to the United States from his homeland of Kenya in 2014 at the age of 18, overweight and looking for a new lease on life. He enrolled at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, where he studied nutrition.

Eight years later and 50 pou...

Dental health

It’s time to put some teeth into this Facebook page.

Sunday, March 6, is National Dentist’s Day, so let’s take this opportunity to brush up on all the dental offices in Dracut that keep our molars immaculate. (Incidentally, Ma...

Get right, Dracut!

Folks, it’s time to Get Right.

Teas, Booster Teas, Mega Teas, Shakes, Mega Coffees – they’re all available to help you “get right.”

Months after teasing Dracut residents with news that The Vibe in Hudson, N....

Viper is the top dog, thanks to Katz & Hounds

Viper is tough as nails. When he isn’t getting his nails done, that is.

Viper is the canine half of the Dracut Police Department’s K-9 unit. He does what his partner, K-9 Officer Zach Coleman, tells him to, for the most part. And when O...

Something's a-brewin' at A-Brews

A cold beer, hot food and live music. You can’t do much better than that trifecta.

A-Brews Tap & Grill has all three. The restaurant is at 1794 Bridge Street, Suite 1, in the Bridgewood Plaza, and the owners are prepared for some post-pandemi...

Mini Bites, mega flavor

If you’ve never tried a coxinha, prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion.

Dracut Economic Development held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, February 19, for Mini Bites Factory at 1274 Lakeview Avenue. It’s the fourth Mini B...

Johnson Music hath charms

You couldn’t not like someone who liked the guitar. – Stephen King

Today’s the day to pick up that guitar sitting in your closet and start to learn how to play it. February 11 is National Guitar Day, and if you believe the hor...

Just in time for Valentine's Day

Psst. Guys, Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2022, is four days away. You still have time, but you better head to Charming Petals. And quick!

The folks at Charming Petals Flowers & Custom Picture Framing are ready to assist in your Valentine&...

A slice and a smile

Wednesday, February 9 is National Pizza Day. (If you’re like us, you consider every day to be National Pizza Day, but there you have it.)

In honor of this most important occasion, Dracut Economic Development is giving you a day to decide where yo...

Sugar Coated contentment

Jennifer Gryckiewicz’s father ran a restaurant and catering company. Her mother owns a preschool. So Jennifer took her dad’s culinary creativity, blended it with her mom’s commitment to kids, and cultivated a career in cakes....

Advanced placement for car sales

You don’t have to tell Leandro Dias about the state of car sales these days.

Well-documented issues with the supply chain, a shortage of microchips for new cars and the near flat-lining of auto production in the wake of COVID-19 caused a shortage...

Dracut welcomes 2nd Heav'nly Donuts, Racewayy

Lovers of fresh doughnuts and coffee have another reason to celebrate in Dracut.

The local, family-owned chain Heav’nly Donuts opened its second Dracut location at 1499 Broadway Road in the same plaza as the new Racewayy Gas & Convenience. It...

Fingers bored? Try a fingerboard

Have you ever wanted to try skateboarding but aren’t really big into falling? Maybe you’re better with your hands than your feet?

Why not give fingerboarding a shot?

If you’ve never heard of fingerboarding, you don’t ...

Define Fitness your own way

Andrea “AJ” Leaver likes to have a good time. She also likes to work out and stay in shape. The two, of course, don’t have to be mutually exclusive -- except, perhaps, when you own a bar and a fitness facility.

Andrea owned Th...

A clean home is a Happy Home

Does your house need a clean sweep … and mop … and dust … and scrub?

Pick up the phone (if you can find it) and call Happy Home Cleaning. Danielle Golio will make your home happy. And since January 14 is National Organize Y...

Radio daze

Sick and tired of hearing the same old songs on the radio dial? Ready to try something new?

Tune in to Boston’s Best Radio and check out what Ernie Houle and gang are playing. And what better day to do that than Public Radio Broadcasting Day &...

All about service at Health Care Family Pharmacy

When Sam Hantzis decided to open Health Care Family Pharmacy, he found a spot in the Village Square plaza at 14 Loon Hill Road in Dracut, almost directly across the street from CVS. Madness, some might have said. But to Sam, there was a method.

“...

Dancing days are here again

The website for Lisa Pilato Dance Center states that “shaping tiny humans through the art of dance” is the passion of Director Lisa Pilato Fuller.

In her four-decade career of teaching dance – 35 years at its current location,...

Kenpo Karate kid

Like many who grew up in the ’70s, George Thibault watched the TV series “Kung Fu” and thought, “That’s what I want to do with my life.”

And so he did.

Not right away, mind you. First, he became a ...

Driven to succeed

So you live in Dracut and plan to go out on New Year’s Eve but you need a local driving service.

That’s where Dracut-based Euro-American Transportation comes in. They’ll pick you up, get you to where you’re going and...

Olin Fitness is back in shape

Olin Fitness is getting in shape so it can continue to whip you into shape.

Renovations at the personal training studio at Beaver Brook Village, 91 Mill Street, Suite 7, in Dracut are nearing completion, though Olin managed to remain open during the work. ...

She's on the case

Tami Dristiliaris had a perfectly good career going as a maternity nurse at Lowell General Hospital. But she wanted to be her own boss, and that’s kind of tough to do when you’re a nurse.

So she went to Suffolk Law School and, in 2002, ...

He minds his own beeswax

Cameron Bosnic got stung by the bee bug a few years ago.

The Dracut resident decided to educate himself on bees when he started reading about how the insects were headed to extinction. In 2018, he took action.

“I had been reading about the loss of...

Abdinoor will floor you

Mike Abdinoor has your floor covered.

Mike has owned and operated Abdinoor Flooring since the mid-1970s. He moved it from Bridgewood Plaza on Bridge Street to its current location, 109 Arlington Street, about 12 years ago.

If it’s a floor, you can...

Pipe dream comes true for New Era

Out with the old and in with the new – New Era, that is.

New Era Plumbing & HVAC opened for business at 1278 Lakeview Avenue in November, and Dracut Economic Development held a ribbon-cutting and grand-opening ceremony on December 10 to offic...

Clean sweep with Keefe Cleanouts

Are you moving and don’t know what to do with all the stuff you’ve accumulated through the years?

Call Keefe Cleanouts in Dracut. Jim Keefe has been hauling stuff out of homes throughout the area for decades.

It started with Jim&rsqu...

Climb into Tree House

If you grew up with a treehouse in your backyard, you may get that same feeling when you enter Dracut’s newest retail cannabis store. Of course, you probably didn’t take an elevator up to your backyard treehouse.

Tree House Cannabis ope...

The gift of music

It’s an age-old question at holiday time: What do you get the person who has everything?

Well, do they have a musical instrument? And if so, do they know how to play it? Dracut Music Centre could be the place to shop.

David Chandonnet has owned an...

Woah Nellies! Dracut gets BBQ

All Janet Leach wanted to do was make, bottle and sell her own barbecue sauce. Opening a restaurant wasn’t supposed to be part of the deal.

But there she was on December 2, cutting the ribbon to officially open her new eatery, Woah Nellies BBQ &a...

His aim is true

Joe Rufiange has a lot in his sights.

At 31, he owns and operates On Target Firearms & Indoor Range, he’s planning an addition and renovation to the 1852 Bridge Street facility, and he and his wife have a 9-week-old son at home.

And then there’s the Toy...

Thantawan Thai honors Heroes Among Us

Do you know someone in Dracut who goes above and beyond? Someone who helps in the community but doesn’t receive a lot of recognition? You can nominate that person for the Heroes Among Us award at Thantawan Thai Restaurant. Once a month, owner Ji...

Mattox mesmerizes

If you start to feel sleepy while reading this, Tom Mattox must really be good at his job.

Well, actually it’s his side gig. Tom is an engineer at Raytheon by day, and a hypnotist/comedian nights and weekends, performing at functions and private ...

Giving thanks for Manolis Family Foundation

Chalk up another 2,000 local families helped by the Manolis Family Foundation this Thanksgiving.

Elias Manolis, whose family owns Dracut House of Pizza, 1067 Lakeview Avenue, said more than 100 volunteers helped pack about 10,000 turkey dinners over the we...

All in the Family

Family Pizza had its name even before the Garcia brothers got their hands on it. And it’s no wonder they kept the name. The restaurant is truly a Family affair.

Back in 1986, Rodrigo Garcia was a kid of 22 when his brother, Rogerio, was working a...

New owner, same Jimmy's Convenience

Jimmy’s Convenience Store has been around for a while -- way before 2009, when Bhavna Patel started working behind the counter at the 286 Pleasant Street shop, ringing up customers and running their Keno cards.

Twelve years later, you’l...

Scripts and spanikopita

When you go to any old pharmacy to pick up a prescription, you can expect to be able to pick up some tissues, a snack and soda, maybe even a book or magazine. But how many pharmacies sell homemade spanakopita?

Alexander’s Pharmacy, at 505 Nashua ...

Back to formal

Weddings are back in vogue in 2021 after the year that wasn’t. So where are you going to find a tux for the big day?

Head over to Sully’s Tuxedos & Formal Wear at 1734 Lakeview Avenue, in the Tennis Plaza.

Bill Sullivan has been in t...

Hit Command D for adventure

In 1972, a superhero rose from a decimated, post-apocalyptic Earth after “The Great Disaster.” The hero was Kamandi, the last survivor of a human outpost called “Command D” (hence the boy’s name), near wha...

Town jewel

Whether you’re looking for a new piece of jewelry or want to repair a cherished heirloom, Dracut Jewelry Repair & Design is the place to go.

Owner Adam Desrosiers’ shop at 316 Pleasant Street (across from Hannaford’s and n...

L'Hussier still a family business

David L’Hussier was a young father selling life insurance for a large Boston-based firm when he decided to start his own company out of his home at 1641 Bridge Street in Dracut.

Today, L’Hussier Insurance Agency is in that same building...

Small Quest, big savings

Where can you buy a comforter for $90 that would have cost you 300 bucks at a big-box store? Or a bottle of hand-sanitizer for $5 that you would have paid three times as much for elsewhere? Or a brand-new pair of Skechers for $40 that you would have spent...

Epic proportions

Music can set a mood. Whether it’s a movie, TV show or commercial, the right music can make or break it.

That’s where Epic Melody Productions comes in. Co-founders Matthew Valliere and Andrew Bjorkman founded the Dracut-based business a...

'A cafe for cravings'

Smoothies. Breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Bagels and cream cheese. Pastries. Ice cream. You name it, Frobie’s Café has it.

In 2014, Dan and Stephanie Themeles of Pelham decided to “take a crazy chance” and open a c...

Blue Shutters can open doors

Wendy Sullivan knows how tough it can be to start your own business. There are a lot of headaches involved, and creating and maintaining a website is likely not at the top of the to-do list.

She can take care of that for you.

“It can be i...

Just paws

Pets deserve pampering just as people do. That’s what Shannon Duggan believes, and that’s what her clients get.

Shannon owns Four Paws Only at 5 Gerard Street, on the corner of Lakeview Avenue, across from Bobola’s Restaurant....

Meat again

Just to be clear, there is no Budnick in Brown & Budnick Meats. But according to Jeff Brown (one of two Browns), that doesn’t stop people from calling the butcher shop/deli “Budnick’s.”

Jeff and his brother, Rick...

Pizza? A Primo idea

Pizza is always a good choice. That’s a fact. But Pizza With a Purpose? That’s even better.

Primo Pizza, 149 Parker Avenue, is donating $1 for every pizza sold in the month of October 2021, National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, to ...

Skate into Sports Madness

Bob Bursey has cornered the market on sports equipment from his corner store in Village Square on Broadway Road.

Bob boasts that Sports Madness is “Dracut’s number-one sports store,” and it’s hard to argue. It also h...

Dial up the 978 Cafe

As a student at Lowell Catholic High School, Dara Svay had a dream of opening his own café, serving coffees, teas and sandwiches. In 2019, his dream came true when he and his then-girlfriend (now wife), Yahdirys "Didi" Liranzo-Svay, o...

Designs on Dracut

Phil Thibault is all about building. Building homes. Building commercial structures. Building community.

He started Philippe Thibault Architect out of his Dracut home in 2007 and, about four years ago, started renting an office in the Enterprise Bank build...

With precision

Tucked into the mill at Beaver Brook Village, 1934 Lakeview Avenue, KCR Manufacturing has molded a growing business in precision machining.

Kevin Robert is pretty much a one-man machine shop, offering CNC milling, turning technology, production and R&D...

We all scream

A wise person once said, “If you want to make everyone happy, sell ice cream.” It works for Michelle Santos.

A teacher by profession, Michelle bought an ice-cream truck eight years ago and called her Aiken Avenue-based business Michelle...

They rise to the occasion

In spring 2021, Amanda Clermont and Rachel Polizzotti combined their years of experience in marketing and social media into one, creating Rise: A Social Relations Firm.

The Dracut residents offer their clients expertise in managing social media, including ...

Prime time

Louis Melo was working for an electronics company that decided to move its operations to Texas. The Dracut father of two didn’t want to make the move. Instead, he opened his own shop, Prime Electronics, at 2004 Lakeview Avenue, in the plaza acro...

J&J still brings the heat

J&J Heating & Air Conditioning has been at 17 Arlington Street, Dracut (next to Wendy’s), since 1969, but the J&J of the title haven’t been part of the business since 1972.

Joe Ayotte and John McCann started the company, but...

Stay on the line

Joe and Tricia Forster opened Tavern on the Line in 2019 at 1794 Bridge Street, in the spot that previously housed Maguire’s Tavern. 

The name Tavern on the Line has two meanings: The restaurant is a stone’s throw from the Pelh...

Day time

On Lakeview Avenue, a couple hundred yards east of the intersection with Mammoth Road, stands a nondescript house with a spire on the roof and a small, barely visible sign in front that reads “Day Associates, Inc.” It looks like a hund...

Green Star on the RISE

October 5, 2021, marked the one-year anniversary of the opening of Green Star Herbals, Dracut’s first recreational marijuana store. Green Star was the first to open since the Town of Dracut voted to allow retail marijuana facilities. Since then,...

Up a Lazy River

If the name Lazy River conjures up images of floating down said lazy river without a care in the world, we hate to pop your thought balloon. Lazy River Products, one of two retail marijuana facilities in operation in Dracut (with two more in the works), i...

Dracut has farms

Dracut has farms. Oh boy, does Dracut have farms. Economic Development Project Planner Dan Phelps recently took a farm tour (there are about 15 working farms!), stopping in at those that were open at the time. Shaw Farm, a fourth-generation farm, is proba...

Fire Permit Fee Increases

In order to continue providing you with the best possible services the Fire Department Permit Fees are being increased.

In order to continue providing you with the best possible services and keep up with technology and rising business costs, some permit fees for the Dracut Fire Department are being increased effective October 1, 2023.  This is our first fee increa...

Emergency Alerts Sign Up

Get alerts via telephone, text message, and email for any urgent public safety message.

The Town of Dracut has instituted the CodeRED Emergency Notification System.

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public safety personnel to notify residents and businesses by telephone, text message, email, and social m...

Fall 2023 Dracut Activities

This Fall events are now available for viewing online! Please check brochure to see all the fun we have in store!

Fall 2023 Dracut Recreation Brochure

This season events are now available for viewing online! Please check out our brochure to see all the fun we have in store!

The brochure has been updated as of 9/7/23, please review for latest changes!

Dracut Girls Pitching Clinic

Dracut Girls Softball Pitching Clinic

This is a great opportunity to learn, develop and enhance your pitching skills!!

Registration are now open Nov. 20 and closes Dec. 29.

Pitching Clinic Starts Saturday, January 6, 2024.  Space is limited to 24.

Re...

Bradford Ski and Snowboard

DRACUT RECREATION

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING AT BRADFORD 2024

Saturdays, 5:00PM—9:00PM

REGISTER/PURCHASE TICKETS:

October 20 -December 15

Registration available online as of October 20.

Tickets will be for pickup at the Recreation Office by Nov. 12.

Tow...

Babysitter Training at the Dracut Library

Babysitter Training - American Red Cross at Parker Memorial Library

• Saturday, December 2
• 9am - 4:30pm
• Parker Memorial Library
• Ages 11-15 
• $110.00 

The American Red Cross is providing guidance to instructors and organizations who are allowed to...

Wachusett Ski & Snowboard

GRADES 6—12This Saturday night program is open to Dracut Middle and High School students. It is a six-week program (daily registrations will not be accepted, nor will substitution of participants). Begins Jan. 6 and runs 6 week...

This Claus for Celebration!

Wishing the Town of Dracut a Joyous Holiday Season!

Join us for the enchanting Town of Dracut Annual Tree Lighting event!

Happening on December 2nd, 2023, starting at 6:30 PM at 1580 Lakeview Avenue.

Delight in the magical arrival of Santa aboard a Fire Truc...

"Touch a Truck & Load a Loader" Event

The Dracut Department of Public Works (DPW), is thrilled to announce the return of their holiday event, "Touch a Truck & Load a Loader." This festive family-friendly event will take place on Tuesday, December 12, from 1 PM to 6 PM at the DPW...

Make It Dracut for the Holidays!

Get ready for holiday cheer in Dracut! 

From November 20, 2023, through December 15, 2023, the Dracut Economic Development Committee is bringing the community together with the exciting "Make It Dracut for the Holidays" contest.

The highl...

Winter Parking Regulations

As winter approaches, the Dracut community is gearing up to ensure the safety of its residents and maintain smooth traffic flow with the implementation of the Winter 2023-2024 Snow and Ice Removal Program. The program aims to uphold public safety by stric...

Check your Voter Status!

You may have just received a confirmation mailing postcard. If so, you may be wondering:

What Does Returning Your Census Have to Do With Elections/Voting?

The Annual Town Census is mailed out in January, each year. If you signed and returned your Town Censu...

Home Heating and Energy Assistance

In an effort to help residents combat rising energy costs and stay warm during the upcoming winter season, Massachusetts has a convenient online portal for applying for home heating and energy assistance. The state government's official website (Mass.gov ...

Revised Flood Plain Maps

The proposed Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available to review and appeal until November 27th, 2023.

The 2023 FEMA East Dracut Map Comparison (PDF) and the 2023 FEMA West Dracut Map Comparison (PDF) are not official maps, but overlays of the current flood ...

Dracut Community Electricity Aggregation Program

Thank you for your ongoing support of the Dracut Community Electricity Aggregation, the Town’s electricity supply program, operating since 2016!

Good Energy is the Town’s consultant helping you manage the program, and this article provides a short update o...

Current Board/Committee Vacancies

As of 11-21-2023, the following Boards & Committees have openings:

Board of Selectmen Appointed Boards & Committees:

• Agricultural Commission - 1 Opening
• Open Space Committee- 1 Openings
• Zoning By-Law Review Committee, 2nd Alternate – 1 Openi...

Fitness Court at Veteran's Park is now open!

The Town of Dracut just became more fit with the official opening of its outdoor Fitness Court at Veterans Park.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBS), the Town of Dracut, and National Fitness Campaign (NFC)today announced a partnership to bring a...

MBTA Communities Zoning Compliance

What is MBTA Communities Zoning Bylaw (or M.G.L. Section 3A)?

In 2021, Governor Baker signed the multifamily zoning requirement for 177 communities served by—or adjacent to communities served by—the MBTA into law. This new law requires that an MB...