On a sunny afternoon in Lowell, Dutton Street is buzzing with energy. The pop-up space hums with the chatter of neighbors, the laughter of friends, and the excited curiosity of visitors exploring each stall. Shoppers linger, discovering local products, connecting with founders, and soaking in the lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes this space feel like the heart of the community. At the center of it all is Project: Pop-Up, an innovative pop-up shop ecosystem that pairs small businesses with the resources, connections, and communities they need to thrive. Through partnerships with municipalities they help entrepreneurs grow their brands, assist property owners in reimagining their spaces, and uplift local economies, Project: Pop-Up turns every pop-up into more than a market—it’s a living, breathing showcase of creativity, community, and opportunity. And right now their largest activation, a village of rotating pop-up shops, is happening in the heart of Lowell.

Let me introduce you to the creators, artists, founders, and makers currently popping up at the Dutton Street Market in Lowell, Massachusetts:

Dear Boba: A Taste of Joy in Every Cup

When you first walk up, it’s hard to miss the colorful drinks from Dear Boba. For the team behind it, bubble tea is more than a trendy beverage—it’s about creating moments of joy. Every cup is crafted with care, with flavors that invite you to pause, sip, and smile. Plus it’s more than just boba, they make incredible creations like croffles, Vietnamese coffees and bubble waffles. For them, being part of the Dutton Street pop-up means introducing new people to a treat that’s as much about fun as it is about flavor. I had the privilege of trying their iced matcha latte flight, available on Sundays. I tried three different versions of the latte with different cream tops plus tried a croffle which was absolutely divine!

BeauteNoir: A Tropical Escape for Your Skin

BeauteNoir was born from one woman’s search for real relief from dry, changing skin during pregnancy. Frustrated by chemical-filled lotions that didn’t work, she turned to the natural oils and remedies she remembered from the Caribbean—simple, nourishing, and deeply hydrating. Today, her tropical-scented body butters, made with shea and cocoa butter, don’t just restore moisture—they offer a moment of escape. With every jar, BeauteNoir transforms skincare into self-care, wrapping skin in the warmth, beauty, and essence of the islands. I was instantly taken back to my home of Puerto Rico with beautiful tropical scents like Pineapple, Papaya and other amazing scents. 

L&B’s Treats N Sweets: Inspired by Layla and Buddy

LB Treats N’ Sweets was born out of love for two pups with unique challenges—Layla, who lives with Addison’s disease, and Buddy, a rescue who endured life-saving surgeries and requires a specialized diet. Wanting them to still enjoy safe, delicious snacks, their owner began baking wholesome, vet-approved treats with simple, natural ingredients. What started in her kitchen has grown into a brand dedicated to helping dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs feel included—and spoiled—with every bite. I picked up some treats for our next door neighbor’s dog that I am sure he will enjoy!

Dali of the Dogs: Whimsical Art, Stitched by Hand

Dali of the Dogs brings a playful, modern twist to embroidery. Each piece is freehand drawn and stitched without stencils or patterns, making every design truly one of a kind. Inspired by the joy her dog Dali brings to those around her, Kelsey (Founder and artist) hopes her art spreads that same happiness—accessible, affordable, and always made with heart. I picked up a beautiful musical inspired piece that I cannot wait to hang up in my home.

Nectivore: Wellness from the Hive

Nectivore is more than an apiary—it’s a celebration of pollinators and the wild spaces they sustain. At the heart of their work are honeybees, whose tireless efforts produce raw honey, botanical skincare, and eco-inspired creations crafted with care. With every jar and product, Nectivore invites us to reconnect with nature and protect the pollinators that keep our world thriving. I picked up a jar of the Lavender Honey, it was rich, sweet, and delicious.

What makes this outdoor hub so special is that it’s always changing. Some businesses are here for a season, while others pop in for a shorter stay. That rotation keeps Dutton Street buzzing with fresh energy—it’s never the same experience twice. Each new arrival adds to the story, and each departure leaves behind a little piece of their journey.

At its heart, this pop-up is about more than food, drinks, or products. It’s about people—entrepreneurs who pour their creativity and courage into building something new, and community members who show up to support them. So next time you’re walking down Dutton Street, stop by. Grab a boba, pick up a sweet, find something for your pup, or discover a beauty product that makes you feel like your best self. You won’t just be shopping—you’ll be part of a story that continues to grow, right here in Lowell. Don’t wait to visit, new brands will be taking over each month until December 2025!

Support local, support small business,

Life as a Maven