WINTER BLAST While nature provides a snowy landscape for many outdoor activities, the 16th annual LowellWinterFest Celebrationtakes it up a notch.

The two-day event — Friday, Feb. 19, and Saturday, Feb. 20 — includes food, entertainment, and activities for all ages. There are lots of new features this year.

A winter carnival features a giant Snowzilla inflatable slide, a full-size classic carousel, roasted marshmallows, fried dough stands, and food trucks from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday and noon to 7 p.m. Saturday.

Instead of the Human Dog Sled Race, there’s the Extreme Rush Race. Participants can pair off with family members and friends to compete for the fastest run.

Friday night, there’s a Glow Party with live and disc jockey music for dancing. The party is open 6 to 8 p.m. for all ages; 9 to 11:30 p.m. for those 18 and older.

Both nights, Merrimack Canal light displays will provide a backdrop for fire pits, fire dancers, an outdoor ice bar, and heated tents where visitors can enjoy food, beverages, and music at Lucy Larcom Park.

As always, there’s the Snowman Trail through downtown created by local artists, interactive family activities, a Soup Bowl Competition, and an All-You-Can-Eat Chocolate Festival.

“WinterFest is one of Lowell’s signature events and we thought it was time to shake things up a bit,’’ said City Manager Kevin Murphy. “We think the public will love the new format and activities but we’ve also preserved lots of the core events to keep the WinterFest tradition strong.’’

All activities are free, unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Call 978-674-4260 or visit Lowell.org.

PATRIOTIC SPIRIT The music of Aaron Copland is showcased during North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra’s winter concert Sunday, Feb. 21, at Swampscott High School.

In a program that honors American composers, music director Robert Lehmann conducts Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait.’’

Radio personality Kim Carrigan narrates. “I’m thrilled to be invited to share the stage with the North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra,’’ said Carrigan, a Swampscott resident. “This will be the first time I’ve narrated ‘Lincoln Portrait.’ It’s such a powerful piece to perform. I’m honored.’’

Copland wrote “Lincoln Portrait’’ in 1942, partly intended as an inspiration to the nation during the early stages of World War II.

He selected quotations that depict Lincoln’s belief in American democracy to complement his music. The piece has been narrated over the years by luminaries from the worlds of entertainment, politics, and culture.

Lehmann also conducts Copland’s “Appalachian Spring,’’ as well as George Chadwick’s “Jubilee,’’ and Samuel Barber’s “Knoxville: Summer of 1915’’ featuring soprano Elizabeth Marshall.

The concert begins at 3 p.m. at 200 Essex St. Tickets are $25; $20 for students and senior citizens. Visit nspo.org.

GET IN ON THE ACTION “Since I was old enough to hold a book, I have been fascinated with comic books,’’ said David Leblanc. “The ferocity of the action roared through my mind and stimulated my imagination.’’

He later combined elements of abstract painting with his lifelong affinity for comic book art, resulting in his Action/Abstraction genre of paintings.

Leblanc’s work is on view at Mandarin Asian Bistro in Lowell through Feb. 29.

“David’s work is exciting and immediate, as pop culture elements merge into pure form,’’ said Mary Hart, who is organizing a continuing series of art shows at the restaurant. “And, the large wall space at the Mandarin will be a perfect showcase for this colorful and energetic work.’’

Leblanc’s work has been exhibited at several galleries and group shows as well as comic book conventions. He works out of his studio in Amesbury.

The restaurant is at 24 Market St. Call 978-677-6777 or visit mandarinasianbistro.com.

AND THE WINNER IS . . . “The Academy Awards: The Good, the Bad, and the Outrageous,’’ a presentation by film historian Frank Mandosa, is at the Peabody Institute Library in Danvers on Thursday, Feb. 18.

Mandosa look backs at the Oscars’ memorable and infamous moments through historic clips, behind-the-scenes trivia, and the latest round of nominees. The 2016 Academy Awards will be presented Feb. 28.

A lifelong movie lover, Mandosa, a Stoughton resident, brings his knowledge and passion for film to local cable television stations, libraries, schools, and other locations.

The program begins at 7 p.m. at 15 Sylvan St.

Admission is free, but registration is encouraged. Call 978-774-0554 or visit danverslibrary.org.

Wendy Killeen

Wendy Killeen can be reached at wdkilleen@gmail.com.