New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
It’s the second Thursday of the month and that means it’s AHA (Art, History & Architecture) time in downtown New Bedford starting at 5 p.m. this evening. There are dozens of events with most businesses downtown providing entertainment and extended shopping hours. With only 12 days left until Christmas, today is a perfect day to knock out some Christmas shopping while supporting some local businesses. If you decide to come downtown early, don’t forget that you get 2 hours of free parking at the meters, the Custom House Square parking lot, and at the Elm Street and Zeiterion Theatre parking garages. While there are dozens of events scheduled for this AHA!, here are seven events that I recommend attending.
1. “Peace & Joy” Postcards From New Bedford at Artworks! (384 Acushnet Avenue)
Swing by Artworks! and participate in the latest Postcards From New Bedford Project. Here’s your chance to “write and send holiday greetings by postcard from New Bedford to those we love all over the world.” Be a New Bedford ambassador and support a great local project! There will also be a special live music performance by “Jesus Andujar & Grupo Sazon” and Salsa dancing.
2. Craft-O-Rama at the UGLY Gallery (246 Union Street)
Looking for a locally produced gift for that special someone? Swing by the UGLY gallery and puck up some locally produced art, craft and design.
3. Card Readings and Tattoos at MUSE Studio (516 Pleasant Street)
Are you going to find the love of your life in 2013? Going to get hit by a car next week? Stop by MUSE Studio to get your fortune told or to get a removable platinum henna tattoo. Don’t forget to pick up a unique gift in the store!
4. Wine Tasting at Travessia (760 Purchase Street)
AHA! is simply more enjoyable after a few glasses of wine! Stop by Travessia for a complimentary barrel tasting of 2012 Riesling and Pinot Noir Rosé, both made in our winery here in New Bedford with 100% locally grown grapes.
5. Listen to Some Christmas Carols
Throughout the evening, the New Bedford High School Drama Club will be caroling for the season along William Street and at Custom House Square. You can also stop by the Pilgrim United Church (634 Purchase Street) from 7-8 p.m. to enjoy some old-fashioned Christmas caroling with John Nicolaci at the piano.
6. Make Your Own Chrismas Present
Are there better gifts than the ones you make? Head over to the Buzzards Bay Coalition (114 Front Street) to make your own New Bedford seashell Christmas ornament. You can also join Ruth & Abby, the 19th Century Ladies, at the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park (33 William Street) and make some holiday pins.
7. Open Mic at Cafe Arpeggio (800 Purchase Street)
Warm yourself with some hot chocolate, coffee or tea, and enjoy some fresh made snacks while enjoying some great local musicians. Thursday evening from 7-10 p.m., Cafe Arpeggio hosts the best open mic in the area. Drink some liquid courage at Travessia and show off your musical talent. Today’s the day you become a star!
