December Vacation Activities for Kids

New Bedford Kids activitiesParents with children on school vacation can often find themselves scrambling for fun activities that are not expensive. New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park has the answer: free, interactive and engaging activities during December vacation. The park will be offering a week of free children’s activities during the December vacation week, from Monday, December 26 through Friday, December 30. The activities will take place at the visitor center, 33 William Street, downtown New Bedford.

On Monday, December 26, join the national park from 1–3 pm for ―What’s This?, a hands-on game that identifies objects from days of old. Tuesday, December 27 from 10 am–noon, get creative and decorate a whale wall hanging to hang in your room. Wednesday, December 28, from 10 am–noon, create your own coloring book to take home. On Thursday, December 29 from 1–3 pm, read and illustrate poems. Finally, on Friday, December 30, look forward to the new year by making a 2012 whale calendar from 10 am– noon.




A Fish Story Film at New Bedford Historical Park (16 Dec)

The Dock-u-mentaries film series continues Friday, December 16th at 7 PM with “A Fish Story”, a 54 minute film by Courtney Hayes and Tim Gallagher. “A Fish Story” is the tale of two women who lead their communities in a battle for control of the ocean. Dock-U-Mentaries are films about the working waterfront, and are shown on the third Friday of each month beginning at 7:00 PM at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park’s Corson Maritime Learning Center, 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. The films are open to the public and free of charge. Dock-U-Mentaries is a co-production of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park and the Working Waterfront Festival.

Angela Sanfilippo of Gloucester, Massachusetts, and Shareen Davis of Chatham, Massachusetts were born into fishing families and married men who continue to make a living from the sea. Fishing defines who they are and has sustained their communities for generations. But their way of life is threatened when a powerful coalition of national environmental groups file a lawsuit that could put hundreds of fishermen out of business. Three hundred years of fishing tradition and the health of the ocean hangs in the balance. “A Fish Story” delves into the behind-the-scenes world of politicians, environmentalists, journalists, and fishermen. The film first aired on PBS as part of the Independent Lens series. Film makers Hayes and Gallagher have produced documentaries for PBS, the Discovery Channel and History Channel.

The Working Waterfront Festival is a project of the Community Economic Development Center of Southeastern MA, a non-profit organization. The free festival, a family friendly, educational celebration of New England’s commercial fishing industry, features live maritime and ethnic music, fishermen’s contests, fresh seafood, vessel tours, author readings, cooking demonstrations, kid’s activities and more. It all takes place on working piers and waterfront parks in New Bedford, MA, America’s #1 fishing port, on the last full weekend in September, this year on September 24 and 25. www.workingwaterfrontfestival.org.

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to help preserve and interpret America’s nineteenth century whaling industry. The park, which encompasses a 13-block National Historic Landmark District, is the only National Park Service area addressing the history of the whaling industry and its influence on the economic, social, and environmental history of the United States. The National Park visitor center is located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. It is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM, and offers information, exhibits, and a free orientation movie every hour on the hour from 10 AM-3 PM. The newest exhibit, Communities of Whaling, explores the connections between this city and five local ethnic communities whose roots trace back to whaling: African Americans, Cape Verdeans, Azoreans, Native Americans and West Indians. The visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, and free of charge. For more information, call the visitor center at 508-996-4095, go to www.nps.gov, or visit the park’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/NBWNHP

You can also watch A Fish Story on Hulu FREE:




The Christmas Classic: A Nutcracker Suite

New England Nutcracker Ballet

by Joyce Rowley

You may be sick to death of Christmas carols already, but the music of the Nutcracker Suite never gets old. The tale of a little girl’s slumber under the Christmas tree transforms her favorite gift—a nutcracker painted as a soldier—into a guide through the toyland of Russian dolls, Chinese dancers and then through the whirl of snowflakes to the Snow Queen in the Land of Sweets.

South Coast residents are fortunate to have two versions of the Nutcracker to choose from: the New England Nutcracker, an adaptation by Rebecca Waskiel-Marchesseault, artistic director of the New Bedford Ballet, and the original Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite performed by the Spindle City Ballet Company of Fall River.

New Bedford Youth Ballet

In the New England version, the little girl is Mary, the daughter of whaling captain Ephraim Williams who returns home Christmas Eve from a long voyage. Herman Melville visits the family, and Captain Williams entertains them all with dancing animals brought from afar. However, the story stays true to Tchaikovsky’s original path: Mary receives the nutcracker and takes a voyage of her own through the dreamworld of toy soldiers battling mice, dancing sweets, and graceful snowflakes.

The cast of 65 local children and teens do ten performances between December 10th and 17th at the New Bedford Community Theater. The performance is shortened to about one hour, making it easier for very young children to sit through. Matinee and evening performances will be held at the Theater at 2343 Purchase Street, New Bedford.

In a goodwill trifecta, the New Bedford Youth Ballet also does three performances in one day: at 10 a.m. for P.A.C.E. Headstart and the Schwartz Center; then moves on to St. Luke’s Hospital at noon for a second performance; and then on to Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence at 3 p.m. for a third show.

“Everyone’s pretty exhausted at the end of the day,” said artistic director Rebecca Waskiel-Marchesseault at the Youth Ballet. “But it’s worth it. The kids love to see the costumes.” And while it’s difficult to be in the hospital over the holidays, it’s a nice break for the patients, families and hospital staff who come to watch, she said.

New England Nutcracker Cast:

  • Mary Williams Emma York
  • Captain Williams: Anya Krause
  • Herman Melville: Tatiana Alves
  • Nutcracker Prince: Brooke Spencer
  • Snow Queen: Kathryn Sebastiao
  • Sugar Plum Fairy:  Rhiley Sylvia

Spindle City Ballet Company

Spindle City Ballet Company performs Tchaikovsky’s classical Nutcracker Suite, replete with magical Uncle Drosselmeyer and a full array of dancing toys and sweets. Spindle City holds to the original story: Clara receives a nutcracker soldier from her magical Uncle Drosselmeyer; her bratty brother tries to steal it; she then goes back downstairs after everyone is asleep to make sure the nutcracker is safe. After falling asleep under the Christmas tree, she wakens to the battle of toy soldiers and mice and then is guided by the victorious Nutcracker Prince through toyland to the land of sweets.

“People often tell me, ‘It’s right here. I’m not going to Boston or New York anymore, [to see the Nutcracker ballet]’ ” said Lisa Bibeau, founder of Spindle City Ballet Company. She started the troupe in 1995 when she discovered that a former Dance Academy student was driving two hours to rehearse for nine hours once a week on a Sunday. “It was her only professional performing opportunity,” said Ms. Bibeau.

Every year Spindle City adds something new to the choreography. This year look for the Chinese dragon with the Chinese dancers.

And, for an extra treat, Spindle City offers “An Evening with the Staulbaulms” on Saturday evening, December 17th. Beginning with a reception before the ballet, the evening includes a Grand Buffet at the end of the performance with the Staulbaums, Clara’s family, of course. The cast joins their guests in costume at the end of the performance.

Performances are held at the Margaret L. Jackson Auditorium on the Bristol Community College campus at 777 Elsbree Street in Fall River.

Spindle City Ballet Cast:

  • Clara: Megan Alberto
  • Herr Drosselmeyer: Eddie Camara
  • Nutcracker Prince: Shane Sarrell
  • Snow King: Shane Sarrell
  • Snow Queen: Brooke diFrancesco

Where, When, and How to Get Tickets:

New England Nutcracker

  • Matinees at 1:30 and 3 p.m on December 10, 11, 17, & 18.
  • Evening performances on Friday, December 16 at 6:30 and 8 PM
  • Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for children, students and seniors
  • Available online at: www.newbedfordballet.org

Spindle City Ballet Company

  • Matinees at 2 p.m. on December 17 & 18
  • Evening performance on Saturday, December 17 at 7 p.m.
  • Evening with The Staulbaums, Saturday, December 17 at 6 p.m.
  • Tickets: $15-25 for adults; $12 – 20 for  seniors; and $8-15 for children under 13.
  • Evening with Staulbaulms tickets (additional): $25 for adults, $20 for children under 13.
  • Available online at: www.spindlecityballet.org



Justin Joyce at Rose Alley – 29 Dec

By Shonna McGrail

Make the last Thursday of 2011 memorable by checking out the musical stylings of Justin Joyce at Rose Alley on December 29th. Joyce is a growing success story in the West Coast music industry, and he got his start right here in Massachusetts, developing his vocal and musical skills on the South Coast at UMass Dartmouth. Joyce will be back on the East Coast for a one-night performance starting at 8:30pm and going until 12:30am.

Some of Joyce’s music can be heard on his website, JustinJoyce.com. He has an indie rock sound that promises to fit in great with the downtown scene. Joyce’s performance at Rose Alley will feature special musical guests including local rapper, ZERO. Joyce will also be performing songs from his recently recorded album. It promises to be an eclectic and riveting evening.

Justin Joyce MusicianShortly after finishing his studies at UMass Dartmouth Justin Joyce headed to LA where he was reunited with his former music professor, Lisa Parade. Joyce and Parade were parted when Warner Bros. Record signed all-girl punk band, Heidi. Joyce was 17 when Parade was signed, and was greatly inspired by her success. Upon being reunited, Parade was blown away by Joyce’s talent and the two began working on music in the recording studio with the help of Parade’s husband, music producer Bob Marlette. Marlette is a producer, recording engineer, mixer, keyboarder and songwriter and has produced a number of hit albums with such bands as; Saliva, Shinedown, Seether, Filter, Atreyu, Airbourne, Sebastian Bach and Alice Cooper.

Since Joyce has moved to the West Coast and started working with Parade and Marlette, he has completed a five song EP and secured a major motion picture end-title placement. All the while, he has worked to develop a loyal fan base in LA, playing at such venues as The Viper Room and The Roxy Theater.

For music lovers this is a can’t miss performance by a UMass Dartmouth graduate who is making a name for himself in the music industry. There’s no cover charge, so come to Rose Alley on Thursday, December 29th, order a few drinks and expect a good time with great music and a fun atmosphere as always!




Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll Review

Melissa Viera
by Melissa Viera

What better way to start the holiday season than with a stroll downtown? New Bedford’s holiday season kicked off with countless activities including shopping, crafts, performances and fire truck rides. Families, couples and friends filled the streets and shops downtown this past weekend, the 3rd and 4th of December, for New Bedford’s Fourth Annual Holiday Stroll. Everyone seemed to be in their best holiday spirits, while enjoying the unique experiences that downtown has to offer.

On Sunday, my first stop downtown was at Artworks, where I found fun crafts, and kids who were content at work. A favorite craft among the kids was a winter treat called Snowman Soup, which is cocoa mixed with marshmallows and chocolate with a candy cane for stirring. The table was covered with colorful glitter in another room, where kids were dipping pine cones in glitter to make ornaments. Assisting the kids with their holiday pine cones was a member of the board of directors, Joyce Leblanc. Joyce says, “this is a wonderful experience for the kids and the turn out has been great.”

Downtown’s shops welcomed visitors with open doors, and marvelous displays of jewelry, decorations, art and so much more. There is no shortage of holiday gift items downtown. After some browsing I found myself in Moby Dick Retail, on William Street, where I warmed up with a complimentary cup of coffee. I was drawn to the various eye-catching items on the shelves.

downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll
Some CRAFTORAMA items at the UGLYgallery.

Inside of The New Bedford Whaling Museum, vendors were set up with dazzling displays of jewelry for sale. The museum’s gift shop was also open to visitors, in addition live performances were being held in the auditorium. The jewelry on the tables, from local designers and artists like Early Bird Studio, Angeldor Heavenly Crystal Jewelry and Studio by The Sea, had a distinctive beauty that is unlike jewelry seen elsewhere.

During the day I noticed an antique fire truck pass by many times, with smiling passengers riding in the back. Before my holiday stroll came to an end I caught the last ride on the 1950s fire truck. The antique truck made a total of 46 trips on the streets of downtown in the course of the weekend. Climbing up into the old truck for a ride on the cobblestone streets of New Bedford was a perfect way to wrap up my holiday stroll.

Downtown’s annual Holiday Stroll was fun for all ages. The weather agreed with the outdoor activities. There was so much to do downtown that made this holiday kick off something special. When shopping for those one of a kind gifts shop local. Downtown is full of unique gift items that will leave an impression.




Historical Glass Display Returns to City Hall

Lincoln Statuette
1876 Lincoln Statuette

By Laura Coffin

The New Bedford Museum of Glass has reinstalled its extensive display of American historical glass at New Bedford City Hall after a two month hiatus. The exhibit was temporarily closed during the City’s lead paint abatement program earlier this year.  More than 500 examples of glass relating to American political history, the largest public display of its kind in the country, are now back on view along the ground floor corridors of the City Hall building.  New Bedford City Hall is located at 133 William St., and the public is encouraged to take advantage of this free exhibit, accessible Monday through Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Much of the historical glass on view comes from a 1,500 piece collection donated  to the glass museum by the late Mrs. Warren P. Tingley of Florida. It took Mrs. Tingley more than three decades to assemble the collection, which is housed in display cases donated by local glass authorities William Pitt and the late Louis O. St. Aubin, Jr.  Major subject categories cover U.S. Centennial and Bicentennial glass, political campaign glass and glass commemorating significant American historical events and individuals. Among the highlights are four exquisitely molded portrait plates depicting the presidential and vice presidential candidates of the 1884 election. Grover Cleveland and his running mate Thomas A. Hendricks proved victorious, despite a nation-wide scandal alleging that Cleveland had an illegitimate son. Another fascinating piece is a Midwestern tray depicting the likeness of Nellie Bly, the pen name used by investigative reporter Elizabeth Cochrane.  In 1889, Cochrane sought to beat the fictitious travel record described by author Jules Vern in his 1873 novel “Around the World in 80 Days.” Cochrane departed from New York City on November 14, 1889, traveled by boat to England and then across the Mediterranean to Egypt. From there she proceeded to Singapore, China, Japan and San Francisco, sending periodic travel dispatches back to her newspaper, and finally reached New York by train from the West Coast to complete her trip in exactly 72 days, six hours and eleven minutes.

Grover Cleveland Plate
1884 Grover Cleveland Plate

Included in the City Hall exhibit is a sampling of glass by New Bedford’s own Mt. Washington and Pairpoint glass companies. Two egg-shaped novelty saltshakers are embossed “Columbian Exhibition 1893.” Other Mt. Washington examples feature designs by English author and illustrator Kate Greenaway. And finally, a stark contrast to the Nellie Bly tray mentioned in the preceding paragraph is presented by the New Bedford glass vase depicting a severe looking woman, skirt hiked about her knees, who strides forward carrying an American Flag. The vase was intended as an unflattering allusion to the woman’s suffrage movement of the 1880s. The movement gained momentum in the late 19th century but did not achieve its goal of securing women the right to vote in national elections until 1920, when Congress passed the 19th Amendment to the Constitution.

The historical glass display at City Hall represents only a small fraction of the glass museum’s permanent collection, which is housed just a short drive from downtown New Bedford at 61 Wamsutta St. Glass displayed in the museum’s new facility, which it shares with the New Bedford Antiques Center, ranges widely from ancient Roman treasures to work by today’s best-known studio glass artists. For more information about the City Hall display or the museum’s new gallery space on Wamsutta St., please visit the museum’s website at www.nbmog.org or call  (508) 984-1666. Below is a sample of items on display.

New Bedford Glass Museum VaseWomen’s Suffrage Vase
Mt. Washington Glass Company
New Bedford, MA, c. 1885; height 5 7/8”
Collection of The New Bedford Museum of Glass

Grover Cleveland Plate
Gillinder & Sons
Philadelphia, PA, 1884; diameter 11 ½”
Collection of The New Bedford Museum of Glass
Gift of Mrs. Warren P. Tingley

New Bedford Glass Museum TrayNellie Bly Tray
Thompson Glass Co, Ltd.
Pittsburgh, PA, 1890; length 12 ¾”
Collection of The New Bedford Museum of Glass
Gift of Mrs. Warren P. Tingley

Lincoln Statuette
Gillinder & Sons
Philadelphia, PA, 1876; height 6”
Collection of The New Bedford Museum of Glass
Gift of Mrs. Warren P. Tingley

New Bedford Glass Museum Patriotic Tumbler
Midwestern, c. 1940; height 5”
Collection of The New Bedford Museum of Glass
Gift of Mrs. Warren P. Tingley




Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll

Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll

Downtown New Bedford, Inc. has organized 4th annual Downtown Holiday Stroll on Saturday & Sunday, December 3rd and 4th from 12 noon to 4 pm.  Santa Claus will arrive at Custom House Square by antique fire truck at noon and set up shop in Mare’ Studios and Gallery on Centre Street to greet their young admirers and pose for free photos; musicians will perform; streets and shops will be decorated . The NBHS and All-City Middle School Marching Band and Colorguard will parade up William Street to the Library for the City’s official Tree Lighting Ceremony with Mayor Lang, The City Council, and Miss New Bedford. The city’s giant tree will sparkle on the Library steps after the parade and lighting ceremony. All this and more is what visitors will experience at the Downtown Holiday Stroll.

New Bedford TrolleyA brief list of activities includes: Trolley transportation and Antique Fire Truck rides around downtown. Track Santa’s journey in hi-tech on the amazing Science on the Sphere at the Ocean Explorium. Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum to shop their gift shop, see the local artisan vendor fair in Jacobs Family Gallery and live performances in the auditorium that include: Christine’s Studio of PA’s Christmas Spectacular; Cheryl McCormack Dancers  Holiday Show. Showstoppers PA’s Christmas Cabaret and the New Bedford Youth Ballet presenting excerpts from A New England Nutcracker. Outside on the plaza, join the City’s Senior Chorus New Horizons in caroling. Cafe Arpeggio will host  live music with Art Tibbetts and friends, the Seaman’s Bethel will host members of the New Bedford Symphony Youth Orchestra. Children and family craft activities will be provided by ArtWorks the National Park and the YMCA.

All this and so much more– Shops, Galleries, and Restaurants will offer up specials and sales. This year shop local! A complete schedule of activities and locator map is available at participating venues throughout the downtown and on line on Facebook and our web-site at www.downtownnb.org.




New Bedford 2011 Christmas & Holiday Schedule

New Bedford Christmas

Our 2012 list can be found here: http://www.newbedfordguide.com/new-bedford-2012-christmas-holiday-schedule/2012/11/15

The following community events will take place throughout the City of New Bedford during the month of December to celebrate the holiday season. When shopping, please consider local retailers! The City of New Bedford offers FREE 2-hour parking at most paid parking locations. Full details here. Send an e-mail to info@newbedfordguide.com or reply with a comment to get your public Christmas or other holiday event added to this list!

December 1st

DRUMLINE LIVE! (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 1st at 8:00pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
With explosive percussion, resounding brass and dazzling choreography DRUMLINE LIVE, will march onto the stage of the Zeiterion.It’s a spectacular event when the large cast of performers from America’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities fill the theatre and blast the rousing and rhythmic sounds of the great brass past including Earth, Wind, and Fire and Tower of Power side by side with the hottest contemporary hip hop and R&B. A special pre-show bonus with the winning Dartmouth High School Marching Percussion Ensemble will showcase their awarding winning sounds in front of the Z.

December 2nd

Drumline Live Zeiterion Theatre New BedfordCove Street Neighborhood Group Tree Lighting
Date and Time: December 2nd at 6:00pm
Location: Park on the corner of Ruth Street and Salisbury Street

DRUMLINE LIVE! (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 2nd at 8:00pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
With explosive percussion, resounding brass and dazzling choreography DRUMLINE LIVE, will march onto the stage of the Zeiterion.It’s a spectacular event when the large cast of performers from America’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities fill the theatre and blast the rousing and rhythmic sounds of the great brass past including Earth, Wind, and Fire and Tower of Power side by side with the hottest contemporary hip hop and R&B.

December 3rd

Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll
Date and Time: Saturday, December 3rd and Sunday, December 4th from 12 noon to 4PM
Location: Downtown New Bedford
During the first weekend in December, Downtown New Bedford will be bustling with holiday spirit, shoppers, families and festive activities. On Saturday, December 3rd and Sunday, December 4th from 12 noon to 4PM, Downtown New Bedford Inc., will present the 4th Annual Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll. Artisans, crafters, restaurants, specialty shops and boutiques will come together to create a unique holiday shopping experience. The two-day holiday event is organized by Downtown New Bedford Inc., and aims to encourage holiday shoppers to buy local. Full details here.

City of New Bedford Official Christmas Tree Lighting
Date and Time: Saturday, December 3rd at 4:30pm
Location: City Hall Plaza
Join Mayor Lang and New Bedford officials for an annual New Bedford tradition! On Saturday, December 3rd at 4:30pm, the parade will step off from the bottom of William Street (at North Water Street) and will march up to City Hall Plaza for the lighting of the City’s Official Christmas on the steps of the Main Library. The New Bedford High School Marching Band, the All-City Middle School Marching Band and Colorguard will participate in this festive for the whole family to celebrate the holiday season.

The New Bedford Art Museum’s “Not So Silent Night”
Date and Time: December 3rd at 6-9pm
Location: New Bedford Art Museum (608 Pleasant St.)
Tickets can be purchased at newbedfordartmuseum.org or by calling 508-961-3099. Questions? e-mail: info@newbedfordartmuseum.org

  • A variety of delicacies from local restaurants
  • Open bar
  • Live piano music and holiday sing along
  • Featuring a silent auction of great holiday gifts
  • First chance to shop the artist’s boutique sale before it opens to the public!
  • All proceeds will go towards the museum’s youth educational programs

Craft-o-Rama at UGLY Gallery
Date and Time: Starts Saturday, December 3rd at 11am and goes until Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 6:00pm
Location: 246 Union St
Craft-o-Rama, New Bedford’s Premiere Artists’ Market, will be at UGLY Gallery from December 3 through December 17. Buy local handmade crafts including jewelry, clothing, pillows, soaps, wallets, dolls, scarves, prints, greeting cards and much much more!

Jingle Bell Rock Zeiterion Theatre New BedfordJingle Bell Rock! (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 3rd at 8:00pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
Lou Gramm of Foreigner, Mickey Thomas of Starship and Eddie Money come together for Jingle Bell Rock! For an unforgettable night of great hits and the season’s favorites that will have you on your feet rocking into the holiday spirit.

December 4th

Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll
Date and Time: Saturday, December 3rd and Sunday, December 4th from 12 noon to 4PM
Location: Downtown New Bedford
During the first weekend in December, Downtown New Bedford will be bustling with holiday spirit, shoppers, families and festive activities. On Saturday, December 3rd and Sunday, December 4th from 12 noon to 4PM, Downtown New Bedford Inc., will present the 4th Annual Downtown New Bedford Holiday Stroll. Artisans, crafters, restaurants, specialty shops and boutiques will come together to create a unique holiday shopping experience. The two-day holiday event is organized by Downtown New Bedford Inc., and aims to encourage holiday shoppers to buy local. Full details here.

Festival of Lights Celebration at Clasky Common Park
Date and Time: December 4th at 5:00pm
Location: Clasky Common at County and Pope Streets
Join the countdown celebration to illuminate festive displays of dazzling lights throughout Clasky Common Park on Sunday, December 4th at 5:00pm. Members of the Parker Elementary School chorus will perform and Santa Claus is expected to join the celebration.

Far North End Neighborhood Association Tree Lighting
Date and Time: December 4th at 6:30pm
Location: Fire Station # 5, 3665 Acushnet Avenue

The New Bedford Art Museum’s Artist Holiday Boutique Sale
Date and Time: December 4th at 11am-5pm
Location: New Bedford Art Museum (608 Pleasant St.)
Admission is FREE. Questions? e-mail: info@newbedfordartmuseum.org

  • Shop the artist’s boutique representing the regions fine art and craft that will be set up throughout the museum offering their work for sale.
  • Objects to include ceramics, paintings, jewelry, sculpture, textiles and much more.  Something unique for everyone on your list!
  • A percentage of each sale will be donated to the museum’s educational programs.Free refreshments and holiday music.
  • Come shop, enjoy festive music and free refreshments rather than battle the malls!

December 8th

AHA! Starry Night
Date and Time: December 8th at 5-9pm
Location: Downtown New Bedford.
Downtown New Bedford comes to life with dozens of businesses providing art exhibits, live music, great food, shopping and more! Full calendar of events here.

Humbug Voc Tech High School 2011Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech Theatre Company Presents Humbug
Date and Time:  December 8th through the 10th at 7:00pm, December 11th at 2pm
Location: Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School
Admission: General $12, seniors $10 and students $6. Call the box office at 508-998-3321, ext 424.

December 9th

Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech Theatre Company Presents Humbug
Date and Time:  December 8th through the 10th at 7:00pm, December 11th at 2pm
Location: Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School
Admission: General $12, seniors $10 and students $6. Call the box office at 508-998-3321, ext 424.

December 10th

New Bedford Santa 5K Fun Run
Date and Time: December 10th starting at 11am.
Location: The run kicks of at 11am starting at the New Bedford City Hall and making a turn around at Pope’s Island Marina. Full details here.

A Christmas Carol (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 10th at 2pm and 7pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
New Bedford’s favorite holiday tradition, the wildly popular national touring musical production of A Christmas Carol, returns to The Z stage. It’s the time when little girls in velvet dresses and patent leather shoes, little boys with bow ties and family members with smiles on their faces come together each year to experience the wonder and magic of the season.

City of New Bedford’s Pictures with Santa
Date and Time: December 10th from 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Location: The Ashley Room on the first floor of City Hall, 133 William Street

20th Annual Holiday House Tour
Date and Time: December 10 (4 to 8 p.m.) and December 11 (1 to 5 p.m.)
Location: The James Arnold Mansion (Wamsutta Club), Tour Headquarters (427 County Street)
Tickets: $19 advance purchase w/ $2 discount to society members; $23 at the door. Contact: Catherine Potter, Preservation Society office, phone/fax 508/997-6425. E-mail:  NBPS2000@yahoo.com  – www.nbpreservationsociety.org

Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech Theatre Company Presents Humbug
Date and Time:  December 8th through the 10th at 7:00pm, December 11th at 2pm
Location: Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School
Admission: General $12, seniors $10 and students $6. Call the box office at 508-998-3321, ext 424.

December 11th

Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech Theatre Company Presents Humbug
Date and Time:  December 8th through the 10th at 7:00pm, December 11th at 2pm
Location: Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School
Admission: General $12, seniors $10 and students $6. Call the box office at 508-998-3321, ext 424.

Goulart Square Association Tree Lighting
Date: December 11th at 6:30pm
Location: Ashley Park on the corner of Rivet Street and Bolton Street

20th Annual Holiday House Tour
Date and Time: December 10 (4 to 8 p.m.) and December 11 (1 to 5 p.m.)
Location: The James Arnold Mansion (Wamsutta Club), Tour Headquarters (427 County Street)
Tickets: $19 advance purchase w/ $2 discount to society members; $23 at the door. Contact: Catherine Potter, Preservation Society office, phone/fax 508/997-6425. E-mail:  NBPS2000@yahoo.com  – www.nbpreservationsociety.org

A Christmas Celtic Sojourn Zeiterion Theatre New BedfordA Christmas Celtic Sojourn (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 11th at 7pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
A Christmas Celtic Sojourn, Brian O’Donovan’s outstanding gathering of Celtic singers, musicians, and dancers takes the Z stage. This year’s performances will feature a wide variety of singers, musicians, and dancers including Ruth Moody, the wonderful Canadian singer who is part of the trio The Waylin’ Jennys, now a staple on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion. The Z’s block parties in a tent in front of The Z have become an audience favorite and this year The Z has added a special Block Party for the Holidays December 11th before and after A Christmas Celtic Sojourn. The Block Party begins with holiday fare, decorations and music at 6pm and continues after the show with dessert and an artist meet and greet. It’s a time for the family to come together for a very magical holiday night.

December 12th

Whaling City Christmas Cd Release PartySouth Central /South First Association Tree Lighting
Date and Time: December 12th at 6:30pm
Location: Monte Park on the corner of Russell Street and Acushnet Avenue

CD Release Party for A Whaling City Christmas Vol 1
Date and Time: December 12th at 8:30pm
Location: Cork Wine & Tapas (90 Front Street, New Bedford)
Ethan Weiss hosts a CD Release Party for A Whaling City Christmas Vol 1. Marcus Montiero will perform live. This is an album of original Christmas music by local artists. All proceeds go to the New Bedford Education Foundation.

December 15th

Rockdale Avenue Neighborhood Association Tree Lighting
Date: December 15th 6:30pm
Location: Park on the Corner of Court Street and Liberty Street (across from Hathaway School)

Yoga New Bedford art MuseumThe New Bedford Art Museum’s Yoga & Art
Date and Time: December 15th at 6-7:30pm, January 7th at 9-10:30am
Location: New Bedford Art Museum (608 Pleasant St.)
Members $12 / Non-Members $15
For centuries artists have been intrigued and inspired by the human body. How it moves. How it rests on the earth. How it flows in space. For centuries yoga practitioners have been intrigued and inspired by the human body. It’s ability to breathe, to transform and why it flows in space. All levels welcome. Sign up online today or reserve your space by emailing info@newbedfordartmuseum.org.

December 16th

Occasion~ally Christmas Fundraiser Concert
Date and Time: December 16, 7-9pm
Location: Grace Episcopal Church on 133 School St, New Bedford
Come join the Occasion Singers in a fundraising concert for the Youth Groups’ pilgrimage and mission trips. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased ahead of time through the church office (508) 993-0547, the youth group, or at the door the night of the concert. Denise Bastos, Melanie Hannack, Caroline Sargent Blais, Jacqueline Hinckley, Chris Saulnier, Eric Bosworth, and Rui Moniz all come together under Cassandra Morgan’s direction to bring old favorites and new works to life in a tight-knit harmonic blend. Some selections include “Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy”, “Carol of the Bells”, “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”, “Silent Night”, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and many more. There will be a reception immediately following the concert.
Look them up online at http://www.occasionsingers.wordpress.com/

 

 

Pre-Xmas Rock Show – The O’Tooles, The McGunks, The Doll Eyes
Date and Time: December 16, 8-11pm
Location: Broad Street Tap (433 Broad St, Cumberland, RI)
Free admission!

December 17th

The New Bedford Symphony’s Hear the Cheer Holiday Pops (Order Tickets)
Date and Time:  December 17th at 3:30pm and 7pm
Location: Zeiterion Theatre (684 Purchase Street)
The Z holiday celebration culminates on December 17th at 3:30 and 7pm with The New Bedford Symphony’s Hear the Cheer Holiday Pops- a one-of-a-kind Holiday Season tradition on the South Coast. A beautifully decorated stage, Santa in the lobby greeting children of all ages, friends and family enjoy the music of the holiday season. The holiday concert features Steve March Tormé, The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, SouthCoast Children’s Chorus, and the Symphony’s Youth Orchestra.

December 18th

Bullard Street Neighborhood Association Tree Lighting
Date: December 18th at 6:00pm
Location: Riverside Park on the corner of Belleville Avenue and Coffin Avenue

Glass Armonica Holiday Concert
Date and Time: December 18th at 3-4 PM
Location: The New Bedford Museum of Glass, 61 Wamsutta St. in the New Bedford Antiques Center Building
Invented by Benjamin Franklin and performed by Marie Antoinette, come learn the fascinating history behind the instrument whose beautifully haunting melodies were once thought to incite madness in performers and audiences alike! Featuring the very talented and very sane Vera Meyer on the glass armonica. Free to Museum members, $5 to the general public.

Effective Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2011 through Sunday, January 1, 2012 the City of New Bedford will offer FREE 2-hour parking at metered spaces in both the Downtown and on Acushnet Avenue and 2-hour FREE parking at the Elm Street Garage, the Zeiterion Theatre Garage and Custom House Square! You can park longer than two hours if you are shopping. Full details here.




After the Storm: Lessons from the Northern Edge

The Dock-u-mentaries film series continues on Friday, November 18th at 7pm with After the Storm: Lessons from the Northern Edge, a film by JD Marlow and Amanda Bergeron. The film will be shown in the theater located at the New Bedford Visitor’s Center on 33 William Street. For centuries fishermen have braved the waters of the northeast Atlantic to make their catch, some never to return home.

In 2004, the scallop vessel Northern Edge sank, taking with it five of the six men on board. The loss of the Northern Edge spurred a response on every front. Fishermen, politicians, and lawmakers alike took a new look at the safety of those who brave the Atlantic waters for a living. In one of the most regulated industries in the country, however, an imbalance between conservation law and safe practice has emerged. But as loss of life continued in years since 2004, the industry is left wondering: Can conservation efforts and fishermen’s safety co-exist?

After the Storm: Lessons from the Northern Edge – Trailer




New Bedford Veteran’s Day Parade 2011

New Bedford Veteran's Day Parade 2011

2012 New Bedford Veterans day Parade details can be found at: http://www.newbedfordguide.com/new-bedford-veterans-day-parade-and-services/2012/11/07

The City of New Bedford Veteran’s Day Parade will step off from Buttonwood Park at Rockdale Avenue and Court St. at 10am on Friday, November 11th.  The parade will proceed East on Union Street to the reviewing stand located in front of Wings Court, just below Purchase Street.

In addition, the City of New Bedford will rededicate the World War I memorial which has been relocated to Fort Taber.  The rededication ceremony will commence at 1:30pm on Friday, November 11th, just outside the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum.

All New Bedford area residents are encouraged to attend these important events honoring our nation’s veterans and their service. There is a Facebook event created here.