It's April! And our 8 Great Things list reflects the bounce in our step that comes from daffodils, jazz, a new film festival and an exciting art debut, with the promise of lovely weather ahead.
1. Walk the Red Carpet!
Dozens and dozens of films, filmmakers, workshops, awards ceremonies and more fanfare arrive in town for the first New Bedford Film Festival. Head down to see a film, or participate in some of the workshops, parties and other festivities. What's wonderful is that they've made it affordable. You can attend screenings for free. If you want to ensure your seat, pick up a VIP pass, starting at $15-25 per day. Various locations throughout downtown New Bedford. April 18 - 21. More information here and tickets here.
2. The Big Reveal
2The New Bedford Art Museum is unveiling a masterpiece this month. The Museum has been gifted a Dale Chihully glass sculpture and the Museum is celebrating with three days of festivities, including the big reveal on April 25. Chihully's work can be seen at such major art institutions as the Met, the MFA, the LA County Museum of Art and, now, the New Bedford Art Museum. Come celebrate this big moment with the Museum! April 24-26. 608 Pleasant Street, New Bedford. More here.
3. Walk through the daffodils
Our walking book tour is back! This one launches from Kimberly Ward's beautiful Mattapoisett garden that she left behind to spend 2 years with her family on a 34' sailboat. From there, we'll explore the neighboring Mattapoisett Land Trust’s Brandt Island Cove District with Kimberly and her wonderful book Crew of Three: How Bold Dreams and Detailed Plans Launched Our Family's Sailing Adventure-- a how-to manual for making a dream come true. Join us for a lovely spring afternoon walk and discussion about launching dreams. Free. April 16 from 2 to 4 pm. Registration and more info here.
4. Speaking of daffodils
Just a reminder that Parsons Reserve is overrun with hundreds of daffodils in a wooded glade each April. It is delightful to visit and admire them, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and the 8-10 minute hike in from the parking area. $5 suggested donation for non-DNRT members. 50 Horseneck Road, Dartmouth. Generally, daffodils are in bloom from mid-April until early May but you should check the website here for updates.
5. A Little Jazz, A Little Deliciousness
We love Little Moss Restaurant. We love a little jazz trio. On the Third Thursday of each month, you can enjoy them together. $15 cover charge, with full dinner and bar menu available a la carte. April 18, 6 and 8 pm seatings. 6 Bridge Street, Dartmouth. Reservations here.
6. Ukelele-ing
What's the difference between a fiddle and a violin? Who cares, neither one is a ukelele!
If you have a soft spot for ukeleles like we do, join the Uke club at the Fall River public library. Beginners are welcome. Free. April 1 at 6 pm. 104 N. Main Street. More here. And you can always pick up a nice ukelele at the Symphony Music Shop! Symphony Music Shop, 94 State Road, Dartmouth.
7. Get Ready for the Eclipse!
The Wareham Free Library welcomes Roger Menard (coincidentally, he is featured in our new issue that drops this week!) to learn about all things eclipse related (their history, how they happen, how to view them safely). Come learn just in time for the big eclipse on April 8 (and you'll receive a pair of eclipse glasses for viewing them). April 2 at 6:30. Free. 59 Marion Road, Wareham. More here.
8. The She-Wolf of Wall Street
The Fairhaven Historical Society presents an evening on Hetty Green, America's first female tycoon. She was the only woman in the room when JP Morgan called a meeting of New York’s financial leaders after the stock market crash of 1907. Born and raised in New Bedford, she went on to become the richest woman in America. Find out more with her biographer Charles Slack. April 4 at 6:30 pm. Free, but donations to the Fairhaven Historical Society are accepted. Fairhaven Town Hall Auditorium, 40 Center Street. More here.
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Besides daffodils, you know what's also back from winter hibernation? Our 2024 print issues!
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Squeeee! My Walking Book Tour made it to the 8 Great Things List, debuting at #3. Along with Parsons Preserve. Daffodils forever 🌼❤️🌼 Hope to see you there!