Hello, February! You’re a short month but packed with a lot of sweet surprises. We’ve got our top picks for your month right here.
1. We Love a Parade!
It’s the marching bands that really do it for us. There aren’t many parades this time of year, but John Philip Sousa is the king of those oomphy marching band sounds we’ve all come to love. Join the Tri-County Symphonic Band for an afternoon concert where they feature Sousa’s music alongside Aaron Copland, Andrew Boysen, George Gershwin and Jean Sibelius. We are sure you won’t be able to stop tapping your feet! $15. February 2 at 3:00. 225 Hathaway Blvd, New Bedford. More here.
2. Watch the Seals Play!
Woo hoo! It’s that time of year -- the Buzzards Bay Coalition brings back their popular Seabird and Seal Cruises. You’ll get up close to the seals and staff will provide insights into the cute creatures before heading to Cuttyhunk Island for a guided half hour hike. Get out and enjoy this – nothing gives you more street cred than going on a seal cruise in February! $50. February 8 and February 17. Reserve your spot here.
3. A Moonlit Walk
Experience the magic of Gooseberry Island under the glow of a full moon with the Coalition! You’ll soak in the serene beauty of the moonlit coastline and have a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the night sky. Bundle up, lace up those hiking boots, and be ready for an unforgettable night. Free but register here. February 12 at 6:15 to 7:15. Gooseberry Island, Westport.
4. Forget the Dinner Reservations!
Here’s an interesting way to spend Valentine’s Day. Gnome Surf is hosting a sound healing session designed to nurture your heart and soul. At the Life Saving Station at Horseneck, you’ll be guided with crystal singing bowls for a serene and transformative experience. $15 donation. February 14, 6-7 pm. More here.
5. Ditch the Roses!
Continue the Valentine’s weekend theme when the New Bedford Symphony features guest artist Bella Hristova performing the concerto her composer husband David Ludwig wrote for her. They’ll pair that with two other Valentine’s-themed pieces: Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and Scriabin’s Poem of Ecstasy. They’ve created an evening that just begs to be given as a gift to your sweetheart, complete with a Valentine's photo booth. Tickets from $20. 7:30, February 15. More here.
6. Gathering and (more) Foot-tapping!
Good vibes, old-time tunes, plus some fun new sounds! They welcome players as well as listeners - so bring your instrument if you play. But don't worry if you don't! Free. February 23 from 1 to 3:30 at the First Unitarian Church, 71 Eighth St, New Bedford.
7. Make Dreams Happen!
Make your own dream catchers, listen to stories, and learn how to make your own corn husk doll with the Pocasset Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Free and all ages are welcome (yes, adults too!). February 22 from 12 to 3. All supplies included. Fall River Heritage State Park. Learn more.
8. Laugh the Night Away!
Come for some serious giggles and maybe even a good belly laugh at this month’s show. We heard something about a secret sweater drawer, Niagara Falls and a gargantuan jar of peanut butter in Your Theater's newest production Wonder of the World? We don’t know what it all means, but we've already got smiles on our faces. And we love visiting the beautiful Steeple Playhouse! Tickets from $5 to $27. Opening February 28, through March 9. 159 William Street, New Bedford. More here.
That's our list for February! Enjoy this lovely month -- before you know it, we'll be welcoming spring to the South Coast.
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