Azorean boats on the water

8 Great Things: October on the South Coast

Hello, October! We’re big fans of this month. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoy these 8 Great Things, most of which still take place outside!

2024 Watershed Ride1. Ride On!

We’re so excited for the 19th annual Watershed Ride where hundreds of bicylists, from Olympians to casual cyclists, jump on their bikes to raise funds for the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s work protecting and restoring the lands and water that surround us. Take an hour or two to get on the road to cheer them on.  October 5, all day throughout the South Coast. Check the routes for best cheering here. Show your support for a rider by donating here.

People getting into the Azorean whaleboat2. Row! Row! Row your boat!

The Azorean Maritime Heritage Society is hosting its 3d annual Botes Baleeiros Tournament this month. Anyone can sign up and teams will be randomly assigned. This is your chance to experience an Azorean Whale Boat! Don’t miss it. $25 per person. October 4 from 8 am to 1 pm. More here.

someone pouring a glass of white wine3. We love new festivals!

The Johnny Cake Hill Wine Festival is a brand-new celebration debuting in historic New Bedford this fall. You’ll wander and sample 80+ wines, with a keepsake tasting glass that’s yours to keep, along with artisanal tasting with local pairing partners, while enjoying live music, admission to the Seamen’s Bethel and the vibe of downtown New Bedford in Fall. October 5, 1-5. Tickets are $71 (10% of proceeds go to the Waterfront Historic Area League).

A view of the shoreline of Gooseberry Island 4. A Gooseberry Walk & Talk

Our walking book tour goes to Gooseberry Island this month with the hyper local Meditations on Landscape, an anthology by local writers, poets and photographers. We’ll be joined by two of the books contributors as we enjoy an afternoon walk in Westport with some readings, discussions and refreshment. Free but preregistration is required. October 9 from 2 to 4 pm.

A colorful food filled table5. Dining as Art (& More)

The Fabric Arts Festival takes a cool, multidisciplinary approach to festivals, with everything from exhibitions, performances, several communal dinners conceived as artistic events and more. October 9 through 12, various locations in Fall River and Providence. Find out more here.

The Iron River Singers6. Cider Social

Drink in old New England village charm, along with the cider, at Little Compton Historical Society’s annual cider social (with donuts!) With free Native-led tours of Awashonks’ Garden and the Wilbor House Museum, free children’s activities (like the famous candy haystack) and performances by the Iron River Singers. Free. October 18, 1 to 4. More here. 

A woman jumping in a field, with a mountain backdrop7. A Bevy of Short Thought Provoking Films

The International Climate Future Film Festival comes to New Bedford with an eclectic lineup of 10 short films from four continents, showcasing a variety of genres, including drama, documentary, comedy, and award-winning animation. Tickets are $10 for Whaling Museum members/ $20 for non-members. October 24, from 6 to 8:30 pm. More here.

People gathering around a campfire8. Ghost Stories Around an Island Campfire

A first ever event! The Wareham Free Library is hosting an evening of ghost stories and s'mores around the campfire. on Wickets Island and the Onset Bay Center will provide transportation to participants. Free but registration is required. October 29 at 5:30. 

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