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Category: Things To Do

November 28, 2018

Ho, Ho, Ho! It’s December Again!

We’re getting our 8 Great Things list out a bit earlier this month because half of them take place on December 1 and 2 and we want to give you a heads up, with plenty of time to plan!

1. Shopping Spree Weekend!

We’ll be spending the first weekend of December finishing our holiday shopping at all of our favorite South Coast shops. Join us and get 10% off when you mention South Coast Almanac! We are grateful to these small businesses who have advertised with and supported us. And we love the personal attention they lavish on their customers. There’s a place on the list for every type of gift, so there’s no reason to leave the South Coast when checking off your list this year. 

December 1-2, during stores’ business hours. See here for participating stores: SCA_Shopping_Spree_Weekend

2. Fall River Children’s Holiday Parade

Check out the 34th annual Fall River Children’s holiday parade, one of the largest in New England. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive via helicopter, which we think is an exhilarating modern twist on the classic sleigh. Music, floats, giant balloons (think Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade) and excitement make this a great kick off to the holiday season. Free. December 1, 1-4 p.m. Kennedy Park, Fall River. See more here. 

3. Open. Water. Swim.

Need to go back and read that headline once more? That’s right! Our brave (crazy?) friends over at the Buzzards Bay Coalition are keeping things interesting! Open water + onset bay + December 1 date makes for a very cool time (pun intended). Wetsuit and colorful hat are required. Friends not ready to take the plunge are welcome to join on kayak. Head over to the Onset Pier on Saturday, December 1 at 10 am to experience “that cold water rush”or just to watch other brave souls experience it! Free. December 1, 10 a.m. See more here.

4. Wreaths, Wine, and a Damn Good Time

Seriously, how could we pass up an event with this title!? Led by the owner of Hammer and Lace at The Barn at Sweet Fern Hill in Middleboro, this wreath making workshop is BYOB, with light refreshments and supplies provided, and you’ll go home with a wreath that would retail for $120. Tickets are $60, December 1st, 3pm. See here for tickets.

But we couldn’t stop at just one wreath workshop! Soule Homestead is hosting two workshops at the same time as their annual holiday fair. Wreaths: $25 for Soule members/$30 for non-members, centerpieces: $15/$20, holiday fair free admission, December 2nd, 10am or 1pm, 46 Soule Street, Middleboro. Preregistration is required. See more here. 

Alice’s Table is hosting wreathmaking at Bittersweet Farm. You can order from the Bittersweet Farm menu as you enjoy the company of others and the creativity of making your own wreath. $75, December 5, 6:30 pm, 438 Main Road, Westport. Buy your ticket and see more here.

5. Padanaram Christmas Festival

We happened to talk recently with a woman who moved to Padanaram from the West Coast and you know what drew her to buying a home in Padanaram? The elves! She loved watching the village come together to decorate and celebrate the Christmas season a few years ago! Now’s your chance to go and see what she’s talking about. Santa and the elves, performances, giveaways from local businesses, food and refreshments help make the season bright. December 7, 5 – 8 p.m. Padanaram Village, Dartmouth. See more here. 

6. Onset Christmas in the Parks

For more village Christmas flavor, head over to Onset on the 8th. Santa arrives via fire truck at noon to kick off the fun! There’s cookie decorating, photos with Santa at the firehouse with hot chocolate and goodies, a talking Christmas tree, and horse-drawn carriage rides throughout the afternoon. The event is free, with parking available at the pier, but donations will be gladly accepted. December 8, 12 – 3 pm, Onset Village. See more here. 

 

7. Holiday Pops

We love the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra! And we think there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than listening to music with friends and family. The orchestra offers a 3:30 children’s matinee, featuring some fun surprises for young audience members, and a 7pm concert with slightly more music (but both performances last around an hour). Pssst: our friends at the NBSO have offered a special deal to South Coast Almanac readers! Use the code SCA20 for 20% off your Pops tickets. If you haven’t had a chance to take in one of their concerts yet, now is the perfect time! December 15th, 3:30 or 7pm, tickets $20-$43 (plus 20% off with code SCA20), The Zeiterion, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. Buy your tickets here or call the box office at 508-994-2900.

8. Snowshoeing the Shoreline

Embrace winter and get outside!  Join Mass Audubon Society at Allens Pond Wildlife Society to explore the beautiful beach loop trail. Bring your own snow shoes (or hiking boots, should there be no snow) to trek along the 2 mile loop looking for winter wildlife and signs of animal activity! $10 for Audubon members, $12 for non-members.December 29, 9-12, Allen’s Pond, Dartmouth. For more information and to register, click here. 

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October 31, 2018

8 Great Things in November: Music, Baubles, Thanksgiving Pie Workouts & More

Step away from the candy corn! It’s time to start thinking about November. Rest assured, we’ve got 8 Great Things to take your mind off the Halloween candy.

  1. Run Away

DNRT Trail RaceWe’ve got a couple of fun 5Ks to get you moving because you’ll want to get in shape for those Thanksgiving pies. We love the annual Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust trail run which winds through the fields and forests of Destruction Brook Woods. You’ve got a 2.4 mile walking course or 3.3 mile running course to choose from, as well as post-race music, pizza and beer. Later in the month, enjoy Fairhaven’s Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Last year, runners stuffed a truck with more than 2,000 pounds of non-perishables before they went home and stuffed themselves at the Thanksgiving table.

When & Where: DNRT Race: Saturday, November 10 (postponed from November 3 because of weather), Slade’s Corner Road, Dartmouth. See more here. Turkey Trot: Thursday, November 22, starting at 8 am. Cushman Park. See more here. 

2. Keep the Junior Mints in Play

Don’t take your mind off ALL the Halloween candy.  Pull the movie candy out and head for the New Bedford Whaling Museum to experience the Mountainfilm Tour, sponsored by the SouthCoast Film Forum. The annual Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride is listed among the 25 best film festivals in the world and it’s coming here, folks. Settle into your seats and enjoy the best short documentary films chosen from its festival that showcase nonfiction stories about environmental, cultural, climbing, political and social justice issues that matter. Bonus: while you’re taking them in, you’ll be helping to support the work of the Buzzards Bay Coalition.

When & Where: November 3 between 3:30 and 9:00 p.m. at the Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford. Tickets are between $10 and $20. Purchase them here.

3. Walking Book Club. Wait a Minute, What’s That?!

We’re bringing walking book clubs to the South Coast! Be the first on your block to try it! We stole this idea from the Brits (see here) but are putting a decidedly South Coast spin on it by choosing Blue Collars, a book with a local setting, local author and local publisher. Join us on a 1 mile walk, as we visit 5 spots described in Catherine McLaughlin’s novel of Finn Kilroy’s childhood in New Bedford’s South End, as she navigates keeping a dark secret of abuse from her close and loving family. The price includes the book (which we can ship to you ahead of time, if you order before November 3), a treat from the New Bedford Baking Company & a tour led by Joe Thomas, Publisher of Spinner Publications and Corey Nuffer. Whether you’ve already read the book (we can deduct the cost of the book from the ticket price if you already have it) or not, the tour will be enjoyable either way accompanied by fellow book lovers, Portuguese sweets, period music and, we hope, good weather.

When & Where: November 10, from 2-4 p.m. $24.95. Email [email protected] to register. Rain date is November 11, 2-4 p.m. Questions? call 781-475-4526. (The walk is about a mile long but if you’d rather drive from spot to spot, we can accommodate that.)

New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center4. Penny for your Thoughts

Canadian Folk Music Awards Nominee Dave Penny brings original and traditional songs of Newfoundland to New Bedford. Dave’s most recent recording, All Turned Around, was nominated for a 2017 Music NL award for Celtic/Traditional Artist of the Year and a 2017 Canadian Folk Music Award for Traditional Singer of the Year. It’s a cozy concert in a charming setting, nestled among the main exhibit space of the Fishing Heritage Center which has surprisingly excellent acoustics.

When & Where: November 10, 7 p.m. New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center, 38 Bethel Street, New Bedford. $12 – $15. Get your tickets here.

5. Art, Music, Food, Friends, Gifts — Is There Anything Else?

The 80+ creatives who work in the Hatch Street Studios throw open their doors and invite us in for a festive weekend. Looking for a gift? You’ll find upcycled fashions, ceramic bowls, framed photographs, glass mobiles, wooden jewel boxes, and antique treasures. Or just come for the live music, demonstrations, workshops & good food. Last year, more than 1400 from all over New England ambled through. Shouldn’t you?

When & Where: November 16-18, Friday, 5 – 8; Saturday and Sunday, 11-5. Hatch Street Studios, 88-90 Hatch Street, New Bedford. See more here.

6.  Pebble Beach

Seek treasures along the shore with a guided beach walk at Allens Pond. You’ll collect pebbles, pieces of weathered glass, pottery and more. After the walk, engage in a facilitated creative session where you’ll be provided with a canvas to create a unique, beach-inspired work of art, using the materials found on the sanctuary’s shores.

When & Where: November 24, 9 am to 12 pm. Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport.  $20 Mass Audubon members; $25 nonmembers. Register here. 

Courtesy of the Narrows7. Get Rockin’

Taunton-raised Sarah Borges is on a national tour to promote her newest album Love’s Middle Name.  American Songwriter calls the new record “arguably her finest, most focused and explosive hand grenade of an album yet” and her live shows as “set em up/knock em down.” We like that you can’t box her music into a category: is it rock? is it country? rockabilly? If you haven’t seen her yet, now’s your chance to try to figure her out. And while you’re at the Narrows, check out its 6th Annual Poster Exhibition.

When & Where: November 24, 8 p.m. Narrows Center for Performing Arts, $22 in advance, $25 day of show. More here.

8. All Dressed Up & Ready to Go!

The Rotch-Jones-Duff house is a treat to visit any time of the year. But around the holidays, it’s especially compelling. For two weeks, the halls of the RJD are decked with lights, ribbons, baubles, boughs of greener and unique trees which have been decorated and donated to the museum by community groups, schools, artists and designers. Kick off the holiday season with the preview “Tree View” Party which helps support the museum. If you fall in love with a tree, you can even purchase it for your own home!

When & Where: November 29, 6-8 p.m. Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum, 396 County Street, New Bedford. If you miss the party, check out the trees between November 30 – December 9, Monday through Saturdays 10 – 4; Sundays 12 – 4.  More here. 

There you have it. Another great month on the South Coast. Wanna keep up with the coolest happenings each month on the South Coast?! Sign up for our free monthly newsletter right here!

Want a copy of our beautiful print magazine that just hit newsstands this week, filled with things you can’t find online — Best Dishes from favorite local chefs, Local Makers Gift Guide, Nightlife Guide: A to Z, and lots more — subscribe right here!

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October 2, 2018

Oh, Sweet October! 8 Great Things for the Month Ahead

“This tree must be falling for me, as soon as I sat under it, it dropped its leaves.
Oh sweet October!”  – Charmaine J Forde

Our monthly list of 8 reasons to love life on the South Coast this month!  You know what else is happening in October? Our first ever Fall/Holiday print issue gets delivered to mailboxes and newsstands all over the South Coast. You want one? Order an annual subscription (4 issues) right here!!

South Coast things to do1. “Come On Down!”

 The Price is Right will be filming a live show at the Zeiterion, making it the perfect time for South Coasters to enjoy their 15 minutes of fame.  So start studying up on prices, because some lucky contestants are going to have the shot to walk away with big money! Tickets for the event range from $37.50 to $150, and are still available for sale. October 5, 8pm, The Zeiterion Theater, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. More here. 

2. Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off

Giant pumpkins?! Ok, we really don’t feel like this one needs any selling. Last year’s winner weighed in at 1914l pounds (almost a ton)! Need we say more? If you aren’t convinced by the prospect of insanely oversized vegetation, the food trucks, free corn maze, pumpkin painting (although we imagine not of the giant variety) and scarecrow creations should do the trick. Admission to the event is free, parking is available for $5, and some crafts have an additional fee (check their website for specifics). October 6, 9 – 5. Frerichs Farm, Warren, RI, (rain dates: October 7 or 8). More here. 

3. Cycling and Wine

We’re still pretty geared up from our September Buzzards Bay Coalition Watershed Ride, and ready to hit the road again (with maybe just a little different motivation). Westport is already a beautiful place for a bike ride, but throw in early fall foliage and some wine at the end and we’ve got ourselves a day! The Appalachian Mountain Club is leading the 20-25 mile ride that ends at Westport Rivers Winery and Vineyard, ending with a private tour and wine tasting. The event is $15, and pre registration is required. If biking isn’t your thing, skip the ride and join the group at the finish line. October 6, 1:30 ride, 4:00 tasting. To register, call Jeannine at 508-493-8221.  More information and registration is here. 

South Coast things to do4.  Berry Exciting!

One of our favorite annual traditions, the Cranberry Harvest Celebration is the perfect way to welcome fall on the South Coast. Located on the beautiful grounds of A.D. Makepeace, the event allows guests to walk in a farmer’s shoes for the day (no really, pull on a pair of waders and walk on into the bog). The views are insanely beautiful and can be enjoyed from the ground or aboard a scenic helicopter tour. The event has something for the whole family, from paddle boat and pony rides, to cooking demonstrations and a craft fair. This is a must do event. October 6-7, AD Makepeace, 158 Tihonet Road, Wareham. $10 for adults, $5 for seniors/military, free for kids under 7 (helicopter tours are extra). More here. 

South Coast things to do5. Don’t Miss It! Last Chance for the Grand Panoroma!

If you’ve not seen the world’s largest painting, then get down to Kilburn Mill where the New Bedford Whaling Museum has it on display for free until October 8 when it gets packed away again. Multiple media outlets from near and far recommended this exhibit (even the Wall Street Journal), and for good reason — how often do you get to see a work of art that is over 1200 feet long? Kilburn Mill, 127 Rodney French Boulevard, New Bedford. Free

There are a couple of special events this week to celebrate the Panorama. On October 6, Tom O’Leary and Simon Xerxes White perform a musical finale to accompany the whalemen’s journey depicted in the painting with a special 22-minute video of the Panorama in motion forming the backdrop for the performance. 3-5 pm.

Or join the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra on October 7 which will perform next to the painting. Reception begins at 7:00 and the concert begins at 8:00. Tickets are $85. See more here. 

6. Oktoberfest!

Craft beer fan? Local entertainment enthusiast? Big South Coast community lover? This event is for you. The South Coast Business Alliance is throwing down to celebrate fall, and you won’t want to miss out! Not only does the event benefit local charities, it also features food trucks, a signature brew by Moby Dick Brewing Co., and live music. Reserve your ticket soon to snag a stein (available to first 200 ticket holders). October 13, 3 – 11:30 pm. $15 in advance, $20 at door, 21+. Pier 3, New Bedford. More here. 

South Coast things to do7. Oh When the Saints, Go Marching In…

If you were at our launch party last May, you had the pleasure of hearing the South Coast Brass Band and watching Gilda (one of our profiles in the summer print issue), sing and dance along. If you missed it, no worries! You can view the band in October at Gilda’s very own club, Gilda’s Stone Rooster. Join them for their second to last Mardi Gras Monday of the year for good jazz and good company (trust us, we can attest to both!). October 15, 8pm, reservations recommended, Gilda’s Stone Rooster, 27 Wareham Road, Marion. More here. 

South Coast things to do

8. Fairhaven Harvest Fun Day

Fairhaven Fall Family Fun (say that 5 times fast!) is back again! Face painting, games, bouncy houses, craft and food vendors, and fun make the perfect recipe to celebrate a Saturday in October. October 13th, 10-4. 141 Main Street, Fairhaven. More here. 

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August 30, 2018

Hello September, We Love Ya! 8 Great Things To Do This Month

Here comes September — back to school, back to work, back to reality. Lucky for us we live on the South Coast and our reality is pretty darn sweet. Here are our 8 Great Things for the month ahead.

  1. Annual Onset Bay Illumination

Onset Bay Illumination NightOne of our all-time summer favorites (postponed by rain earlier this year which makes the start of September that much better!), Illumination Night is truly magical. After dark settles in, a horn sounds and volunteers run the beaches and two islands, lighting thousands of flares as they go. The result of their efforts: fire lining all of Onset Harbor. Stroll along the flares and enjoy the spectacle. Beforehand, spend the day in Onset enjoying its annual kite festival from 10 – 4 and the El Caribe steel drum band performing at 7:30 pm. September 1, Onset Beach (free parking available at Hynes Field, a 5 minute walk from the beach). Free. See more here. 

Allens Pond Butterfly Census2. Butterfly Census

Help members of the Massachusetts Butterfly Club find and identify different types of butterflies in Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary. The butterfly club guides will lead teams into parts of the Sanctuary and provide their knowledge about butterflies native to the South Coast. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. Wear long pants, sunscreen, and bring water and a snack — butterfly watching can work up an appetite! September 8, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport, 10 -2. Sign up here. 

Photo: Narrows Center for the Arts

The Iguanas are headlining

3. Narrows Festival of the Arts

What better way to spend an early September Sunday than outside, enjoying a variety of live music, perusing selections of work from art vendors, enjoying food truck food and lemonade, and maybe even saying hi to some exotic animals? The Narrows Festival of the Arts promises all this along Fall River’s historic waterfront. The festival is free and has fun for all ages, between the Children’s Museum tent and the indoor and outdoor stages of live music, there’s sure to be something to please everyone in the family. September 9, 16 Anawan St. Fall River. More here. 

Fort Phoenix 5K4. Ready. Set, Run!

Cooler temps means all the more reason to get outside and run the South Coast! There is no better way to start than with a fun 5k, through the gorgeous Fort Phoenix State Beach and Reservation. The 5k benefits a variety of local charities, and registration is $15 prior to the race (and includes a t-shirt) or $20 the day of. So hit the ground running and embrace the start of fall in Fairhaven. September 9, 10 am, Fort Phoenix State Beach and Reserve, Fairhaven.  More here. 

5. Get your dancing shoes on!

What do celtic music, French Canada and New Bedford have in common? Genticorum! Genticorum is coming to the James Arnold Mansion this September, and bringing with them their jubilant Celtic-based music all the way from French Canada. Join the band to experience music influenced by jazz and Québec folk music with fiddle and flute (seems fun to us!).  Tickets at $20 in advance (available online) or $25 at the door. September 14, 7:30 pm-9:30 pm, Wamsutta Club, 427 County St, New Bedford, Get tickets here. 

6. Time to get spooky!

What better way to jump start some Halloween spirit than with a day touring cemeteries?! Little Compton Historical Society is opening up all town cemeteries for an afternoon. So get out and explore the beautiful historic grounds (including many which are normally not open to the public!). Volunteers at each site will be available to answer questions and share information. Tickets are $10 for Society members, $15 for non-members, and free for kids 12 and under. September 22,  11-4. Wilbor House Museum, 548 West Main Rd, Little Compton. See more here. 

7. Lakeville Arts and Music Festival

September is the month of music and art! If you missed the Narrows Festival (or if one just wasn’t enough), head to Lakeville for its Arts and Music Festival. The festival celebrates local artists and musicians from the South Coast. Rain or shine, the day is filled with fun and entertainment for the whole community and, guess what, it’s free. September 29, 10-4. Lining the intersection of Routes 105, 18 and Precinct Street. More here. 

 

Buzzards Bay Coalition Watershed Ride

South Coast Almanac Avengers

8. Bike on!

We love Buzzards Bay, South Coast early fall views, biking, clean water, and a good party. That’s why this September, the South Coast Almanac team is biking the Buzzards Bay Watershed Ride for the third year straight! The route has 100, 75, and 35 mile options, so there’s something for everyone. Cyclists each raise $300 (or more!) to support the great work of the Buzzards Bay Coalition. You’ll have access to five water stops, a yummy food truck lunch, and dinner with beer and wine at the party (which features live music and award presentations!). The SCA team is always looking for new riders (and trust us, we have A LOT of fun, see photos of our award winning costumes from last year), email us at [email protected] if you’re interested in joining our team! In the past, our publisher, editor, and advertising director along with board members and friends of the ‘Nac have ridden. We want you to join us!! September 30, start time depends on which route you choose. See more here. 

Wanna keep up with the coolest happenings each month on the South Coast?! Sign up for our free newsletter right here!

OR subscribe to our print magazine which has even more activities and events to keep you busy all summer. You can buy a copy of our current issue right here for just $8.95 delivered to your door. An annual subscription is right here.

 

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August 1, 2018

Summer Revelry: 8 Great Things for August!

When we turn the calendar page to August, we get a little frantic — gotta make that list of all those summer things we haven’t done yet: dig for quahogs, cheer on the Wareham Gatemen and New Bedford Bay Sox, learn to sail (ha, that one’s on a longer list!). We’ve put together 8 Great Things that should be on  your 2018 summer bucket list that will create memories to reflect fondly upon come February.

Photo by James Mahaney

1. South Coast’s Best Walking Tour

Featured in our current issue, the Henry H. Rogers Walking Tour is lauded as one of the best in the Northeast by the Huff Post. The tour explores the life of Standard Oil Co. executive Henry Rogers and the many extravagant buildings that he donated to Fairhaven, his home town. The tour is a perfect way to celebrate the exceptional architecture of Fairhaven. Plus, it’s free (!!) and begins outside the Town Hall. Tuesday and Thursday mornings through September, 10am (weather permitting). See more here.

2. Historic House Tours at Martin House Farm

The Martin House Farm in North Swansea is a lovely 18th century farm house and barn on 50 acres of farm and wood lands. The land features the beautiful original stone walls, as well as the farm house steeped with rich history. Members of the Martin Family lived in the house for over 200 years, before it was donated to the National Society of the Colonial Dames in 1930. Learn all about the Farm’s past on the guided tours, every Sunday in August. 1-4 pm, $5. See more here.

3. Did Someone Say Grateful Dead?

We’ve heard that the Toe Jam Puppet Band is like the Grateful Dead for toddlers. Even if you don’t have a toddler, aren’t you kind of intrigued? Sing, dance, and play for the whole hour with these local superstars. The Band performs weekly at the Buttonwood Park Zoo, so there is plenty of time to see them before summer ends. Mondays, 10am or 11:30am. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford. See more here. 

4. Wishing on Many Stars

The Perseid Meteor Shower boasts meteors at rates of up to one per minute. Getting cozy in the fields at Stone Barn to watch seems like the perfect way to spend an August night. Be sure to pack your snacks and water, insect repellent, layers, and maybe even binoculars or a telescope if you’d like. August 11, 8 pm. Allen’s Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, Stone Barn Farm, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. $10 for Mass Audubon members, $12 non-members, pre registration required. For more information and to register, go here.

5. Fishing for Wine

Don’t you love the eclectic mixing of a fishing boat and a wine tasting? Onset’s Neat Lady thought so too and is transforming itself into a wine tasting and learning experience for a sunset cruise. Their wine expert says it will feature “wines sourced from vineyards along water, we’ll make this a focal point for understanding how the water plays a role in why the wine tastes the way it does, inviting folks to think of their local surroundings of having more potential for growing grapes and complicate their understanding of local vineyards in a delicious way.” Sounds like a recipe for a perfect night to us and includes cheese and charcuterie, along with the wine (and learning). August 12, 7 – 9 pm, $38. See more here. 

6. Lovely Local Spaces Filled with Music

Music from Land’s End brings chamber music concerts with internationally acclaimed artists to the South Coast. Artistic Director Ariadne Daskalakis has worked hard to bring two wonderful concert series to us this summer, wrapping up in August with the String Quartet Program. To learn more about the program and the featured artists, check out their website! August 18th, 7pm at Marion Music Hall, 164 Front Street, Marion. August 19th, 5 pm at Church of the Good Shepherd, 74 High Street, Wareham. Open to the public, by donation (recommended donation is $25).

7. Eco-Herbal Medicine Interactive Walk and Talk

Join herbalist Brendan Kelly on a foraging walk to learn about the identifications, tastes, and uses of local medicinals and edibles. The interactive walk and talk is co-sponsored by the Sippican Lands Trust and the Marion Institute and explores the beautiful trails at Brainard Marsh. August 25, 9am-10:30am
$5 for Sippican Lands Trust members, $10 non-members; pre-registration required. See more here. 

8. Onset Chalk-Full-O-Fun Festival

This annual festival truly lives up to its name. There’s nothing better (or more summer-y!) than getting your hands dirty in the chalk, and this festival celebrates just that. Enter the fun yourself and join the competition as an individual or as a group. Your entry comes with chalk and a sidewalk square to create your masterpiece. To get your creative juices flowing, featured chalk artists create breath-taking works and local artists really step up their game for the competition. There’s also live music from noon to 4 and vendors throughout the day. August 25, registration begins at 9 am. Festival is free but if you want to register, $5 gets you your own square and a box of vibrantly colored chalk. Lillian Gergerman Bandshell, Onset Avenue, Onset. See more here.

Wanna keep up with the coolest happenings each month on the South Coast?! Sign up for our free newsletter right here!

OR subscribe to our print magazine which has even more activities and events to keep you busy all summer. You can buy a copy of our current issue right here for just $8.95 delivered to your door. An annual subscription is right here.

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July 3, 2018

Own the Night like the Fourth of July

Onset Children's Parade (Photo by Ella Necheles)

Around about now, Katy Perry gets stuck on repeat in our head. We watched her Firework video again and start getting excited for the Fourth. To keep the soundtrack in our head relevant, we’ve put together a list of Fourth of July activities — not just fireworks, but parades, fleet blessings and more. It’ll keep you humming all week long.

Boom, boom, boom.

Fireworks

All events are listed from East to West (or a rough approximation of that!)

Onset-Wareham Fireworks, July 7, 9ish (we love a good when a schedule officially uses “ish”), Onset Beach. See more here.

Middleboro Fireworks, July 6, 10:00, Pierce Playground. See more here. 

New Bedford Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular 2018, July 4, 9:00, State Pier, Downtown New Bedford. Viewing from lower Union Street. See more here.

Freetown Fireworks Festival, July 3, 6-10 pm, Hathaway Park, Water Street, Assonet (near the former The Assonet Inn). See more here. 

Fall River Fireworks, July 4, 9:30, Fall River Heritage State Park, Davol Street at the waterfront.

Parades

Bourne on the Fourth, July 4, 10:00, Main Street, Buzzards Bay. See more here. This parade gets a prize for best named patriotic parade.

Marion Fourth of July Parade, July 4, 9:00,  Spring Street, Marion. See more here. 

Fourth of July Car Cruise and Parade, July 4, 9:00, starts at Fairhaven High School, 12 Huttleston Avenue, Fairhaven. Floats and marchers join at Cushman Park. See more here. 

Freetown Annual Parade, July 4, 10:00,  South Main and Water Streets.

Westport Annual Parade, July 4, 10:00 (road closure at 9:00), Main Road north of Hix Bridge Road. See more here. 

Other Fun Stuff

Onset Blessing of the Fleet, Pet Parade, Bike Parade & Doll Carriage Parade, July 7, Onset Pier, Onset Avenue. Participating boaters parade their vessel on a route that will form between the islands near red nun 14, then proceed inbound to the face of the Onset Pier where vessels will be cheered by spectators and blessed by a local priest. Boaters are encouraged to decorate their boats and prizes are given. At 10 a.m., just before the vessel parade, children of all ages are invited to participate in the Pet, Bike & Doll Carriage Parades. See more here. 

Middleboro Carnival, July 3 – July 7, evenings. Pierce Playground. See more here. 

Mattapoisett 5 Mile Road Race, July 4, 9:00, Shipyard Park, 13 Water Street, Mattapoisett. $25 on July 3 or $30 if registering on July 4 (includes t-shirt) . See more here. 

Fort Phoenix Independence Day Ceremony and Cannon Salute, July 4, 10:00, Fort Phoenix, Fort Street, Fairhaven. Following the Car Cruise and Parade, there will be a patriotic program at the Fort featuring a reading of the Declaration of Independence, Emma Lazarus’ poem “The New Colossus,” and the firing of the fort’s five 24-pound Seacoast Defense cannons by the Fairhaven Village Militia. See more here. 

4th of July with Frederick Douglas, July 4, 10-2,  Customs House Square, Barkers Lane, New Bedford. Meet Frederick Douglass and other people who lived in New Bedford during the 1800s. At 12:00 Frederick Douglass will give a speech in which he discusses slavery, independence, justice, and what it means to be an American. Hear the Declaration of Independence read aloud. In addition you will be able to meet Douglass, the 1850s Ladies, Civil War soldiers, local leaders, and park rangers. See more here.

Want to make sure you keep up with EVERYTHING on the South Coast? Sign up here for our free email newsletter right here!

You can also subscribe to our print magazine which has even more activities and events to keep you busy all year. You can buy a copy of our current issue right here for just $8.95 delivered to your door. An annual subscription is right here.

 

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July 2, 2018

What’s hotter than today? Our 8 Great Things List for July!

When July arrives here, it really arrives. We’re a day late getting this blog post up because we were in a heat coma yesterday. But we’re back with our 8 Great Things list. Not to be confused with our Fourth of July holiday happenings list which will be up tomorrow so that you can plan your patriotic activities.

New Bedford Folk Fest1. Get Folksy

100 artists, 8 stages, and 2 days of folk music at annual favorite, the New Bedford Folk Festival! One weekend every July, folk artists congregate in downtown New Bedford, playing 10 hours of continuous music each day. The festival takes over the Historic Whaling district, filling the Zeiterion and spilling out into the New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park. The event features craft and food vendors and a family area on top of the non-stop music. July 7 -8,$30 for one day, $40 for two day pass, New Bedford Historic District.  See here for more. 

July on South Coast2. Wild-avore

South Coast fun fact of the month: Westport is home to over 70 (that’s right SEVENTY!) species of wild edible plants. Move over farm-to-table, we’re doing field to mouth! Join the Westport Land Conservation Trust and expert foragers on this two hour walk through Westport Town Farm, learning how to identify 18 species of edible wild plant along the way. The walk will teach you how to become the truest local eater, with information on how to find and prepare edible plants in a safe and environmentally friendly way. The event requires pre-registration, email [email protected] July 10, 2:00. Suggested donation of $10. See more here. 

Quinn Sullivan3. Block-a-Palooza

Free live music and thousands of your closest friends, family, and neighbors? What could be better! It’s block-a-palooza, the biggest block party in Fall River. Musical headliners this year include Kat Wright and local favorite Quinn Sullivan (check out this video of Quinn wowing Ellen Degeneris when he was just 6 years old). This July, take it to the streets and jam out to some rock and roll (for free!). July 12, 6:00. South Main Street, Fall River. In case of rain, the party moves indoors to the Narrows Center for the Arts. See more here.

July on South Coast4. Tunes & Brews with Down the Road Beer Co.

Summer dream: sitting by the water, beer in hand, serenaded by live music, watching the sunset. The South Wharf Yacht Yard and Marina, partnering with Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust (DNRT), is making the dream come true. Join them for their “Tunes & Brews” series event on July 20th, featuring tunes by Ken Richards and brews by Down the Road Beer Co. Best of all, donations from this event will go to DNRT and help them protect more than 5,000 acres of land. July 20, 5 – 8 p.m. South Wharf Yacht Yard and Marina,  218 Elm Street, Dartmouth. See more here. 

New Bedford Festival Theater5. Maria, I Just Met A Girl Named Maria….

Every summer, the New Bedford Festival Theatre brings the excitement of Broadway theater to the South Coast! This July, the theatre presents West Side Story for 7 nights, bringing the drama, love, and tragedy of the classic musical to the Zeiterion. July 20-22, 26-29. Tickets $39-$59. 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. Find out more here.

July on South Coast6. Outdoor Movies!

We don’t have drive-ins anymore but we DO have outdoor movies. Onset and Fairhaven are keeping the family entertained this summer. Every Thursday through August 9, the Onset Bay Association shows a movie feature at the bandshell. Storks (July 5), Power Rangers (July 12), Little Pony (July 19), Rock Dog (July 26), Leap! (August 2) and Black Panther (August 9). Check out the OBA website for more info. 

Fairhaven invites everyone to bring their beach chairs and picnic blankets for the screening of Disney’s Coco projected on the big screen in Livesy Park. Before the movie, enjoy face-painting, food, ice cream, games and activities. The event is free. July 21 (rain date: July 22). 6 – 11 p.m. (movie begins at 8:15).  See more here. 

Harbor Days in Mattapoisett7. Harbor Days 2018

The Mattapoisett Harbor Days are jam packed with fun, starting with the triathlon on July 15th and culminate in the weekend events. Festivities take place in Shipyard Park and feature live music, strawberry shortcake, a fish fry, crafters, vendors and good food, as well as a lobsterfest on Sunday. The proceeds allow the Lion’s clubs to support sponsored charities and the Mattapoisett community. July 21-22. See more here. 

July on the South Coast8. Moonlight Kayak Tour

Experience the magic of sunset (and moonrise) on the water thanks to the Lloyd Center for the Environment. After some brief kayaking instruction, head out on the water for a leisurely paddle and sight seeing adventure in the Westport River. Kayakers of any level are welcome to participate, registration required by July 25th. July 27, 6:30-9pm, $65 members, $80 members. See more here. 

Battleship CoveAND ONE EXTRA TIP FOR JULY:

What’s better than Battleship Cove? Battleship Cove for free!! Experience all of the magic at Battleship Cove with no charge on July 6, including their maritime museum and Fall River Carousel and the experience of a maritime sailor.  With thanks to the Highland Street Foundation. 5 Water Street, Fall River. See more here.

Wanna keep up with the coolest happenings each month on the South Coast?! Sign up for our free newsletter right here!

OR subscribe to our print magazine which has even more activities and events to keep you busy all summer. You can buy a copy of our current issue right here for just $8.95 delivered to your door. An annual subscription is right here.

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June 1, 2018

8 Great Things: June on the South Coast

Is there anything better than June? We think not. Feel free to do nothing at all and just soak in this wonderful month. Or take a look at these 8 things to make June even better!

1. Gone Fishin’

At 6:00 am, a horn will sound on Tihonet Pond, signaling for competitors to begin furiously fishing. Although the early schedule may seem made for serious fishermen, the Tihonet Pond Fishing Derby is open to all levels of fishermen, from the serious pros to those just wanting to join the fun. The Wankinquoah Rod & Gun Club puts on the event with free pancake breakfast (making the early wake-up worth it), bait and lunch available for purchase, and some prizes for adults and juniors. Competitors can fish from shore or bring their boat or kayak (or rent a kayak for the day on site!).

June 3. The registration fee is $12 for adults and $3 for children 14 and under. Registration begins at 4 am, official start at 6 am and official end at 2 pm. For more information and to pre-register, see here.  150 Tihonet Road, Wareham.

2. Open Studios

With three floors of art (paintings, mixed media, ceramics, sculpture, woodworking, and more), the talented artists of Hatch Studios will open their workshops to the public as part of their “Second Saturday” series. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the studios and meet the artists. The event is free of charge and features a raffle for several pieces of art (pictured) donated by the artists! The raffle is open to all; just visit the participating artist’s studio to fill out a ticket and get a chance to take home a wonderful piece of art. June 9, 12-5 pm.  88 Hatch Street, New Bedford. See more here. 

3. Trés Jazzy

Ready to get dancing? On June 9th, the annual New Bedford JazzFest is moving onto the pier! The evening features art, food, and drink with two stages of non-stop live jazz. JazzFest founder Eric Paradis promises “This is jazz that will make you move!” Head down to New Bedford’s historic waterfront under the tent on Pier 3 for this vibrant event to be held rain-or-shine and featuring a diverse line-up of jazz musicians, as well as local food trucks, a full bar, and the “artist’s colony,”a section highlighting the work of local artists. Tickets are $25 at the door and can be reserved here. June 9. 2-7 pm.  Pier 3, Downtown New Bedford. Children 15 and under are free when accompanied by an adult.F

4. Farmer Coffee in the Dell

There’s nothing better than spending spring outside. Adding coffee and donuts to the mix just sweetens the deal. Friends of Buttonwood Park is sponsoring Coffee in the Dell, featuring free coffee and donuts (while supplies last) and guided tours of Buttonwood Park’s arboretum. Buttonwood is the largest and most visited public park in New Bedford, planned by Frederick Law Olmstead in 1895. If you haven’t yet visited, June is the perfect time to go. If you have visited already, now is the perfect time to go back! Enjoy a beautiful spring day outside, meeting other like minded South Coasters, reading the paper, and enjoying some coffee. June 10th, 10 am -12 pm (rain date: June 24). Coffee will take place across the road from the warming house, west of the Greenhouse. Oneida Street, New Bedford.

5. Season Opener

Pull out your mini-vans and SUVs and start piling in because the Westport Vineyards Sunset Music Series is $10 per CAR! The event features great music, and local beer and wine can be purchased by the glass. For the season opener, Rebecca Correia (featured in this summer’s print issue!) will be performing a mix of her own originals and covers. Bring your picnic and non-alcoholic drinks or purchase food from a selection of local chefs! Price per car goes up the week of the event, so organize your friends and buy your pass now right here! June 15, 6 pm.  417 Hixbridge Road, Westport.

6. Put Yourself Out to Pasture

A beautiful walk at dusk? Yes, please. Join Weatherlow Farms Land and Livestock Manager Brent on an evening walk through the gorgeous fields of the farm (we were just there for our launch party last month, so we can promise that the landscape is gorgeous! Check out pictures from our party here). The walk promises much more than pretty views, as participants will learn about Weatherlow’s approach to raising livestock and building healthy soils that contribute to sustainable agricultural practices! The event is free, but it is requested that you reserve a ticket as to manage numbers. June 28, 5:30 -7 pm. 845 Sodom Road, Westport. Register here.

7. Homecoming!

Nearly two hundred vendor booths, live entertainment, an outdoor art exhibition, and free fire engine rides for kids all play a part in Fairhaven’s largest annual event, Homecoming Days! Fairhaven’s picturesque town center, filled with European-style architecture, adds to the charm of the day. The Unitarian Memorial Church (showcasing English Perpendicular Gothic style architecture) will be open for tours all day. There is no entrance fee to the fair, and a free shuttle will operate between the Northeast Maritime Institute and Fairhaven High School. June 30, 10 am to 4 pm. Center Street, from William to Green Streets. See here for more information.

8. Get Out There & Swim!

Swimming 1.2 miles through the New Bedford Harbor? No problem! With the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard and local safety patrol, swimmers will pass through the channel by the Butler Flats Lighthouse and New Bedford Hurricane Barrier before reaching the finish at the Fort Phoenix State Reservation. The beach party finish includes a live steel drum band, cooked to order pancakes, coffee, free massages, and local beer! With a $25 registration fee and $150 fundraising minimum (with a special rate for youth teams), the fundraiser supports the Buzzards Bay Coalition, whose events are often featured in our monthly blog post and whose work is essential in conservation of the Bay.

If the Coalition signs up 60 more swimmers, they’ll earn a $50,000 challenge grant to benefit clean water. If the Buzzards Bay Swim has been on your bucket list, make this the year to do it! June 30, 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. Register here. 

For occasional free email updates from us on things that make the South Coast the best place to be any month of the year, go right here.

 

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May 1, 2018

8 Great Things: May on the South Coast

“All things seem possible in May.” Edwin Way Teale

It’s true. All things do seem possible in May. Know what’s nearly impossible? Narrowing the choices down to just 8 great things to do! But we did it. Once again, we present you with 8 great things to do on the South Coast this wonderful month!

Things to do1. Story Walk

Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust is taking a page out of Anne Ferguson’s StoryWalk Project. What could be better on a warm May day than wandering down a nature trail as you happen upon the pages of a beloved book! You can read Over in The Meadow by Paul Caldone, a nursery poem about animals, along the trail of Ridge Hill Reserve or Sheep Take A Hike by Nancy Shaw, a book about sheep wandering through the woods and finding their way home, in Paskamansett Woods. The laminated book pages will be placed along the trail on May 1st and can be enjoyed throughout the month. Starting May 1. See here for more information.

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March 29, 2018

8 Great Things! April on the South Coast

“April is the cruelest month,” writes T.S. Eliot in the opening lines of his poem, The Waste Land. Thousands and thousands of words have gone into analyzing this opening line. You know why? Because it makes no sense. April is pretty darn great. Here are 8 more things that make it so….

1. A is for April; A is for Art

Dedee Shattuck GalleryThe first exhibit of the 2018 year at the Dedee Shattuck Gallery is here! Solastagia, curated by Charlotte Hamlin and Anna Kristina Goransson, presents work from several textile artists. We’ve checked out the exhibit page (see it here) and are in AWE of the artists’ work, it was hard to pick just one photo to feature! Check out a sneak peak of the work online, and then head out to the artist’s reception on April 7th from 5-7pm to see the exhibit and celebrate the opening with the people who brought the exhibit to life! If you can’t make it to the opening, you can check out the exhibit from April 4th-29th. 1 Partners Lane, Westport, 508.636.4177. Wed – Sat, 10 – 5, Sun 12 – 5.

2. Black Violin?

Black ViolinHip hop meets violin. Have we got your attention yet? Wil Baptiste and Kevin Sylvester, the artists of Black Violin, blend their classical violin background with hip hop, R&B, rock, and bluegrass music. They and their band are returning to the Z this April. Still not convinced? Check out this video to see them jamming with their full band (complete with an electric violin!!). April 6, 8 pm, The Zeiterion Theater, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. Tickets $22 – 35.

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