Rows, rows, boats on the Upper Acknet River in New Bedford
The proposal to install a 200-foot dock on the Upper Acknet River off Bellville Avenue for rowing got a preliminary OK for $150,000.
As the weather intensifies, so does the unique events that take place in Greater New Bedford. The area is filled with festivals, concerts and family fun right away.
This has been a rainy spring so far, but with sunlight on the horizon, it’s time to leave the house for date nights, friends’ time, and family unity.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, test local cuisine, sample craft beer, or experience the thrill of a ride, there’s plenty of excitement in the South Coast.
It’s time to grab the calendar and start filling it with these local events!
Saturday, April 26th: Get ready for the explosion of food from noon to 5pm. Over 30 local food trucks take delicious food to Fort Tavern. Family-friendly events include delicious craft beers, appetizing food, family games and live music. Tickets are $5 pre-sale and $10 at the door at 1000 S Rodney French Blvd. in New Bedford. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.foodtruckfestivalsofamerica.com/new-bedford.
Friday, May 16th: Craft beer, friends, zoo, what more do you need? This 21+ event, from 6pm to 9pm, is packed with unlimited wine and beer sampling, animal encounters and live entertainment. For a VIP experience, it costs $55 per person ($30 for a designated driver) and $90 per person ($40 for a designated driver). Find your new favorite drink at Buttonwood Park Zoo, 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford. Get your tickets at https://www.bpzoo.org/whats-new/red-white-and-brew-at-the-zoo.
Friday, May 23rd to Monday, May 26th: Every anniversary weekend, the cathedral campground is filled with laughter, deep-fried aromas and a sense of community. On Family Day, there are various decadent food booths, tricky game booths, classic car shows and huge barn sales for all ages to ride entertainment. Admission is free and the fun starts at 157 Middleboro Road in East Freetown.
Saturday, June 7th: Get ready to indulge in fresh oysters and support the local farming scene at the 2nd New Bedford Oysterfest. Hosted by Cisco Brewers and The New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center, the event promises oysters in a variety of hands from top producers in the region. Tickets are available for sale at the event for either $35 or $40. See https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-bedford-oysterfest-2025-tickets-1290261600179 here.
Saturday, June 14th: We spent the day celebrating local wineries and food craftsmen, sampling a variety of wines, cheeses and chocolates. This 21+ event has three sessions to choose from, including a logo wine glass. Sessions start at $50 per person, with tickets available to designated drivers of $20. Don’t miss out on trying out these local specialties at Westport Fairgrounds at 200 Pinehill Road in Westport. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-cheese-chocolate-festival-2025-tickets-1079299005379.
Sunday, June 15th: Rain and glow, this event is about the juicy red fruits we all know and love. From 11am to 4pm, it’s fun for the whole family with homemade strawberry shortcakes, amazing food, a selection of crafters and live music. Check it out at Bandstand on South Main Street at Assonet.
Thursday, July 10th to Sunday, July 13th: The Whaling Town Festival is filled with exciting rides, delicious food and endless fun. Experience the whole family on the vibrant path at Buttonwood Park in New Bedford. Buy online wristband megapass for special deals.
Saturday, July 19th: Get ready for an unforgettable day of music, art and community at the 3rd Annual NB Roots & Branches Fest. This year’s festival boasts an expanded lineup and new venue to bring a truly unique experience to New Bedford. From folk to jazz to Cape Walden dance music to performances by the String Quartet of the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra is something everyone can enjoy at this festival.
Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th: Get ready for weekend fun and festivals as Matapoisette’s shipyard park takes over by vendors, entertainment, delicious food, raffles and more. With over 100 vendors, strawberry shortcake, lobsterfest and live music, it’s fun for everyone.
Thursday, July 31st to Sunday, August 3rd: The much-anticipated feast is packed with weekends filled with Portuguese cuisine, local entertainment, carnival rides and games, and a huge parade. There are kids-themed activities, non-stop live music, and family days filled with incredible food and wine. Join culture, history and tradition at 50 Madeira Ave. in New Bedford.
Friday, September 26th to Sunday, September 28th: Westport Fairgrounds will once again collaborate with a fall-themed event filled with live music, fall food, artisan markets and antique tracks. Tickets can be purchased at the event and cost $10 for adults. Children between 5 and 12 are $5. Children under the age of 5 are free. Check out all fall garden displays at 200 Pine Hill Road in Westport.
