Join us at the Whaling Museum for an evening of history, music, and community.

Schedule of Events

4:00–5:00 PM

Free admission begins & activities! 

Enjoy free admission and full Museum access from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, plus a family-friendly whale scavenger hunt.

Be sure to explore these two featured exhibitions:

Forging Independence | Building a Nation (Braitmayer Family Galleries) marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, connecting historic events to present-day questions of independence and nationhood.

“Look pleasant, please”: Early Portrait Photography in New Bedford (Wattles Family Gallery) showcases 19th-century portrait photography—from daguerreotypes to early prints—revealing how studio portraits shaped identity during a period of major change in New Bedford. Featuring a recreated studio and works by early photographers including the Bierstadt brothers, Hannah H. Worthing, Manuel Goulart, and James E. Reed, the exhibition invites reflection on portraiture and what it means to “look pleasant” across time.

5:00–8:00 PM

Enjoy limited free Museum access and special programming throughout the evening.

Old Time Fiddle Session (6:00–8:00 PM)

Experience traditional music with the Old Time Fiddle Session, a lively gathering of fiddlers, banjo players, and string band musicians.

For over a decade, this intergenerational, welcoming community music circle has brought traditional music to South Coast audiences. All skill levels are invited—come play, listen, or simply enjoy.

Presented by EPIC Southcoast, a 501(c)(3) offering free community programming in music, dance, visual arts, and public space projects.

Come as you are. Stay for the music, history, and community

What Is AHA! New Bedford?

AHA! (Art, History, Architecture) is a free, citywide program that brings New Bedford’s creative community together to share art, culture, and ideas—making creative experiences accessible to everyone. Learn more and explore the full schedule at ahanewbedford.org.