NEW BEDFORD — Summer is just around the corner and with it comes a plethora of exciting festivals and major events in the vibrant city of New Bedford. From savory seafood to lively cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The events include Oysterfest on June 15 to NB Roots & Branches on July 20, as well as the always fun Whaling City Festival July 11-14 and the 108th annual Celebration of the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament August 1-4.
With so many exciting festivals and events coming up in New Bedford this summer, it's clear that there will be no shortage of fun and entertainment.
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So grab your friends and family and mark these dates on your calendars for a summer filled with unforgettable experiences:
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RPRC Fest
Date: June 15
Experience a day full of music, food, and fun at Railroad Park Recording Co.'s RPRC Fest happening at 50 Madeira Avenue, New Bedford on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m. Featuring over 20 multi-genre artists, including local favorites A Wilhelm Scream and Sage Francis..
Take a break from the main stage and check out the acoustic performances and beer garden, or explore the various vendors and interactive activities. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with the community and make memories with friends and family.
Oysterfest at Cisco Brewers
Date: June 15
Get ready to indulge in fresh oysters and support the local aquaculture scene at the first ever New Bedford Oysterfest. Hosted by Cisco Brewers and the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center, this event promises a variety of hand-shucked oysters from top growers in the region, along with craft beers and co*cktails, live music, and stunning views right on the waterfront.
Each ticket also includes a souvenir oyster shucking knife and supports the FHC. Join the fun at Cisco Brewers New Bedford rain or shine.
Summer Solstice Music Festival
Date: June 21-June 23
At 179 Legacy Lane, Westport, join the movement for Earth justice at the Summer Solstice Music Festival featuring live bands, open mic sessions, drumming, art, food, and resources on sustainability. This event not only raises awareness but also funds to support the Heron Center's efforts in nature conservation, artist residencies, and wellness education. Don't miss out on this unique and meaningful experience.
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Buzzards Bay Musicfest
Date: July 10-July 14, 2024
Held at 232 Front St., Marion, Buzzards Bay Musicfest features a variety of musical genres at the free concert series held at the Fireman Performing Arts Center, located at Tabor Academy. Performances feature renowned musicians and a dazzling array of sounds, from full orchestral pieces to jazz, swing, piano duets, and harp, according to the organizers. Don't miss out on this extraordinary event.
NB Roots & Branches
Date: July 20
Get ready for an unforgettable day of music, art, and community at the 2nd annual NB Roots & Branches Fest. This year's festival boasts an expanded lineup and new venues to bring a truly unique experience to New Bedford. From folk to jazz to Cape Verdean dance music and a performance by the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra's string quartet, there's something for everyone at this festival.
Guests should also not miss the culminating event "Moving Canvas Moving Forward" where local visual artists' moving panoramas will come to life with live musical accompaniment. Best of all, the festival is completely free thanks to the support of public funding programs and community sponsors.
Whaling City Festival
Date: July 11-14
Exciting rides, mouthwatering food, and endless fun await at the Whaling City Festival. From July 11 to July 14, bring the whole family to experience 15 thrilling rides and a lively midway at New Bedford's Buttonwood Park. Purchase your online wristband megapass for special deals.
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Joe Jesus' 50s Night
Date: July 18
A free, family-friendly event featuring vintage and rare antique cars, live entertainment, food trucks, refreshments, and vendors, paying homage to the 50's and giving back to the community in downtown New Bedford in the Union Street, Acushnet Avenue area from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Mattapoisett Harbor Days
Date: July 20-21, 2024
Get ready for a weekend of fun and festivities at Harbor Days 2024. On July 20 and July 21, 2024, Mattapoisett's Shipyard Park will be filled with vendors, entertainment, delicious food, raffles and more. The Mattapoisett Lions Club is excited to bring this event to the community again this year.
108th Annual Celebration of the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament
Dates: August 1-4
The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament is back with top-quality entertainment for all ages! Join in on the fun as the Festeiros (Feast Committee Members) kick off the festivities with a special procession and benediction at Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church. With continuous live performances at five locations, including cabaret music and Fado singers at the Courtyard Café, there's something for everyone.
Don't miss out on traditional Madeiran Portuguese cuisine, including delicious malassadas and barbecue beef. Plus, enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities such as face painting and more at the Family Day program.
Whale City Comedy Festival
Date: Aug 28-Sept. 1, 2024
Come laugh the night away at the annual Whale City Comedy Festival! Featuring over 30 hilarious comedians, this 5-night event takes place on Labor Day weekend and spans across unique venues in New Bedford, Fall River, Westport and beyond. Featured performers have appeared on networks such as Netflix, Hulu and Comedy Central.
New Bedford Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
Date: Oct. 5
Located at located at 1000 S Rodney French Blvd., New Bedford, join foodies for a mouth-watering experience at Fort Taber's food truck festival from noon to 5 p.m. Over 30 local food trucks will be serving up their delicious cuisine while guests enjoy craft beer, family-friendly games, and live music. Pre-sale tickets are $5 and $10 at the door.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached atschitwood@s-t.com. Follow him on twitter:@ChitwoodReports.Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
