Past Programs - New Bedford Whaling Museum

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Moby-Dick Marathon 2025

January 3, 2025 - January 5, 2025

One of the world’s best known live readings of Herman Melville’s iconic American novel Moby-Dick takes place every January at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The Moby-Dick Marathon draws readers and enthusiasts from around the globe to the Museum’s campus and to viewing online.

Celebrate love, friendship, and everything in between with a fun and free Valentine’s program at the New Bedford Whaling Museum! Whether you’re sharing the day with a partner, your besties, or flying solo, we’ve got something for everyone to enjoy.

Step back in time—and into the present—at this month’s AHA! Night as the Museum brings The New Whaler Bookshop to life in the Jacobs Family Gallery. Originally designed to travel, the bookshop will make a short journey from its current location in the Wattles Gallery, where it is featured as part of the Lighting the Way: SouthCoast Women’s Lives, Labors, Loves exhibition.

Join us for a special screening of Malassada Day followed by a panel discussion with Director Dante Bellini and special guests Maria Lawton and Michael Benevides. Part of the Portuguese Lusophone Lecture Series.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Arctic with Captain Graham McKay, master boatbuilder and director of Lowell’s Boat Shop. This captivating evening will transport you aboard the historic schooner Bowdoin, exploring its storied past and its most recent voyage to the ice-choked waters of Greenland and the Arctic Circle.

Slow Art Day

April 5, 2025

Take a Pause. Look Closer. Discover More. Did you know the average museum visitor spends only 21 seconds in front of a work of art? On Slow Art Day, we’re inviting you to break free from the rush and truly connect with art in a deeper, more meaningful way.

UMass Dartmouth Ecology students present their capstone projects on the biggest emerging issues expected to impact marine and coastal biodiversity conservation in the near future. Additionally, artist Katy Rodden Walker will showcase exhibition titled “Community BLOOMS” with a special program.

Experience an unforgettable evening of music, culture, and connection at the New Bedford Whaling Museum’s First Fridays series. This special program features acclaimed Malian percussionist Sidy Maïga and his ensemble, Afrimanding, as they take you on a journey through the rich traditions of West African drumming and the vibrant global rhythms it inspires.

Celebrate Independence Day with a night of live music, community, and fireworks at the New Bedford Whaling Museum! This special First Friday features a high-energy performance by New Bedford’s own The Jethros, followed by a spectacular view of the city’s fireworks display from the Museum’s Harbor View Terrace.

Join the over 100,000 film lovers in over 500 cities across six continents to view and vote on the Finalists’ Films in the 28th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival.