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.

Explore the exhibit Lighting the Way: SouthCoast Women’s Lives, Labors, and Loves. Event admission includes Lagoda Below Deck, craft activities, and other stations around the museum focused on the role of women in whaling, textile industries, and the local community.

Learn about art, history, science, and culture with activities designed for homeschool families! General admission includes access to museum exhibits and activities like the Inflatable Whale, Lagoda Below Deck, and other guided stations around the museum.

The Moonbellies deliver an entertaining mix of original music, Americana, Old-Time, Québécois, Irish, and Cajun tunes, blending charm, charisma, and exceptional talent.

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.

Join us for an evening of cultural exploration as we delve into the rich history of the Azores and its enduring connection to New Bedford. This event features a book release, film screening, and panel discussion, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on Azorean whaling traditions and heritage.

During April vacation week, join us for an unforgettable hands-on experience as we transform the Harbor View Gallery into a dynamic maker space, along with other fun activities!

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.

A special evening of full Museum access! This is your chance to experience the Whaling Museum like never before! Celebrate ArtWeek and our Preservation Celebration with free access to the entire museum and exciting hands-on activities.

Enjoy an extraordinary evening of art, history, and live music featuring Joaquim Santos & Friends, blending funk, soul, R&B, and pop. With galleries open after hours, a cash bar, complimentary lite bites, and high-energy beats, this 21+ event promises an unforgettable night out.

Dual exhibition celebrating Cape Verdean culture and identity with the opening of two powerful exhibitions: Claridade: Cape Verdean Identity in Contemporary Art and Morabeza: Cape Verdean Community in the South Coast.

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 Toe Jam Puppet Band as they celebrate a monumental milestone — 25 years of bringing joy, laughter, and unforgettable music to audiences of all ages! To mark this special occasion, they’re inviting fans old and new to an evening of music, fun, and bubbles at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

Join multi-media artist Perri Lynch Howard for an immersive art and wellness experience on a sound walk and journaling workshop at the Flora B. Peirce Nature Trail, a serene retreat nestled in the woods and wetlands of New Bedford

A special First Friday event at the Whaling Museum, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Cape Verdean independence. This evening of culture and music features a live performance by the acclaimed KabuJazz Ensemble, led by the dynamic Candida Rose Baptista with musical direction by J. L. Santos Spencer.

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.

Join us for an evening of cinematic exploration at The Climate Future Film Festival, an inspiring event founded by Jim Stahl that delves into the artistic and human responses to the climate crisis and the paths that may lie ahead. The festival promises a thought-provoking program that highlights the power of storytelling in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.

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.