Spring is as good a time as any to visit a coastal New England city. Flowers are starting to bloom, days are getting warmer, and attractions and restaurants are less crowded than in the summer months. Learn more about the seasons in New Bedford before you plan your trip by visiting our Seasons in the Seaport page.
Festivals
The third annual New Bedford Film Festival takes the stage at multiple arts and culture venues throughout downtown New Bedford, April 9 through April 12. The festival screens more than one hundred short films by filmmakers from around the world over four days. During the festival, film industry professionals host workshops and panels specific to their creative disciplines. There are networking events, music performances, local actors performing from festival film scripts, and award ceremonies throughout the festival. This event is perfect for filmmakers and film lovers alike. Get your tickets today!
New Bedford JazzFest brings back its Acoustic Jazz Series with a concert on April 19 from 4 to 6 PM. The Steeple Playhouse welcomes Yoron Israel and High Standards with a concert in the relaxed setting that invites questions and conversations with the artists. The next session of the series takes place on June 7, so stay tuned!
The New Bedford Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival returns to Fort Taber on May 2 from noon to 5 PM at Fort Taber Park. Enjoy delicious food from a variety of regional food trucks and craft beverages while lounging with your family and friends at the park. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, games, and dancing shoes for the live music. There is also an artisan vendor market.
A Big Art Happening this Spring
New Bedford’s cultural calendar is always jam-packed with art events, exhibitions, and workshops. However, spring has a special week dedicated to art throughout Southeastern Massachusetts. ArtWeek SouthCoast celebrates the work of local artists of all types and encourages collaboration and shared experiences rooted in place. Check out the event calendar on their website and plan your journey through the region from May 8 through May 17.
One of New Bedford’s annual highlights during ArtWeek SouthCoast is the Hatch Street Open Studios. The public is welcome in the studio spaces of local artists inside the historic mill building on May 9 from 10 AM to 6 PM. There are artist demos, unique shopping experiences featuring one-of-a-kind artwork, live music, and other special experiences.
And More Spring Fun
Find event highlights specific to each season by visiting our Seasons in the Seaport page and scrolling down to the event section below. This is a great place to check back as events are frequently added to the calendar.
