July film highlights San Francisco’s Coast Guard Search and Rescue crews
The Dock-U-Mentaries Film Series continues on Friday, July 15th at 7:00 PM with Guardians of the Gate: The Surfboats. Dock-U-Mentaries is a co-production of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park and the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center. Films about the working waterfront are screened on the third Friday of each month beginning at 7:00 PM in the theater of the Corson Maritime Learning Center, located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. All programs are open to the public and presented free of charge.
Guardians of the Gates takes a hard look at the elite Coast Guard SAR (Search and Rescue) crews that conduct over 600 rescues a year. Filmed at the nation’s second busiest Coast Guard station–located right next to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco-Guardians takes an inside look at what makes these individuals put their lives on the line every day. Produced and directed by David Wittkower, winner of over 27 film festival awards, Guardians is his most intense film yet. To view a trailer visit: www.youtube.com
Beginner Yoga Program at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
Photo: Yoga on Union instructors Larissa Brum and Christian Kline
Summertime is the perfect time to get outside and exercise. People who want to start to get moving can do it this summer! New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park announces Beginner Yoga in the Garden. The free program is designed specifically for those who have never tried yoga to do so with professional instructors. The sessions run on Saturday mornings from 9-10 AM in the garden at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, 33 William Street, downtown New Bedford.
This series designed for those interested in beginning a yoga practice. There are many benefits to practicing yoga. They include: increased flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone, improved respiration, energy and vitality, weight reduction, cardio and circulatory health, and protection from injury. Yoga on Union instructors, Larissa Brum and Christian Kline, have a great deal of experience teaching and will create a safe, genuine, and optimal learning environment for all participants. Sessions will take place, free of charge, on the following dates, weather permitting:
July 16
July 23
July 30
Aug 6
Aug 13
Aug 20
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to help preserve and interpret America’s nineteenth century whaling industry. The park, which encompasses a 13-block National Historic Landmark District, is the only National Park Service area addressing the history of the whaling industry and its influence on the economic, social, and environmental history of the United States. The National Park visitor center is located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. It is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM, and offers information, exhibits, and a free orientation movie every hour on the hour from 10 AM-4 PM. The visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, and is free of charge. For more information, call the visitor center at 508-996-4095, go to www.nps.gov/nebe or visit the park’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewBedfordNPS. Everyone finds their park in a different way. Discover yours at FindYourPark.com
1850s ladies offer logbook craft on AHA! Night
Whaling log books contain more than just words. The capture of a whale was often marked in the book by an ink stamp of a whale. On Thursday, July 14, from 6-8 PM, join Ruth and Abby, the National Park’s 1850s ladies, to make your own whale stamp reminiscent of the art in log books. This will be a craft appropriate for children and adults. This free event will take place at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, 33 William St., downtown New Bedford. AHA! (Art, History, & Architecture) is New Bedford’s free downtown cultural night and collaborative cultural organization with over 60 downtown venue partners. This month’s theme is Kids Rule! For more information about AHA! go to www.ahanewbedford.org.
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to help preserve and interpret America’s nineteenth century whaling industry. The park, which encompasses a 13-block National Historic Landmark District, is the only National Park Service area addressing the history of the whaling industry and its influence on the economic, social, and environmental history of the United States. The National Park visitor center is located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. It is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM, and offers information, exhibits, and a free orientation movie every hour on the hour from 10 AM-4 PM. The visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, and is free of charge. For more information, call the visitor center at 508-996-4095, go to www.nps.gov/nebe or visit the park’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewBedfordNPS. Everyone finds their park in a different way. Discover yours at FindYourPark.com
Songs of the Sea featured in National Park Garden Concert series
The sea is so vast, so powerful, and unites us all. The sea has also inspired people to write songs about it. This Thursday, July 14, New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park kicks off its 2016 Thursdays in the Park Concert Series from 6:30-7:30 PM with singer Jackson Gillman, singing songs about the sea. The concert series takes place Thursday evenings each week during the summer starting July 14 through August 25 from 6:30-7:30 in New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park’s garden, 33 William Street, downtown New Bedford. In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved indoors.
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to help preserve and interpret America’s nineteenth century whaling industry. The park, which encompasses a 13-block National Historic Landmark District, is the only National Park Service area addressing the history of the whaling industry and its influence on the economic, social, and environmental history of the United States. The National Park visitor center is located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. It is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM, and offers information, exhibits, and a free orientation movie every hour on the hour from 10 AM-4 PM. The visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, and is free of charge. For more information, call the visitor center at 508-996-4095, go to www.nps.gov/nebe or visit the park’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewBedfordNPS. Everyone finds their park in a different way. Discover yours at FindYourPark.com
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park announces Thursday Night Concerts in the Park Series
Photo: Women in World Jazz
What better way to spend a summer evening than to take in a free concert in a garden setting? New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park has announced its 2016 Thursdays in the Park Concert Series. The concerts take place Thursday evenings each week during the summer starting July 14 through August 25 from 6:30-7:30 in New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park’s garden, 33 William Street, downtown New Bedford. In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved indoors.
The schedule for the concerts is as follows:
July 14: Jackson Gillman: Sea Songs
July 28: Squeezebox Stompers: Cajun and Zydeco music
August 4: World Music with Candida Rose and Women in World Jazz
August 11: New Bedford Sea Chantey Chorus
August 18: Toe Jam Puppet Band: kids’ concert
August 25: Wampanoag Singers and Dancers (Native American music)
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to help preserve and interpret America’s nineteenth century whaling industry. The park, which encompasses a 13-block National Historic Landmark District, is the only National Park Service area addressing the history of the whaling industry and its influence on the economic, social, and environmental history of the United States. The National Park visitor center is located at 33 William Street in downtown New Bedford. It is open seven days a week, from 9 AM-5 PM, and offers information, exhibits, and a free orientation movie every hour on the hour from 10 AM-4 PM. The visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, and is free of charge. For more information, call the visitor center at 508-996-4095, go to www.nps.gov/nebe or visit the park’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewBedfordNPS. Everyone finds their park in a different way. Discover yours at FindYourPark.com
14 Things to do this Weekend (July 08-July 11)
After some seriously balmy temperatures this week, how will the weekend fare? More of the same! Around 80 degrees the entire weekend, Saturday and Sunday rain is forecasted. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with “a” thunderstorm. Sunday will be partly sunny with “a” thunderstorm. A 30 minute thunderstorm or an 8 hour one? Odd way to describe the forecast! Regardless, this won’t affect those of us determined to have fun!
As always, click on the title for more or detailed information on the event. Most of the events were pulled from our event calendar where you can find hundreds of local area events each month. The event calendar is FREE, so if you are a local business, and not taking advantage of FREE publicity, shame on you! Are you a local business and want to sponsor this high traffic, weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details. Have an event to add? Add it here. Know of another event this weekend? Post a reply!
Clambake XXXI – “Summer Freeze” Celebrating Science & Education! (6:00pm)
Festivities will begin at 6:00 p.m. on the evening of Friday, July 8, by the side of the sea at Demarest Lloyd State Park in Dartmouth with the Silent Auction opening. Hors d’oeuvres and chowder will be served at 6:30 p.m., followed by a traditional lobster dinner. Those who have attended this event in the past, know it to be the unofficial “kick-off” of the South Coast’s summer season, with its glorious sea-side setting, complete New England boiled-lobster “clambake” dinner, top-shelf open bar, extraordinary silent auction and dancing to the strains of ‘Men in Black’, a fun, high energy, six piece band with powerhouse male and female vocals. A tradition upon which so much depends, the Clambake helps to underwrite the costs of the Lloyd Center’s critically important environmental research and education programs.
Clambake, chowder, lobster dinner, bar, silent auction, dancing, live music and more on Friday evening!
N.B. Summer Sound Series: Dune Billy All Stars (6:00pm-8:00pm)
The 2016 Summer Sound Series presents FREE Concerts on the Pier Fridays 6:00pm – 8:00pm! From the dunes of Cape Cod comes a rockin, reggae, funky, dance party: Dune Billy All Stars playing a mix of covers and orignals. Bring your own chair, sit back, and relax or get up and dance! New Bedford State Pier 3 Fisherman’s Wharf.
Marion Concert Series: “The Call of the Sea” (7:00pm)
The Marion Concert Band continues its Friday evening concert series with a program of music inspired by the sea. Robert Broomhead Bandstand, Front Street, Marion.
Saturday, July 09th
Rummage Sale and Fair (8:30am-2:00pm)
Annual Rummage Sale and Fair will include baked goods as well as clothing, jewelry, vintage items, antiques, furniture, household items, toys, etc. Family fun events will include food, face painting and games. It will be held rain or shine. Westport Point United Methodist Church, 1912 Main Road, Westport.
6th Annual Blackbeard’s Motorcycle Ride (9:00am-11:00am)
On November 23, 2009, our HERO was lost to the world: son of retired Al Pucino, 59 RTT, SSG Matthew A. Pucino, United States Army Special Forces, ODA 2223, laid down his life to free the oppressed. The SSG Matthew A. Pucino Memorial Foundation, Ltd. was created to assist our wounded military heroes! Registration will begin at 9 a.m. at Buzzards Bay Park on Main Street in Buzzards Bay, MA. Ride will begin promptly at 11 a.m. $20 per bike, $10 per passenger. The ride will end at 12:00 p.m. at the Plymouth VFW with a BBQ, Entertainment and Raffles! Don’t have a bike? Come to the VFW at 12:00 p.m. for the BBQ! $20 for those just attending the BBQ! Rain Date: 7/10/16.
Hop on the bike and have fun for a great cause at the 6th Annual Blackbeard’s Motorcycle Ride.
New Bedford Summer Craft Fair (9:00am-2:00pm)
Art, jewelry, sewn, decorative, crochet and knit items. Baked goods, and lunch available. Contact person is BilliJo Anastasi. Tripp Towers, 12 Ruth Street, New Bedford.
Backpack Adventures for Kids (10:00am-12:00pm)
What do a busy mother, a popular doctor, an active teenager, a successful businessman, and a curious local historian have in common? They all lived in Westport’s historic Handy House over its 300 year history! Come learn about them in this fun and free family activity based on puzzles, with a backpack filled with tools and a bit of mystery that your kids will love! It’s a unique family reunion with a very special guest! Handy House, 202 Hix Bridge Road, Westport.
CRAFT-O-RAMA Outdoor Markets (11:00am-4:00pm)
This summer, CRAFT-O-RAMA will host an outdoor market in Custom House Square every Saturday in June, July, and August except for July 9 when the NB Folk Festival takes place. 42 crafters have already signed up. Each week will showcase up to 12 booths and will change throughout the summer. Custom House Square, William Street, New Bedford.
Westport Friends 55th Annual Book Fair (11:00am-8:00pm)
The Westport Friends’ Annual Book Fair features more than 30,000 used books for sale at bargain prices. Opening day (rain or shine) under the Main Tent continues “dawn to dusk” through July 17. Westport Friends Meeting House, 938 Main Road, Westport.
Zeiterion presents the New Bedford Folk Festival (11:00am-9:00pm)
An impressive lineup of the best in contemporary, Americana, traditional, blues and Celtic folk music on seven stages! Performers are presented in concerts and in the popular festival “workshops” which feature 3 or 4 performers or groups on stage at the same time in one-time, unique musical shows. The festival also features a high quality crafts show with juried, handmade crafts for sale at affordable prices. Food will also be available including the justifiably world famous New Bedford landed fish and scallops.
<emTwo days of great music at the New Bedford Folk Festival!
Gallery X: Frank Grace (7:00pm-10:00p)
Mr. Grace and his son, Frank, were both born and raised in Fall River, Massachusetts. Back when Frank was a kid, his Dad purchased a Canon film SLR camera and starting learning the ins and outs of photography all on his own. The camera itself intrigued his son Frank, but his son never got to use the camera and didn’t get into photography until much later just before the digital photography revolution. Since then both have become serious photography hobbyists. Read more by clicking thread title.
Second Saturday Soul Sessions: An Evening of Soul, Funk & Blues (9:00pm)
Join Gilda’s Stone Rooster for an evening of the very best Soul, Funk and Blues around, by LM3/Song Keepers, Ltd Recording Artists, THE GROOVALOTTOS. Also check out the bands hit single and video on YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/tg-dym. Gilda’s Stone Rooster, 27 U.S. 6, Marion.
Sunday, July 10th
Zeiterion presents the New Bedford Folk Festival (11:00am-9:00pm)
An impressive lineup of the best in contemporary, Americana, traditional, blues and Celtic folk music on seven stages! Performers are presented in concerts and in the popular festival “workshops” which feature 3 or 4 performers or groups on stage at the same time in one-time, unique musical shows. The festival also features a high quality crafts show with juried, handmade crafts for sale at affordable prices. Food will also be available including the justifiably world famous New Bedford landed fish and scallops.
Chess in the Park (1:00pm-3:00p)
Chess players and learners of all skill levels are welcome. Mancala and other games will also be available to play. This event is free and open to the public and is best suited for ages 11 and up; an adult must accompany all children. This event will take place in the grove at DCR’s Fall River Heritage State Park. In the event of extremely hot or inclement weather, the event will take place in the Visitor Center. Reasonable accommodations are available upon advance request. For more information, call (508) 675-5759. Fall River Heritage State Park is located at Davol Street in Fall River.
Want to sponsor this weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details.
Free Evening Concerts on New Bedford Waterfront and Lunchtime Jazz in Custom House Square
Mayor Jon Mitchell has announced that the City of New Bedford will again present a series of free evening concerts on City Pier 3 on the waterfront, as well as during lunchtime in Custom House Square during the months of July and August. This is the fourth consecutive summer that New Bedford’s Summer Sound Series has drawn residents and visitors to enjoy free live music.
The 2016 Summer Sound Series will consist of six concerts on City Pier 3 and six lunchtime jazz performances at Custom House Square. The first waterfront concert of the series will be tonight, Friday, July 8th from 6PM to 8PM and lunchtime jazz is from 12 Noon – 1:30 PM. Remaining waterfront concert dates and lunchtime jazz include: July 15th, July 22nd, July 29th, August 5th, August 12th. (Rain dates for cancelled evening concerts are August 21st and August 28th.)
“Our summer concerts have grown increasingly more popular since we first launched them in 2013. They have attracted hundreds of area residents to the water’s edge on Friday evenings and have added to Downtown New Bedford’s vibrant cultural scene. On summer concert nights people rave about the opportunity they now have to connect with our waterfront,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell.
Free parking and shuttle service to the concert venue is available at Whale’s Tooth Parking Lot. Additional parking is also available at Elm Street Garage within walking distance of City Pier 3.
Supporting sponsors include Freitas Package Store, Miller Lite, Colonial Wholesale Beverage, Dorothy Cox on the Waterfront, New Bedford Historical Society, Cape Air and Whaling City Golf Course.
The public is invited to bring their chairs and enjoy front row seating to performances by the following bands:
Concerts on Pier 3:
Friday, July 8 Dune Billy All Stars (Reggae/Funk)
Dune Billy All Stars playing a mix of covers and originals, reggae, funk, dance party.
Friday, July 15 Dave Macklin Band (Top 40/Motown)
The Dave Macklin Band is a very high-energy, super fun and funky show band, mixing favorite dance classics from the 50’s to today’s hottest hits.
Friday, July 22 Ultimate Soul (Disco Party Band)
Ultimate Soul Band playing your favorite Soul, R&B, Old School Funk, and Top 40 Hits you will not hear from most other bands.
Friday, July 29 Green Season (Classic Rock and Blues)
Get your fix of classic rock and blues with Green Season playing Tom Petty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Muddy Waters and more!
Friday August 5 DJ Lady K (Record Hop & Dance Party)
Put on your dancing shoes because DJ Lady K will be spinning the hits through the decades,
from the 60’s (think saddle shoes and poodle skirts) through today!
Friday August 12 Hipshot Band (Top 40, 80’s, Country, Rock & Jazz)
Bringing you the best dance music of “THEN & NOW”.
Lunchtime Jazz:
Friday July 8th – Michael Gabriel
Friday July 15th – Marcus Monteiro
Friday July 22nd – Michael Gabriel
Friday July 29th – Marcus Monteiro
Friday August 5th – Marcus Monteiro
Friday August 12th – Michael Gabriel
(NO RAIN DATES – WEATHER PERMITTING)
13 Things to do this Weekend (July 01-July 03)
After a wet, thunderstorm filled start to the weekend, we’ll switch over to “sunny and breezy.” No rain is forecasted and it will be a warm 80 degrees on Saturday and Sunday. Perfectly pleasant low of 60 all weekend means evenings will be perfect for being outdoors, perhaps in the yard entertaining or taking advantage of the many events that pop up across the South Coast this time of year.
As always, click on the title for more or detailed information on the event. Most of the events were pulled from our event calendar where you can find hundreds of local area events each month. The event calendar is FREE, so if you are a local business, and not taking advantage of FREE publicity, shame on you! Are you a local business and want to sponsor this high traffic, weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details. Have an event to add? Add it here. Know of another event this weekend? Post a reply!
‘Dog Sees God’ (8:00pm)
Come out on July 1st and 2nd and see The Collective’s first full-length play! “Dog Sees God” by Burt V. Royal. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. But a chance meeting with an artistic kid, the target of this group’s bullying, offers CB a peace of mind and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Be aware that this play includes adult themes. Admission is only a donation. All proceeds go to The South Coast LGBT Network. Saint Andrews Russell House, 169 Belleville Rd, New Bedford.
Saturday, July 2nd
$1-A-Bag Book Sale (9:00am-1:00pm)
Open every Saturday from 9am to 1pm. We have a large selection of books–most are 50 cents. We currently have a special section for our DOLLAR- A-BAG-BOOK SALE. Coffee, tea, soda and home-made coffee breads are available. We welcome anyone to join us in working on our puzzle. Computers and WiFi is available to the public. Oxford Book Haven & Cafe at Church of the Good Shepherd, 357 Main St. Fairhaven.
Yard Sale at the Russells Mills Schoolhouse (9:00am-2:00pm)
Members and friends of the Dartmouth Historical & Arts Society will host a yard sale. 10’x10′ table spaces available for a donation ($10 min.) on a first come first served basis. You can bring your own tables. Call Kathy at 508-993-7736 for reservations and/or more information. Russells Mills Schoolhouse, 1205 Russells Mills Road, Dartmouth.
A fun day is planned on Saturday with the Cape Verdean Independence/Recognition Parade.
FREE: Learn to Quahog (11:00am-1:00pm)
Learn to harvest your own quahogs. Coalition educators and representatives from the Town of Dartmouth will teach you the basics of local quahogging – what you need, how to do it, and where to go. This will be a fun and educational event for the whole family. We will provide rakes, peck baskets, and some waders for you to use. If you have your own rake, waders, or other quahogging equipment, please feel free to bring it. We suggest you wear clothing and shoes that can get wet and sandy, as we will be wading into the water up to our waists. Additionally, unless you have a shellfish permit for the Town of Dartmouth, this is a catch-and-release event. Beach by Smith Neck Rd, Dartmouth.
Cape Verdean Independence/Recognition Parade (11:00am-2:00pm)
Join your favorite clowns as we celebrate Cape Verdean Culture in historic New Bedford, MA and share the gift of laughter with children of all ages! Be sure to visit the official page for this event Cape Verdean Recognition Committee, Inc! This is an event page to promote Clowning for Kidz Foundation’s appearance at an event and raise awareness for the event in general. All inquiries regarding the event should be made to the sponsoring organization using the Facebook Page.
CRAFT-O-RAMA Outdoor Markets (11:00am-4:00pm)
This summer, CRAFT-O-RAMA will host an outdoor market in Custom House Square every Saturday in June, July, and August except for July 9 when the NB Folk Festival takes place. 42 crafters have already signed up. Each week will showcase up to 12 booths and will change throughout the summer. Custom House Square, William Street, New Bedford.
Music and Wine- Emily Mills Duo (1:00pm-5:00pm)
Pack some snacks and come enjoy our wine while you listen to FREE, live local music! Emily Mills vocals and Nick Moreira on acoustic guitar and Knotty Pine Catering will be on hand grilling up some great food for sale 12:30-4:30. Running Brook Vineyards, 335 Old Fall River Rd., North Dartmouth.
FREE, live local music: Emily Mills vocals & Nick Moreira on acoustic guitar and Knotty Pine Catering!
Opening Reception at Gallery X: Frank Grace (7:00pm-10:00p)
Mr. Grace and his son, Frank, were both born and raised in Fall River, Massachusetts. Back when Frank was a kid, his Dad purchased a Canon film SLR camera and starting learning the ins and outs of photography all on his own. The camera itself intrigued his son Frank, but his son never got to use the camera and didn’t get into photography until much later just before the digital photography revolution. Since then both have become serious photography hobbyists. Read more by clicking thread title.
Pilgrim Festival Singers Present Broadway East (7:30p)
Broadway East explores some of the longest running musicals in Broadway history, including the most memorable and famous songs from each show. Each is set in a specific historic period and has a setting “east” of America. Les Miserables takes place between 1815 and 1833, Phantom of the Opera in 1881, Fiddler on the Roof in 1905, and My Fair Lady around 1910. Settings vary from 19th century Paris in two eras to tsarist Russia and Edwardian England in the early 20th century. My Fair Lady, produced in 1956, is based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion. Long a favorite with audiences, it includes numbers such as “I Could Have Danced All Night”, “On the Street Where You Live”, and “I’m Getting Married in the Morning”. Fiddler on the Roof, from 1964, tells the story of a poor Jewish milkman and his five daughters. Les Miserables, a world-renowned musical based on the classic 19th century novel by Victor Hugo, opened in Paris in 1980. Phantom of the Opera, from 1986, is considered by many to be Andrew Lloyd Webber’s greatest success. Central Congregational Church, 2 Webster Street, Middleborough.
‘Dog Sees God’ (8:00pm)
Come out on July 1st and 2nd and see The Collective’s first full-length play! “Dog Sees God” by Burt V. Royal. When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. But a chance meeting with an artistic kid, the target of this group’s bullying, offers CB a peace of mind and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Be aware that this play includes adult themes. Admission is only a donation. All proceeds go to The South Coast LGBT Network. Saint Andrews Russell House, 169 Belleville Rd, New Bedford.
Sunday, July 3rd
Sunday Stroll at Destruction Brook (10:00am-11:00am)
Join the Coalition on a morning stroll through a local conservation area. Not only is walking outdoors great exercise for your body and mind, but you’ll also learn about unique history and ecology of each location along the way. This week’s walk will take place at Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust’s Destruction Brook Woods property. Destruction Brook Woods, 201 Slades Corner Road, Dartmouth.
FREE 34th Annual Jazz Concert at NB Unitarian on Sunday.
FREE 34th Annual Jazz Concert at NB Unitarian (11:00am-12:30pm)
An annual favorite returns! The 34th year of this highly respected annual performance by the NB Jazz Ensemble will feature some of the regions finest players, including:
John Harrison III, piano, Dan Schwartz, percussion, Tiny Tavares, vocal, Stan Strickland, vocal/sax/flute, Dori Rubbicco, vocal, Michael Lavoie, acoustic bass, Yoron Israel, drums. This event is FREE and open to all ages, donations are happily accepted to offset the cost of the concert and support church programs. This years program will be performed with the spirit and love of our brother Armsted Christian in every note, every verse, and every song. First Unitarian Church In New Bedford, 71 8th St.
Music and Wine- Pumpkin Head Ted (1:00pm-5:00p)
Pack some snacks and come enjoy our wine while you listen to free, live local music! Pumpkin Head Ted is a mostly acoustic 5-piece ensemble that defies category.They bring together an eclectic mix of textures and rhythms that draws on blues, jazz, country, rock, Afro-Latin, among others, without being bound by these traditions. Knotty Pine Catering will be on hand grilling up some great food for sale 12:30-4:30. Running Brook Vineyards, 335 Old Fall River Rd., North Dartmouth.
Want to sponsor this weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details.
102nd Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Survival Guide (2016)
The New Bedford Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, a.k.a. the Portuguese Feast, a.k.a. Madeira Feast is the largest event New Bedford has every year. More than that, it is the largest Portuguese feast in the world and the largest ethnic festival in New England. The feast was founded in 1915 by four Madeiran immigrants who wanted to recreate the festivities of their home island.
Here is an overview of the feast which has become a major attraction for visitors from all over who come to celebrate the Portuguese culture through food, drink and entertainment.
1. Time and Location
If you have never been to the feast it naturally makes sense to let you know where to go and when to be there. The feast is a four-day event, officially kicking off at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 4th. The grounds close at midnight each night.
The grounds will open at noon and close at 11:45pm, serving food and supplying entertainment the whole night! By opening earlier on Friday this will provide an opportunity to attend to those who are hoping to avoid the large crowds.
Saturday festivities begin at 10:00am for the 5K road race followed by Kid’s Day afternoon. The last day of the feast is Sunday, which starts off at noon and will feature a parade at 2:00pm. For more information on when and where events will be taking place, go to the Portuguese Feast Entertainment Schedule.
Most of the events take place at Madeira Field, which is permanent location in New Bedford’s north end, which comes to life one weekend a year for the festivities.
The address of Madeira Field is 50 Madeira Avenue, New Bedford, MA (88 Tinkham Street on your GPS). Parking can be a bit tricky, you may have to plan to search a bit to find a spot and walk a few blocks, or pay to park in a nearby private lot.
2. Costs
There is no charge for admission and the entertainment is free thanks to the hard work of the committee members who comprise the 2016 Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Committee. Feast members come from all over the country to plan the feast each year, some as far away as California and Florida. Some of the members will be traveling from across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and South Africa to attend the feast, but in the meantime they have had family members representing them at the committee meetings.
New this year is FREE food for kids under 12 – free burger, hot dog, French fries and a soda – from noon-4:00pm.
While admission is free to walk around and watch the entertainment, there are also many vendors at the grounds selling everything from handmade Madeiran souvenirs to cigars. Of course, food, carnival rides and beverages are also an additional cost.
Tickets may also be purchased to buy authentic Portuguese cuisine or, if you’re over 21, an impressive selection of alcoholic beverages. Tickets cost a dollar each and can be purchased at ten machines located throughout the grounds by placing a five, ten or twenty dollar bill inside. Tickets are non-refundable. There are also stands with employees who sell the tickets.
Prices of food are kept reasonable, and there is a great deal of variety to choose from. To give you a general idea of the prices of items at the feast, a full meal is 12 tickets (which equates to 12 dollars), most sandwiches are around four tickets, and a soda or a water goes for one ticket.
3. Food
One of the greatest features of the feast is the delicious Portuguese fare. There are many food stands located throughout Madeira Field that serve your favorites from the simple delights of linguica and cacoila sandwiches to full on Portuguese cuisine plates of chicken, beef, goat or tuna with potatoes, rice and vegetables.
Another major culinary draw is the Carne de Espeto, a massive, 40-foot barbecue pit where beef sirloin cubes can be cooked over an open flame on massive skewers. This is hard to miss since the aroma is absolutely mouth watering. Visitors are able to buy the meat for eight tickets a pound and a delicious aromatic salt is provided to cook with.
Visitors are then able to roast their own dinner over the gas-fired lava rock grill. Mr. Camara, (who has been a part of the organization since 1982) advised me that if someone tells you to pour Madeira wine on the meat it is not advisable (it does not help the flavor and causes the meat to burn faster!)
New items that will be featured at the feast include Milho Frito, fried cornmeal, garlic and finely shredded kale make this the perfect treat to go with Carne de Espeto. There will also be ice-cold fresh fruit cups, the perfect way to cool down for health conscious attendees.
In case you are not accustomed to the flavorful cooking style of Portuguese cuisine, go to the Food & Drink page of the Portuguese Feast website for definitionsof some of the food you might expect to see.
4. Drink
One of the draws of the feast is the consumption of Madeira wine, which is a central part of the festivities as it is part of a long tradition. Madeira wine is a sweet, fortified red wine. Genuine Madeira wine is made on the island of Madeira, and exportation of actual barrels are restricted due to regulations. However, thanks to a special agreement made between feast officials and the President of Madeira, casks are able to be delivered to New Bedford and served for the weekend, making this a very rare treat for those who attend.
For those who don’t find that the taste of Madeira wine suits their pallet, there are a great variety of additional options including a full liquor bar for mix drinks and frozen drinks. Alcohol stands also serve sangria and white wine and Budweiser beer is on tap.
If you wish to partake in the consumption of alcoholic beverages, you will need to have your ID scanned when you enter the feast grounds in order to receive a wristband that proves you are legally old enough to be served.
There will be additional ID stations at this year’s feast due to the anticipated increase in numbers of attendees.
5. Entertainment
Nelia Moreira is one of many musical acts at the 2016 Portuguese Feast in New Bedford.
There is a great deal of quality free entertainment at the feast each year from Portuguese and American cultures. There are four separate stages of entertainment on the main grounds and a “Fado” stage at the Museum of Madeiran Heritage Courtyard Venue – these performances will be featuring a Portuguese genre of music that can be traced back to the 1820s but is believed to be even older than that.
One of the cultural acts that you may see take the stage at Madeira field is Groupo Folclorico Clube Madeirense S.S. Sacramento. This group of dancers presents traditional dancing performances to authentic Madeiran music and in traditional clothing. These performances are always very spirited and interesting to see.
There will be many bands on the smaller stages during the feast, but the largest stage is reserved for a special performance at 10:00 each night by a headliner band.
THURSDAY AUGUST 4, 2016
Stage One:
6-7pm: Freeze Pops
8-9pm: Folkloric Group
10-11:45pm: Tonic
Stage Three
3-6pm: Matt Silva
6-8pm: Dori Robbicco
8-10pm: Doug Logan
10-11:45: Molly O’Leary
To see more and keep abreast of changes, check out the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament’s entertainment schedule page.
6. Families
Since Madeira feast involves alcohol consumption, some readers may be wondering if it is a family appropriate event. You will be glad to know that family values are integral to the foundation of the feast. While it is probably not advisable to bring young children later in the night due to large crowds and loud music, it should be mentioned that there are many features of the feast that children will love. Also, the feast takes great measures to prohibit underage drinking. All who wish to consume alcoholic beverages are required to undergo a license verification process in order to receive a specially printed wristband.
Additional security precautions are being taken for this year’s Feast due to its size and significance. Mr. Camera mentioned to me that few people realize this, but the Feast grounds are wired with such advanced cameras that all feast goers are on at least two cameras at any given time.
A cool part of the feast is that it features carnival rides and games all weekend. Saturday is probably the best day for families with young children thanks to Kids Day Afternoon, which follows the annual 5k road race. Kids day kicks off at noon and ends at four, featuring special live entertainment for children. Kids under twelve can also receive a free hot dog or hamburger, fried and a soda at Kids Day Afternoon.
For senior citizens in the community, there is “Senior Citizen Afternoon” which also takes place on Saturday from noon to 4 pm. During this time a shuttle is being offered (courtesy of the City of New Bedford) from the parking lot of Lincoln Elementary on Saturday so that seniors can attend the event without having to worry about parking. On this day they are also offered a special deal of half price meals for only 6 dollars instead of 12 (eat in only). Special entertainment is featured as well.
7. History
The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament gains its roots from the island of Madeira which is located 390 miles off the coast of Morocco. Traditionally, each Roman Catholic parish in Madeira would observe a festival to celebrate their patron saint. A committee of four men called festeiros would be responsible for preparing the village for the celebration by decorating the streets, contracting entertainment (often in the form of a brass band and fireworks) and holding a ceremonial meal after mass on Sunday.
There are many versions of the tale of why the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament was first begun in New Bedford 100 years ago. What is certain however, is that the feast was initiated as a means of preserving basic values of the Madeiran culture. Of course, since it was first begun the feast has changed in many ways to accommodate thousands of eager participants and modern elements of celebration.
While there have been many changes in the feast, many aspects still remain central to the celebration. The tradition of Madeira wine is a very old one, dating back to the 15th Century when the Malvasia vine was planted on the island of Madeira to see it would yield an alternative supply of wine for England. When growth was successful Madeira wine quickly took to the market, but did not become a major export until many years later. It wasn’t until the 16th Century that the flavor we know of today was created when they discovered that the flavor of the wine was actually improved by being repeatedly heated up. Follow the link for more information on the history of Madeira wine.
The religious aspect of the feast also remains a part of proceedings. As it did in 1915, the feast still takes place near Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, which is located on the corner of Earle and Madeira Street in New Bedford. The Portuguese feast pays homage to its religious traditions by beginning the weekend festivities with a procession to the church where Father Daniel O. Reis gives a Benediction to the Blessed Sacrament. The last day of the feast starts with Sunday Mass at Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and “the Festeiros, Club Madeirense S. S. Sacramento, Inc. members, and all of the many volunteers receive the blessings of the church for their many hours of work devoted to achieving a successful Feast and for being respectful of its religious origins”. Throughout the weekend the church also hosts a wonderful musical series of organ music and vocalists. The details of this schedule are still being finalized.
8. Madeira Field
The grounds on which the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament takes place are quite expansive and easy to lose people in. Be sure you have a plan for finding lost party members whether it be by cell phone or a designated area to meet up at.
When entering the feast you will need to get in line for a wristband if you wish to purchase alcoholic beverages. One of the most prominent features you will notice upon entering the festival grounds is the Santana House. The house is designed after the colorful architectural styles of the homes in the village Santana, Madeira and is where the Madeira wine is served from.
Across from the Santana House is Stage One, which is massive and where the main attractions will be hosted throughout the weekend. There are also two other smaller stages, one that is inside the gates and the other which is outside and amongst the souvenir vendors. You will also see many food and drink stands throughout the grounds, and towards the back you will find the barbecue pits for Carne de Espeto (or just follow your nose).
The Paskamansett Concert Series presents Christopher James Farias
CHRISTOPHER JAMES FARIAS
SATURDAY, JULY 9, 2016
7:30 pm, doors open 7 pm
Paskamansett Concert Series at THE DARTMOUTH GRANGE
1133 Fisher Road, Dartmouth, MA
$15 general admission ($12 for children under 18, seniors 60 and over, and college students); $35 family admission. Bring along dinner or snacks and non-alcoholic beverages if you wish. Tickets available at the door starting at 6:30 pm.
Singer-songwriter Christopher James Farias is a seasoned musician whose personal evolution spans the complete gamut of practical performance experience and formal music education. Aside from 17 years of consistent study in guitar performance and pedagogy, Chris is also an accomplished vocalist, mandolinist, songwriter, and music educator with a full length album (“The Sign”), a holiday album (“A Simple Gift”), and scores of recording and performing engagements to his credit.
Notable performances include bills with The Spin Doctors, The Mohegan Sun Allstars, the Rhode Island College Symphony Orchestra (as composer), the Rhode Island College String Orchestra (as guest soloist), the Rhode Island Civic Chorale and Orchestra, and the Boston Guitar Quartet.
In addition to his heavy gigging schedule, Chris offers mandolin and guitar instruction (bass, acoustic, electric) along with music theory, songwriting, and vocal lessons.
