Preservation. Celebration.
May 8, 2025
sponsored by
Free Parking
Don’t worry about finding a place to park. During AHA! Night there is free parking at the Elm Street and Zeiterion Garages.
Pick up a paper copy of the AHA! program at the AHA! Welcome Desk (corner of Market & Pleasant), the library, New Bedford Art Museum, or the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center. You can also download a copy here, just note that it’s oversized if you try to print at home.
Follow the Flags
Many of our participating locations will have a yellow AHA! flag prominently displayed to help you find AHA! Night activities.
AHA! Happens Rain Or Shine
Be sure to check the AHA! event page, Facebook page and Instagram Stories as well as website and social for participating event partners for info about location changes, program rescheduling and cancellations.
Preservation. Celebration. | May 8, 2025
Join us in celebration of New Bedford’s past, present, and future. Explore New Bedford through history, art, music, food, and more! It’s all happening this AHA! Night: Preservation. Celebration. Plus, AHA! Night kicks off ArtWeek SouthCoast, an annual festival celebrating creativity in our communities. Save the date and explore New Bedford’s past, present, and future
Not sure where to go during your AHA! Night? Take a tour with an AHA! Docent!
Beginning this AHA! Night, you can take a free AHA! Night walking tour with artist Kat Knutsen who will guide participants through the evening’s highlights and hidden gems.
Kat is a New Bedford-based artist, musician, and creative force behind The Siren, which promotes visual art and music related news in the region.
The tour begins at 6:00 pm at the AHA! table in Custom House Square and will last approximately 45-60 minutes. Attendees can “hop off” at any time to further enjoy various AHA! Night experiences. No registration required.
AHA! NIGHT ACTIVITIES
12:00 PM
BesTeas Bubble Tea Room
Now open until 7:00PM on AHA! Nights, fuel up and quench your thirst something from the one of a kind signature drink menu at BesTeas Bubble Tea Room! Offering many options made with fresh quality ingredients, enjoy a bubble tea, signature drink, coffee and espresso, treats, a kids menu, and now offering ice cream! Something yum for everyone!
3:00 PM
Time Warp
On view in the Main Gallery at Gallery X–TIME WARP
An exhibition of local artists exploring the concept of time in their creations, including the integration of futuristic and historical elements.
The exhibition is on view now through May 10.
2025 Young Artist Invitational Exhibition
The 2025 Young Artist Invitational features incredible original artwork by emerging, high school-age artists working in a variety of media. The artists represent New Bedford High School, Greater New Bedford Voke, and Dartmouth High Schools.
The exhibition will be on view in the Main Gallery through May 10!
Youth Services: Mindful Doodling
Visit the New Bedford Main Library’s Youth Services from 3-6pm for Mindful Doodling with local author and cartoonist Cara Bean. Enjoy doodling, enter in the free book raffle, and more! This program is available for all ages while supplies last and there is no registration.
Don’t forget to shop the library’s book sale during your visit!
Artist of the Month: Morgan Izdebski
Morgan Izdebski is the artist of the month for May at TL6 the Gallery. Morgan is a graphic designer by trade and a painter/illustrator at heart who is passionate about using comic books and zines as visual communication tools. TL6 is excited to show her artwork! Please stop in for the opening reception and again on May 31st from 6 – 8PM for a closing reception.
“Mariposa Collective” Exhibit & More
Featured Guest Exhibit: We are currently featuring the “Mariposa Collective” by guest Artist Marie Antoinette, a native of New Bedford living in Maryland. This exhibit marks a homecoming for Marie, bringing her vibrant mixed media collage artwork back to her roots. All artwork on view and for sale through the gallery. Exhibit runs till the end of May.
Marie’s creative journey spans multiple fields, including fashion, photography, interior design, and painting, with her work reflecting a unique blend of cultural influences from her travels and upbringing. With a bold use of color and paper collaged patterns, Marie’s art challenges traditional norms, offering a visual experience that is both thought-provoking and joyful. Her work celebrates artistic freedom and the power of self-expression, inviting viewers to see the world through her bold lens.
Also on View: Ongoing exhibits of Original Artwork, Giclee Prints, Note Cards and Guest Ceramicist Marianne Stebenne’s Ceramic Goddesses.
Celebrate History, Art, & Preservation!
Experience the Whaling Museum like never before! Celebrate ArtWeek and Preservation Celebration with free access to the entire museum and exciting hands-on activities. From 4:00 – 7:00PM unlock the full Museum experience with the Bloomberg Connects app, your personal, self-guided tour in over 30 languages – navigate the Museum all from the palm of your hand! Learn more and get the app HERE. From 5:30 – 6:30PM get creative and dive into history at the art stations in the Jacobs Family Gallery where you can add to “Cardboard Harbor” featuring the “Cardboard Dartmouth” built by local artists Nicole Pupillo and Mandy Fraser. Stop by for a dynamic evening where history and art come alive!
Game Night
Thursday, May 8
Game Night
4pm – 6pm Family Games
6pm – 8pm 21+ Games
Hosted by the RJD NextGen Committee
Assemble some teammates and head to the tented patio in the garden. The early hours feature family-oriented games. The later hours are for 21+ games. Bring your favorite board game, card game, lawn game and beverages! The Museum provides classic board games and teammates as needed, plus low-priced snacks for the evening. This event is free as part of AHA! Night.
Spring Exhibit Reception
Enjoy a reception for Judith Klein’s Spring Exhibit featuring paintings, printmaking, drawings, new unique pottery, jewelry, and woodwork.
Not Just Anywhere: WHALE and Downtown New Bedford
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In the words of Sarah Delano, WHALE president from 1966 – 1982, “If you bulldoze your heritage, you become just anywhere.” For the past 6 decades, the Waterfront Historic Area LeaguE, Inc. (WHALE) has worked to ensure that New Bedford is not just anywhere. We are excited to unveil a new way to experience the work that we do and the impact that our projects, partnerships and programs have made on New Bedford.
“Not Just Anywhere: WHALE and Downtown New Bedford” is a tour of some of WHALE’s downtown projects, from the 60’s through the 2010’s. Powered by the AWEgmented app, this free tour will launch just in time for AHA! Preservation Celebration! This self-guided walking tour can be enjoyed in person, or you can peruse the information on the app no matter where you are.
WHALE will be celebrating this launch as part of a larger preservation celebration on May 8, The Eggers Building at One Johnny Cake Hill will be rededicated following a successful restoration by its owners, with remarks by Mayor Mitchell and WHALE. Join us following for a glass of wine from the cash bar, proceeds to benefit WHALE. This will be the unofficial “starting” point for anyone wanting to experience “Not Just Anywhere” for themselves as part of this memorable preservation celebration.
AWEgmented is available for free in the app store for Apple and Android devices. Download it today so you’re ready on May 8! For more information on AWEgmented, visit www.awegmented.com
Selmar Eggers Building Rededication
On January 18, 1977, a gas explosion rocked historic downtown New Bedford and one of the buildings damaged was the Selmar Eggers building, located at 10 William St. Through the efforts of WHALE, it was moved to its new location at the corner of Johnny Cake Hill and Union Street, and was restored in 1978-1979.
The building was recently updated by its new owners and will be re-dedicated on Thursday, May 8 in a celebration of its continued presence in New Bedford’s bustling downtown. 1 Johnny Cake Hill features multiple commercial units in the heart of historic downtown New Bedford and one residential unit, The Aerie. Businesses include the Cozy Crib, Kettle Black Gallery, and the soon-to-be-opened Coastal Bubbles & Wine Bar.
Join this special AHA! Night and ArtWeek South Coast event with members of WHALE, Mayor Jon Mitchell and the new proprietors of Coastal Bubbles & Wine Bar. After the rededication ceremony, enjoy a glass of wine from the cash bar (proceeds benefit WHALE).
This is also the starting point for WHALE’s new app-guided walking tour!
4:30 PM
Sorbae Frozen Treats
New Bedford Public Schools Art Show
See over 3,000 pieces of artwork created by New Bedford Public School students from elementary through high school. Roam the halls and listen to live music while you enjoy the City’s talented student’s showcase. A must-see, inspiring, and family-friendly annual event.
5:00 PM
Live Demo with Pyrography Artist Steve Cote
Cote Customs specializes in crafting beautiful and unique wood burned artwork that captures the essence of nature and creativity. Their primary canvases are stunning wine/whiskey barrels and exquisite live edge wood, which provide the perfect backdrop for our artistic expressions. While nautical themes are their passion, they believe that every design should reflect the individuality of the customers. That’s why they work closely with each client to bring their visions to life—the possibilities are truly endless!
Each piece is meticulously handcrafted and woodburned by Steve Cote, a local pyrography artist with deep roots in New England. With a commitment to quality and artistry, Cote Customs transforms wood into captivating works of art that are as unique as the stories they tell. Explore the beauty of custom woodburned creations with Cote Customs, where your imagination meets our craftsmanship.
Rock Talk with Mobile Adventures
The Trustees is bringing the Mobile Adventures to the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, from 5:00 – 8:00pm. Find the green Adventure Van to join us for a series of children’s nature activities focused on geology! We will be examining rocks, minerals and real fossils – and experimenting with earth sciences like erosion – so come by to learn why nature rocks!
FashionRev NB!
See fantastic clothing designs from “Stitched Together”, the 2nd annual sustainable fashion show that brought together local makers and vintage resellers to showcase fashion in its finest and most conscious form. Enjoy how New Bedford designers, artists, and shops celebrate creativity within sustainability to work against fast fashion. FashionRev NB works will be on display at Interwoven from 5:00 – 8:00PM with musical a performance with Jake and Patrick.
Author Talk and Music with Gary James Farias & David Conroy
Join Gallery X as we welcome Gary James Farias and David Conroy…
Starting at 5:15 author and musician Gary James Farias will discuss his book, Sacred Spaces – Artists in their Studios
At 5:45 historian and author David Conroy will present “The Trials and Triumphs of Corporal James Henry Gooding of the 54th Regiment.” James Gooding, a freed slave, is elated at the prospect of liberating his Black brethren in the South as part of the 54th Regiment. But he becomes troubled by the conduct of the war. Then he is captured. What will happen to him now?
At 6:30 Gary James Farias takes the stage again, this time performing a live music set to close out the evening.
Make Your Own “Stained Glass” Design with Tissue Paper
Join Pilgrim United Church of Christ and Mercy Meals & More to make your own “Stained Glass” design with tissue paper.
While you’re here, learn more about Booker T. Washington, who gave a speech in our building in 1895 and visit the mural installed on the side of the building in 2023.
Buttonwood Park Zoo
Play games and learn about animals through biofacts (animal skulls, feathers, tracks, etc.) with the Buttonwood Park Zoo! They will be on hand in Custom House Square with a variety of wild and interesting things to show you. Test your knowledge or learn something new!
Seaport Session: Christian Camarao
Christian Camarao is a composer and indie rock, folk, and 20th-century minimalism-inspired musician whose works largely focus on specific geographic regions. A New Bedford native, Christian works as an elementary school teacher, and is a member of local Americana band Pebbles of Rain with Jeff Angeley, Sam Babineau, and Steven Brum. Christian is also the co-director of the Roots and Branches Festival, with the 3rd annual festival happening in downtown New Bedford on July 18 and 19. Enjoy Christian live in Wing’s Court in between Destination Soups and Brick from 5:00 – 7:00PM.
AHA! Moment: Preservation Talk with the 1850s Ladies!
Come and Meet with Ruth & Abby, “The 1850s Ladies!” Ruth proudly admits she was born in August 1795 . . . Abby is “a bit younger!” Ever wonder what New Bedford was really like? They’ll tell you like it was! “History” is the story of us all – anything but dead and boring. The ladies will share the real stories of the past – and give you a preview of their summer plans!
Ernestina-Morrissey Tours
Take a tour of the beloved and historical Ernestina-Morrissey! In honor of National Preservation Month, tours will be offered from 5:00 – 8:00PM. The 1894 tall ship is a National Landmark and Massachusetts State Vessel operated by the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. The SSV Ernestina-Morrissey is part of the permanent fleet of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy with her homeport in New Bedford, MA. Learn about the ship’s history while admiring its beauty. Also enjoy fresh hot and iced coffee as well as sweet treats from the Ground Floor Coffee Cart parked on the Pier!
Photo: Eleonora Bianchi for The New Bedford Light
5 Pillars of Hip Hop – For Preservation!
5:30 PM
Open House, Talk, & Meditation
Stop by Serlingpa for an Open House from 5:30 – 7:00PM. Enjoy a brief talk “How to use meditation to “preserve” our peaceful minds” and guided meditation from 6:00 – 6:30PM. Everyone is welcome to relax in the beautiful meditation space, enjoy snacks and tea and, browse the bookstore.
6:00 PM
Filmmaking is Preservation : Mackenzie McCree
Join The New Bedford Film Festival at the screening of “A Video Essay on Ballroom”, by local filmmaker Mackenzie McCree, the 2024 Best New Bedford Filmmaker Award Winner! Later, join the discussion on the film and how it shows us that filmmaking can be a tool for preservation; preserving stories and preserving culture. The screening will start at 6:00PM with Q&A to follow.
AHA! Moment – Handle With Care: Preserving Your Photos and Artworks at Home
Pop into the Art Box and learn about the do’s – and more importantly, the DON’Ts – of preserving photos and artworks in your home archive or collection. Allie Copeland, the New Bedford Public Library’s Art Curator, will show you the basics: Learn which simple repair materials are safe, how to store things, how to avoid damaging your stuff, and how to determine when to consult a professional. Plus, attendees will receive 10% off their first custom framing order at the Art Box!
ArtTALK with Deb Coolidge
Enjoy the NBAM’s monthly AHA! Night ArtTALK with Deb Coolidge, a local artist featured in Radical Reinvention: Contemporary Ceramic Sculpture. The talk starts at 6:00PM, and admission to the museum is free from 5:00 – 8:00PM. About the artist: “As a child I often thought there was an upside down world that mirrored mine or that the sky was a lid to a huge box that the world existed in. Discovering the existence of world mythology had me hooked into a way of thinking that my queries could be expressed. These stories often reinforced an idea I was working with and broadened my understanding or gave context to my visual imagery. The results are intriguing to me.”
Quilting Demonstration with Joan DeCollibus
Joan DeCollibus will demonstrate her quilt-making process, from initial concept to the final stitch. She begins by sketching designs and selecting fabrics, inspired by the vibrant colors of her garden and the coastal landscape. With her palette ready, Joan moves to the cutting table and onto piecing: she carefully arranges and sews the fabric sections, pressing each seam to maintain crisp lines and geometric flow. The quilt top complete, she layers it with batting and the quilt backside, then machine quilts the three layers together in fluid, dynamic patterns. Finally, she applies the binding by hand, likening it to framing a painting—an elegant finish to a labor of love. Throughout the demo, Joan shares tips, inspirations, and reflections on how quilting connects her to both craft and nature.
Art, Paint, & Architecture: The Evolution of a Fairhaven Home
Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month at The Drawing Room. Architect Anthi Frangiadis will discuss the process and progress of a renovation and addition to an historic home in Fairhaven, MA. The homeowners wanted to honor the historic character and integrity of their Greek Revival home, while updating it to better serve their needs.
Hear how the team balanced historic preservation with modern conveniences, incorporating a year-round sunroom, finishing the design with Farrow & Ball paint, and how color moves you through the space.
Homeowner Liv Haines Gauthier is the daughter of the late South Coast artist and teacher, Severin “Sig” Haines. The home is adorned with many of her father’s paintings and new walls were designed with specific paintings in mind. Learn about Liv’s collection of her father’s paintings and how they influenced the design.
Hear from Anthi, the homeowners, as well as Jonathan Burgess of J. Burgess Remodeling & Construction.
Live from AHA! Podcast: Open Mic!
Join the monthly live podcast “Live From AHA!” hosted by our friends at the Artists Index. Share your thoughts or just listen and enjoy some apps and bevvies.
Jazz Jam!
The Zeiterion Theatre invites musicians and music lovers to grab your instruments for a jam session led by sax player and music educator Emmanuel “Manny” Escobar! Shed all your cares, enjoy live music, improv and jam out. Musicians, vocalists, visual artists, and audience welcome. No prior jam experience or tickets necessary.
Kids Karaoke
Belt out some tunes and have fun with the whole family! Play Arcade is hosting karaoke for kids under 21 from 6:00 – 8:00pm (please note karaoke for adults start after 8:00pm). Look forward to seeing you there!
Buttonwood Brass
Stop by the Harbor Hotel on your stroll and enjoy some speakeasy jazz from the Buttonwood Brass Band, now on every AHA! Night from 6:00 – 8:00pm! While you are there be sure to grab 1/2 price apps (all night) and other AHA! Night specials from the kitchen. Vibey!
6:30 PM
Spring Concert “Seasons of Love”
Enjoy the Spring Concert “Seasons of Love” performed by the South Coast Children’s Chorus. SCCC is a children’s chorus made up of singers in grades 1-12 from the Southeastern communities of Massachusetts including the greater Fall River, New Bedford and Taunton areas as well as the coastal communities situated near Cape Cod and Plymouth.
7:00 PM
Artist Talk with Kim Barry
Join us at Kettle Black Gallery at 7pm–Kim Barry will speak about her paintings and show an insightful PowerPoint of her process. She is a painter, production potter, art educator and owner of Clay Trout Pottery, who has been living on the South Coast for most of her life. Her love of nature informs and inspires her paintings and clay works. For a number of years, Kim has focused on shells, flowers, fruit and vegetables as subject for her work. In these dynamic paintings, prints and drawings, this subject matter is used to reference human form, gesture, memory, and sensuality. She is also inspired to paint the coastal landscape of New England. Kim received her Associates of Fine Arts degree from Colby Sawyer College, BFA in Sculpture from Rhode Island School of Design and her MFA in Painting from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
Kettle Black Gallery is open until 8pm on AHA! nights.
Anomaly Poetry Open Mic Night with Cat Speranzini
This month Anomaly Poetry welcomes featured poet Cat Speranzini @thepoeticfeline, Kat will give a deep dive into her repertoire as well as have some books for sale. Sign up slots are also available for Open Mic. Reading starts a bit after 7:00PM, and it goes until the poems run out. See you there!
Reporting on the Waterfront: “The Barnacle” Retrospective
In honor of preservation month, join FHC and special guest Gary Golas for a retrospective on The Barnacle, an independent magazine that covered New Bedford and Fairhaven’s working waterfront for over a decade. Presentation followed by Q&A. Admission to the Center is FREE for AHA! Night.
7:30 PM
8:00 PM
Neal McCarthy Trio
Enjoy electric blues and rock from the Neal McCarthy Trio from 8:00 – 11:30pm at the Pour Farm. Be sure to grab a pint and a bite while you are there!
