Family events in Fall River, MA

Kids can enjoy a self-paced craft each week. A fresh project is set out on the Children's Room table every Monday, and it can be made anytime throughout the week. No registration is required.

Little movers can discover dance at Dance Clinic in classes created especially for ages 2 and 3. Each session uses music, movement, imagination, and play to build confidence, coordination, listening skills, independence, and friendships. Families can choose a season-long track with no costumes or stage appearance, or a performance option that includes a costume and a live stage show. Offerings include Tumble Tot's and beginner ballet for toddlers, and the teaching approach is nurturing and supportive for both shy and energetic personalities. A complimentary trial is available, and trial scheduling is offered by text at 508-321-6410.

The New Bedford Chess Society meets at the Downtown library, welcoming chess enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels. The gathering takes place on the second floor in the CreateLab area. Chess boards are provided, and instruction is available for anyone who would like help learning or improving.

An every week club focused on arts and crafts, designed for patrons in middle school and high school.

A welcoming chess club open to players of all ages and skill levels.

Toddlers can come to the Lawler Branch to hear stories and take part in fun activities.

Take a walking tour at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park that shines a light on whales, from their colossal size and specialized adaptations to their sophisticated communication and long migrations. Along the route, connect these marine giants to the city’s story, learning how whales and whaling shaped New Bedford, influenced industries worldwide, and linked this port to people and places far beyond its shores. Details may change.

Families are welcome at an introductory skating class designed for all ages, including adults who want to learn alongside kids. Participants receive attentive, patient instruction and about an hour of focused practice. After class, they can continue skating for the rest of the session at no additional charge. Skate rentals and safety gear are included in the class cost. Registration is available online or in person. A parent or guardian must be present for minors and will need to sign a waiver for participation.

Explore New Bedford’s deep ties to the Underground Railroad on a guided walking tour that follows the paths of people who came seeking freedom and a fresh start. Along the way, learn how an informal web of helpers, communities, and travel routes aided those escaping slavery. Discover why this seaport grew into a vital destination in the 1800s, with opportunities linked to the whaling industry and a strong support system that included free Black residents, formerly enslaved people, abolitionists, maritime connections, and established community networks. Hear stories of individuals who built new lives, strengthened local industries and neighborhoods, and helped shape the history of the region. The tour also highlights how an international port connected people, commerce, and ideas during a time of major change in the United States. Stroll historic streets, visit noteworthy sites, and uncover stories that continue to influence New Bedford today.

A weekly story time pairs with a craft activity and is open to people of every age. This program is free to attend and does not require registration.

Preparing for a new baby comes with many questions. Baby Boot Camp from Healthy Babies, Happy Moms offers practical guidance and hands-on education for expectant and new parents, partners, and grandparents. The class covers basic newborn care, bathing and diapering, breastfeeding and bottle feeding, safe sleep, soothing a fussy baby, and what to expect during postpartum recovery in the early weeks. It emphasizes the important role of a support person during pregnancy and after birth, helping everyone involved feel more prepared, empowered, and confident in caring for the baby and supporting one another. Led by the experienced team at Healthy Babies, Happy Moms in East Greenwich, this welcoming class provides space to ask questions, build confidence, and leave with practical tools to use right away.

This weekly Friday storytime at the New Bedford Howland Green Branch Library features fun stories and hands-on crafts that spark imagination and support early learning.

A playful toddler dance class at Dance Clinic welcomes little ones who like to bounce, spin, and keep moving. Designed for ages 2 to 3, it focuses on music, movement, imagination, and play while supporting confidence, coordination, independence, and classroom readiness. A free trial is available. Families can choose a nonrecital option with no costumes and no stage performance for a full season of learning, or select a recital path that requires a costume and dance shoes and includes a live stage performance for family and friends. Enrollment is open, and space tends to go fast.

Beginning to breastfeed can feel like a big step, and the right guidance can make it feel achievable and meaningful. Healthy Babies, Happy Moms offers a class that equips expectant parents with clear information and practical skills so they can approach feeding their newborn with confidence. It is especially helpful during the third trimester, and partners are encouraged to participate as part of the support team. Led by an experienced lactation team, the session creates a welcoming space to ask questions and practice hands-on techniques. Participants explore the benefits of breastfeeding, ways to assess breast health during pregnancy, how lactation works, and comfortable positions that support both parent and baby. The class also covers typical suck patterns, how to establish a comfortable latch, and common concerns that may arise for babies and mothers in the early days and weeks. Registration is required, and enrollment is intentionally limited to keep the experience personal. The fee is $75 per couple.

This family program invites participants to create, explore, and learn together through hands-on activities connected to park stories and themes. Activities may vary, and the experience is welcoming for all ages. Children should attend with a parent or other adult. All supplies are provided.

An intergenerational bowling meetup for LGBTQ+ people from the South Coast takes place at Wonder Bowl. It brings community members across generations together for games on the lanes. Registration is requested for headcount.