Family events in New Bedford, 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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a monthly Pokemon BINGO session focused on fun, prizes, and friendly competition. Registration includes handing out prize packs, cards, and markers so everyone is ready to play. Entry is $10 per player and includes one BINGO card that can be used for all rounds. Additional cards are available for $5 each, up to a total of four cards. The prize pool varies with attendance and may include items such as Elite Trainer Boxes, Mini Tins, Booster Bundles, Booster Packs, and Prize Packs. If a round ends in a tie, the winners split the prize evenly.

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.

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.