“What do you want to do?”
If you need an answer to this age-old question for making plans, we’ve got you covered.
In Things To Do, we take a look at, well, things to do, happening every week in the Greater Fall River area and around the SouthCoast.
From weekdays to weekends, there’s always plenty going on.
And we’re not only taking a look at what’s happening this week, we’re also giving you a heads up for events that are coming soon.
This week, we’ve got a smorgasbord of holiday events, from Fall River’s Children’s Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration, to other local lighting celebrations, plus craft fairs, holiday concerts, charity drives, exhibits, and even an event for our four-legged friends.
So when someone asks you what you want to do, you’ve got your plans ready to go.
Here are Things To Do around Fall River and beyond this week:
Fall River gets festive: Children’s Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 2, is going to be a big day in Fall River. First up is the annual Children’s Holiday Parade, which steps off at 1 p.m. Beginning at Kennedy Park, traveling down South Main Street, and ending at the corner of Central and Bedford Streets, the parade will feature high school bands and local schools, local fire and police departments, costumed characters, and even giant parade balloons. For the latest updates, visit www.gfrREC.org/parade or follow along on their Facebook event page: https://tinyurl.com/33eyc9rk. The 2023 Tree Lighting Celebration will follow the parade, from 3 to 5 p.m., at Government Center. Special guests will join Mayor Paul Coogan to light the tree at 4:15 p.m. The lighting is free to attend, and there will be hot cocoa, soup, food trucks, and all kinds of activities. For more the latest updates, follow the Tree Lighting Celebration’s Facebook event page, or contact Mayor Paul Coogan’s Office at 508-324-2600. We’ve got everything you need to know before you go to the parade and the lighting at HeraldNews.com.
The Gilded Age: Explore the history of Newport at Tiverton Public Library
Local educator and writer Fred Zilian will present on some of the history of Newport at the Tiverton Public Library, 34 Roosevelt Ave., on Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 6:30 p.m. This program is free and open to the public. The presentation will examine 275 years of local history, including a look at the Gilded Age of the 19th century, and some of the women who led Newport high society.
Technology program: Westport Council on Aging offers tech sessions
The Westport Council on Aging continues to offer its technology program for seniors. Classes are held on Wednesday afternoons at the Computer Cafe in the Senior Center, 75 Reed Rd., Westport. The next session is “Making your Personalized Holiday Letters & Greeting Cards” on Wednesday, Nov. 29. These classes are for anyone who is 55 and older, and classes are free. One-on-one personalized sessions are available by appointment for Thursday mornings. Registration is required for all classes. Call the Westport Council on Aging at 508-636-1026.
Santas, parades, and concerts:Holidays happenings across the SouthCoast. Here’s what to add to your calendar.
Making rhymes: Poetry Battle at New Bedford Art Museum
It’s Round 2 of the Poetry Battle at New Bedford Art Museum, 608 Pleasant St. On Wednesday, Nov. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., contestants will battle it out in this lightning round. The final showdown will be in December. This is a free event. For more information, visit https://newbedfordart.org/peoples-poetry.
Doggone good time: A Very Merry Howliday Pup-Up
On Thursday, Nov. 30, Viva Fall River, 333 S. Main St., is hosting an event to celebrate the holiday season with our furry friends. The Very Merry Howliday Pup-Up will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., and feature local treats and gifts for dogs and humans alike. Your pup can even take a holiday photo with the Grinch!
Fall River Eats:These local restaurants are helping kids in need this holiday season
Live music: Gary Hoey’s Ho Ho Hoey Rockin’ Holiday Tour at The Narrows
Fall River’s Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan St., has a diverse line-up for November. On Thursday, Nov. 30, get into a festive groove with the Ho Ho Hoey Rockin’ Holiday Tour. This show is for adults and kids alike. For more information, visit narrowscenter.org.
Festive frolic: Holiday Bright Night at Tiverton Four Corners
Enjoy brightly-lit galleries and shops, holiday decor, and special deals at Holiday Bright Night at Tiverton Four Corners, on Friday, Dec. 1, from 4 to 7 p.m. There will also be the 10th annual re-Tree, an outdoor showcase of homemade trees of recycled materials created by community members.
Help Toys for Tots: Field of Christmas
Over in Swansea, they’ll be holding the Field of Christmas event on Friday, Dec. 1, at 5 p.m. This event is partnered with Toys for Tots: bring a toy to gain access to all the fun, like doing crafts, making reindeer food, visiting Santa, and more. This event is located at the Swansea Independent Baseball League, 100 Nike Site Rd.
Catch a movie: See ‘The Santa Clause’ in Westport
There will be a Holiday Kids Movie Night on Friday, Dec. 1, at 6 p.m., at 645 State Rd., Westport. It’s $5 per child to watch “The Santa Clause,” and there will be snacks, drinks, and popcorn available.
Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition: New exhibits at The Ignition Space
The Fall River Arts & Culture Coalition presents “Nurture” and “Lithobates” at The Ignition Space, 341 S. Main St, now through Jan. 6, 2024. Featuring the works of local artists Megan O. Kenealy and Arianne Barrett, both Master of Arts in Teaching in Visual Arts candidates at Bridgewater State University, these exhibits fulfill their thesis requirement for graduation. There will be an opening reception on Friday, Dec. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are: Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At the theater: New play at The Marion Art Center
The Marion Art Center, 80 Pleasant St., presents “Miracle on South Division Street,” written by Tom Dudzick and directed by Donn Tyler and Maura Van Voris. Performance dates are Dec. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 15, and 16. Friday and Saturday shows will start at 7:30 p.m., while the Sunday matinee will begin at 2 p.m. The cast includes Kate Martin, Tristan McCann, Kate Sorensen-Young, and Bethany Whitehead. The stage manager is Marisa Biever, the sound and lighting tech is Steven McManus, and set design is by Maura Van Voris. Tickets are $20 for MAC members and $23 for non-members. Purchase tickets online at marionartcenter.org/events.
Get outside with Audubon: Stargazing and Free Family Fun Day
Take a break from the hectic holiday rush, and enjoy some time outdoors with the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. On Friday, Dec. 1, do some stargazing from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Ave., Seekonk. Learn about winter constellations with Francine Jackson, Staff Astronomer at Brown University. Be sure to dress warmly, and bring your own telescope if you like. Hot drinks will be provided. The fee for members is $12 for adults, $6 for children, and the fee for non-members is $14 for adults, and $7 for children. This program is for ages 10 and up. Register at asri.org/calendar. On Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., stop by the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium, 1401 Hope St., Bristol, for Citizens Free Family Fun Day. There will be a craft table, nature story, animal interview, and a presentation on hibernation and how different animals survive the winter. This event is free for all ages, and no registration is required.
Nativity scene: Special installation at Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum
The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum, 396 County St., New Bedford, will have a special installation on the second floor this holiday season. A nativity scene, created by Fairhaven resident and artist Luis Duffy-Baraybar, will be on view from Dec. 1, through Jan. 6. Visitors to the mansion will also see the halls all decked out. For more information, visit rjdmuseum.org.
Holiday dancing: On Stage Christmas Spectacular at Bristol CC
The On Stage Academy of Performing Arts is bringing back its Christmas Spectacular. They’ll present it at Bristol Community College’s Fall River campus, 777 Elsbree St., on Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2, at 6:30 p.m. This is a very special 40th anniversary celebration, as well as an alumni year. Purchase tickets before they’re gone at https://www.onstagefr.org. We’ve got everything you need to know before you go, at HeraldNews.com.
Making spirits bright: Taunton celebrates 110th Lights On Festival
Taunton, also known as “The Christmas City,” has been “Lighting The Way” for 110 years. The annual Lights On Festival will be on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 8 p.m. There will be events, activities and performances for everyone, all over the historic Taunton Green District. This event is free, and there are buttons for sale for special events (or anyone who collects them!). Updates will be frequent as the day gets closer and closer, so be sure to follow the City of Taunton Lights On Festival on Facebook for the latest.
Shopping: Buy Black NB Black in Business Pop-up Holiday Market
On Saturday, Dec. 2, Buy Black NB’s third annual Black in Business Holiday Vendor Market will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill. They’re partnering with Downtown New Bedford Inc. and the Whaling Museum to host a market with a hand-selected, diverse group of local vendors. This event is free to attend, and there will be live music, provided by Joaquin Santos & Friends. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to receive giveaways — while supplies last — including gifts for children. Follow along on Eventbrite for the latest updates.
Unique, locally-made gifts: Christmas arts and crafts fair
The 47th annual Christmas arts and crafts fair will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2, and Sunday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at B.M.C. Durfee High School, 460 Elsbree St., Fall River. There will be crafters from Fall River, and others from all over New England. In addition to local artisans, local authors will also be present, and there will be craft classes too. Admission and parking are both free. We’ve got everything you need to know before you go, at HeraldNews.com.
Food and crafts: Brunch with St. Nicholas
Enjoy brunch with St. Nicholas, followed by holiday crafts, on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 11:30 a.m., at St. John of God, 1036 Brayton Ave., Somerset. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 3 to 12, and children under 2 get in free. Tickets can be purchased after Mass, by calling the parish office at 508-678-5513, or sending an email to familylife@sjogsomerset.org.
Holiday party: Greater Fall River RE-CREATION Christmas Celebration
On Sunday, Dec. 3, from noon to 3 p.m. Greater Fall River RE-CREATION is hosting their Christmas Celebration at 45 Rock St. Enjoy free family fun, including pictures with Santa, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. There will also be food and beverages. For more information, visit www.gfrREC.org or call 508-679-0922.
Classical music: Newport String Quartet at Tiverton’s Four Corners Arts Center
The Newport String Quartet will be giving a matinee concert on Sunday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m., at The Meeting House, 3850 Main Rd., Tiverton. General admission is $20, and non-profit supporter level tickets are $30. Ten dollars of a supporter level ticket supports the educational programming of the Newport String Project. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or in advance at https://www.fourcornersarts.org/concerts-events.
Raffle: 30th annual Ben and Chet Wilkie Memorial Tree Spree
The 30th annual Ben and Chet Wilkie Memorial Tree Spree will be held on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 1 to 7 p.m., in the Wilbur-McMahon School gymnasium on Little Compton Commons. There will be dozens of theme-decorated trees and other items that will be available to win. Anyone wishing to donate a tree or other item should contact Caroline Wordell at 401-714-2871, or cwilkie43@cox.net. All proceeds go toward providing scholarships for local students, administered by Scholarship Little Compton. They will also be collecting socks for soldiers. New socks in original packaging can be dropped off at the Tree Spree.
Get crafty: Greenery workshop at Freetown Historical Society
The Freetown Historical Society, 1 Slab Bridge Rd., Assonet, is hosting a greenery workshop on Sunday, Dec. 3. There will be two sessions: from 9 a.m. to noon, or from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $30 for members and $40 for the public. Wreath forms are provided, or bring your own vessel for a centerpiece. Hand clippers and gloves are recommended. For more information, visit freetownhistoricalsociety.org.
Book signing: Meet author Madeline Ostrande in Westport
Partners Village Store and the Westport River Watershed Alliance will be hosting a “meet the author” event at the River Center, 493 Old County Rd., on Thursday, Dec. 4, at 5:30 p.m. Author Madeline Ostrande will be discussing her book, “At Home on an Unruly Planet, Finding Refuge on a Changed Earth.” Books will be available for purchase. This event is free. For questions and more information, call 508-636-3016, Ext. 1003, or email outreach@wrwa.com.
Have a community event or activity you’d like to see featured? Send us an email at kfontes@heraldnews.com or news@heraldnews.com.
