Greater New Bedford Summerfest

Annually in July
New Bedford State Pier
New Bedford National Whaling Historical Park
New Area Bedford Chamber of Commerce
Standard Times Summerfest Web Site
Performers and Schedule Info
508-999-5231

This three-day event combines a an International Folk Music and Arts Festival with waterfront activities including the traditional blessing of the vessels of the fishing fleet and other boats that take part. The festival provides entertainment and activities for the whole family.

The festival includes National, International, and local musicians, crafts, prepared seafood meals, an arcade, and waterfront-related displays. The waterfront displays include Coast Guard ships and the Schooner Ernestina.

The Blessing of the Fleet occurs on the Sunday of the event weekend. The boats parade past the pier-side podium where clergy of different faiths bestow blessings on each vessel for success and safe return from the sea. Many of the vessels are lavishly decorated and are boarded by the owners, crews, and families.

Summerfest Features Multiple sound stages featuring National, International, and local musicians Children's entertainment - jugglers, story tellers, face painting, clowns, skits, sea chanteys, & musicians Parade of sail - historic sailing ships including New Bedford's own schooner Ernestina Whaleboat races Tugboat muster Cape Verdean Recognition Day Parade Blessing of the Fleet Craft fair - unique handmade crafts, paintings, decorative items, and more Seafood tent - prepared scollop and fish dinners fresh from New Bedford's own fishing fleet Carnival Fireworks

A single button provides access to all events and venues. Buttons are available at area retail stores, the Standard Times, and the Chamber of Commerce.

Summerfest is co-sponsored by the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, the New Bedford Standard-Times, and a host of area businesses.

The same weekend features the Cape Verdean Recognition Parade in New Bedford. The parade caps off a week-long celebration of Cape Verdean independence and heritage.