FABRIC Arts Festival 2026 Events in Fall River and New Bedford

I have a confession to make: I did not know until Thursday of this week that Fall River's FABRIC Arts Festival has nothing to do with sewing, making quilts, or anything that involves the use of fabric.

Patti Rego is the U.S. Media Liaison for the FABRIC Arts Festival, which is taking place October 8-11. She stopped by Townsquare Sunday to straighten me out.

What Is the FABRIC Arts Festival?

"The festival is all about contemporary art, music, and communal food gatherings," Rego said. "It's rooted in community and offers opportunities to share traditions. This started as a Portuguese-Azorean event, but as it's evolved, we understand that the SouthCoast has been shaped by many immigrant groups, and we are trying to reflect that."

So the festival is not about sewing or different fabrics used to make clothing, etc.?

"I don't think we've ever had anything with actual fabric involved," Rego said. "The FABRIC Festival is really about the fabric of the community, the fibers of the generations who came before us, our families, our stories, how those weave together to create this community."

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This is the seventh annual FABRIC Arts Festival, with events scheduled in Fall River, New Bedford and Rhode Island. Here are some highlights:

Fall River: 'Across Aisles' at Portugalia Marketplace

A program in Fall River is titled "Across Aisles with Evelyn Rydz," taking place at 4 p.m. on October 9 at the Portugalia Marketplace. Cards containing traditional recipes will be spread throughout the store. Patrons are encouraged to try the recipes at home, spreading ingredients and traditions throughout the area.

New Bedford: Free Sunday Social at Luzo Auto Body

In New Bedford, a free Sunday Social will take place on Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. at Luzo Auto Body in the South End. "That auto body shop is going to become a gathering place for food, wine, art, storytelling, and eventually a dance party," Rego said. "It's going to be something to experience for sure!"

Pawtucket, RI: 'The Red Dinner' at Mundo's Restaurant

In Pawtucket, R.I. an event called "The Red Dinner" is happening on October 10 at 7 p.m. at Mundo's Restaurant. Guests are invited to wear red and bring poems, songs or other texts that speak to the ideas of freedom and abolition. Tickets are $50.

"Some of this may sound a little off-beat, but it is so transformational, and you meet lovely people," Rego said. "If there's anything in our program that piques your interest, please come! There will be memorable moments that you won't forget."

How to Attend the 7th Annual FABRIC Arts Festival

A complete rundown of events, times and venues for the FABRIC Arts Festival is available on the FABRIC website.

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