The night sky above New Bedford Harbor will sparkle brighter than ever this year, as Fathoms Waterfront Bar & Grille prepares to host its annual fireworks display.

What began as a heartfelt tribute has quickly grown into one of the most anticipated fall celebrations on the SouthCoast. This year, organizers have doubled the length of the fireworks show, promising a dazzling 40-minute spectacle on Saturday, October 18 at 7 p.m. as a way of saying "thank you" to the loyal customers who continue to support Fathoms, Fleet Marina and Fisherman’s Market Seafood Outlet.

Honoring a Legacy

While the evening is a celebration, it is also a time of remembrance.

READ MORE: New Bedford's Fathoms Featured on Phantom Gourmet

The fireworks will once again honor the memory of Lars Vinjerud Sr. and his son, Lars Vinjerud III, whose lives and legacies remain an inspiration for everything the family-owned businesses stand for today.

Their passion for the sea and the community lives on in the work of their family, friends, and loyal patrons.

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Where to Watch

The fireworks will be launched over New Bedford Harbor, with the best viewing from:

  • Fathoms Waterfront Bar & Grille: enjoy the show inside or outside on the deck.
  • Fleet Marina: gather by the docks for a waterfront view.
  • Fisherman’s Market Seafood Outlet: another favorite spot for guests to take in the display from the new sushi bar.
New Bedford Firework Tribute Show 2025
Fleet Marina via Facebook
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It's important to note that the fireworks show is free and open to the public.

A Night to Remember

With the glow of even more fireworks reflecting off the harbor, this year’s expanded show is set to be an unforgettable evening of celebration, gratitude and remembrance on the SouthCoast.

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How Do Fireworks Get Their Colors?

Besides being a fun fact to impress your friends during the finale, knowing what makes fireworks work is a reminder of just how intertwined our daily lives are with Earth’s natural resources. Some of these minerals are considered critical commodities, meaning they’re vital to modern life and can be difficult to source.
So the next time you see a shimmering white sparkle or a deep red bloom over the Mohawk River, you’ll know: there's real science, and some pretty rare elements behind all that beauty.
It all comes down to chemistry. When fireworks are launched, metallic compounds, also called mineral elements, are heated to really hot temperatures. And as they burn, they emit specific colors of light.
The more complex the mix, the more dazzling the display.

Gallery Credit: Unsplash/TSM

Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Dining on the SouthCoast

We compiled a list of all of the restaurants on the SouthCoast that offer outdoor dining. That's right. We did all the legwork for you. Now all you have to do is pick one and call to make that reservation so you can dine al fresco tonight.

Gallery Credit: Kasey Dudek

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