New Bedford’s The Gallery Bar to Host Opening Night Art Gala

New Bedford’s vibrant arts scene is about to welcome The Gallery Bar, a unique new venue opening Friday, September 13.

Located at 20 Kenyon Street, at the former Le Place, it will double as a mocktail bar and art gallery, offering a fresh, alcohol-free space to gather and appreciate the talents of the community.

The Gallery Bar will kick off its grand opening with an art gala, featuring an impressive 57 pieces from 22 local artists. The night promises to be a celebration of art, music and connection. Doors will be open from 6 to midnight with a special VIP early access window from 6 to 9 p.m.

VIP tickets, priced at $50, include appetizers, cocktail samples and raffle tickets.

Tickets go on sale Thursday, September 5, at The Vault. Capacity is 99 people, so attendees are encouraged to act quickly.

READ MORE: New Bedford Woman Buys The Vault With Plans for 'Something Big'

While the original plan was to serve alcohol, delays in securing a liquor license have shifted the focus to a "mocktail" bar for now. Despite this hurdle, community support has been overwhelming.

Co-owner Jes Fritze expressed the importance of continuing to offer a welcoming environment:

“Everyone needs a safe space that we can feel comfortable, loved, understood, and appreciated," Fritze said. "20 Kenyon Street has been that safe space for so many of us for 40-plus years. Gay, straight, allies, friends, family and friends of friends have all felt at home and loved there. Myself, Marco (Moura) and Matt (Spinx), along with our dedicated team, continue to do everything possible to provide that safe space and bring all of us back together ASAP.”

Fritze also acknowledged the delays in opening, noting that obstacles have been created by external challenges. However, the team remains committed to making The Gallery Bar a reality.

“We see and feel the support and also the frustration that our LGBTQ and ally community feels," she said.

What to Expect on Opening Night:

• 22 local artist contributors
• 57 pieces of artwork on display
• Ambient music from DJ Nicole
• 2 pay-to-play pool tables
• Raffle tables
• Specialty mocktail bar

The $50 VIP experience includes the early access, charcuterie sleeve, one delicious mocktail, one gold raffle ticket and five standard raffle tickets. VIP guests are welcome to stay after 9 when general admission opens for $10.

With its combination of art, music and community, The Gallery Bar is ready to become a beloved cultural hub in New Bedford, offering a space where everyone can feel at home— no alcohol required.

In anticipation of the grand opening, The Gallery Bar will host a special bar takeover event on Thursday, September 5, at The Vault on Purchase Street, 9 to midnight. Guests can get an exclusive taste of the many delicious drinks the bar will soon offer.

"Our gracious host and sponsor, The Vault, will be serving their delicious food until 10 p.m., and their incredible bartending staff will be slinging our signature cocktails and mocktails until midnight," The Gallery Bar team said.

Additionally, branded shirts and hats will be available for purchase, with all proceeds from both the signature menu and merchandise going directly to benefit The Gallery Bar.