Downtown New Bedford to Transform into Winter Wonderland for AHA! Night

AHA! in New Bedford is wrapping up its 2025 calendar on Thursday, December 11, with holiday-themed activities throughout the downtown. The list includes music, crafts and ugly s.

AHA! Director Kim Goddard visited Townsquare Sunday this week to run down the program for the 11th, titled "NB Festive!"

Nordic Winter Wonderland: Sauna, Sauna + Cold Plunge & Fire Pit

The schedule will kick off at the Pour Farm Tavern patio and Wings Court, which will host a Nordic Winter Wonderland. "This is December's AHA! moment," Goddard said. "The feature of the Wonderland is a Finnish sauna and cold plunge, if you can believe it. A group called Tranquil Tides will bring in the sauna, with a changing room, and if you are brave, bring your bathing suit and take a cold plunge."

Goddard said there will be a fire pit to warm up, plus hot chocolate, as well as a fire dancer and a DJ spinning tunes. Also, the Sippican Band, made up of fifth and sixth graders, will be performing at Wings Court.

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Music, Crafts, and Family Fun Across Downtown

If you don't have an ugly Christmas sweater, you can make one during AHA! Night. Goddard said the Beyond House on William Street is hosting a sweater-making event for young adults ages 16-25 starting at 4 p.m.

The United Way of Greater New Bedford is hosting a holiday event at the DeMello International Center, located at 128 Union Street, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Santa will stop by, and visitors can enjoy cookies and crafts. A face-painter will also be on hand.

Memories & Local Makers at Star Store Maker’s Market

The Star Store is opening its doors to celebrate AHA! Night, starting at 4 p.m. Enjoy a community-collaborative window display featuring photographs that capture personal memories, everyday moments, and unique perspectives of the Star Store. Check out the local artisan Maker's Market on the first floor gallery.

Art Exhibit Opening at New Bedford Art Museum

A new exhibit is opening at the New Bedford Art Museum on December 11 honoring the work of three prominent instructors and artists at the former Swain School of Design. The show will feature the work of Willoughby “Bill” Elliott (1943–2016), Severin “Sig" Haines (1946–2023), and Marc St. Pierre (1952–2019). The reception starts at 5 p.m.

Music All Night Long

Music is always a big part of AHA! Night in New Bedford, and December 11 will be no exception. The New Bedford Symphony Crawl will take place at three downtown venues starting at 5 p.m. The music continues with AHA! After Dark with performances at eight separate locations in downtown New Bedford.

Get the Complete NB Festive Rundown

Check out ahanewbedford.org for a complete list of events, times and venues.

If you would like your nonprofit featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.