The Whaling City Festival is back July 11-14. Here is what to expect.
NEW BEDFORD — The Whaling City Festival is back to kick off another season of celebrating New Bedford. From July 11-14, Buttonwood Park will transform its festival grounds to include carnival rides, food stands, games, a vendor market and activities for the whole family.
Established in 1970, the festival is a nonprofit organization that has continuously allowed the city to give back to those in the community that supports it. Funds are donated to local charities and high school scholarships, with an emphasis this year on creating a kid-friendly section, perfect for the younger generations.
Here is what you need to know before you go:
When and where is the Whaling City festival
The festival will be held from noon to 8:30 p.m., July 11 to July 14 at Buttonwood Park, 1 Oneida St., New Bedford.
Can I purchase carnival wristbands online
People purchasing wristbands or megapasses online must present their tickets at the entrance in order to get in.
More: Eight unique cocktails in New Bedford that are a must-try. Here's all the details.
Wristbands and megapasses are only valid for the days and times listed, and the rides, food, and games may change. According to the fiestashow website, wristbands, valid for one day use from noon to 4 p.m., are $30 online, and $35 on site per person. The megapass, valid for unlimited rides for the entire day of your choice, is $40 online, and $45 on-site per person.
No refunds will be given under any circumstances. Exclusions and restrictions may be applied at any time.
Ride tickets are also available at the fair.
Check out the Facebook page for more updates.
Here's what you can ride and play
Rides include the Spider Wheel, Lucky Lizzy, Zero Gravity, Hyper Spin, Spinning Coaster, Fire Ball, Thunder Bolt, Zipper, Top Gun, Super Slide, Rockin' Tug, Dizzy Dragons, Vortex, Magic Maze, Crazy Bus, Freak Out, Carousel, and the Dalmatian Bounce.
There are also tons of games to play with prizes including balloon darts, ring toss and a fishing game and more. There will also be live pro wrestling along with a classic car and bike show.
When is the Whaling City Festival car show
The Whaling City Festival's fourth annual car show will be held on Sunday, July 14, from noon to 3 p.m. Registration is from 8 a.m. to noon.
When is the Whaling City Festival pro wrestling
New England Ring Gladiators return to The Whaling City Festival on July 12, 13, and 14 with five free events, including the second annual Reverend Redemption Rumble on Saturday. Bell times are Friday at 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 2 and 6 p.m. New WCF Tag Team and WCF Champions will be crowned.
What's on the menu?
Guests can expect several food options such as a fries, cotton candy, fried dough and ice cream. There will also be several local vendors from the SouthCoast offering food and shopping opportunities.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports.Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Things to do in New Bedford: 2024 Whaling City Festival this weekend
