New Bedford Whaling Park marks 30th anniversary

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park will mark its 30th anniversary on Thursday, November 12, with programs from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Activities include crafts, cake, traditional Iñupiat dancing, a presentation and a question-and-answer session.

What this means for your visit

Visitors can begin at the Visitor Center, where they may create a watercolor keepsake. That activity is available from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

From 4:00 to 5:30 PM, the 1850s Ladies will lead a party hat activity at the Junior Ranger Station. An anniversary cake cutting follows from 5:30 to 6:00 PM.

Partners from the Iñupiat Heritage Center in Utqiaġvik, Alaska, will present traditional Iñupiat dancing from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. The program will also examine traditional and modern Iñupiat whale hunting, links between Utqiaġvik and New Bedford, and life in Utqiaġvik. It concludes with a question-and-answer period and open discussion.

Visitors may also explore New Bedford and gather anniversary stamps at participating sites through October 2027.

Background

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established on November 12, 1996. Its 30th anniversary theme is “People, Places, and Possibilities,” recognizing those involved in creating the park, locations connected to the city’s history and future opportunities.

The park works with community partners to preserve New Bedford’s historic character and interpret stories connected to the American whaling industry. Its programs also address global immigration, the Underground Railroad, women’s history, architecture and art.

The Iñupiat Heritage Center is an affiliated site of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Its representatives are traveling from Utqiaġvik to participate in the anniversary celebration and discuss the continuing traditions of Iñupiat whaling.

Source: National Park Service news release, November 5, 2026.