Something Fishy Summer Program

Now in its 18th year, Something Fishy is a free summer program which has been produced since 2008 by New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center (formerly Working Waterfront Festival) in collaboration with New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park and the Whaling History Alliance. In a one week (30 hour) program, youth learn about the Port of New Bedford from whaling days to the present through hands-on activities in marine science and the arts, daily field trips, and guest presenters.

The program curriculum is designed to provide New Bedford children with an introduction to the history and culture of the working port from whaling days to the present. Something Fishy activities are largely project-based and include hands-on marine science, arts and crafts, games, chantey singing, daily field trips to local maritime sites (Whaling Museum, Seamen’s Bethel, Buzzards Bay Coalition, Eastern Fisheries, Fisherman’s Wharf, etc.), and guest presenters (fishermen, marine scientists, maritime artists and musicians, etc.). The National Park’s Corson Maritime Learning Center  at 33 William Street serves as home base. This location offers easy walking access to most of the field trips.

The Something Fishy Program is open to any New Bedford student who will be in 4th grade during the 2025-2026 school year. Breakfast and lunch are provided for all program participants. Transportation to and from Something Fishy is NOT provided.