Programs & Events
MAY
Thursday, May 7, 2pm
House Tour
Enjoy a 45-minute guided tour of the Rotch-Jones-Duff mansion with an RJD Docent. Free with the price of admission.
Saturday, May 9, 1pm – 3pm
MOTHER’S DAY TEA
Enjoy a Spring outing in the historic garden of the Museum. Parties of two to eight people are welcome for seating under the tent. Your ticket fee includes tea, tea sandwiches, desserts, and admission to the Museum House. Spring hats and dress encouraged! Tickets are $45 for Museum Members and $50 for the Public and must be purchased by May 2. Tea service by Rescue Cafe.
Thursday, May 14, 6pm
Living The Old House Dream
With WHALE
Historic homes can be unique, charming, beautiful, and intimidating maintenance and restoration projects. At this talk, hear from an expert about best practices, processes, and resources and gain insight into preserving an older home. Part of Preservation AHA!
Tuesday, May 19, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Modern Music Concert in the Garden
Featuring New Bedford High School Jazz Band, Steel Band, and Rock Band- This concert features student musicians from New Bedford High School performing various pieces of jazz, and contemporary repertoire from the last 100 years. The New Bedford High School Jazz Band is an after-school ensemble directed by Tim Mason specializing in multiple styles of jazz and improvisation. The New Bedford High School Steel Band is an after-school band, grades 6-8, conducted by Lee Dias. They perform contemporary music steeped in the traditions of Trinidad and Tobago. The New Bedford High School Rock Band is directed by Tom O’Leary and performs tasteful modern music from different eras of Rock and Roll History. Free admission; general seating on the lawn and patio.
Wednesday, May 20, noon
Family Storytime
With the New Bedford Free Public Library
See January listing for details.
JUNE
Tuesday, June 9, 6:30pm
Garden Tour
Rick Finneran, RJD’s Lead Gardener and an American Rose Society certified rosarian, gives a 45-minute tour in the garden, highlighting what’s in bloom and the hidden gems on the property. Free.
Friday, June 12, 7pm – 10pm
Luminosity is this year’s annual garden party at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum to raise mission-supporting funds. Guests will gather in the newly illuminated historic garden to enjoy performances, refreshment and the historic ambiance of the estate. As the sun sets, the gardens will begin to glow with newly installed landscape lighting, a recent improvement made to increase public access to the property. Sparkles, silver, and gold dress and accessories are encouraged. Your ticket fee includes a donation to the Museum, as well as performances, food and beverages. Proceeds from this event support the upkeep and accessibility of the RJD gardens.
Tickets are available to purchase online here or by calling the museum at (508) 997-1401. They are available in a three tiered pricing range. You are encouraged to purchase your ticket at the price that you are able to afford.
Wednesday, June 17, noon
Family Storytime
With the New Bedford Free Public Library
See January listing for details.
NEW DATE Tuesday, June 30, 4:30pm – 8:30pm
Slice of History Civics Fair
Drop by our beautiful house and gardens for a “slice of history” as well as a slice of pizza! Engage with your community all while learning about local history.. Community organizations will be present to distribute information on everything from voter registration to local history. The fair will also feature a program of guest speakers talking about community engagement. This program is a part of Civic Season, through Made By Us. Contributing organizations and speakers will be announced closer to the event.
Are you a local organization that wants to table? Reach out to Lauren Pothier at lpothier [at] rjdmuseum [dot] org / (508) 997-1401
