AHA! Night: Preservation Celebration

Each May marks National Preservation Month, highlighting the art, history, architecture, and stories that shape New Bedford. AHA! Night on Thursday, May 14, focuses on Preservation Celebration as part of ArtWeek SouthCoast.

The Nathan and Mary Polly Johnson House will open from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for docent-led tours focused on the home’s connection to Frederick and Anna Douglass and abolitionists Nathan and Mary Polly Johnson.

Downtown events include self-guided walking tours, art exhibits, artist talks, free museum admission, live music, and more.

At the library, the annual wash and wax treatment of Bela Pratt’s Whaleman statue runs from 3 to 6 p.m. The library’s art curator will answer questions during the preservation process, and some visitors may be able to help.

Free AHA! docent tours begin at 5 and 5:30 p.m. from the Star Store welcome table. NB Food Tours guides Pam and Victoria will lead walks highlighting downtown history, activities, and hidden gems.

More details at ahanewbedford.org/next-aha