5 Things to Do on the SouthCoast in September 2025

September on the SouthCoast is one of the best times of year—warm days, cooler evenings, and plenty of local events that bring our communities to life. Whether you already live here or are thinking about making the move, here are five things you won’t want to miss this month.

1. New Bedford Working Waterfront Festival

Every September, New Bedford celebrates its fishing heritage with live music, food, boat tours, and cultural exhibits. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to experience the spirit of the nation’s #1 commercial fishing port.

2. Apple & Harvest Festivals – Dartmouth and Westport

September means apple-picking season, and local farms like Alderbrook in Dartmouth and Noquochoke Orchards in Westport host seasonal festivals with cider, hayrides, and family fun. It’s small-town New England at its best.

3. Day Trip to Providence WaterFire

Just 30 minutes from New Bedford, Providence lights up its rivers with WaterFire—a series of bonfires set on the water, paired with music and art. It’s a unique experience and a great way to spend a crisp September evening.

4. Cape Cod Day Trips

September is one of the best times to visit Cape Cod—summer crowds are gone, but the weather is still beautiful. Spend the day exploring Falmouth, walking the National Seashore, or grabbing fresh seafood in Hyannis. It’s all just over an hour from the SouthCoast.

5. Fort Taber Park Sunsets – New Bedford

September sunsets over Buzzards Bay are spectacular. Fort Taber Park offers walking trails, historic views, and the perfect spot to enjoy the changing light. Bring a picnic and soak in the season before the cooler months set in.

🌟 Bonus: Foliage Road Trips to New Hampshire

Looking for a classic New England fall experience? A short drive north will take you to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, where late September kicks off peak foliage season. Scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway are an unforgettable way to see vibrant reds, oranges, and golds while breathing in that crisp mountain air.

Why It Matters if You’re Considering a Move

These events highlight what life is really like here—family-friendly festivals, access to Cape Cod and Providence, and the everyday beauty of living by the water. Beyond affordability, lifestyle is a big reason more people are choosing the SouthCoast.

As of August 2025, the median home price in New Bedford is about $420,000, with Dartmouth averaging $540,000, and Fairhaven around $460,000. When you compare that to Boston’s $780,000 or Providence’s $435,000, the SouthCoast remains one of the most attractive places to buy a home in Massachusetts.