Harbor Lights Benefit

The Harbor Lights Benefit is the Whaling Museum’s signature fundraiser and is a significant driver of our ability to raise over $6 million for our operating budget and fulfill our mission to ignite learning through explorations in art, history, science and culture. Funds raised during the Harbor Lights Benefit auction allow us to care for and share the Museum’s unique collections, develop groundbreaking exhibitions, deliver top-quality K-12 education programs, and host a diverse array of public events throughout the year.

Upon the auction's conclusion on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 8:30 PM EST, the winning bidders will be notified via email. Successful bidders must complete their payment by Monday, July 15, 2024 at 12:00 PM EST. Should a winner fail to make the payment within this period, the items will be offered to the next highest bidder, who will then have 24 hours to complete their payment.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum ignites learning through explorations of art, history, science and culture rooted in the stories of people, the region and an international seaport. Anchored in the story of New Bedford’s whaling industry, the New Bedford Whaling Museum documents and shares the diverse stories of this vibrant maritime region and its people, both bygone and current.