One of the many things that makes Mattapoisett and the South Coast feel so special is the way the community comes together outdoors. Whether it’s walking the harbor at sunrise, gathering for summer concerts at Shipyard Park, spending the day at the beach, or biking the scenic Mattapoisett Rail Trail, life here has a way of slowing things down and bringing people together.

This Sunday, May 31st beginning at 10 AM, the Tour de Crème returns for its 8th year; a favorite South Coast tradition that celebrates cycling, community, local businesses, and the beautiful coastal landscape that makes this area so loved by residents and visitors alike.

Hosted to support both the Friends of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail and the Mattapoisett Land Trust, the ride brings together more than 400 cyclists of all ages to travel through picturesque South Coast farmland, charming coastal villages, waterfront roads, and some of the region’s most scenic countryside.

Riders can choose from 9, 25, or 47-mile routes, making it perfect for casual riders, families, and experienced cyclists alike. Along the way, participants enjoy stops at some of the South Coast’s favorite creameries and pop-ups including Seaport Ice Cream Slip, Country Whip, The Robin’s Nest, Captain Bonney’s, West Island Creamery, plus special treats from Dorothy Cox Ice Cream, McGraw’s Back Porch, and Fieldstone Market Ice Cream Stand.

The ride begins at the Mattapoisett Town Beach and finishes at Munro Preserve Park with a lively Seaside Party where the community gathers to cheer on riders and celebrate another successful year. Food trucks including The Oxcart and KONO will be onsite serving food and refreshments throughout the afternoon.

Funds raised help continue the expansion and maintenance of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail and preserve the natural beauty and outdoor spaces cared for by the Mattapoisett Land Trust  places that have become such an important part of everyday life on the South Coast.

The Mattapoisett Rail Trail itself has become one of the most scenic and beloved trails in the region, connecting people of all ages to the shoreline, conservation land, local businesses, and neighboring communities. It’s more than a trail it’s become part of the lifestyle here.

Events like Tour de Crème are a reminder of what makes the South Coast so unique: beautiful coastal scenery, strong community spirit, locally owned businesses, and a shared appreciation for the outdoors.

Whether you’re riding, volunteering, or simply stopping by the seaside celebration, all are welcome to be part of this wonderful South Coast tradition.

Another reminder that some of the best summer traditions happen right here on the South Coast.

Have fun!

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

Creating outdoor spaces that invite you to slow down, gather together and enjoy being home.

There’s something about Memorial Day weekend that feels like the unofficial beginning of summer on the South Coast. After months of cold weather we begin opening the windows, bringing the patio furniture back outside and imagining long summer evenings under the glow of lanterns and patio lights.

Creating a welcoming backyard space doesn’t have to mean a major renovation or expensive landscaping project. Often it’s the smaller touches that completely change how a space feels.

Oversized flower pots overflowing with color instantly brighten patios and porches. Fresh herbs tucked into planters near the grill not only look beautiful but add fresh flavor to summer meals. Cozy seating areas, Adirondack chairs around a firepit, a hammock tucked into a quiet corner or even a small café table for morning coffee can make outdoor spaces feel like an extension of the home.

Sometimes we spend so much time maintaining our homes that we forget to truly experience them. Summer is short here on the South Coast and there’s something special about creating outdoor spaces that encourage us to slow down, gather together and enjoy where we are.

Maybe this is the summer for:

·       Friday night cookouts with neighbors

·       Backyard movie nights

·       Lawn games and relaxed afternoons

·       Fresh herbs picked straight from the patio pots

·       Quiet mornings outside before the day begins

·       Firepit evenings that turn into conversations long after sunset

One of the things that makes Memorial Day weekend especially meaningful in this area are the traditions that quietly return year after year.

A favorite local tradition shared by both Mattapoisett and Rochester is the annual Mattapoisett River Boat Race, a family event that has been taking place since 1934. Generations gather along the riverbanks to watch homemade boats make their way down the Mattapoisett River toward the harbor, marking the beginning of another South Coast summer.

It’s traditions like these that remind us the best summer memories are often the simplest ones spent gathering with family and friends, enjoying the outdoors and appreciating the place we call home.

And after the races are over, everyone heads back to backyard cookouts, lawn chairs, glowing lanterns and another summer season just beginning.

Soft lighting also transforms a backyard at night. Lanterns, solar lights, mason jars with twinkly lights and candles create the kind of atmosphere that naturally encourages everyone to stay outside a little longer.

Have fun!

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

Every year it happens the same way.

One minute it’s early spring and we’re waiting for warmer days… then suddenly summer arrives and we realize the backyard still looks like it’s waking up from winter.

The cushions need cleaning, the grill needs attention, weeds appeared overnight, and somehow the outdoor spaces we dreamed about enjoying all winter still aren’t quite ready.

But creating a backyard you love doesn’t have to mean a complete makeover or expensive renovation. Sometimes it’s simply about refreshing the spaces you already have and adding a few thoughtful touches that make you want to slow down, stay outside longer, and invite people over.

Whether your ideal summer afternoon is reading quietly in the shade, hosting friends for seafood on the grill, or watching the sunset with a glass of wine while the dogs run around the yard, now is the perfect time to get started.

First… Don’t Try To Do Everything At Once

The quickest way to feel overwhelmed is thinking the entire backyard needs to be perfect immediately.

Instead, focus on creating one inviting area first.

Maybe it’s:

• a cozy seating corner- I love to add blankets and pillows for comfort and color
• your patio dining area
• a hammock spot under a tree
• a firepit gathering space
• or even just a clean front porch with flowers and comfortable chairs

Once one space feels finished, the rest starts coming together naturally.

Visit local nurseries, thrift shops, farmers markets, for some fun finds for the spaces you are creating. 

Easy Backyard Refresh Ideas With Big Impact

Power Wash Everything

It’s amazing how much cleaner and brighter decks, patios, walkways and outdoor furniture look after a good wash.  I have used a lightweight battery power washer and it was so easy and made such a difference once it was all freshly washed up. 

Add Warm Lighting

String lights instantly make a backyard feel magical and inviting. Solar lanterns, pathway lights, and candles also create a relaxed summer atmosphere.  Solar lights are my favorite! 

Refresh Outdoor Pillows & Cushions

 Grab a few new pillows to give your old furniture a new look.

Bring Music Outside

Soft background music changes the entire mood of a backyard gathering.

Add One Unexpected Touch

An outdoor bar cart, vintage cooler, oversized umbrellas, outdoor shower, herb planters, or even a simple galvanized tub filled with drinks can make your space feel fun and personal.

Ideas For Lazy Summer Afternoons

Not every backyard moment has to involve entertaining.

Some of the best summer memories are the quiet ones.

• Afternoon naps in a hammock
• Reading in a shaded corner
• Morning coffee outside before the day starts
• Watching fireflies appear at dusk
• Gardening with music playing
• Outdoor movie nights
• Barefoot evenings around a firepit
• Dogs stretched out in the grass after a beach walk

Sometimes the best use of a backyard is simply giving yourself permission to slow down.

Simple Entertaining Ideas That Don’t Feel Stressful

A few easy favorites:

• Lobster roll or taco bar
• Bring-your-own beach chair gatherings
• Backyard picnic tables with paper lanterns
• S’mores night with neighbors
• Sunday afternoon spritz party
• Ice cream social after the beach
• Outdoor charcuterie night with local cheeses and seafood

People remember how a space felt far more than whether everything matched perfectly.

Final Thought

Summer on the South Coast goes by fast.

Before schedules fill up and weekends disappear, take a little time to create an outdoor space that makes you want to stay home sometimes too.

The best backyards aren’t necessarily the fanciest ones.

They’re the ones where people gather, relax, laugh, and create memories all season long. 

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

The month of May on the South Coast brings a rhythm of its own—where history, creativity, and coastal beauty all come together. Whether you’re looking to wander through a hidden garden, meet local artists, or simply spend the day somewhere new, these upcoming events are worth adding to your calendar.

May 14 — Living the Old House Dream
Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum, New Bedford | 5:00-6:00 pm | Free Event

Step inside one of New Bedford’s most iconic historic homes for an evening that blends architecture, storytelling, and preservation. Hosted in partnership with Waterfront Historic Area League during AHA! Night, this special talk features homeowner and preservation enthusiast Laura Parish.

She’ll share the real journey behind restoring a historic home, the vision, the challenges, and the rewards of bringing old spaces back to life. It’s the kind of evening that leaves you seeing historic homes (and even your own) a little differently.

May 16 — Spindle City Arts Trolley Loop
Heritage Park- Fall River |10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Free Event

Spend the day exploring Fall River’s creative side with this relaxed, hop-on, hop-off trolley experience. The route connects a collection of galleries, working studios, and cultural spaces making it easy to discover places you might otherwise miss.

Stops include Fall River Heritage State Park, Narrows Center for the Arts, and Fall River Museum of Contemporary Art. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to meet local artists, step into exhibitions, and experience the energy of a city that’s quietly becoming a creative hub.

Hidden Gardens & Picnic Spots to Discover

One of the simplest ways to enjoy May is finding a quiet place to sit, take in the view, and stay a little longer than planned. The South Coast is filled with tucked-away gardens, shoreline paths, and peaceful corners that feel like your own private escape.

Here are a few to seek out this month: 

Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens, New Bedford

A hidden treasure out of nowhere  is  6 acres of beautiful gardens, mature trees, natural settings with sitting areas for the perfect quiet picnic. Available free to the public. A must see and currently the tulips are in full bloom. Each month brings a new beauty to discover. 

https://thetrustees.org/place/allen-c-haskell-public-gardens/ 

Dunseith Gardens- Mattapoisett Land Trust 

The spot is more known as the home of the Iconic landmark - Salty the Seahorse

A 3 acre park that offers picnic tables and a gazebo for a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic 

The Sawmill — Garden Paths & Riverside Calm- 32 Mill Road, Acushnet

https://www.savebuzzardsbay.org/places-to-go/the-sawmill/#:~:text=At%20the%20edge%20of%20New,at%20the%20Acushnet%20River%20Reserve.

A bit more tucked away, this spot offers a blend of curated gardens and natural woodland along the river. Small bridges, winding paths, and shaded areas make it feel like a quiet retreat.

It’s an ideal place for those days when you want a picnic with a little more privacy and a lot more greenery.

Damarest Lloyd State Park - Dartmouth

https://www.mass.gov/locations/demarest-lloyd-state-park

A best kept secret with access to beach, shorelines and grassy picnic areas.  

Get outdoors and no need to travel too far to find these hidden gems. 

You don’t always have to go far to feel like you’ve gotten away. Sometimes it’s just about choosing a new spot, bringing something simple, and giving yourself the time to enjoy it.

That’s really what Mattapoisett Living is all about.

Ned’s Point Light — A Classic for a Reason

While well known, there’s a reason this spot remains a favorite. Open green space, sweeping ocean views, and that steady coastal breeze make it one of the best places to lay out a blanket and stay awhile.

And this May, there’s even more reason to stop by. Weekend mornings at Ned’s Point are coming to life again with a special local gathering series—an opportunity to start your day outdoors, connect with others, and take in the beauty of the harbor in a whole new way. The kind of simple, feel-good experience that perfectly captures the spirit of the season.

Pack a light picnic, bring your coffee, or just come as you are—it’s these small moments that often become the most memorable.

Enjoy!

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

  Photo courtesy of New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

At Mattapoisett Living, it’s all about slowing down just enough to appreciate where we are and making the most of all that surrounds us.

Our days tend to fill quickly with the usual work, errands, responsibilities and before we know it, the weeks pass by. But May is the perfect time to step away from the routine and reconnect with everything the South Coast has to offer.

Longer days, warmer air, and a full calendar of local events make it easy to get out, meet new people, explore new places, and even learn a bit more about the history and charm of our coastal communities.

Here’s a thoughtfully curated mix of ways to enjoy the month of May:

May 1 & 15th Mattapoisett Wharf Cruise NIghts

Come enjoy beautiful waterfront views, classic cars, and great company at one of the most picturesque cruise night locations on the South Coast! 5-9pm at town wharf and shipyard park. 

May 02  New Bedford Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival. 

At Fort Tabor, New Bedford Family Event. Noon-6pm. Featuring some of the area's most popular food trucks, Craft beers, and Artisan’s booths. 

May 03  Cinco de Mayo event

Salsa music with dance lessons included- advance ticket purchase required

Westport Grange- 951 Main Rd, Westport

May 8-17  Art Week Southcoast 

Events throughout Fall River and Marion. Check out Artweeksouthcoast.org for specific events. May 9 - Spring Open Studios at Hatch Street Studios in New Bedford. 

A one day public event inside the historic mill buildings at 88-90 Hatch Street to explore the creative spaces where artists work every day. Meet the creators. 

May 09- Marion Art Center

Free bike tune-up 9:30-12:00 registration is recommended. Get your bike ready for the Tour de Creme

May 16 & 17 MA250 Harbor of Courage

Set on Fairhaven’s scenic waterfront- at historic Fort Phoenix bringing history to life.

Re-enactment on 5/16 at 2pm, 5/17 at sunset the cannon firing and 10 gun salute.

May 30  A Festa by the Sea- Water, Whaleboats and Winners

A free waterfront celebration held in partnership with the Community Boating Center and the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society.  Event held at the Community Boating Center at 1641 Padanaram Ave, New Bedford.

Opportunity to get on the water and experience something new. Family Friendly waterfront activities. Row on an authentic Azorean whaleboat with the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society, along with paddleboarding, kayaking, food trucks and activities for kids.

Winners of the Pasteis de Nata Snackdown will be announced as well. The South Coast 2026 Snackdown a tasty contest to vote on your favorite Portuguese custard tart. For a list of bakeries to visit go to Nbfoodtours.com/snackdown.

May 31 Tour de Creme

Sponsored by the Mattapoisett Land Trust in partnership with the Friends of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail. Proceeds from the event support efforts to extend the bike path to Marion and to enhance trails across the Land Trust’s preserves. Choose from 3 trails, 47 miles, 25 miles and 9 miles. All trails connect to ice cream stands and creameries. A fun day that ends with food trucks, music and a time to celebrate.  Go to tourdecreme.org to register. 

May 31 Fins, Flavors and Stories

A full day experience with New Bedford Food Tours and the fishing heritage center. You will tour the docks, visit the heritage museum, seamans bethel and tour downtown with a guided food tour. Go to nbfoodtours.com/fin for full details and to register.

Have fun exploring the South Coast this May!

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

There’s something about this time of year when everything starts to come back to life that naturally pulls us outside. Consider Earth week a reminder to start getting out more for walks, starting a small garden, or gathering with friends doing something that feels good and connects you a little more to where you live. 

Here are a few ideas to carry you through spring:

WALK, RIDE OR CAR POOL FOR A DAY

If walking or biking to your destination isn’t realistic, consider organizing a simple carpool for the day. Even one less car on the road makes a difference—reducing emissions, fuel use, and overall congestion.

It’s also a small shift that often turns into something more—slowing down your day just enough to notice your surroundings or even connect with someone you might not have otherwise

 VISIT FARMER’S MARKETS AND LOCAL FARMS

There’s nothing quite like fresh, local food this time of year. Visiting a farm or joining a CSA (community-supported agriculture) program connects you directly to where your food comes from. Some local farms offer a delivery service as well. 

To name a few both in Dartmouth, Round the Bend Farm and Brix Bounty Farm offer CSA’s and host market stands at their location. They can often be found at local farmers markets. Part of the experience is getting to know your farmers.

START A SMALL GARDEN

A visit to Butterfly Effect Farm in Westport is worth the trip. Specializing in native, ecologically beneficial plants, it’s the kind of place that changes how you think about your yard. Opening Day is Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10-3pm. 

Owner Emily Dutra is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate—whether you’re starting small or looking to transform your landscape into something more natural and low-maintenance.

If a garden seems too overwhelming then perhaps purchase some small herb plants and transfer into your own decorated pots. They are perfect for a sunny windowsill in your home or once the weather warms up on your porch. They also make great gift ideas especially for an Earth Day gift to neighbors and friends. 

This brings me to one of my favorite ideas you can do this Spring….

HOST A SPRING “SWAP” GATHERING

This might be one of the simplest and most fun ways to celebrate Earth Week.

Invite a small group of friends and have each person bring something thoughtful to share with everyone else.

Ideas could include:

• Seed packets or seedlings
• A bit of sourdough starter
• Homemade vanilla extract or jam
• Local honey
• Fresh herbs
• Painted pots or handmade items

Everyone leaves with a collection of meaningful, earth-friendly items and it naturally turns into a relaxed, memorable gathering. Add a simple craft or light lunch, and you’ve created something special without overthinking it.

START A SIMPLE COMPOST SYSTEM

Even a small countertop bin or backyard setup can make a difference. Composting reduces waste while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

It’s one of those habits that starts small and quickly becomes second nature.

Another option for compost is to purchase at a local farm. A few to mention are Sunnynook farm in Rochester and Copicut Farms in Dartmouth. 

 VISIT A LOCAL LAND TRUST TRAIL OR TRUSTEES PROPERTY

Check out Mattapoisett  land trust properties for hikes in the woods and along the seashores. A popular visit is to Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth for the field of daffodils. They do charge a fee that goes towards the DNRT organization. 

PLAN A LOW-KEY COASTAL DAY

Check out some new beaches for you next beach day. Most do require parking permits so perhaps check out before the summer season begins. Gooseberry Island in Westport is a great one to check out and does not require a permit for parking. Make it a day trip to Little Compton to Gooseberry berry. A few closer beaches worth checking out are West Island in Fairhaven and Shell Point Beach in Onset. Along the Mattapoisett Rail Trail is Goodspeed Island, a great local option for shell hunting and a picnic day. 

Pack a reusable picnic, bring a blanket, and spend a few hours by the water. Walk, sit, read no agenda needed. However it’s always fun to walk the beach and gather shells, sea glass and drift wood for use later on in decorating or crafts. 

Sometimes the best way to appreciate where you live is simply to slow down and be in it.

Earth Week doesn’t have to be about doing everything differently—it’s about noticing what’s already around you and making a few small choices that feel good.

And often, those small shifts are what make a home—and a community—feel even more meaningful.

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

On April 20, 2026, Andrew Romano of BOLD Real Estate, Inc in Mattapoisett, MA was selected as the newest member of NAR's top REALTOR list for 30 Under 30! 

There were 280 applications for this year’s 30 Under 30 class, and the 30 who emerged are thriving for many of the same reasons agents and brokers have always succeeded—they are committed to creating the best possible experience for buyers and sellers. Their niches cover everything from modular homes to luxury properties, but every one of them is going out of their way to add value for their clients and their community.

From those initial 280 applicants, the judges narrowed the field to 50 remarkable finalists. Then, April 8-15, they turned decision-making over to the public to award one Web Choice winner a guaranteed position in this year’s 30 Under 30. The remaining 29 honorees were hand selected by the judges from the original 50 finalists.

We are so proud that our very own Andrew Romano was one of those selected for this prestigious award! 

Andrew is deeply committed to serving the LGBTQ+ community and creating a real estate experience that is inclusive, affirming and grounded in trust. As an openly gay man, he understands firsthand the fears and barriers that members of the community may face, particularly concerns around discrimination during one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives. For many, those concerns alone can be enough to delay or prevent taking the first step toward homeownership. Andrew takes great pride in providing a space where clients feel supported, respected and heard, and in guiding them confidently from their initial questions through a successful closing.

In addition, as a millennial, many individuals in his network believe homeownership is out of reach. Andrew finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients move beyond that belief by connecting them with trusted lenders, developing realistic financial road maps and remaining by their side throughout what can be a lengthy and emotional process.

Andrew does not just ‘talk-the-talk’ when it comes to being involved in the community and in policy that shapes homeownership.  Andrew is a former member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and a current member of the Select Board in his Town.  Further he is an officer in the local real estate association and participates in the Massachusetts and National associations as well. 

If you want to be represented by a Top Producing and knowledgeable Realtor with a sense of humor, reach out to Andrew!

Andrew Romano

Cell: 774-473-4049

Email: andrew@boldrealtors.com

There’s something about the first bike ride of the season—the one where you pull your bike out of the garage, pump up the tires, and remember how good it feels to just get outside again. Today was that day for me, and there’s no better place to start than along the bike path. 

One of the things I love most about living in Mattapoisett is how easy it is to access the bike path. I can ride straight from home, but if you’re driving in, it’s worth planning ahead. The Depot Street lot is convenient (and free), but it fills up quickly, especially on those first beautiful spring days.

If you’re looking to turn a simple ride into a full coastal experience, I’d suggest starting your day a little earlier.

_____

Start Your Morning at Fort Phoenix State Reservation

Head to the end of Green Street in Fairhaven and begin your day at Fort Phoenix. Parking is free, and if you arrive early enough, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best sunrise views on the South Coast.

From here, you’re looking out over Buzzards Bay, with clear views of the Palmers Island Lighthouse and fishing boats making their way through the hurricane barrier. It’s quiet, peaceful, and the perfect way to ease into the day before hopping on your bike.

Seasonal restrooms are available, and there’s plenty of space to take a few minutes, breathe it in, and enjoy the view.

_____

Begin Your Ride: The Phoenix Rail Trail

From Fort Phoenix, head back up Green Street to connect with the Phoenix Rail Trail. This paved, relatively flat 4.5-mile trail winds through a mix of residential neighborhoods, farmland, shaded woodland, and what makes this ride so special are those unexpected glimpses of marsh and ocean along the way.

As you ride, there are a few spots worth noting if you feel like exploring. Near Sconticut Neck Road, you’ll find the Little Bay extension, a quieter detour that many people miss. A bit further along on Shaw Road, you’ll see access to Shaw Farm and trails leading into Nasketucket State Reservation. There are bike racks available if you want to lock up and explore on foot follow the path to open fields, marked trails, and shoreline access make it worth coming back for another day.

_____

Crossing Into Mattapoisett

As you continue, the trail transitions into the Mattapoisett Rail Trail—and this is where it really becomes something special.

You’ll ride across an elevated boardwalk with sweeping views of the marsh and inner harbor. It’s one of those stretches where you naturally slow down, take it in, and maybe even stop for a photo. Truly one of the most beautiful sections of rail trail in New England.

The trail carries you past Reservation Golf Club, Shining Tides/YMCA, and Goodspeed Island before ending at Depot Street.

_____

Into the Village & Harbor

From Depot Street, take a right onto Main Street and follow the road along the water toward the wharf and Shipyard Park for the perfect place to take a break.

During the summer months, the Seaport Ice Cream Slip is a favorite stop for coffee, a quick bite, or (of course) ice cream. Seasonal restrooms are also available at the Harbormaster building.

Take your time here. Sit by the water, watch the boats, and enjoy the rhythm of the harbor.

_____

Continue to Ned’s Point

Continue along Water Street, passing the town beach as you make your way toward Ned’s Point Road. Follow the road to the end where you’ll find one of the most iconic spots in town, Ned’s Point Lighthouse.

This is a favorite for many, especially on warm summer days when the ocean breeze offers a welcome break. It’s the perfect place to pause for a picnic, take in the views, and simply relax. Known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, it’s one of those places that keeps people coming back.

_____

A Slow Ride Back Through Town

On your way back toward Depot Street, take a little extra time to ride through the village and appreciate the historic homes and quiet coastal streets.

You’ll pass the Inn at Shipyard Park, a lovely spot to stop for lunch or sit on the porch and take in the harbor views.

_____

One Last Stop in Fairhaven

Before finishing your ride back at Fort Phoenix, make one final stop at the Ice Cream Cottage, a well-earned treat after a full day on the bike. The Ice Cream Cottage re-opens on May 7th this year. 

_____

End Where You Began

Back at Fort Phoenix State Reservation, you can take a little more time to explore. Walk along the hurricane barrier, sit by the beach, or simply wind down and reflect on the day.

_____

A Day That Feels Like More

It’s days like this that remind you why people quietly fall in love with the South Coast. What starts as a simple bike ride turns into something more, a day of coastal views, small discoveries, and a sense of place that’s hard to describe until you experience it yourself.

And for many, it’s exactly these kinds of days that lead to spending more time here… or eventually calling it home.

“I’ve been putting together a collection of my favorite South Coast days—bike rides, beaches, hidden spots, and local favorites. If you’d like the full guide when it’s ready, you can grab it here.”

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

Licensed in MA & RI

508-742-7316 cell

Bold Real Estate Inc.

45 Main Street

Mattapoisett, MA 02739

There’s something special about the Fourth of July in Mattapoisett and one of the town’s most cherished traditions is the annual road race.

The race began in 1971, founded by Bob Gardner, then principal of Old Rochester Regional Junior High School, and his wife Doris. What started as a simple idea to raise funds for student scholarships has grown into a beloved community event that has raised over $200,000 to date. Generations of runners return year after year, and many travel from well beyond the South Coast just to be part of it. It’s not uncommon to see entire families running together, creating memories that span decades.

As the weather warms and summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about lacing up your sneakers. Registration is already underway, with over 120 runners signed up so far. In recent years, participation has exceeded 1,000 runners, and with the Fourth of July falling on a Saturday in 2026, this year’s race is expected to be one of the biggest yet.

Originally a 5-mile course, the race transitioned a few years ago to a 4-mile format—now known as the “4 on the 4th.” Interestingly, shortening the distance has only increased participation, making it even more accessible while preserving the spirit of the event.

The race begins at Shipyard Park, located at 12 Water Street across from the  Inn at Shipyard Park. If you’ve ever noticed the red, white, and blue stripes painted across Water Street, you’ve seen the official start and finish line. In 2020, a plaque was installed there honoring race founder Bob Gardner—a small but meaningful tribute to a lasting legacy.

The course winds through the village, offering a mix of shaded streets and scenic coastal views. Runners are cheered on by enthusiastic spectators, with water stops along the way to keep everyone going. A highlight of the route is the loop around Ned's Point Lighthouse, where the ocean views remind you exactly why this race is so special.

Of course, the race wouldn’t be complete without the iconic t-shirts, always a favorite and made possible through the generous support of local sponsors. This year's t-shirts have a Patriotic theme and may be one of our best one’s yet! 

Registration is online only so register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Mattapoisett/MattapoisettRoadRace

I’ll be there at the registration table handing out t-shirts—keep an eye out for me in this year’s race shirt (with “BOLD” on the back!), proudly representing Bold Real Estate as one of the sponsors.

Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a wonderful way to kick off the Fourth of July in Mattapoisett.  Hope to see you there!

Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor

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