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Dive into a Halloween-themed afternoon at the Whaling Museum, where maritime history meets spooky fun! Discover the “monsters”—for centuries sailors returned from the sea with tales of terrifying creatures lurking in the deep. Many of these “monsters” were based on partial sightings of real animals — magnified by fear, imagination, and the perils of whaling life.Kraken – The legendary giant squid, said to drag ships beneath the waves. Modern science confirms colossal squids (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) do exist, with eyes the size of dinner plates.
Leviathan – A biblical sea serpent, sometimes described as a monstrous whale. Likely inspired by sperm whales, which can grow over 60 feet long and dive a mile deep.
Sea Serpents – Frequently reported in the 18th and 19th centuries, often likely sightings of oarfish, long ribbon-like fish that can exceed 30 feet.
Merfolk & Sirens – Rooted in sightings of manatees and dugongs, transformed into eerie tales by sailors’ imaginations.
Ghost Whales – Pale, scarred whales that evaded harpoons inspired legends and stories like Mocha Dick, the real-life inspiration for Moby-Dick.
These monsters capture both the mystery of the deep ocean and the very real dangers of whaling voyages. This program is free with Museum admission.
SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES:
3:00 PM – Monster Hunt & Crafts Begin
Themed scavenger hunt: find the “monsters” hidden throughout the Museum
Make-your-own Kraken tentacles using pipe cleaners and paper crafts
3:30 PM – Deep – an Animated Sci-Fi Adventure on Screen | Runtime 92 min, PG)
In a deeply flooded, post-apocalyptic future, humanity has evacuated Earth—and marine creatures must fend for themselves. Deep, a curious dumbo octopus and grandson of the wise Kraken, discovers human artifacts that spark reckless curiosity. When his prank traps his colony, Deep teams up with an anglerfish (Evo) and a neurotic shrimp (Alice) to set things right. Their journey leads them through the Titanic, submerged New York City, and perilous encounters—including a dance-off with a yeti crab and a sinister “Ark-3” plot to freeze aquatic life. With courage, unlikely friendships (including a vegetarian moray eel), and help from a mighty white whale named Nathan, they embark on an undersea quest to save their home.
5:00 PM – Haunted Whaleship Costume Parade
Spooky Costume Parade to and from the Lagoda whaleship – treats will be available after the parade on the way out at the front entrance.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA, United States, Massachusetts 02740
