No Kings Protest, Habitat for Humanity Lottery Top New Bedford Stories

Recap of the most-read stories in New Bedford last week, including a major protest, a new affordable home, and a restaurant tradition.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:03am

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The third No Kings protest in New Bedford's Buttonwood Park attracted an estimated 1,400 people, surpassing the attendance of the first two protests. A new affordable single-family home is being built in New Bedford with a $150,000 construction grant, and the winner will be selected through a lottery. Century House, a long-standing family-owned restaurant, is known for its popular Easter buffet. Additionally, the Black Whale restaurant hosted an event to connect independent restaurateurs and the workforce.

Why it matters

These stories highlight the diverse community events, initiatives, and local businesses that are shaping the New Bedford area. The No Kings protests demonstrate the continued public interest and activism around social justice issues, while the Habitat for Humanity home and Century House restaurant showcase the city's efforts to support affordable housing and preserve local culinary traditions.

The details

The third No Kings protest in New Bedford's Buttonwood Park on Rockdale Avenue attracted an estimated 1,400 people, surpassing the attendance of the first two protests which drew over 400 and 1,000 participants respectively. The protest aimed to raise awareness about social justice issues. Meanwhile, Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity is building a new 1,450-square-foot, two-story affordable single-family home with three bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms at 1256 Pleasant St. The home will be awarded to a qualified, income-eligible family through a lottery. Century House, a family-owned restaurant that has been in business for 52 years, is known for its popular Easter buffet and other holiday gatherings. The Black Whale restaurant also hosted an event to connect independent restaurateurs and the workforce, discussing challenges such as staffing and supporting immigrant workers.

  • The third No Kings protest took place on Rockdale Avenue in Buttonwood Park.
  • The second No Kings protest was held at Buttonwood Park in October 2025.
  • The first No Kings protest was held at Hazelwood Park in June 2025.

The players

No Kings

A series of protests held in New Bedford to raise awareness about social justice issues.

Buzzards Bay Area Habitat for Humanity

A non-profit organization that is building a new affordable single-family home in New Bedford.

Century House

A long-standing, family-owned restaurant in New Bedford known for its popular holiday buffets and events.

Black Whale

A waterfront restaurant in New Bedford that hosted an event to connect independent restaurateurs and the workforce.

Mass Restaurants United

An organization that supported the event hosted by the Black Whale to assist independent restaurants.

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What they’re saying

“Century House is a tradition in our community. It's family owned. We've been in business for 52 years. My parents before, we're a second generation now. We work very hard making sure we produce the best product we can.”

— Jeffrey Goulart, President and Co-Owner, Century House

The takeaway

These stories showcase the vibrant community life in New Bedford, from grassroots activism and affordable housing initiatives to the enduring legacy of local businesses. They highlight the city's efforts to support its diverse population, preserve its cultural traditions, and foster a sense of civic engagement.