Fall River’s Narrows Center Celebrates 25 Years of Top-Tier Music and Community Evolution

The logo of the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River says it all: "Music That Matters, Art That Inspires, and Commitment to Community."

The Narrows has been building on that mission for the last 25 years.

Events Coordinator Ian Arieta visited Townsquare Sunday to talk about the 25-year history of Fall River's music and art center and some plans for the future.

A 25-Year Legacy of Music and Waterfront Growth

The Narrows at 16 Anawan Street is located in a refurbished mill building. It is perhaps best known as a music venue, and during its 25-year history it has hosted some top names in popular music, including Richie Havens, Susan Tedeschi, Roseanne Cash, and coming up later this month, Los Lobos.

"It's been a great history," Arieta said. "We've seen Anawan Street and the Waterfront really build up, and it's been fun for me, personally, to be a part of it for the past four years."

Expanding Beyond Music with Artist Studios and Theater

The Narrows is more than just a music venue, with theater, art galleries, and comedy also featured. "On our second floor, we have developed 10 independent studios, half of which are currently filled with artists," Arieta said. "Eventually we are hoping to see our first floor developed and contribute to making the waterfront area a walkable, active part of the SouthCoast experience."

Courtesy Narrows Center for the Arts

Summer Evenings in the Park: Free Music and Groceries

The Narrows Center for the Arts is teaming with the Bristol County Savings Bank to present the 2026 Summer Evenings in the Park. The free events will take place on Wednesday evenings in eight Fall River parks in July and August featuring music, food, crafts and fun.

READ MORE: Fall River Summer Evenings in the Park 2026 Lineup

The Narrows will also be partnering with Greater Fall River Food Bank, Citizens for Citizens, and Angels Anonymous to provide a free bag of groceries for families attending the event.

"We felt that if we wanted to fulfill our commitment to this community through music and art, we would have to go where the people are at," Arieta said. "It's really fun to see families show up, and follow us around each week from neighborhood to neighborhood. It's a blessing."

Concert Schedule Kicks Off at Ruggles Park

The first Summer Evenings concert is Wednesday, July 8, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Ruggles Park. The Southcoast Brass Band will perform and it's all free.

Arieta admitted he's keeping a close eye on cultural happenings in New Bedford. He has attended meetings with organizations in the Whaling City and sees many things that Fall River can mimic. "Though Fall River might have fewer active arts organizations right now, we are hungry to catch up," he said.

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