Fri., 1/16, 7 p.m. NB Whaling National Historical Park, 33 William Street. Doors open at 6:30.
A WBZ-TV original documentary, Love & Grease explores the history of Gloucester’s Greasy Pole competition. Each year during the five-day St. Peter’s Fiesta, local men take turns traversing a greased telephone pole suspended horizontally over the Gloucester harbor, attempting to snag a pennant affixed at the end. The tradition was brought to the United States by Italian fishermen in the 19th century. The competition and the Fiesta remain an important part of Gloucester’s fishing and maritime heritage. The film features interviews with past champions and community members, showcasing the event’s history and cultural significance. Prepare for a captivating look at this unusual tradition, from its origins to present-day celebration. Runtime: 49 minutes.
The film screening is a special tie-in with the Center’s ongoing exhibit, Ceremonies & Celebrations, which explores the history of the New Bedford Scallop Festival, Working Waterfront Festival, Blessing of the Fleet, and Fishermen’s Memorial Service.
Register for free at https://fishingheritagecenter.org/dock-u-mentary-love-and-grease/
Hosted in partnership with New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, Dock-u-mentaries is a free film series hosted at the National Park auditorium every third Friday at 7:00pm from October through April. These films explore a variety of themes and topics related to the commercial fishing industry and the working waterfront.
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