Upcoming Events
All events are at the CHMM unless otherwise noted. Please check below for details.
PLEASE NOTE: The Custom House is a historic structure and is not handicap accessible. Most events take place on the second floor and there is no elevator in the building.
Year-round | Thursday-Saturday: 10-5; Sunday: 12-5
Children's Discovery Center
Did you know kids get into the museum AND the Discovery Center for free?
If you're looking for something to do this winter, stop by the museum for scavenger hunts, crafts, games, puzzles, and more! No need to call ahead - if the museum is open, the Discovery Center is open!
For museum members: if the kids and grandkids need an escape, call us, and we'll do our best to accommodate (even if the museum is closed).
We're pleased to welcome the Boys and Girls Club after-school program for their third year in a row, as well as the Salvation Army after-school program for their first year.
Friday, June 5th | 5:30 pm reception, 6:30 pm lecture
Guardians of the Sea: The Art and Legacy of Ship’s Figureheads” Presented by Figurehead Historian Ryan M. Cooper
Join us for an engaging illustrated lecture exploring the artistry, symbolism, and seafaring legacy of historic ships’ figureheads. Maritime historian and author Ryan M. Cooper will guide attendees through the evolution of these carved bow ornaments—from their mythic origins to their role aboard working vessels of the Age of Sail.
Ryan M. Cooper, originally a Monterey, California resident, worked as a graphic artist for McGraw-Hill Publishing. His interest in maritime history and the figureheads that symbolized the great Age of Sail is inspired by the remains of a long lost square rigger that rested on a nearby beach. He brought that interest to the east coast where he resides on Cape Cod. As a collector and dealer in maritime artifacts, he has acted as a consultant to both collectors and museums.
May 21st or 22nd | 6-8:30 pm
CHMM Volunteer Appreciation Party
July - August | Thursdays, 4-6 pm
Music on the Mall
Local string and wind musicians will play at the iconic Newburyport park as part of “Music on the Mall.” Musicians will perform on successive Thursdays between 4 to 6 p.m. from any bench they choose lining the Bartlet Mall.
These concerts are informal, and so far the list of local artists participating includes E.J. Ouellette, Jack Garvey, Jim Larkin, Jim Grenier, Joe Allwarden, Jon Deuplisea, and Joyce Rains.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Grand Opening for Museum Members: June 18th
The Era of Clipper Ship
A new exhibition exploring one of the most iconic aspects of Newburyport's long history.
First in the Nation: A Victory for Historic Preservation
Celebrate the individuals who saved historic Newburyport, including the Custom House. The museum celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025.
Ink, Iron, & Independence: A Port City at War
Newburyport's Road to Revolution gets revamped, with new and exciting items on display.
June 27th - September 12th | 10am - 1pm
Revolutionary Summer Saturdays
Free, outdoor and indoor programming for kids returns this summer for the 3rd year in a row! Games, crafts, fun, and more!
Stay tuned for more information on Community Partners.
Please note: there will be no kids program on July 4th.
Sponsored in part by Newburyport Bank and the Arakelian Foundation.
July - September | Sundays, 4-6 pm
Summer Concert Series
Join the Custom House on the back lawn for a series of concerts through July and August. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy music on the scenic back lawn, just steps from the Merrimac River.
July 5: Stellwagen Acoustic Duo
July 12: Jack Garvey and Buzzard Bay Buccaneers
July 19: Bossa Jazz Trio: Bossa Nova and jazz blend
July 26: Chuck Walker Trio
August 2: TBD
August 9: Steel drums - Zach Field Studio
August 16: Al Whitney, Roger Kimball Jazz Duo
August 23: Ocaroline - Traditional 17th-century Irish music
August 30: Mark Young Acoustic Duo
September 6: TBD
In partnership with the Firehouse Center for the Arts.
Sunday, July 19 | 2 pm @ Market Square
Reading of the Declaration of Independence
July 19th marks the anniversary of the Declaration's arrival in Newburyport, where it was read to the public in Market Square. Join the Custom House, the Museum of Old Newbury, and other community partners for a recreation of the reading, as well as other readings throughout the downtown.
For Members: after the readings, there will be a private party at the Custom House starting at 6 pm. There will be a special viewing of a 19th-century copy of the Declaration of Independence and private tours of two tall ships on the river behind the Custom House.
Thursday, September 17th | 6:00 - 10:00 pm
Seafaring Soiree Gala
The Custom House Maritime Museum's 3rd annual fundraising gala returns in 2026, this time to the Ipswich Country Club.
More information on auction items coming soon.
November | Date and time TBD
Volunteer Recognition Party
Interested in volunteering at the Custom House? Give us a call, stop by the museum, or email us at info@thechmm.org
Early December | Evening
Annual Members Party
Interested in becoming a member? Join at the link below!
POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Admiral Richard I. Rybacki Award Ceremony
The Rear Admiral Richard I. Rybacki Award was established by the Rybacki family to honor his public and community service dedication. It is presented annually to a Station Merrimack River crew member who best exemplifies the spirit of respect, honor, and devotion to duty in service to the U.S. Coast Guard and the community they serve.
Year-long programs brought to you, in part, by
Waterfront Weddings & Events
at Historic Landmark in Newburyport
Set along the scenic waterfront of the Merrimack River, the Custom House Maritime Museum pairs sweeping views with the timeless elegance of its 1835 origins.
The Custom House delivers an intimate, high-end, personalized experience in a historic waterfront venue that aligns perfectly with meaningful, curated events. We regularly host elegant coastal weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, corporate events, and much more.
Outdoor Premium
The Custom House and CAtCH Events works with local professionals to curate experiences, involving local venues, caterers, and decorators.
Outdoor Economy
The Custom House venue rental only. You will source your own event planners and assistance.
Indoor Event
The Moseley Gallery provides seated events with tables, limited to 60 max, with the opportunity for guests to roam the museum.
We Offer Event Packages
Quick Facts:
- Capacity: Indoor 60 / Outdoor 150
- Location: Downtown Newburyport Waterfront
- Venue type: Historic museum
- Rentals: Table & Chairs available
- Tech Equipment: Mic, speakers & projector available
- Staff Support optional
Contact Us
Reach out for pricing and available dates, and to schedule a tour around the venue.
