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97.9 WHAV FM

Country: The United States Of America

Language: american english,english

About 97.9 WHAV FM

97.9 WHAV FM is a full-service radio station serving the Merrimack Valley region of Massachusetts, broadcasting from Haverhill with a commitment to community-focused programming and classic oldies music. Operating as a locally owned and operated station, WHAV has been a trusted voice for decades, blending nostalgic music from the 1950s through the 1980s with local news, weather, sports, and public affairs coverage. Its audience spans longtime residents who appreciate the station’s heritage and younger listeners drawn to its authentic, hometown feel. What sets WHAV apart is its deep integration into community life — sponsoring local events, highlighting small businesses, and providing a platform for civic dialogue — all while maintaining a warm, familiar sound that feels like a neighbor speaking through the speakers.

Programming & Genres

WHAV FM’s programming centers on a full-service format featuring classic oldies hits from the 1950s to the 1980s, interleaved with local news, weather, traffic, and sports updates throughout the day. The station airs nationally syndicated shows alongside locally produced content, including morning drive programs that highlight community events and interviews with local leaders. Weekend programming often includes specialty shows focused on specific decades, musical genres, or public affairs topics, ensuring a diverse yet consistently engaging listening experience rooted in regional relevance and musical nostalgia.

Location & Reach

97.9 WHAV FM broadcasts from its studios and transmitter in Haverhill, Massachusetts, serving the Merrimack Valley region, including communities such as Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, Newburyport, and southern New Hampshire. The station’s signal reaches a diverse audience across Essex County and parts of Rockingham County, NH, providing essential local information and entertainment to residents who rely on WHAV for hyperlocal news, emergency alerts, and a connection to their neighborhood’s culture and events.