CALENDAR: This

By Karen Greco

THE MUST LIST

10 essential events happening this month

By Wendy Brusick, Ava, 2021, Gouache on Arches Paper, 36 x 24 inches

Please note that events may require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test and mask-wearing regardless of vaccination status. Be sure to check each venue for updates.

January 8 - May 29:

For a statewide listing of events visit us online! HeyRhody.com

A 30-year tradition, this year’s Newport Biennial celebrates the creativity and resilience of New England artists taking fresh approaches to art in various creative media. NewportArtMuseum.org

Jump into the frosty Atlantic with members of the Newport Polar Bears Club at Freezin’ for a Reason, their annual plunge at Easton’s Beach. Proceeds benefit Rhode Island’s A Wish Come True. Newport, AWish.org

Through February:

On select dates, Simmons Farm’s Mozzarella Cheese Making Class lets you sample and craft cheeses, with local libations from Newport Vineyards, Revival Brewery, and Yacht Club Soda. Middletown, EventBright: Simmons Farm

January 1:

Thursdays through January:

Roller dance to DJ Meatball’s soundtrack of your fave hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s at the Adult Skate Night at United Skates of America. Rumford, Facebook: United Skates of America - Rumford

January 1:

Work o last month’s (or last night’s) good cheer at the The Hangover Classic, a five-mile road race through Colt State Park and Poppasquash Road. Bristol, RaceThread.com

January 7-22:

Emerging and established artists show side-byside at The BIG Show, hosted by Imago Foundation of the Arts. The annual community exhibit featuring original artwork is open to all local artists. Warren, ImagoFoundation4Art.org

January 15:

Enjoy a local beer and listen to a presentation on owls followed by a guided walk through the Audubon’s refuge at night to seek out these birds of prey at Owls and Ales. Bundle up for this adults-only program. Bristol, ASRI.org

January 22:

With a sound inspired by iconic country artists like Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, Rhode Island native Charlie Marie brings her updated classic country twang to the Galactic Theater. Warren, GalacticTheatre.com

January 22:

Landscape designer Laura Willson shares ideas for restoring the natural ecosystems and creating sustainable landscaping in your yard at Mini

Meadow Making: A Look at Meadows on a Gar-

den Scale. Bristol, Blithewold.org

January 30:

The Newport String Quartet’s Winter Concert II presents an evening of classical music, including Mozart’s String Quartet in D Major K 575 “The Violet,” at Trinity Church. Newport, NewportStringProject.org