Hey Rhody Fall October 2026 by Hey Rhody Media Co.

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This Mon th’s Rho dy Gem

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Your Dec emb er Mus t-Do’s DECE MBER 2025 TheB ayMa gazin e.com

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THIS MON TH'S RHO DY GEM •

NOV EMB ER MUS T-DO S

NOVE MBER 2025

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Holiday Shopping

THE ANN UAL

PERFORMANCES, STROLLS, AND FESTIVITIES SURE TO LIFT SPIRITS ALL SEASON LONG

Beautiful shops that turn holiday errands into delightful excursions

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• FRIENDSGIVING STYLE • PAN

ARTISTS SUNDAY Follow us on your favorite social channel! @HeyRhody PRST STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID Providence, RI Permit # 34

BER 202 5 deIs land .com

CHA RM ING PLA CES TUR N TO- DO LIS TS INTO MA GIC AL MO ME NTS

t-Do’s

CAKES GONE WILD

20 t

THREE THINGS TO EXPECT WHEN WORKING WITH ALICIA COTTER REYNOLDS

The ACR Advantage

A C R

Accessibility Always available when you need guidance and answers in a fast-paced market.

Communication Proactive and clear updates every step of the way.

Results Proven strategies and local expertise that maximize value and deliver seamless closings.

What My Clients are Saying... had a wonderful experience working with Alicia for both the sale of “ We our condo and the purchase of our new home. Throughout the entire process, she was attentive, responsive, and always available when we needed guidance or had questions. Her communication was exceptional, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure everything went smoothly, even while she was out of town. Her dedication, support, and commitment made a stressful process feel seamless. We highly recommend her to anyone looking to buy or sell a home in Rhode Island.”

Alicia Reynolds Sales Associate | 401.835.2605 Licensed in RI, MA, & CT areynolds@residentialproperties.com @aliciareynoldsrealtor

2025

Alicia Reynolds is a licensed real estate sales associate and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

The Autumn Advantage: Serious demand, lower inventory. October brings a sharp shift to Rhode Island real estate. Casual window shoppers are gone, replaced by serious buyers who want to settle in before the holidays. If you’re looking to sell, buy, or invest before the year wraps up, you need a strategy focused on highintent timing and exact local pricing. Let’s make it happen.

Stephen Gaskin Sales Associate 508.991.0151 SGaskin@ResidentialProperties.com StephenJGaskin.com @therealtorstephen

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Stephen Gaskin is a licensed real estate sales associate and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

BARRINGTON

CUMBERLAND

EAST GREENWICH

PROVIDENCE

SOUTH COUNTY

WATCH HILL

JAMESTOWN

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WEST SIDE PVD

WESTPORT

HOLIDAY MEALS

Made Easy

A L L T H E FAV O R I T E S . NONE OF THE FUSS. www.davesmarketplace.com

FEATURES

N E W S & C U LT U R E

Rhody Reads Six picks from downtown PVD’s indie bookstore

31 CO V E R S T O R Y

The Bushel List 100+ activities to enjoy the Ocean State’s most sensational season

67 F E AT U R E

A Better Old Age Local businesses working to support healthy aging

82 Photo courtesy of Blanchard’s Orchard

FOOD & DRINK

In the Kitchen A chef uses his powers for good by training others

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OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Rhode Island

Fruit Growers

! n o s a e S in w o N s le App

APPLELAND ORCHARD

135 Smith Ave./Rt. 116, Smithfield (401) 949-3690 Open Daily 8-6 applelandorchards.com Mary Lou’s World Famous Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Wine and Hard Apple Cider

BARDEN FAMILY ORCHARD 56 Elmdale Rd., N. Scituate (401) 934-1413 Open M-Th 9-6; Fri, Sat and Holidays 9-5; Sun 12-5 bardenfamilyorchard.com Farmstand, PYO, Fresh Cider

JASWELL’S FARM

50 Swan Rd., Smithfield (401) 231-9043 Open Wed-Mon 9-5 jaswellsfarm.com PYO Apples & Pumpkins Farmstand & Bakery, Fresh Pasteurized Apple Cider, Apple Cider Donuts & Gourmet Candy Apples.

SALISBURY FARM 11 Peck Hill Rd., Johnston (401) 942-9741 See our Facebook page for daily info salisburyfarm.com PYO Raspberries & Pumpkins, Veggies, and Corn Maze!

SWEET BERRY FARM

915 Mitchell Lane, Middletown (401) 847-3912 Market open 8-6; PYO hours vary, check our website sweetberryfarmri.com PYO Apples, Pumpkins, Farm Market, Cafe & Ice Cream

NAKED PAWPAW

nakedpawpaw.com Email us at nakedpawpaw@gmail.com for pawpaws!

SMALL WORLD FARM

229 Long Highway, Little Compton 617-719-7841 Open Thurs – Sun 10-5 smallworldfarmri.com PYO Apples, veggies, eggs, flowers, seasonal pies

HARD-PRESSED CIDER CO., LLC

Check website for times and locations hardpressedcider.com 9/4 to 12/20 Fri-Sat-Sun, Labor Day, Columbus Day, 10-4

PHANTOM FARMS 2920 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland 401-333-2240 Open Daily 6am-6pm phantomfarms.com Apples, Fresh Cider, Café, Bakery, Breakfast & Lunch Offerings

SOWAMS CIDER WORKS

98 Child St., Warren (401) 252-6104 Open Thur, Fri, Sat 2-8 & Sun 12-5 Sowamsciderworks.com Farmers Winery

Locate Farms at

RIFruitGrowers.org

AT THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 1650 Broad Rock Road South Kingstown, RI 02879 11/28 to 12/21 Fri-Sat-Sun, 10-4

ROCKY BROOK ORCHARD

997 Wapping Rd., Middletown (401) 851-7989 Open Fri, Sat, Sun 10-4:30; check website or call for additional days rockybrookorchard.com PYO Apples, Pears & Quince

STEERE ORCHARD

150 Austin Ave., Greenville (401) 949-1456 PYO daily 9-5 steereorchard.com PYO Apples and Pumpkins Join us for Apple Fest Oct 12 & 13!

CONTENTS

News & Culture 11 POLITICS: Top issues facing RI voters this year 16 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Artist’s dual message of social change

20 RHODY PETS: Three adoptable pets of the month 22 RHODY GEM: A quick turn in Smithfield leads to an outdoor living center

24 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s 27 BEER, WINE & SPIRITS TRAIL

Photography by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of Milk and Honey Group

Photo by Honey Buns Social

Photography by Gina Mastrostefano

Home & Style 53 HOME: Happy hues perk-up a weary Little Compton cottage

58 SHOP: Cool stuff to make at workshops and classes

60 PROFILE: A former Hollywood actress lives her best role in Westerly 62 FAMILY FUN: 10 mom-and-kidtested autumn adventures

Food & Drink 75 RECIPE: Go buggy over this spiced Halloween dessert

78 COLLAB: RI’s state drink gets a grown-up version 84 ROUND-UP: Sweet and savory bites worth criss-crossing the state for

Hey Rhody Photos 88 A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram

ON THE COVER: Fall fun in Matunuck awaits at Clark Farms. Photography by Nick DelGiudice

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OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

PUBLISHERS Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell

GENERAL MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com

MANAGING EDITOR Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com

EDITOR Ann Martini Martini@HeyRhody.com

ADVERTISING DESIGN DIRECTOR Layheang Meas

SENIOR DESIGNER Taylor Buttie

SENIOR EDITORIAL DESIGNER Abigail Burnham

DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Jenna Kaplan Jenna@HeyRhody.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Theresa S. Carrington. . . . . . . . . . .South County & East Bay . . . . . . . . Theresa@HeyRhody.com Shelley Cavoli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Central RI & New Business . . . . . . . . . Shelley@HeyRhody.com Louann DiMuccio-Darwich . . . . . East Bay, Providence, & MA . . . . . . . . .Louann@HeyRhody.com Ann Gallagher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ann@HeyRhody.com Chris Revill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Providence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chris@HeyRhody.com Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Aimee Elizabeth Photography Savannah Barkley Serina Bowen Carly Rae Photography David Cruz Jane Govednik Honey Buns Social Karen Kalunian

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ian Donnis Jane Govednik Emily Homonoff Patty Jeffrey Karen Kalunian

Steve Klamkin Britt Machado Hugh Minor Cynthia Munrayos Emily Olson

Interested in writing? Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com INTERN Gabriella Cos Interested in an internship? Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com Distribution Services Special Delivery

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Take A Bite Out Of Rhode Island!!

Dear Readers,

Book Today!! Enjoy a Cuppa on us! • VISIT OUR TEA & GIFT SHOP •

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Large selection of herbal tisanes, medicinal herbs, green & black teas and delicious culinary herbs

HEALTH. COMFORT. AND COMMUNITY

For years, the “Fall Bushel List” has appeared in our September issue. This required our team to gather events with a mid-July deadline – but unlike us editors – not ever yone is thinking about Halloween at the peak of summer. Publishing the g uide so early also meant our October magazines arrived right when readers needed those 100-plus autumn activities from the previous month’s issue. So this year, we made a couple of shifts: the fall g uide moved to October, and the holiday g uide, AKA “ The Nice List,” moved to December. As always, listings are divided by region, starting with things that occur “All Autumn Long ” before events ordered by date. There is truly so much to do around Rhode Island, and each year we discover even more! It takes many humans to make a magazine (no AI here), and this month’s stellar team of contributors includes award-winning journalist and broadcaster Steve Klamkin, who chatted with local experts to get their takes on the top issues facing Rhode Island voters in November’s gubernatorial election. Award-winning writer Emily Olson returns to report on how organizations, businesses, and alternative care models are helping older Rhode Islanders maintain independence and health in “Planting the Seeds of a Better Old Age,” and you’ll meet a former chef de cuisine now leading a culinary job-training program in Providence in Cynthia Munrayos’ Food & Drink article “Mission Driven.” Thinking about tr ying a new craft ? Discover workshops around the state where you can learn how to make ever ything from cute felted goods to jewelr y to perfume in Britt Machado’s Shop column. Bristol-based content creator Jane Govednik returns with 10 family fun activities sure to get extra mileage out of those Halloween costumes, and Patty J has assembled her current top picks to sit and enjoy a treat. In this issue, you’ll find reading recommendations from Symposium Books, a Rhody Gem hiding in plain sight on a Smithfield hilltop, and an adult spin on a classic beverage. Whether you’re looking for ward to perennial favorites or eager to explore something new, it’s all right here.

Unique, Artisan-made Gifts Unusual Houseplants

1800 Scituate Avenue, Cranston SanctuaryHerbs.com • @The Good Earth

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Photo by Stephanie Ewens Photography

Thank you for reading !

Editor In Chief

Elyse Major

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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The Great Race Photo courtesy of Go Providence

Local experts weigh in on new and familiar challenges facing RI’s next governor

By Steve Klamkin

n November, Rhode Island voters will be sending a clear message to the next governor on major issues to tackle, and there’s plenty from which to choose. Ahead of the election, we asked two political experts what the next governor should be thinking about. (Note: Primary election results were not available at press deadline.) Top concerns range from leadership and budget to a severe housing shortage, healthcare, infrastructure, and resources for an aging population.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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“First and foremost is filling what’s become a leadership vacuum,” says Ted Nesi, the Target 12 politics and business editor for WPRIT V. “ The General Assembly has rarely felt the need to defer to the governor out of fear of public opinion,” he says. “It sounds so simple, but the next governor should be tr ying to establish broad public support to pursue an agenda that a majority of Rhode Islanders thinks puts the state on the right trajector y.” Emily Lynch, associate professor of political

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science at the University of Rhode Island, says states should continue to push back against President Trump’s executive actions to roll back social safety net programs, end renewable energ y projects, and retrieve voter files with sensitive voter information. “Addressing fiscal challenges driven by the federal government’s decisions to reduce healthcare support is front and center in this year’s budget proposal,” Lynch points out in the New England Journal of Political Science.

“Increasing access to healthcare and dealing with rising healthcare costs remain top issues for political leaders.” “Governor McKee’s budget places healthcare at the top of his priorities as he addresses how Rhode Island will have to contribute more funding to social support systems due to the reduction in federal support. Political leaders are also working with the healthcare industry to come up with long-term strategies to support healthcare in the state,” says Lynch.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo courtesy of Ted Nesi

NEWS & CULTURE

“It sounds so simple, but the next governor should be trying to establish broad public support to pursue an agenda that a majority of Rhode Islanders thinks puts the state on the right trajectory.” – Ted Nesi

Rhode Island Board of Elections Find your polling place and voter registration status at Elections.RI.gov, or call 401-222-2345.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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NEWS & CULTURE

RI 2026 Voting Deadlines “Increasing access to healthcare and dealing with rising healthcare costs remain top issues for political leaders.” – Emily Lynch

October 4: Deadline to register or update voter information. October 13: Deadline to request a regular mail ballot. October 14: Early in-person voting begins. November 2: Early voting and emergency mail-ballot applications ends at 4pm.

She points to the successful acquisition of Roger Williams Medical Center and Our Lady of Fatima Hospital, which are owned by Centurion, an out-ofstate nonprofit organization. “This prevented the two hospitals from closing due to previous owners who faced bankruptcy,” she says. On education, Lynch views the return of public schools in Providence and Central Falls from state to local control as a plus. She takes a wait-and-see approach to a moratorium on new charter schools and encourages further study of reworking school funding formulas. The housing shortage is also a major concern. Lynch points to a years-long effort by former Speaker of the House Joseph Shekarchi’s push for comprehensive legislation to address the shortage, along with Governor Dan McKee’s budgeting for a $120 million bond issue to spur new housing development. Nesi says that “housing costs are closely linked to another big challenge facing the next governor: the graying of Rhode Island. The number of babies born in the state has dropped by roughly 25 percent during this century, and the state’s population is expected to shrink 5 percent by 2050. Does Rhode Island want to try to reverse that? What is the goal for the number of residents in 10, 20, or 30 years? How much new housing is needed to achieve that? What’s the plan if it doesn’t happen?” Trying to narrow what Nesi calls “the Mass gap,” – attempting to match the economic successes of neighboring Massachusetts – should be a priority for the next governor. Then there’s the poor state of Rhode Island’s roads and bridges. “But more money won’t help if it’s spent poorly,” Nesi says. “Rhode Island faces the same cost and performance problems as many other blue states. RIDOT spends enormous amounts of money for the worst state roads in the country.”

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OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo courtesy of Emily Lynch

November 3: Election Day. Polls are generally open 7am-8pm.

PAINTING MIXED MEDIA STONE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY CERAMIC METAL PRINTMAKING SILK JEWELRY

works available by: CHARLES BARBOUR LISA BERGERON ELLEN BLOMGREN JEN CHARLESON

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COLLAGE

CHRISTY DEWITT

AND MORE

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We’re saving a seat for you. Art hits different when you meet the person who made it. Come in, stay a while, share stories with our artists, and discover the unexpected. Make shopping something memorable, not just another errand.

MERCEDES NUÑEZ SEANNA POIRIER MARIA F. RODRIGUEZ MARY PAT TURNER

Plumb Gallery 437 Hope Street Bristol RI 02809 plumbgallery.com 401-336-0831 Open Daily 12-5 (Mondays & holidays by appointment)

NEWS & CULTURE

Artists Are Unafraid to Tell the Truth: Providence Painter and Activist Jordan Seaberry on the Role of Art in Society The Providence painter and organizer says artists can play an integral role in movements for political and social change In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org • By Ian Donnis

rovidence artist Jordan Seaberry is one of the city’s most recognizable painters. An assistant professor at the Rhode Island School of Design, Seaberry is also known for his political advocacy. In particular, he’s been a staunch supporter of criminal justice reform in Rhode Island. Ocean State Media political reporter Ian Donnis sat down with Seaberry to discuss how his political work influences his artistic practice and the role artists can play in advocating for societal change. INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

On the role that artists can play in political activism Seaberry: Artists have always been involved in political movements. The problem is political organizers often involve artists right at the tail end. We always go to, essentially, beautification projects. So artists can make posters, artists can make cooler picket signs or T-shirts, but as organizers, we really struggle to think about how artists can be involved at the strateg y table from the beginning. What makes artists so special is that they have spent their whole lives figuring out how to communicate with people, how to take the world in and be able to translate it back out to folks. That is such a rare, special gift: To be able to look at a blank canvas and not be scared of it, but to see opportunity and possibility. That’s what organizers are craving , but way too often we involve artists only at the tail end.

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Providence painter and activist Jordan Seaberry has been involved in criminal justice reform efforts in Rhode Island alongside his work as an artist

We have to start preparing social movements to pull artists in from the jump. On political opposition to public support for the arts Seaberry: Conservative governments, right-wing governments, and increasingly, authoritarian governments have every reason to be afraid of artists because artists are unafraid to tell the truth. Artists are not dazzled by spectacle and power. We are trained our whole lives to cut through lies, to see what is actually truly inside someone or something. That’s a really scary proposition for someone who wants to project power or authority or false masculinity. All of the things that build the identity of an authoritarian run totally counter to what artists are trained to do. So are they afraid of artists? Yeah, they should be. On the importance of artists in the current political climate Seaberry: I think it’s easy for artists to feel that our practices don’t have a tangible impact, but

what I really want artists to understand is that authoritarianism ends through collective action, through collective non-cooperation. That can absolutely involve artists. The thing we have to do is join up with other people. I’m a painter. I would happily spend seven days a week alone in my studio, just in my little cave painting by myself, but that is not how this stuff ends. I want artists to realize that yes, we spend a lot of time in our studio, but we also go to coffee shops; we work with galleries; we work with museums and curators. All of those relationships are opportunities for folks to build power, to spread those ideas through conversation and relationship, to build collective power together. I think it’s perfectly fine if artists want to spend a chunk of time alone in the studio painting ; that’s what I do. But then you also have to get out and work in a group. Everything matters as long as it’s together. This article was originally posted on September 9, 2026. Ian Donnis can be reached at idonnis@oceanstatemedia.org.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo courtesy of Ocean State Media

On why he became an artist Jordan Seaberry: Being an artist is the thing I’ve done my whole life. My preschool teachers were worried because all I wanted to do was sculpt PlayDoh and draw pictures. It has always been the lens through which I see the world. All my other activities, including political organizing, stemmed from art. It’s always been the central way that I understand the world and the people around me.

PHOTO: ROSS DRAPER

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There’s that moment, somewhere between the ferry and your first deep breath, when the pace shifts, the noise falls away, and time is measured in moments, not minutes. That’s when you know you’re not just here. You’re on island.

Find your way at blockislandinfo.com

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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NEWS & CULTURE

Rhody Reads What’s hot for October at

Symposium Books

By Scott McCullough and Anne Marie Keohane

everal recent releases are part of this month’s list, curated from downtown Providence’s independent bookstore.

In Hernan Diaz’s Ply, an orphan wanders the city centuries from now, living in a stateless society where humans are learning new ways to coexist with nature. After years of struggle, she grows up to become a “pincher” who steals electricity from the grid to sell on the black market. In that role, she uncovers a rich art and music scene that sustains her while also discovering a scientific invention that could change the ver y fabric of reality.

ABOUT SYMPOSIUM BOOKS For over 20 years, Symposium Books has been downtown Providence’s go-to for books, vinyl, fun merch, and conversation. Named after the ancient Greek dialog by Plato, the elegant storefront has built a solid reputation for its stellar selection of new, used, and bargain books across various genres – including independent presses, academic publishers, and art publishers. Shelves are filled with a diverse range of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, which promote differing voices and perspectives. “Symposium Books is known for fostering a welcoming environment for book lovers in a cozy space,” says Scott McCullough, who co-owns the business with wife, Anne Marie Keohane. “Also, check out our highly-curated vinyl section. Plus keep an eye out for our author events, book clubs, silent book clubs, music nights, and other events.” 240 Westminster Street, Providence. SymposiumBooks.com

Set in 1932, Thomas Pynchon’s Shadow Ticket follows Milwaukee private eye Hick McTaggart. He thinks he’s found job security until he’s sent out on what should be a routine case : locating and bringing back the heiress of a Wisconsin cheese fortune who’s missing with a clarinet player. He’s soon abducted and finds himself in Hungar y. Adventure ensues with entanglements and troubles with ever ything from Nazi sympathizers, an FBI scheme, swing musicians, and outlaw bikers. Livia Cable has made peace with her marriage and modest lifestyle in Barbara Kingsolver’s Partita. That is, until she receives a shocking call from a past love. He requests to see her again, stirring up ghosts she’s kept at bay for a lifetime. Shifting between past and present, the novel follows Livia as she decides whether to accept or reject the reunion and confronts childhood loss, abandonment, self-immolating passion, and her perilous attachment to the man who shattered her belief in love.

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AUTHOR EVENT & BOOK SIGNING October 10, 7pm Join author Natalie Lemle for a conversation about her debut thriller Artifacts at Symposium Books. November 8, 6pm Don’t miss a dual-author event with Cassandra Clare, author of The Last King of Faerie, and Holly Black, who penned A Conspiracy of Charming Monsters, at the RISD Auditorium in their only New England appearance.

Against Tech Oligarchy, by JS Tan and Clarissa Redwine, chronicles the rise of the tech-worker movement. As companies increasingly aligned themselves with the current administration’s agenda, thousands of tech workers protested against employers they believed had betrayed their once-progressive values. By the early 2020s, their efforts had sparked what observers called the tech-worker movement. As the struggle grew, so did employers’ backlash. The book offers an account of the movement and the hostile labor politics that define Silicon Valley today. Lydia Millet’s Fair Ones: A Double Novel is a dialogue-driven work that follows two Brooklyn women in their forties as they reel from the baffling death of their friend Claire. Fair, Mara’s account, opens in the wake of initial shock as she and Jen navigate the enigma of Claire’s killing. Ones, told from Jen’s perspective, picks up a year later as she and Mara wrestle with new relationships and old secrets. Fair Ones is a love song to the banality, bombast, and humble beauties of midlife friendships. Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel is set in 2031, after the United States has dissolved. Ari Waker and her roommate pass bomb-sniffing dogs, shantytowns, and Red Cross tents as they walk to a party. That party abruptly ends when a doppelganger interrupts and the host vanishes into thin air. Ari’s story takes us from an America splintered by civil war to the seaside cliffs of Greece, the domed city of Paris, and to a moon colony. A dystopian odyssey you won’t want to miss!

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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NEWS & CULTURE

Rhody Pets of the Month By Karen Kalunian

ooking to welcome a new furr y friend into your home ? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters across the Ocean State have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are some sweet faces ready to meet you, or reach out to local shelters to learn about even more adoptees. If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.

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Romeo

CO DY

R O M EO

BREED: Mixed AGE: 2 years GENDER : Male

BREED: Domestic Shorthair AGE: 9 years GENDER : Male

If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion who loves deeply once he feels safe, Cody is waiting for you. Unfortunately, he broke his leg when he was younger; it never healed properly, which led to the loss of the leg. Now, he is the most handsome tripod you’ll ever see. And don’t let his three-legged status fool you; it has not slowed him down one bit. Cody would thrive best in a quieter adult setting, with a fenced-in backyard where he can run and play.

Wherefore art thou owner ? Romeo is a handsome senior orange kitty whose world changed when he lost the home he once knew. Now, this sweet gentleman is searching for a new place to call his own. Romeo dreams of being your one and only love, the king of your heart, and the center of your world. In return, he promises endless kitty cuddles, gentle companionship, and all the loving attention you could ever want.

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CELEBRATE RESCUE

401-354-2426, rhodehomerescue@gmail.com

401-524-9071, celebraterescue401@gmail.com OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (L) courtesy of Rhode Home Rescue, center) courtesy of Celebrate Rescue

Cody

Artisan Farmers Foodies

Isla

ISLA

Photos (R) by Karen Kalunian

BREED: German Shepherd mix AGE: 1 year GENDER : Female Isla is a young , happy-go -lucky girl with a fun-loving temperament. She loves other playful dogs that match her energ y. Her coat is gorgeous, and her never-ending smile is contagious. Isla is still learning the ropes, so she will be best placed with adults and older children who have an active lifestyle, with a fenced-in yard where she can run and play. Meet Isla in person to see if she’s your perfect match. WARWICK ANIMAL SHELTER

The Hen House 1189 Putnam Pike

Chepachet, Rhode Island

Classes - Events - Locally Made HenHouseOnMain.com HenHouseOnMain@gmail.com

Visit Us The Hen House Chepachet, Rhode Island

October 17th

401-468-4377 OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.

NEWS & CULTURE

Hilltop Garden Center Gard en and o utdoor living center

What it is: A landscape supply and outdoor living center.

W h e re to f i n d i t : As you drive along Route 44 Putnam Pike, turn into The Crossing at Smithfield shopping plaza, and take an immediate – nearly hidden – right, to enter Hilltop Garden Center.

W h a t m a k e s i t a R h o d y G e m? For nearly 90 years, Hilltop Garden Center has been the cornerstone of outdoor transformation in Smithfield. What began in 1938 as a roadside vegetable stand founded by current owner John Francisco’s grandfather, has grown across three generations into a premier outdoor living center – with expansion plans underway. Whether you’re reimagining the backyard, refreshing a patio, or seeking decorative accents, Hilltop can supply everything you need. From foundational landscape aggregates to the finishing touches, every step of your project is here, plus they offer hands-on expertise. Though the business has expanded, its heart remains unchanged. “Every customer that comes through the door, whether a new gardener or an experienced landscaper or mason, will be treated with the same level of respect and offered knowledgeable advice for their particular needs,” says Francisco. It’s this passionate blend of allin-one convenience and multi-generational knowledge paired with small-business pride that sets Hilltop Garden Center apart.

H i l l to p G a rd e n Ce n t e r

Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!

Photo by Elyse Major

363 Putnam Pike, Smithfield HilltopGardenCenter.com

Save The Date: Holiday Bright Night Friday, December 4, 2026 Route 77, Main Rd Tiverton, RI 02878 TivertonFourCorners.com

FOUR CORNERS GALLERY CÉDIAN PAINTING: STUDIO-GALLERY “Play of Light” by Jennifer Jones Rashleigh on paintings pillows & tiles. 3848 Main Road • @cedianpainting www.cedianpainting.com

Explore stunning art created by 18 regional artists. Ceramics, collage, copper work glass, jewelry, paintings, pastels, photography. Experience our dynamic gallery & special events. 3848 Main Road • (401) 816 4342 fourcornersgalleryri.com @fourcornersgalleryri

MICK’S ARTFUL ODDITIES & ANTIQUES

“Purveyors of the obscure.” Explore the world of oddities, unique antiques & unusual props. 8 Neck Road • (401) 835 0117 @obscura_mick

SAYLES LIVINGSTON HOME

Fine Home & Outdoor Furnishings, Interiors, Antiques & Gifts Full Interior Design Services Available 3847 Main Road • (401) 625 5814 @SaylesLivingstonHome

AMICABLE CHURCH THRIFT SHOP

An amazing volunteer-run thrift shop featuring: Clothing, Household Goods, Decor & More 3736 Main Road • (401) 624 4611 @actth1ftsh0p • Open Thurs & Saturday 10-2

VIEW THE MAP

FORZA CAVALLO FARM / BOUTIQUE

LOU LOU’S DECOR

Make your beach house a home with a beautiful addition from Lou Lou’s Décor with locations in Tiverton & Newport. Full interior design services available. 3913 Main Road • (401) 816 4362 www.loulousdecor.com • @loulousdecor

Forza Cavallo creates unique & sophisticated apparel, accessories, and home goods designed using their own custom graphic art inspired by the HORSE! Come SHOP and EXPLORE our animal sanctuary! 3650 Main Rd • @forzacavallori www.forzacavallo.com

TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY & HEALING ARTS

FOUR CORNERS GRILLE

Offering fresh, quality food along with fast, friendly service. Featuring fresh, locallycaught seafood with an extensive menu in a quaint, casual setting with a delightful patio. Cocktails, Wine & Beer. 3841 Main Road • (401) 624 1510 4cornersgrille.com • @fourcornersgrille

Handmade fine jewelry featuring colorful gold, sparkling gemstones & fantastic pearls. Jewelry Repair & Pearls Reimagined. Crystal Bed Light Healing sessions. The Dapper Flapper hats & fascinators. 3851 Main Road • (401) 816 0878 tiffanypeay.com • @tiffanypeayjewelry

THE CHEESE WHEEL VILLAGE MARKET Over 200 Cheeses Available. Sandwiches, Soups, House-Made Bread, Local Meats, Produce & Prepared Meals, Gluten-Free. Open 9-5 Tuesday - Sunday 3838 Main Road • (401) 816 5069 @thecheesewheelri

Explore a vibrant village of shops, galleries, amazing food, antiques, handmade jewelry, home & garden and so much more. Enjoy open space in the beautiful farm coast of Rhode Island.

#TakeARideTiverton4Corners • @tivertonfourcorners

NEWS & CULTURE

10 essential events this month

October 4: Rescued dogs become four-legged stars

October 2-4: Oktoberfest returns to Narragansett Brewery with tasty seasonal brews like their famous Gourd Reaper, plus authentic German food, live entertainment, traditional dancing, stein-holding contests, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit. Providence, NarragansettBeer.com

during Puppy Pals Live, an action-packed family-friendly matinee show featuring canine comedy, remarkable stunts, ladder climbing, rope jumping, and acrobatic backflips. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com

October 17: The South County Museum Har vest Festival returns for a day of family-friendly fun, including an antique car show, cider pressing , artisan demonstrations, a corn husk doll craft station, and raffles. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org

October 8-11: The FABRIC Arts Festival weaves

October 18: The War wick Symphony Orchestra,

together four days of film, music, food, performance, art, and conversation at locations in Fall River and New Bedford, MA, Providence, and Pawtucket. FabricFallRiver.com

a community-based performing ensemble, presents Autumn Serenade, a concert in memory of late member Dr. Paul Liu, at St. Luke Episcopal Church. East Greenwich, WSORI.org

October 11: Cheer on thousands of runners during the 17th annual Amica Newport Marathon and Half Marathon. Both races begin at Easton’s Beach before winding past historic homes, Gilded Age mansions, and spectacular oceanfront scenery. Newport, NewportMarathon.com

October 18: Amplify Her: A Celebration of Wom-

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en in Music, from Tune In Tune Up, is a benefit concert at The Met honoring the voices and impact of women in the music industry, featuring headliners Debra Devi and The Winehouse Project. Pawtucket, TuneInAndTuneUp.org

October 18-25: The 11th annual URI Guitar and Mandolin Festival features a week of concerts, guest artist master classes, workshops, lectures, the Rising Stars Young Guitarists Program, a luthier expo, and more. Kingston, RIgmFest.org October 23-25: Based on the 1992 film starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, Bodyguard: The Musical is a thrilling , romantic show that combines high-stakes suspense with unforgettable music at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Providence, PPACRI.org October 26: Stages of Freedom presents A Concert for Freedom, a free RI250 event exploring slavery, resistance, and liberation through music, spoken word, and celebrated texts at the historic First Baptist Church. Providence, StagesOf Freedom.org

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo by Carly Rae Photography, courtesy of Narragansett Brewery

The Must List

ribe to Subsc weekly e e biour fr letter at w e n s om hody.c HeyR n e v e r fo more!

IT’S FALL

AT JOHNSON’S ROADSIDE FARM MARKET!

Join Us this Season As We Transform Into A Festive Fall Wonderland! LOCALLY MADE PRODUCTS

LOCAL MILK, CHEESES & ICE CREAM HONEY • SOUPS • LOCAL SEAFOOD LOCAL MEATS & GRASS FED BEEF NY MA G IN ALSO FEATUR

Fall favo

s! e t ri

Huge selection of Pumpkins, Gourds & Winter Squash In Many Different Varieties, Shapes, Sizes & Colors!

ALL GROWN HERE ON OUR FARM!

Large Selection of Mums, Fall Plants & Perennials SLICED MEATS & CHEESES LOCALLY GROWN FRUITS & VEGETABLES FROM OUR FARM & OTHER LOCAL FARMS

ENJOY A GREAT SELECTION OF BAKED GOODS FROM OUR BAKERY

Fudge • Candy Apples • Apple Cider Apple Cider Donuts • Pies • Fall Treats Apple Crisps & More! Open 7 Days A Week • Credit Card, Snap & HIP Accepted

JOHNSON’S ROADSIDE FARM MARKET

445 Market Street, Swansea, MA

508-379-0349

JohnsonsRoadsideMarket.com

RI’S LARGEST SELECTION OF GARAGE DOORS

Parma Doors is proud to be celebrating its 50th year as Rhode Island’s most trusted family-owned garage door installation, repair, and service provider. Thanks to decades of experience, we are ready and capable to provide solutions for all your residential and commercial door needs. Our popular brands

CONTACT US: 401.231.0617 TOLL FREE 800.237.0617 SALES@PARMADOORS.COM 69 George Washington Highway, Smithfield Parmadoors.com | M-F 8am – 4pm Showroom 8:30am-4pm

Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail

Rhody

APPONAUG BREWING CO.

GREY SAIL

KINGDOM OF THE HAWK

THE LANGWORTHY INN & WINERY

MONIKER BREWERY

NARRAGANSETT BREWERY

NEWPORT CRAFT

NEWPORT VINEYARDS & TAPROOT BREWING CO.

NICKLE CREEK VINEYARD

OUTER LIGHT BREWING

PRESTON RIDGE VINEYARD

SALTWATER FARM VINEYARDS

SIREN SPIRITS DISTILLING COMPANY

STONINGTON VINEYARDS

TAPPED APPLE CIDERY & WINERY

TILTED BARN BREWERY

5 6 13

Johnston

9 1

16 11

Preston, CT

North Kingstown

North Stonington, CT

14 10

Stonington, CT

Groton, CT

15 Westerly l4

TURN THE PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS

Rhody 1

Beer, Wine

APPONAUG BREWING CO.

We believe nothing connects people like sharing a great beer or a delicious bite. Take refuge from the daily hustles of life in our historic taproom or our beautiful beer garden. 334 Knight Street, Warwick. (401) 744-0415, ApponaugBrewing.com

KINGDOM OF THE HAWK

Enjoy artisan craft beer, cocktails, and spirits in our family-friendly taproom, a preserved 1920s Italian home with original murals, or relax in our petfriendly beer garden. Bocce, cornhole, board games, and wood-fired pizza on site. 65 Canal Street, Westerly. 401.596.4151, GreySailBrewing.com.

MONIKER BREWERY

THE LANGWORTHY INN & WINERY The Langworthy Inn & Winery, a

The contemporary barn located on 50 acres of farm land in North Stonington is a nod to the agricultural heritage of the town. Situated on the edge of a hill highlighting sprawling views of vines, forest, & wildlife. KingdomOfTheHawk.com.

GREY SAIL BREWING OF RI & SOUTH COUNTY DISTILLERS

7-bedroom B&B and Winery, located at 308 Shore Rd in Westerly RI just minutes from beaches, restaurants & shops in the Weekapaug, Watch Hill & Misquamicut areas. Visit this gem of the SE New England’s vineyards & wineries for a wine tasting, weekend getaway or private event. langworthyinn.com

NARRAGANSETT BREWING COMPANY

Howdy! Moniker is a lager-

Host your festive gathering at The

loving, award-winning brewery

Taproom! Looking for a place to

with a massive beer garden

celebrate the holidays, a loved one, or

in Providence. Come for the

your staff? The Taproom is the perfect

beers, stay for the sunshine

venue! Enjoy our scenic waterfront

and vibes. 432 W Fountain St,

views, ice-cold delicious beer and

Providence. (401) 648-0150, MonikerBrewery.com

curated menu options! 271 Tockwotton

NEWPORT VINEYARDS & TAPROOT BREWING CO. Enjoy estate-grown wines, fresh craft beer & farm-totable dining while overlooking acres of vines. Family owned and operated for 30 years, and just minutes from downtown Newport. 909 East Main Road, Route 138, Middletown, RI.

Street, NarragansettBeer.com

NEWPORT CRAFT Discover Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling, where local flavor meets coastal charm. Enjoy beer, spirits, and Newport Bridge views. 293 JT Connell Highway, Newport. (401)-849-5232 Newportcraft.com

& Spirits Trail

SEE PREVIOUS PAGE FOR MAP OF LOCATIONS

NICKLE CREEK VINEYARD

Outer Light Brewing is Southeastern

Experience Nickle Creek Vineyard, estate wines, scenic views, and warm hospitality make every sip unforgettable. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 12–5 PM. 12 King Rd. Foster, RI, Cheers! 401-369-3694, NickleCreekVineyard.com

PRESTON RIDGE VINEYARD

Connecticut’s hometown brewery. Enjoy our diverse lineup of New England craft beer in our familyfriendly taproom, or take in some fresh summer air on our covered outdoor patio. Located at 266 Bridge Street in beautiful downtown Groton. OuterLightBrewing.com

Located in historic Preston, Connecticut, Preston Ridge Vineyard is at the peak of a ridge providing breathtaking views of the Connecticut countryside. 100 Miller Rd., Preston, CT; PrestonRidgeVineyard.com

SIREN SPIRITS DISTILLING COMPANY

TAPPED APPLE CIDERY & WINERY Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery turning locally sourced apples into a variety of handcrafted hard ciders and wines. 37 High Street, Westerly. TappedApple.com.

SALTWATER FARM VINEYARDS Located in an impeccably restored WWII-era airplane hangar, the tasting room overlooks acres of vineyard and a preserved grass landing strip from the 1930s. 349 Elm St., Stonington, CT. SaltwaterFarmVineyard.com.

Discover Olneyville’s newest destination for craft gin and signature cocktails. Visit the historic Harrison Steam Building for tastings, bottles, and distinctive unique, craft spirits. 41 Troy Street Providence. SirenSpirits.com

OUTER LIGHT BREWING

STONINGTON VINEYARDS Stonington Vineyards is a boutique farm winery located on the CT Wine Trail, open 7 days a week, 11am–5pm, Saturdays 11am–7pm, June–September. 523 Taugwonk Rd., Stonington, CT. StoningtonVineyards.com. Under New Ownership!

TILTED BARN BREWERY Located in our authentic, New England-style post and beam barn, we at Tilted Barn Brewery are proud to be Rhode Island’s first farm brewery. One Hemsley Pl., Exeter. TiltedBarnBrewery.com

Fall Harvest FESTIVAL

Weekends Sept. 19-Oct. 31, 10am-4pm Weekdays select activities offered/Weather permitting all days

Hayrides, Corn Maze, Scavenger Hunt, Pumpkin Dunk Tank, Barrel Train, Strawbale Maze, Obstacle Course, Tunnel Roll, Toss Games, Roller Slide & Lots More! More!

Unusual heirloom pumpkins, gourds, fresh fall decor and plants for all your indoor and outdoor decorating!

716 Mooresf ield Road (Route 138) South Kingstown, RI 02879 401-792-1340 thefarmersdaughterri.com

fall

BUSHEL LIST 2026 100+ activities to enjoy the Ocean State’s most sensational season BY THE EDITORS Is it any wonder why so many of us love a Rhode Island fall? Within short driving distances you can easily experience everything from small farms pulling out all the stops to make their patches of land into family fun destinations before motoring over to downtown areas for lively festivals. There are group hikes, bike rides, and ghost tours by land and sea, workshops to make seasonal decor or bake whimsical treats. Our small-but-mighty editorial team has assembled a comprehensive list of indoor and outdoor activities, ready to get your fall on – even if the forecast doesn’t get the message to cool down a bit for a while. Divided into regions, this handy print guide is your go-to for whatever you want to make of the season. On Instagram? Show us your fall photos by tagging #heyrhodyphotos.

Photo by Rhonda Woloohojian

FROM THE EDITORS: Please note that all events are subject to change, especially crop- and weather-dependent activities. To avoid disappointment, we recommend first checking with the host venue online or by phone for any details, restrictions, rain dates, and cancellations. If we missed your favorite event or activity, let us know! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com

Exeter

PROVIDENCE

Brown University Football

Confreda Fall Fest

Gather Glass

Haunted Boat Tours

ALL AUTUMN LONG BROWN UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL: Cheer on the Brown Bears at their home games at Richard Gouse Field over several Saturdays throughout the 2026 season. Dates vary; all games start at noon. BrownBears.com

HAUNTED B OAT TOUR S: Take a creepy cruise to learn about the many restless souls that haunt the streets and rivers of Providence. Tours run on various dates all season; check for special Haunted Boo -zy Boat Rides. ProvidenceRiverBoat.com JACK-O-L ANTERN SPECTACUL AR : Rhody’s favorite pumpkin patch at Roger Williams Park Zoo is lined with thousands of masterfully car ved, candlelit gourds, this year themed The Great Pun-Kin Trail. On display through November 1. RWPZoo.org/jols M AK E YOUR OWN GL ASS PUMPK IN: Make a reser vation to be g uided through the various steps of creating your ver y own pumpkin. GatherGlass.com PROVIDENCE ARTISANS M ARK ET: Artists from all over Southern New England convene at Lippitt Park to sell fine crafts, jewelry, paintings, and more on Saturdays through October 31 before moving inside at Waterfire Arts Center. Facebook: PVD Artisans Market PROVIDENCE GHOST TOUR : Follow a costumed, lantern-carr ying g uide on walking tours that include Haunted Benefit Street, Parasols and Pocket Watches, and Echoes of the East Side. ProvidenceGhostTour.com

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PVD HORROR: The podcasters and pop-up event organization hosts scary movie screenings for cult-horror enthusiasts at Buttonwoods Brewery on select nights. Follow their social media for upcoming dates. Facebook: PVD Horror WATERFIRE: This quintessential Providence after-dark tradition of seeing the river set ablaze while strolling Waterplace Park continues into fall,

with food trucks, live entertainment, and more, on October 3 (partial lighting ), October 17, and the Salute to Veterans on November 7. WaterFire.org WEST END M AK ER S M ARK ETS: Fridays through October 30, shop and eat at the latest off-shoot from Warren-based food incubator Hope & Main. 945 Westminster Street. MakeFoodYourBusiness.org

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (clockwise) courtesy of Brown University, courtesy of RWP Zoo, courtesy of Gather Glass, courtesy of Providence River Boat

THE FLE A AT FARM FRESH M ARK ET HALL: Fall Sundays mean shopping indoors beginning October 23 from 75 rotating vendors for unique goods, art, provisions, and more. ProvidenceFlea.com

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OCTOBER

Narragansett Brewery Oktoberfest

OCTOBER 2-4 Narragansett Brewer y Oktoberfest: The Fox Point brewery brings a taste of Munich to PVD with their very own festbier, authentic German food, and lots of fun. Sunday is kids’ day with special events for the whole family. NarragansettBeer.com OCTOBER 3 WaterFire: A partial lighting supported by the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation begins at sunset with onshore programming and vendors WaterFire.org OCTOBER 3 Wickenden Street Makers Market: The Fox Point street known for eclectic indie shops and charming eateries transforms into a neighborhood party with makers, music, artists, and food trucks. ShopWickenden.com OCTOBER 3-4 Little City Thrifty: Shop over 90 booths of vintage and pre-loved clothing , records, art, home goods, and furniture at this curated experience of rummaged regalia at the WaterFire Arts Center. Complimentary drink with entry. LittleCityThrifty.com OCTOBER 9-12 Columbus Day Weekend Festival: An annual tradition put on by the Federal Hill Commerce Association, Atwells Avenue hosts entertainment stages, live chef demonstrations, a parade, and a taste of the Hill’s many restaurants throughout the weekend. FederalHillProv.com OCTOBER 10 RISD Craft: Stroll Benefit Street to peruse handmade fine art and design work by 120+ student and alumni artists, exemplif ying mastery of craftsmanship and attention to detail in a wide variety of media. RISDCraft.com OCTOBER 14 Macaron Magic - Spooky Pumpkin Edition: Learn to make macarons by the experts at Ellie’s. Spooky jack-o’-lantern faces complete each treat. Fall Pumpkin Edition on November 4. ElliesProv.com OCTOBER 16 PVD Horror Presents - Halloween H20 - 20 Years Later: Buttonwoods Brewery hosts a screening of the horror movie along with a “killer” menu and themed merch. ButtonwoodsBrewery.com

Wickenden Street Makers Market

Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.

Photo (top) by Carly Rae Photography, courtesy of Narragnsett Brewery, (bottom) by Honey Buns Social, courtesy of Shop Wickenden, (R) by James Lastowski, courtesy of The Steel Yard

OCTOBER 16-17 Rhode Island Festival of Children’s Books and Authors: Meet awardwinning authors and illustrators including Sophie Blackall, Alyssa Satin Capucilli, and Alan Katz, while participating in fun activities centered around books and reading. LincolnSchool.org OCTOBER 23 The Halloween Market: The Providence Flea and Witches’ Night Out Market team up to bring the magic of autumn to Farm Fresh RI on Sims Avenue. A magical evening of shopping and snacking awaits! ProvidenceFlea.com OCTOBER 24 Fam Jam: Join Providence Bike Jam for a leisurely family-friendly daytime ride through the city. Bring your working bicycle, helmet, water, and snacks. Check online for updated route, meeting location and other details. Instagram: @pvdbikejam OCTOBER 25 Halloween Monster Dash 5K: Dash through the RIPTA bus tunnels in your costume of choice while dodging spooky zombies along the course – and bring the little ones along for a fun dash of their own. MonsterDashRace.com OCTOBER 28 Cake Decorating Class: Death by Chocolate with Spooky Spiders: Learn intricate decorating techniques from the pros as you turn a chocolate cake into a canvas for creepy decorations! ElliesProv.com OCTOBER 31 Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics is a live musical concert series with the Listeso String Quartet, featuring spooky soundtracks set against thousands of LED candles at Bishop McVinney Auditorium. Feverup.com OCTOBER 31 Halloween Sucreé: Gracie’s Sucreé experience includes a sixcourse tasting of three sweet and three savory. Reser vations through OpenTable. GraciesProv.com

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Steel Yard Iron Pour

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 1 Día de los Muertos: Celebrate and the spirits who have passed before us with family activities, a communal altar, fashion show, cemetery procession and more, hosted by Rhode Island Latino Arts at the Southside Cultural Center. RILatinoArts.org NOVEMBER 6-8 Comic Con: Get ready for a weekend of fun and photo ops at Rhode Island Comic Con, at the RI Convention Center and the Amica Mutual Pavilion, with Hollywood stars Michael Douglas, Henry Winkler, Kathleen Turner and more. RIComicCon.com NOVEMBER 7 WaterFire: The 13th annual Salute to Veterans is an evening offering support and thanks to Rhode Island servicemen and women, commencing at sunset on the banks of the Providence River. WaterFire.org

NOVEMBER 14 Iron Pour: The family-friendly event at the Steel Yard is a fier y spectacle as artists pour molten iron into sculptures. The free community festival also features live music, food, demonstrations, vendors, and hands-on creativity. TheSteelYard.org NOVEMBER 14-15 Providence Fall Home Show: The home show at the Rhode Island Convention Center features custom cabinet makers, HVAC ser vices, jewelr y, communications, and more to help plan for your next home renovation. RIConvention.com NOVEMBER 21-22 The Good Trade Makers Market: WaterFire Arts Center transforms into a celebration of tradespeople in this weekend of shopping 100-plus makers and manufacturers. GoodTradeMakersMarket.com

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EAST BAY & NEWPORT ALL AUTUMN LONG FARMER S M ARK ET: Mount Hope Farm is the place to be on Saturdays from 9am-12:30pm, for local produce, bread, meat, fish, crafty items, and more. Bristol, MountHopeFarm.org FREE FAMILY FUN DAYS: On select Saturdays, the Audubon Society of Rhode Island offers free guest admission with activities at no-cost. Handson crafts, nature story time, guided hikes, and more. Bristol, ASRI.org LAND TRUST DAYS 2026: Explore more with Rhode Island Land Trust Councilled activities (some requiring registration) including a full moon walk, kite flying on the beach, and guided nature hikes. Through October 25. Various, RILandTrusts.org

Norman Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair

PICK-YOUR-OWN: October in Rhode Island means flowers, apples, and pumpkins are ripe for the picking at places including Sweet Berr y Farm. Middletown, SweetBerryFarmRI.com WEDNESDAY NATURE WALKS: Norman Bird Sanctuary opens trails to the public for fascinating late-afternoon guided walks, free of charge. Also, check out free Sunday guided bird walks, every other Sunday. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org

OCTOBER OCTOBER 1-4 Audrain Newport Concours and Motor Week: Car showcases, gatherings, seminars, and luxurious events lead up to the annual gala. One-of-a-kind seminars and a special surprise guest are planned. Newport, AudrainConcours.com OCTOBER 1 Art of Darkness: The HeARTspot Art Center and Gallery is where you’ll find the 10th edition of this showcase of spooky artwork through November 11. Opening reception on October 22. East Providence, HeartspotArt.com

Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.

Art of Darkness at The HeARTspot Art Center and Gallery

HELPING YOU CREATE YOUR BACKYARD PARADISE

Photo (top) courtesy of Norman Bird Sanctuary, (bottom) courtesy of HeARTspot Art Center and Gallery

Annuals & Perennials • Shrubbery Statuary • Pottery • Stone & Masonry Supplies Sheds & Gazebos • Outdoor Furniture

363 Putnam Pike Smithfield • 232-7222 At the Crossing in Smithfield HilltopGardenCenter.com

OCTOBER 3 The Great Townie Pumpkin Festival: Rides on the Looff Carousel, trunk or treat, pumpkin decorating, vendors, and food trucks are all part of the fun. Rain date, October 4. Riverside, CrescentParkCarousel.org OCTOBER 3-4 Harvest Festival: New England’s oldest vineyard is the location for days of tastings and seasonal activities. Little Compton, SakonnetWine.com OCTOBER 3-4 Norman Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair: This beloved event includes everything from pony rides to mud pit battles, children’s games, a crafter’s tent, music, and food trucks. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org OCTOBER 8-11 Rogue Island Comedy Festival: Don’t miss the fall installation of the biannual stand-up fest featuring rising talent and nationally touring comedians. Newport, RogueIslandComedyFest.com

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

HAUNTINGLY GOOD PRINTING & FRAMING PRINT | FRAME | SHIP 51 Liberty St. East Greenwich (401)885-0300

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New England Witches Guild Parade & Festival

OCTOBER 10 Broadway Street Fair: Head over to Washington Square for a full day of live music, local art, food, and community. Newport, BroadwayStreetFairNPT.com OCTOBER 10 Southern New England Pumpkin Growers Weigh Off: A gourd-adjacent agenda includes a western town and pirate ship for kids, corn maze, and food trucks galore. Warren, FoodTrucksIn.com OCTOBER 17 Fall Artisan Market: Don’t miss the special seasonal version of the popular Saturday morning farmers market. Bristol, MountHopeFarm.org OCTOBER 17 Harvest & Heritage: The historic Parker Mills is the location for the Warren Heritage Foundation’s 12th annual gala. Enjoy

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Oktoberfest-inspired food and drink, plus live music. Warren, WarrenHeritageFoundation.org OCTOBER 17 New England Witches Guild Parade & Festival: This bewitching event steps off with a one mile parade leading to a beer garden and all ages activities at Crescent Park. Riverside, NewEnglandWitchesGuild.com OCTOBER 17 Search Tunnels & Terror: Explore the creepy tunnels of historic Fort Adams, followed by an outdoor screening of a Halloween movie at this event designed for families. Newport, FortAdams.org

OCTOBER 30 Spirits and Mind Games: A Halloween Cocktail Party : An unforgettable night of myster y, magic, and mixolog y awaits at this ticketed event. Bristol, LindenPlace.org OCTOBER 31 Holiday Small Works Exhibit: The artists at Spring Bull Galler y kick off the shopping season with this show that runs through New Year’s Eve! Newport, NewportArtistCollective.com

NOVEMBER

OCTOBER 17-18 Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Fest: Head to the waterfront for fresh seafood from restaurants and fishermen, kettle corn and treats, live music, and all-ages fun. Newport, BowensWharf.com

NOVEMBER 1 Cars & Coffee - Trunk or Treat at Fort Adams: Didn’t get enough candy ? Bring the costumed kiddies for a morning of sweet cars, candy, and coffee. Newport, AudrainAutoMuseum.org

OCTOBER 18, 25 Warren Walkabout: A strolling musician, food, culture, art, and live bands are all planned for two Sunday fun days at locations around the eclectic town. Warren, DiscoverWarren.org

NOVEMBER 6-15 Newport Restaurant Week: Prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants makes sampling eateries a fun experience. Newport DiscoverNewport.org

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (L) courtesy of New England Witches Guild, (R) courtesy of Fort Adams

OCTOBER 9-12 Bowen’s Wharf Annual Sidewalk Sale: “Forget the mall and shop small” is a message we dig! Stroll Bowen’s Wharf for great deals all weekend long. Newport, BowensWharf.com

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NORTHERN RHODY ALL AUTUMN LONG ADAMS FARM: A sprawling pumpkin patch, kid-friendly hay maze and corn maze, weekend tractor rides, cider donuts, and more. Cumberland, AdamsFarmRI.com BL ANCHARD’S ORCHARD: Pies, pumpkins, fun cut-out boards ripe for photos, and more await at this family-owned farm. Scituate, Instagram: blanchardsorchard CUCUMBER HILL FARM: Corn maze enthusiasts, this is your place. This year’s theme is “nocturnal neighbors,” and you can explore by day or by night with flashlights! Seasonal activities include make-and-take scarecrows, meeting ponies, tractor hay rides, and more. Foster, CucumberHillFarm.com FOSTER FARMER S M ARK ET: Set the alarm on Sundays for breakfast at Shady Acres Diner followed by shopping local for produce and crafts. Through October 25. Foster, FosterFarmersMarketRI.com HARMONY R AILWAY: All aboard for a half-mile scenic ride on a diesel-powered locomotive. Shop for souvenirs and local provisions after at the gift shop! Chepachet, HarmonyRIProducts.com THE HAUNTED GALLOWS: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights through October 30, a 600-acre Harrisville farm becomes a frightening destination for thrill-seekers with the all-new Dark Fair and Bathsheba’s Woods. Burrillville, HauntedGallows.com OBSERVATORY OPEN NIGHTS AT SE AGR AVE MEMORIAL OBSERVATORY: On clear Saturday nights, hop over to Peeptoad Road for stargazing at Seagrave Memorial Obser vator y. Scituate, TheSkyScrapers.org

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Blanchard’s Orchard

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Photo (top to bottom) courtesy of Adam’s Farm, courtesy of Blanchard’s Orchard, and courtesy Haunted Gallows + Immersive Events LLC

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OCTOBER 3 Pumpkinpalooza ! A Glass Pumpkin Festival and Fall Open House: Watch a master car ver transform pumpkins into art, shop hand-blown pumpkins or register to make one yourself. Demos, food, and hot cider, too. Cumberland, BlackstoneRiverGlass.com OCTOBER 9-12 Woonsocket Autumnfest: Bristol has Fourth of July and Woonsocket has Autumnfest, a longstanding extravaganza with a parade, carnival rides, games, food, and vendors. Woonsocket, Autumnfest.org OCTOBER 10-12 Scituate Art Festival: Shop arts, crafts, and antiques, plus live music and a food court. Pro -tip : wear comf y walking shoes. Rain or shine. North Scituate, ScituateArtFestival.org. OCTOBER 11 Autumn Har vest Tea: Enjoy an afternoon of tea and a scrumptious luncheon of pumpkin bisque, finger sandwiches, and

desserts inside the greenhouse at Mapleville Farm. Mapleville, BensBakery.com OCTOBER 17 Autumn Vendor Market: Head to the greenhouse at Mapleville Farm to shop local – including their own bake shop items and coffee – at this charming day of community. Mapleville, BensBakery.com OCTOBER 17 Glocester Scarecrow Festival: Multiple Putnam Pike locations host food, vendors, pumpkin painting , a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting , and entertainment. Chepachet, GlocesterScarecrowFestival.com OCTOBER 18 Rustic Pumpkin Workshop: Little Poultr y Shed in the Woods leads this make-andtake event during the farmers market. Foster, FosterFarmersMarketRI.com OCTOBER 18, 24, 26; NOVEMBER 1 Gone But Not Forgotten, Victorian Mourning and Funeral Customs Exhibit: Learn what a funeral and embalming at home was like circa 1870. A must for histor y buffs and goths. Lincoln, HearthsideHouse.org

Chepachet Hearthside House

Mapleville Farm Blackstone River Glass Center

OCTOBER 23, 24 The Vampire Circus: For fans of Tim Burton and Cirque Du Soleil, this captivating mix of circus cabaret and theater set in 19th centur y Bohemia awaits. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com OCTOBER 23 Witches’ Night Out: An evening of broommaking , tarot card readings, raffle prizes, food, shopping , and best dressed witch or warlock awaits. Pre-ticketed to ensure safe capacity. Chepachet, EventBrite.com OCTOBER 25 Mobile Petting Zoo: Xen’s Critters makes a stop at Foster Farmers’ Market for a morning of learning about and petting small animals. Foster, FosterFarmersMarketRI.com

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 14 Makers Market: Shop from fine artists, crafters, beekeepers, and more at this firstever shopping event. VIP early-entr y tickets available. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com

Photo (clockwise) by John Pitocco, courtesy of Glocester Scarecrow Festival, courtesy of Mapleville Farm, by Mark Manne Photography, courtesy of Blackstone River Glass, by David Cruz, courtesy of Hearthside House Museum

OCTOBER

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SOUTHERN RHODY ALL AUTUMN LONG BLOCK ISLAND FARMERS MARKET: Spend a perfect New Shoreham morning shopping art, jewelry, honey, and other mementos at Legion Park at West Side Road. Wednesdays and Saturdays through October 10. New Shoreham, BIFarmersMarket.com BLOCK ISLAND GHOST TOURS: Enjoy hearing tales of island lore, lighthouse keepers, shipwrecks, and more during this 60-75 minute guide tour. Old Harbor, BlockIslandGhostTours.com

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FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL: The garden center pulls out all the stops with hayrides, a pumpkin dunk tank, corn maze, scavenger hunt, barrel train, and more, weekends through October. South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughterRI.com THE HARD-PRESSED CIDER COMPANY: Fans of the Swanson’s fresh cider and cider donuts, take note: they’ve moved! Find them at 930 Hopkins Hill Road through Thanksgiving before they set-up at the Farmer’s Daughter Christmas Tree Farm, South Kingstown. West Greenwich, HardPressedCiderCompany.com SEASIDE SHADOWS DOWNTOWN GHOST TOURS: Hear stories of deadly shipwrecks, cursed pirate treasure, and witches while exploring the historic architecture of this small seaside town. Tours are also held in Mystic, CT. Weekends through November. Westerly, SeasideShadows.com

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STARGAZING NIGHTS: On clear Friday nights, Frosty Drew opens its obser vator y, science center, sky theater, and telescopes for free stargazing and astronomy to anybody interested in obser ving from Ninigret Park. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org

URI RHODY R AMS FOOTBALL: Show off your Rhode Island pride at Centreville Stadium in Pawtucket this season, while the Ram’s home base, Meade Stadium, is being renovated. Various Saturdays through November 14. Pawtucket, GoRhody.com

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (top) by Aimee Elizabeth Photography, courtesy of Hard-Pressed Cider Co., (bottom) courtesy of URI

CLARK FARMS FALL FEST: Through October 25, Clark Farms is a one-stop for making memories, with a giant corn maze, hayrides, petting zoo, the Beeline Zipline, a mining activity, pedal-powered gokarts, skipping stones, and a straw maze. Matunuck, ClarkFarms.com

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OCTOBER OCTOBER 2 Spooky Sugar Cookies: Kick off the month with a hands-on class where you’ll learn from chefs how to make and decorate deliciously creepy cookies. Westerly, OceanHouseRI.com OCTOBER 3 Cranberr y Thanksgiving : Celebrate the cranberr y moon with traditional dances, songs, stor ytelling , the Indigenous Artist Market, and food vendors. Free and open to the public at St. James Church. Charlestown, TomaquagMuseum.org OCTOBER 4 Dinner on the Pond: Live-fire barbeque cook Jack Arnold returns to Weekapaug Inn for a tailgate-style buffet and football

watch party (NE Patriots and Buffalo Bills). Westerly, WeekapaugInn.com OCTOBER 9-25 The Crucible: The Granite Theatre – a restored Greek Revival Church – makes a fitting stage for Arthur Miller’s gripping play set during the Salem witch trials. Westerly, GraniteTheatre.org OCTOBER 10 Pumpkin Bash: Motor over to the glen at Peter Pots Pottery to revel in this year’s Pumpkin Patch – four eagerly awaited “drops” released one by one. West Kingston, PeterPots.com OCTOBER 11 Block Island Half Marathon: There are no views quite like this half marathon,

which begins at the Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion and takes you past beach dunes, the North Lighthouse, and rolling pastures. Block Island, NewShorehamRI.gov OCTOBER 16 Coventry Halloween Spooktacular: Enjoy food trucks, trunk-or-treat, and other spooky activities at this annual Halloween event hosted by Coventry Parks & Recreation. Coventry, Facebook: Coventry Halloween Spooktacular OCTOBER 16-31 Wicked Weeks: Wickford Village comes alive with two weeks of seasonal fun including the Wickford Harbor Fire (Oct. 16), the Spooky Sip and Stroll (Oct. 22), the Horribles Parade (Oct. 24), the Witches Paddle (Oct. 25) and a Halloween Eve Walking Tour (Oct. 31). WickfordVillage.org

Photo courtesy of Peter Pots Pottery

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OCTOBER 17 Fall Fest and Pumpkin Stroll: Give Halloween costumes a dress rehearsal at Wilcox Park for a day of cider, donuts, and pumpkin voting and prizes. Westerly, WesterlyLibrary.org OCTOBER 17 Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night: The Misquamicut Players reenact Monty Python’s parody of Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605. A bonfire will set the stage for this comedic night at The Windjammer. Misquamicut, GuyFawkesUSA.com OCTOBER 17 Spooktacular Kids Craft Day & Outdoor Craft Fair: Check out a variety of local vendors set up at the Fayerweather House grounds with fun Halloween activities and candy for kids! South Kingstown, FayerweatherCraftGuild.com

OCTOBER 24-25 Wickford Art Association Fall Art Fair: Over 60 artists will display their work for sale at Gooseneck Vineyards at this event now expanded to two days. North Kingstown, Wickford Art.org OCTOBER 25 Ocean State Rhode R aces: Lace up those sneakers and enjoy shoreline views while you run a marathon, half marathon, or 5K at the 9th annual Ocean State Rhode Races. A festival at Narragansett Town Beach follows. Narragansett, RhodeR aces.com OCTOBER 25 Thriller Panel: Writers Diane Josefowicz, Wendy Walker, Lauren Willig , and Laura Zigman assemble for a lively discussion led by bestseller Deborah Goodrich Royce. Westerly, OceanHouseRI.com OCTOBER 31 HallUween: Don’t miss this family-friendly Halloween celebration in Downtown Westerly, with trick-or-treating , live music, giant puppets on parade, and a festive “trunk or treat” at the municipal lot next to Miceli’s Furniture. UnitedTheatre.org

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NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 6 Thanksgiving Tips and Techniques: Prepare a Thanksgiving feast like a pro, featuring a hands-on culinary experience designed to elevate your holiday table, part of Ocean House’s In the Kitchen series. Watch Hill, OceanHouseRI.com

NOVEMBER 7 Sunset Soiree Casino Night: Historic Kinney Bungalow on Sunset Farm is the setting for a night of table games, swing music, passed apps, and dessert. Narragansett, NarragansettRI.gov

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (L) by Elyse Major, (top R) courtesy of Gather Farm, (bottom R) courtesy of Conimicut Village Assocation

OCTOBER 17-18 HopArts Studio Trail: Artists and artisans open their studios to the public for the weekend, offering demonstrations, details of their craft, and work for sale. Hopkinton and Richmond, HopArts.org

Gather Farm OCTOBER 23-25 The Grand Makers Camp: Fall Edition is an adults-only autumn retreat at Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa, bringing the nostalgia of summer camp to New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Guests can enjoy creative workshops, a llama trek, seasonal dining , fireside s’mores, elevated crafting sessions, and more while surrounded by peak fall foliage. Hosted in partnership with Hey Rhody’s Editor-In-Chief, Elyse Major, the weekend is designed for reconnecting , getting creative, and making memories in the mountains. Whitefield, NH; MountainViewGrand.com

CENTR AL RHODY ALL AUTUMN LONG

Conimicut Village Art Festival

CONFREDA FALL FEST: Weekends through October 26, make a day of tractor-pulled hayrides, PYO pumpkins, amusement rides, BBQ, cider donuts, and more. Hope, ConfredasFallFest.com WEEKEND GOAT HIKES AT GATHER FARM: Hike through the field and forest with Aidan Simmons and her goats. Learn goat facts while enjoying natural surroundings. Johnston, GatherFarm.com

OCTOBER OCTOBER 1, 8 West Bay Community Action’s Farm Stand: Thursday afternoons from 3-6pm shop directly from West Bay Farm at this seasonal stand. Warwick, WestbayCAP.org OCTOBER 2 War wick Food Truck Nights: Bring chairs, blankets, and lawn games for a night of food truck eats, held on the great lawn of the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Warwick, FoodTrucksIn.com OCTOBER 3 Conimicut Village Art Festival: Beach Avenue is the setting for a day of art shopping, live music, and food. Warwick, ConimicutVillageAssociation.org

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Woodland BMX Halloween Race

OCTOBER 3 Rock the Tutu, Save the Tatas: Motorcycle rides, sur vivors, families, businesses, ans supporters unite to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer education, patient assistance, recover y resources, and community support programs. Warwick, RockTheTutuSaveTheTatas.org OCTOBER 10 Fall Festival: The Loom Hotel puts its glorious autumnal Riverside Deck to

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excellent use for their first-ever event. Expect seasonal sips and bites, activities, and vendors. Warwick, TheLoomHotel.com OCTOBER 12 Food Trucks at Johnston Memorial Park: The scenic park on Hartford Avenue becomes a community hub for an afternoon of easy eats outdoors. Johnston, FoodTrucksInRI.com OCTOBER 18 Autumn Serenade for Strings: War wick

Symphony Orchestra launches its 60th Season with a program of works by Berger, Vivaldi, Sibelius, Holst, Rutter, and Mosier held at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. East Greenwich, WSORI.org OCTOBER 18 Spooktacular Marketplace: Vendors, a petting zoo, costumed characters, sweet treats, live performances, and food trucks take over the Crowne Plaza Hotel lawn. Warwick, WeBeJamminEvents.com

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (top) courtesy of Rock the Tutus, Save the Tatas, (bottom) courtesy of Woodland BMX

Rock the Tutu, Save the Tatas

A PECK – AND THEN SOME – FOR PUMPKIN PICS

Discover a school as unique as your child

Places around the state for seasonal photo ops

ADAMS FARM Cumberland BLANCHARD’S ORCHARD Scituate CUCUMBER HILL FARM Foster ESCOBAR FARM Portsmouth THE FARMER’S DAUGHTER South Kingstown FESTIVAL FARM Hope Valley HOBBIT HOUSE PUMPKIN PHOTOS EXPERIENCE AT THE PRESERVE Richmond PEZZA FARM Johnston QUONNIE FARMS Charlestown QUONSET VIEW FARM Portsmouth ST. JOHN’S PUMPKIN PATCH Barrington SALISBURY FARM Johnston SWEET BERRY FARM Middletown TRINITY CHURCH PUMPKIN PATCH Newport

OCTOBER 25-26 West Bay Open Studios: This year’s self-guided tour of 12 art spaces in Warwick, North Kingstown, and East Greenwich includes art talks and demos. Various, WestBayOpenStudios.com OCTOBER 31 Halloween Race: A full day of activities includes BMX racing, a pumpkin race, costume parade, and trunk or treat! West Greenwich, USABMX.com/tracks/ri-woodland-bmx

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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HOME & STYLE H o m e | S h o p | P ro f i l e | Fa m i l y F u n

Small “intentional” color moments keep the home feeling collected and fresh

Colorful Attitude Photography by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of Milk and Honey Group

The character of a 100-year-old cottage informs a mindful glow-up By Ann Martini

n Sakonnet Point Road, where summer cottages seem to come with their own mytholog y, the S. Newell Smith Cottage has been part of the Little Compton landscape for more than a century. Built around 1920, the petite coastal house was one of a pair reportedly built by two local sisters. (A story that its companion was lost in a hurricane persists, though it has never been verified.) More than a century later, the cottage might easily have met a very different fate: a teardown, a much larger house, a fresh start. Instead, it got a second act.

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HOME & STYLE

Its owners, who bought it in 2022, have spent years vacationing in Little Compton, and the house represented something they had been working toward for a long time. With a young family – three kids and a dog – and a plan to remodel, the decision to purchase this cottage was as easy as a Sakonnet Sunday morning. “The location was exactly what we always hoped for,” the owners say. From the house, Tappens Beach, the harbor, and Lloyd’s Beach are all within walking distance. The property also takes in two distinctly Little Compton views: Round Pond stretching toward the ocean to the south, and

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broad lawns rolling toward the harbor to the west. The house needed some help. It was tired, and while its proportions and traditional beach-cottage character were exactly what the homeowners loved, it wasn’t equipped for family life or the inevitable parade of friends and extended family that comes with a beloved summer house. They hired Milk and Honey Group for the job, in part because Isabella Califano Ehrlich, the founder and principal designer, had designed her own Little Compton home years previously and knew the terrain. Ehrlich says the renovation became an exercise in restraint and ingenuity.

A round pedestal table and chandelier create a defined dining zone in the open space

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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S we e t Te a m Milk and Honey Group specializes in renovation and full-home interior design, emphasizing architectural design. Their passion lies in refreshing older and historic homes – honoring their architectural past while updating them for modern families. The team on this project includes Isabella Califano Ehrlich, founder and principal designer; Brittany Truett, design director; Ashley Machon, marketing manager, and Ali Pothier, studio manager. Learn more at MilkAndHoneyGroup.com.

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Photography by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of Milk and Honey Group

Bounded on the south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by the Sakonnet River, on the north by the town of Tiverton, and on the east by the town of Westport, MA, Little Compton is known for its pastoral charm. Family favorites include Wishing Stone Farm for produce and provisions, Sweet and Salty Farm for dairy, and Young Family Farm for flowers. Head over to The Commons to check out newly opened Elsie’s on The Commons, serving breakfast, lunch, and coffee; shop everything from pickles to PJs at Wilbur’s General Store, and sip coffee amidst creativity at The Art Cafe.

V i n e y a rd V i b e s Set on 170 acres with water views, the focus at Sakonnet Vineyard is on the guest experience. Stock your wine cellar with their award-winning selections, and make sure your cupboards are lined with their classic “Rooster” stemware. It’s a frequent stop for our homeowners, who find it a relaxing reset. Weekends are filled with events like live music, and this month’s Rhode Race Wine Run on October 17. Learn more at SakonnetWine.com

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Stripes bring a mix of seaside luxury and jaunty appeal

HOME & STYLE

Every room was expected to do more, accommodating the family of five while still making room for guests. The footprint remained essentially intact, but the house gained valuable living space through carefully designed additions. “For us, creating an Ocean State vibe is about embracing the character of the home and allowing the architecture to lead,” says Ashley Machon, the group’s marketing manager. “What a gift it is to give a home new life while still honoring its history and original character.” The expanded porch is perhaps the best example. Double French doors open onto generous dining and lounging areas, creating an almost seamless transition between inside and out. Upstairs, a second porch extends from the bedrooms. Both were designed to look as

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though they had been there from the beginning. Inside, the designers took their cues from the coast without resorting to the expected collection of anchors, shells, and navy stripes. Instead: soft, relaxed colors, while layers of pattern and texture subtly tie the rooms together. And then there is the coral. The color makes its first and most dramatic appearance at the front gate, where it pops against the home’s muted sage trim. Ehrlich says the gate was one of her favorite elements of the entire project, and the homeowners get the credit for insisting on a color with some attitude. The same coral appears throughout the house in smaller doses such as lighting , hardware, wallpaper, and accessories. The effect is playful without being kitschy, a nod to the exuberance of

old-fashioned summers. For the family, though, the real design inspiration comes from the place itself. Little Compton has long been their refuge from the pace of everyday life. Their established summer rituals include jumping off docks in the harbor, riding waves at Tappens, and shopping farmstands for produce. “We can feel our blood pressure drop the minute we hit West Main Road,” they say. The result is an historic cottage that has been given room to evolve while keeping its original spirit intact. Here, the architecture does the talking. The design knows when to listen. The house doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t announce that it is a beach house; it simply understands that it is one. And that coral gate? It just happens to have the last word.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photography by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of Milk and Honey Group

The porthole window in the kids’ bathroom

Day & N ight

Fall is in full swing at Battleship Cove! Experience Nautical Nights, seasonal events, educational workshops, homeschool days, and more. Whether you’re planning a family day trip or looking for something new to do after dark, there’s always a reason to visit!

Visit www.battleshipcove.org for more information on our events and programs!

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HOME & STYLE

Get Crafty Find yo ur next pa s s i o n proj ect at a m a ke r c l a s s

By Britt Machado and Elyse Major

he dip in temps is a sign to discover your new favorite hobby. Making imperfect things is the perfect antidote to long slogs in front of screens of all sizes (except at movie theaters, of course). Stealing away for a few hours to take a class and then come home with a trophy is the ultimate self-care hack. You know how you’ve always been talking about making gifts for birthdays and holidays? This is the year, so get felting , formulating , firing , or pruning ! There’s no shortage of both popular and obscure crafts to try your hand at, so get out there and make stuff ! Many places listed below offer ongoing and private classes in addition to the dates listed.

BONSAI TREE: Pop -ups at Jordan’s Jungle, Pawtucket (October 3 and 17), and Tilted Barn Brewer y, Exeter (October 16) | BonsaiBar.com

GLASS RING: Class at Blackstone River Glass, Cumberland BlackstoneRiverGlass.com

PERFUME: Class at Providence Perfume Co. (October 17), Pawtucket ProvidencePerfume.com

STAINED GLASS: Class at Bosgraaf Studio, Peace Dale Bosgraaf Studio.com

WOOL FELTING: Class at The Hen House (October 18), Chepachet HenHouseOnMain.com

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Plot Twist How a Hollywood actress created the role of a lifetime in Westerly By Emily Homonoff

eborah Goodrich Royce has built a career on reinvention — from actress to story editor to bestselling novelist of four thrillers, including this year’s Best Boy. At the seaside resort she restored with husband Chuck in Watch Hill, she curates and hosts the Ocean House Author Series in partnership with Martin House Books. The book tour must-stop has welcomed the likes of Katie Couric and Chris Bohjalian, among many others. On October 25, the series will hold its annual thriller panel. We caught up with Royce ahead of the event.

HR: The Ocean House Author Series you founded has become more than a seasonal can’t-miss event, and with good reason! What was the spark that led you to launch it? DGR: In 2019, my first novel, Finding Mrs. Ford, came out. As did the books of several local friends. Each of us did an author talk at the Ocean House. Two years later, my second novel, Ruby Falls, was pub lished. At that point, Susie Stangland, my social media g uru, encouraged me to turn it into a series. It has continued to grow and evolve from there!

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Deborah Goodrich Royce with Beatriz Williams

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Photos courtesy of Deborah Goodrich Royce

HEY RHODY: You came to fiction after careers as an actress and a film executive – what pulled you toward writing thrillers specifically, and toward the “identity thriller” territory your books all explore ? DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE: After college, my path twisted from dance to acting to sto r y editing at Miramax Films. I’m not the first to say that editing is excellent preparation for writing. I’m also not the first to say that life experience informs writing , and I’ve met some complicated characters along the way. Those themes make their way into my “identity thrillers,” where people are not always who they seem.

Royce with Shannon Garvey, Debra Curtis, and Jenna Bush at The United Theatre, Westerly

Royce and Fiona Davis address the crowd

HR: Can you tell us a bit about the planning process? What goes into making this such a great program? And how do you approach selecting authors for the series each season? DGR: I am proud to say that – in addition to events hosted by Robin Kall – we’ve become one of the go-to stops on a New England book tour. We begin in November with lists of books coming out in the coming year. Six years into it, we are often approached by publicists to host their authors in conversation. HR: Next up is your annual Thriller Panel, which features writers like Diane Josefowicz (a RI local!) and Wendy Walker. What can attendees expect this time around? What do you hope people walk away with? DGR: We have a stellar group of authors joining us for the Thriller Panel on Sunday, October 25. In addition to Diane and Wendy, we have Lauren Willig and Laura Zigman. I love all their novels, so readers will want to go home with all of them. Plus, we serve a delicious brunch. HR: Readers want to know... what are you working on now ? DGR: After my mother died two years ago, I got an idea which I’m certain came from her. It’s a cozy-mother-daughter-murder-ghost-story set right here in Westerly! A middle-aged novelist, who is having a bad run of writer’s block, comes home to bury her mother. As she prepares the house for sale, her mom’s ghost appears in the middle of the night to get her to stop a crime. Hijinks, murder, and mother/daughter mayhem ensue! Learn more about the Ocean House Author Series at OceanHouseRI.com

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Escobar Farm Corn Maze, Portsmouth

Fall for Family Fun Get those costumes ready for parades, pictures, and more

ctober is peak fall in Rhode Island: the sweaters come out, red, gold, and orange fill the landscape, and our favorite “cozy season” traditions return. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to Halloween fun, here are 10 of our favorite ways for families to make the most of this month around the state.

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Apple cider, cider donuts, caramel apples, pumpkins, pick-your-own apples and a farmstand filled with baked goods: Jaswell’s checks a lot of fall boxes in one stop. The fourth-generation family farm is part of what gives Smithfield its historic nickname, Apple Valley. Smithfield

Thousands of intricately car ved pumpkins light the way through Roger Williams Park Zoo during one of Rhode Island’s most awaited traditions. This year’s theme, The Great Pun-Kin Trail, brings the dad jokes with clever car vings, pop culture references, and plenty of groan-worthy puns along the way. Providence

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St. John’s Episcopal Church in Barrington blankets its lawn with pumpkins, while Trinity Church transforms Newport’s Queen Anne Square into a pumpkin patch right in the middle of downtown. Grab a pumpkin, take the obligatory fall photos, and check one more thing off your fall bucket list. Barrington & Newport

Getting completely turned around in a cornfield is practically a fall rite of passage. Escobar Farm’s corn maze is a family favorite, with a new design to navigate each year. See who in the family actually has the best sense of direction (and who is just confidently leading everyone in circles). Portsmouth

This year’s theme, “250 Years of Farming in RI,” celebrates the state’s agricultural histor y, with October weekends filled with hayrides, cider donuts, food, and live music, plus a petting zoo, giant mountain slide, pedal-powered go -karts, “farmer-style” basketball, and a corn maze! Matunuck

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Explore downtown during the Warren Walkabout on October 18 and 25. This annual event brings together local art, open studios, live music, shops, sidewalk sales, and seasonal food pop-ups. It’s a great excuse to spend an autumn afternoon exploring one of Rhode Island’s best little downtowns. Warren

COSTUME PARADE AND CONTEST IN WICKFORD Wicked Weeks turns the seaside village into a Halloween destination with all kinds of

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Treat: Halloween falls on a Saturday this year

all-ages activities. Kids who love to dress up won’t want to miss marching in the Horribles Parade (October 25, 11:30am), followed by a costume contest and trick-or-treating at participating businesses. North Kingstown

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Get extra mileage out of those costumes at trunk-or-treating events. Instead of knocking on doors, kids go vehicle to vehicle. Options include Coventry at Town Hall Annex (October 16), Igg y’s in Warwick (October 23), Tiverton at Ranger School (October 24), and November 1 at Fort Adams. Various

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RIDE THE ILLUMINATED SWAN BOATS The Swan Boats at Roger Williams Park get a glow-up for October! Hop aboard after dark and pedal through illuminated tunnels and colorful lights on the water. It’s a fun way to experience the park at night and a great option for families looking for a little Halloween magic sans spookiness. Providence

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Planting the Seeds of a Better Old Age Photo courtesy of Jesse B/Adobe Stock

Local businesses working to support healthy aging

By Emil y Olson

hode Island’s population is aging rapidly. By 2030, more than one in 10 Rhode Islanders is projected to be 75 or older, compared with roughly one in 11 Americans nationwide. And the state’s 75-to -84 population is growing particularly quickly, projected to increase by nearly 60 percent between 2020 and 2030. Whether the infrastructure needed to support that population will keep pace is less certain, prompting many Rhode Islanders to take healthy aging into their own hands.

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Financial advisors often say that the first step toward a healthy lifestyle is having op tions. And careful financial planning allows for choice. “Money alone doesn’t create hap piness, but being more confident in your financial situation can create options that allow you to do the things you enjoy,” says Ashley Macksoud, wealth management advisor at Merrill Rhode Island. Macksoud’s approach to financial planning is much like the old proverb about planting fruit trees: the best time to plant one was 20 years ago. The second best time is today. “It’s never too early or too late to work with an advisor,” she says. “An advisor can evaluate where you are today and make course corrections as your life circumstances change.” Whether those goals are traveling , buying a dream home, or spending time with loved ones, all of them are better enjoyed by people who feel good. That’s why many seniors are choosing to invest in their healthcare. A new model of healthcare growing in Rhode Island is direct primary care, a membership-based model where patients pay a practice a monthly fee for primary care services, in many cases cutting insurance out of the equation. These practices tend to be small, with ample time for individualized care. “I charge a monthly fee that covers all of your primary care services, such as appointments, in-office procedures, texts, prescriptions, video calls,” says Wendy Regan, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician who runs Harbour Direct Primary Care in Jamestown. She worked under the insurance model until 2020, when she realized its demands didn’t allow her to practice medicine the way she wanted to. “Insurance demands healthcare providers maintain a full schedule of 12-to-15-minute appointments. That doesn’t let me connect with patients in the way that best serves them.” Sarah McGinley, APRN, a board-certified family nurse practitioner and founder of Weatherly Direct Primary Care in Wakefield, sees the relationship as the model’s chief advantage. “I left the insurance model because I felt it was wrong to rush a human being through a visit if they were having a hard time,” she says. “People are not robots.” Regan and McGinley say that direct primary care is designed to work with insurance, however, not replace it. Insurance remains necessary for specialist appointments, labs, and ER visits.

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Wendy Regan, MD

Sara McGinley, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Photo (top) courtesy of Harbour Direct Primary Care, (bottom) courtesy of Sara McGinley

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Regan says that her primary goal is to help her patients feel like they’re in control of their health. “ When you hire me to be your physician, I need to know what’s important to you,” she says. “Is it independence ? Function? Cognitive status ? Quality of life ? Once we know your goals, I can help you meet them and feel like you have agency over your life.” Although both practitioners work with people with a variety of lifestyles, they tend to attract a certain type of patient. “My practice draws the type of person who’s an active participant in their health,” says McGinley. “They’re proactive and want to make changes that positively impact their health.” That’s where a place like Roots Physical Therapy and Yoga, in Providence, comes in. Twice a week, they hold a class called Yoga for Healthy Aging , which uses movement to safely build strength, maximize mobility, and improve balance. Jaclyn Plante, PT, DPT, OCS, RY T, a doctor of physical therapy and the yoga and movement studio manager at the facility, teaches one of the classes and blends her yoga experience with her medical knowledge in her approach. The average age of the Yoga for Healthy Aging class is 55-plus, but the class and studio are open to and inclusive of queer, aging , abled, or disabled folks. “Our studio motto is we’re psyched you’re here,” Plante says.

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RHODY RESOURCES A sampling of programs around the state that offer practical help for staying healthy, engaged, informed, and independent. Many of these organizations offer free or affordable ser vices to seniors and family members. By Ken Abrams • Age-Friendly Rhode Island. A statewide coalition that promotes healthier, more inclusive communities for older residents and publishes the Rhode Island Healthy Aging Pocket Guide. AgeFriendlyRI.org • Legal Aid. Rhode Island Legal Ser vices provides free assistance to qualif ying adults 60 and older with public benefits, housing , consumer matters, and elder abuse. The Rhode Island Bar Association also offers people 60 and older a free half-hour consultation and reduced-fee referrals. RI Legal Services: 401-274-2652, Bar Association, 401-521-5040 • Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island. The organization delivers nutritious meals to eligible homebound residents and provides reg ular social contact and wellness checks. RIMeals.org , 401-351-6700 • Pride in Aging Rhode Island. The organization supports LGBTQ+ older adults through advocacy, education, monthly cafés, social dinners, and community events, as well as by working with health-care and senior-service providers to create more welcoming programs. PrideInAgingRI.org

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“I apply the tenets of yoga through the lens of physical therapy,” she says. “For example, when we’re doing chair pose, I encourage them to think about squatting into a chair or reaching into the dryer. Those visuals really resonate with the older population.” She’s also aware that transitions from standing to sitting are when a lot of falls happen. Falls aren’t necessarily the greatest threat to an older adult’s life, but they may be one of the biggest preventable threats to an older adult’s independence. “During class, we work our way from a seated position to a single-leg balance and then work back down to the mat, but we do it in a flow sequence that you’d expect in a yoga practice.” Almost as important as the physical aspects of a class like this are the social aspects. “We always encourage people to come to class a few minutes early, but I find people come even earlier than

recommended to catch up and make plans with each other,” Plante says. “And our classes are intentionally kept small, so students get that one-on-one attention in a community. But the result is that when someone is missing , others notice and check on them.” Despite the best medical care and prevention techniques, however, the way people age and the physical and cognitive issues they face are sometimes out of their control. And long-term care is expensive. To address care costs and empower people to embrace long-term planning, a membership program was recently launched through Warwick-based St. Elizabeth Community called atHome Together, to help people age at home for as long as possible. Jessica Smith, director of atHome Together, says the program is ideal for people who have assets to protect and want to have a plan in place.

Staying active in social settings is central to maintaining a positive outlook on life

• Rhode Island Aging and Disability Resource Center. Specialists provide free, confidential guidance for questions about home care, transportation, nutrition, Medicare, Medicaid, heating assistance, and caregiver support. OHA. RI.gov, 401-462-4444 • RI Elder Info. A nonprofit website that offers an extensive, town-by-town director y covering housing , transportation, health care, leg al and financial planning , veterans’ ser vices, careg iver support and activities for older adults. RIElderInfo.com, 401-585-0509 • RIPTA Senior Transportation. Adults 65+ can receive reduced off-peak fares, while qualif ying low-income seniors may ride free throug h RIPTA’s Reduced Fare Bus Pass Program. RIPTA .com, Reduced Fare Program, 401-784-9500, RIde Paratransit, 401-461-9760 • Village Common of Rhode Island. A volunteer network that helps older adults remain in their homes and communities; seniors can receive transportation, household assistance, technolog y help, and home visits and participate in social and educational programs. VillageCommonRI.org, 401-228-8683 OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Jessica Smith

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Photo (top) courtesy of atHome Together, (bottom) courtesy of Alessandro Biascioli/Adobe Stock

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Smith explains how the program works. “You pay a large one-time fee when you’re healthy – the sweet spot is when people are in their 60s to 70s – and then you pay a monthly fee. That monthly fee gets you a care coordinator whose job is to understand your family and your wishes. They walk along with you as you age.” But that fee also unlocks priority access to care. “Let’s say you’re aging at home and your care coordinator thinks you’d benefit from

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help bathing. We’d coordinate and pay for that care,” Smith explains. As members decide with their care coordinator that they need to transition into assisted living or a long-term care facility, atHome Together also would arrange and pay for that care. “It’s a way to access care with today’s dollars,” Smith explains. She says the program is ideal for solo agers or for aging couples who don’t want to become a burden on their adult children. “ We tend to only think of senior living facilities

in a crisis, so this is a whole different mindset for seniors,” Plante says. “I think this is an amazing program and I’m shouting it to the rooftops for healthy seniors in a position to afford it. It all comes down to peace of mind.” No amount of planning can dictate exactly how a person will age. But financial preparation, strong relationships with healthcare providers, physical streng th, community connections, and a plan for the future can preser ve something almost as valuable : choice.

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

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A plan for the future can preserve something almost as valuable: choice

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Tricky Treat

Cause a swarm with this crafty cake recipe from a Halloween-loving photographer

Photography by Serina Bowen

By Elyse Major

ne of the first signs of fall in New England is the appearance of the King Richard’s Faire billboard along Interstate 195 East. For Serina Bowen, the Renaissance-themed extravaganza inspired her to make a special cicada cake for her family’s annual trip to the event. “ We’ve been attending since I was 13, and it’s the one big event I look forward to every year, so of course we go all-out,” begins Bowen, originally from the mountains of western Massachusetts, and currently living in the forests of Burrillville. “I decorated the cake to celebrate the emergence of the cicadas. I find there’s comfort in having recurring recipes, especially ones grounded in the seasons. My traditions just happen to celebrate my macabre interests and the emergence of cicadas.”

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In a palette of mocha, the dessert is made in three parts: the spice cake, the maple glaze, and the chocolate cicadas. “When I can, I get my fresh produce and, in this recipe’s case, Chepachet Farms pure maple syrup from my friends at Mapleville Farm, and many of my herbs and spices at Farmacy Herbs in Providence,” says Bowen, who enjoys making creepy treats – like town villager meat packages, strawberr y rats, and molasses cookies strewn with confectionar y cobwebs – all month long. “My love for Halloween probably stems from my devotion to crafting mixed with my adoration of autumn. It’s the time of year when creativity and morbid curiosity have societal permission to run rampant, and I love seeing entire communities come together to simply have some fun. I don’t want to say Halloween is my personality, but if you get me started on ghost stories, folklore, or dark Victorian-era practices, be forewarned,” Bowen says with a grin. When she’s not whipping up bugs in the kitchen, jewelr y photographer-by-day Bowen explores the state on weekends. “Rhode Island also has an abundance of festivals to get you in the cozy autumn spirit, including Apple Fest and the Pagan Pride Day Festival, both in Johnston, Norman Bird Sanctuar y ’s Har vest Fair in Middletown, and the Wickford Witches Paddle. All of these events are the perfect opportunity to grab a hot apple cider, explore local businesses, and experience a true New England October. However, I’m still fairly new to the area and have a lot more to discover.” This year, Bowen is eager to experience Bathsheba’s Woods and Haunted Gallows in Burrillville, and she cites strolling Swan Point Cemeter y as a favorite activity. “It has the perfect ratio of trees, old tombstones, and if you’re lucky, some wildlife weaving throughout.” Follow Bowen along on Instagram at @inbowensbones. Photography by Serina Bowen

C i c a da C a rd a m o m C a ke I NGR E DIE NTS

Glaze

Cardamom Cake

1. While cooling , combine all the ingredients for the glaze and whisk until smooth. Add more powdered sugar or milk to adjust the consistency (it should be about the consistency of molasses).

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for pan • 1½ tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • ½ tsp cardamom • ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature • ½ cup sugar • 2 large eggs, room temperature • 2 tsp vanilla extract • ½ cup plus 2 tbsp whole milk

2. Pour the glaze over the cake, making sure it is coated entirely, and let set for at least 10 minutes.

Cicadas

Maple Spice Glaze • 2 cups confectioners sugar, sifted • 2 tsp vanilla extract • ½ tsp five spice • ¼ tsp nutmeg • ¼ tsp allspice • 3 tbsp pure maple syrup • 2-3 tbsp whole milk

1. To make the cicadas’ bodies, microwave the sweetened condensed milk for 30 seconds on high. Sift in cocoa powder and a dash of salt and mix until combined.

CHOCOLATE CICADAS

3. When firmed up, pinch off about 1 tsp of the dough and form a tapered log shape, 1½-2 inches long. Roll in cocoa powder and make two curved indents in the middle to create the bug’s segments (sort of like a knuckle), with three horizontal lines on one side of the segment. Repeat for as many cicadas (or any other creepy crawlies) as you want (I made a total of 10 for my cake).

• ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk • ½ cup cocoa powder • Dash of salt (optional) • ¾ cup dark chocolate chips • Edible glitter (optional)

ST EPS Cake 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Adhere a round of parchment paper to the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with butter/ cooking spray, then grease and flour the entire pan. 3. Mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom in a medium bowl and set aside. 4. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla extract. 5. Mix in the flour mixture in three portions, alternating with milk until smooth. 6. Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 30-34 minutes until pale golden brown. 7. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack and let sit until cooled completely.

2. Scoop this mixture into a sheet of plastic wrap, cover and freeze for 30 minutes.

4. To make the wings, temper the chocolate by microwaving a half cup of chocolate chips at 30-second intervals until just melted and mix in the remainder of chips until just melted. Note: over-heating will cause the chocolate to not temper, so err on the side of caution, but make sure all the lumps are out, or your piping bag will clog. 5. Add melted chocolate to a sandwich or piping bag, cut off a very small corner of the bag (about 1 cm) and pipe large and small teardrop shapes onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Fill the teardrops with more small teardrop shapes to make a lacy pattern (see reference). 6. Let sit at room temperature until solidified, then brush on edible glitter (optional). Make small holes in sides of cicada bodies and insert the wings (larger in front, smaller in back) 7. Top the cake with cicadas and enjoy a perfectly spooky Halloween dessert! Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.

FOOD & DRINK

Move Over, Espresso Martini

Make way fo r a new co f fe e m i l k b o u r b o n p romisin g a Rh od y ta ke on a c la ssic sp ir it By Ann Martini

hether it’s food, fashion, or spirits, we love a collab as much as anyone. But this latest one – well, this has us over the moon! Coffee milk has been the official state drink since 1993, and local distiller ISCO Spirits is giving this lunchbox and diner staple an adults-only remix. Providence-based ISCO has teamed up with Autocrat, the storied Rhode Island coffee syrup brand, to create Autocrat Coffee Syrup Bourbon, a limited-edition whiskey that

Coffee Cocktails Once you get your hands on a bottle, try one of these original cocktail recipes, concocted by ISCO’s Cocktails Bar Manager Jayda Ford.

brings together two distinctly local traditions. The new bourbon will be released October 8 at select Rhode Island retailers and at ISCO’s Cocktail Bar and Bottle Shop on Sims Avenue, and at some local bars and restaurants. “Honestly, this is one of those ideas that feels so obvious in hindsight you can’t believe nobody did it sooner,” says Manya K . Rubinstein, the CEO of ISCO. “Coffee milk is in the state’s DNA, and Autocrat is the brand that makes that possible. Once we started talking about what a truly Rhode Island

bourbon could look like, Autocrat wasn’t a stretch, it was the answer.” For ISCO, which opened in 2020 as Providence’s first distillery since Prohibition, the partnership fits neatly into a portfolio that has never been shy about Rhode Island inspiration. The distillery has previously experimented with such hyperlocal ideas as Pizza Strip Vodka and Ostreida, an oyster-based vodka, alongside its more traditional gins, vodkas and bourbons. But the Autocrat bourbon may be its most nostalgic Rhode Island release.

The new bourbon will be released on October 8

WISE GUY This is basically a Coffee Milk Old Fashioned – the syrup does the sweetening instead of simple syrup, so you get that classic coffee milk flavor riding right alongside the bourbon. • 2 oz ISCO Autocrat Barrel Bourbon • 0.5 oz Autocrat coffee syrup (in place of simple syrup) • 2 dashes aromatic bitters • Orange peel, expressed and dropped in Stir all ingredients with ice, strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, and garnish with the orange peel.

HANDSOME + DAIRYING ISCO’s take on a Rhode Island Cabinet, spiked.

Photo by Honey Buns Social

• 1.5 oz ISCO Autocrat Bourbon • 0.5 oz coffee liqueur • 1 oz Wright’s coffee milk • 2 dashes black walnut bitters Shake the bourbon, coffee liqueur and bitters, pour into a rocks glass, then float the coffee milk over the top with a bar spoon for that marbled look.

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For that reason, lots of TLC and research went into producing a stellar product. “Whether we’re working with local farmers or local coffee syrup producers, we see ourselves as not just distillers but as custodians of the unique flavors that both inspire us and make us think of home,” says Eric Olson, director of distillery operations at ISCO. Rather than simply adding coffee flavor to finished whiskey, ISCO took a more layered approach. Olson explains that the distillery coated whiskey barrels with Autocrat coffee syrup, then filled them with its organic cornbased bourbon, aged more than four years. The bourbon rested in the syrup-treated barrels for several months, allowing the whiskey to draw coffee, caramel, and roasted flavors from the wood. “It’s a much more patient approach, and it meant a lot of tasting and waiting to find the point where the coffee, caramel and oak were all speaking to each other

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instead of one shouting over the rest,” he says. Autocrat itself stretches even further back into Rhode Island history. Founded in Providence in 1895 by grocers Seth H. Brownell and Frank O. Field, the company has long been synonymous with the coffee syrup used to make coffee milk. Today, the brand is part of Finlays Solutions and continues to operate from Lincoln. And they couldn’t be happier with the collaboration. “What ISCO has created feels both nostalgic and completely new. They’ve taken a flavor Rhode Islanders know incredibly well and found an unexpected way for people to experience it,” says VP of Marketing Art Lopez. Rubinstein says ISCO and Autocrat can’t wait for the public and the cocktail community’s response. “Every time we’ve mentioned ‘coffee milk bourbon’ to a Rhode Islander, the reaction has been immediate – half nostalgia, half disbelief that no one made this before. That’s exactly the response we were hoping for.”

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Octo ber 8 : Ca bi n et o f Cu r io s it ie s A swallow will tell you Celebrate the release of Autocrat Coffee Syrup Bourbon at an evening of rare spirits, syrupy elixirs, and little “museum” moments like antique Autocrat bottles that tell the stor y of the brand. Wright’s Dair y joins as the official milk and coffee milk partner, pouring classic and bourbon-spiked cabinets. Local psychic Beth Metal will read swirls left in g uests’ glasses in a ver y Rhody spin on tea leaf reading called “Autocratomancy.” 5-10pm. 1 Sims Avenue, Providence; ISCOSpirits.com

Photo by Honey Buns Social

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FOOD & DRINK

Mission Driven

A che f use s hi s powe rs fo r g o o d by t ra i n in g oth ers By Cynthia Munrayos

ver the years, many Rhode Islanders have established a weekend routine of waking up and heading to one of the 30-plus farmers markets throughout the state, from the streets of Pawtucket to the fields of South County. What’s your pleasure ? The most uniquely shaped heirloom tomato, a loaf of fresh sourdough, or just a coffee and a stroll? Whatever it is, supporting local farmers is what we’re all here for. For long time chef and Farm Fresh RI Pro gram Director Sean Kontos, the phrase “farm to table” has long been part of his vernacular. But his own stor y is quite literally “farm fresh.” From the New Hampshire seacoast to Nantucket and Providence, Kontos has fo cused on locally sourced seasonal cooking , as

well as nose-to -tail butcher y. Once the head chef of Providence’s Local 121, Kontos’ interest in food began when he spent his 15th summer working on a farm in New Hampshire. He says, “It was really eye-opening in a lot of ways to see the amount of work it took to get food on your plate.” Growing up half Greek, Kontos was surrounded by family cooks and large gatherings that helped shape his perspective on food. His time as a line cook in high school led him to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University. From there, Kontos let the wind carry him across New England and Europe before finding his way back to Rhode Island, working in the restaurant industry again. In time, he realized it was not his long-term path and began volunteering and working with Farm Fresh RI in

search of something more meaningful. Today, Kontos has found a different way to put his kitchen experience to use through Har vest Kitchen, where food is as much about teaching as it is about supporting farmers. A culinary job training program for youth ages 16 to 19, it is supported by Farm Fresh RI and the state Department of Children, Youth and Families. Kontos says, “I love working with the kids. I learn a lot from them, and it’s rewarding to get to teach them skills they’re going to use in their lives, whether they work in a restaurant or are cooking at home for someone.” In 2016, the Harvest Kitchen Cafe opened, giving kids the opportunity to work in a real food service environment while continuing to develop their skills. After nine years at its original location in Pawtucket, Kontos and the Harvest Kitchen

Harvest Kitchen Cafe gift cards are ready to send via email and text via FarmFreshRI.org

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HARVEST INSPIRED Open for lunch, the café serves seasonal dishes, with October bringing more soups and fallinspired sandwiches, as well as breakfast during the late-fall and early-winter farmers markets. Seasonal offerings continue into November with Farm Fresh’s Thanksgiving box, featuring local produce and holiday staples. Learn more at FarmFreshRI.org

team relocated the café to Farm Fresh’s headquarters in Providence this past April. Although Kontos is not cooking in the kitchen as much these days, he continues to support students, create menu plans, and coordinate with nearby farmers. Looking ahead, he hopes to see Har vest Kitchen continue to grow. “I do so much more than I thought I could do, and all of those applied skills from working in hospitality have helped me along the way,” he says. “I think growing the café and the catering program is ultimately the goal.”

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FOOD & DRINK

Savoring Rhody From Little Compton to Ashway, treats worth criss-crossing the state for B y Patty J

hen the air starts to turn crisp in Little Rhody (mornings, anyway), yours truly goes in search of hot coffee drinks, heartier comfort foods, and even some decadent sweets. Luckily, I take notes the whole time so that I can share all the juicy details here. This month, there are some newbies and some new classics for your local dining pleasure.

Baked It Buns Have you heard about Rhode Island’s first specialty cinnamon rolls ? Owner and baker Samantha Turnbull’s pop -ups had folks lining up for cinnamon buns topped with strawberr y cheesecake and ooey-gooey cookie butter frosting. By the time you read this, she will have opened her storefront in the Knightsville neighborhood, and you’ll be able to pick up ever ything from The OG (buns with icing ) to gourmet versions like Nutella banana and coffee mocha. Cranston

Patty at Elsie’s in LC

They had me at hello with their mission statement: Made With Love, Served Like Family. This darling cafe on Armistice Boulevard owned and operated by Heather Gwynn, has ever ything from fresh juices, specialty lattes, and omelets to stuffed waffles, breakfast burritos, and churro crunch French toast. It’s a destination for a delicious breakfast, brunch, or lunch and community, which was Gwynn’s dream when she opened the cafe in 2025. Pawtucket

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Elsie’s On The Commons

Good Days: Coffee And Grocery

Open since August and already causing Rhode Islanders to “travel” all the way to Little Compton, Adam and Kaitlin Donahue named their new restaurant after their daughter Elsie (also a play on the town name – “LC”). Housed in the former Commons Restaurant and open for breakfast and lunch, I highly recommend the pancakes, johnnycakes, and grilled muffins – baked fresh on-site. Little Compton

This new-ish cafe and market, founded by Chelsea Berr y and Jill Page in Ashaway, truly has something for ever yone. Whether you’re in dire need of a pumpkin spice latte, a breakfast sandwich, or lunch and an autumnal treat, or authentic Portug uese olive oil, pasta from Italy, and an Ashaway sweatshirt, they have you covered. Don’t sleep on this village jewel. Ashaway

OCTOBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com

Photo (L) courtesy of Patty J

Cafe Amore

Good Days

Rhode Island’s home for local news and storytelling. Hard-Pressed Cider Company

Photo (top) courtesy of Good Days, (bottom) by Savannah Barkley

Hard-Pressed Cider Company For cider-aficionados, Labor Day has meant a trek to Jamestown, but Rob and Jaclyn Swanson announced that they have moved to a permanent location in West Greenwich. So, if you’re craving their hot mulled apple cider, sweet cider, cold cider slushies or those melt-in-yourmouth cider donuts, head to their farm at 930 Hopkins Hill Road. (I hear they’re coming out with a hard cider soon, too!) West Greenwich

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FOOD & DRINK

Honeybird Kitchen and Cocktails Fall is the ideal time to tuck into some comfort food at this Southern-inspired eater y in Rumford. In another lifetime it was a ser vice station, but now people motor over for outstanding crispy fried chicken, and scrumptious sides like cornbread with honey butter, pimento mac and cheese, and sweet potato tots, courtesy of Chef Nick Rabar, a James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist for Best Chef : Northeast. East Providence

Honeybird Kitchen and Cocktails

In The Pink Folks in Narragansett now understand the buzz first-hand about In The Pink in Providence. Brianna and Chris Cancel have opened a second location of their acai and smoothie cafe, directly across from Celeste. It’s a modern paradise open year-round with plenty of style and an expanded menu that includes bagels, toasts, breakfast sandwiches, paninis, wraps, coffee drinks, and more. Narragansett

Stoneacre Brassiere If you haven’t sampled the twice-baked potato with a side of caviar at this gorgeous, French-inspired eater y, then you are indeed missing out. We’re talking a warm baked potato with a butter-andGruyere cheese filling , topped with crème fraiche, and finished with a side of caviar. This Washing ton Square brasserie also boasts a wine list recognized by Wine Spectator magazine and a farm-to table menu of fabulous fare. Newport

Stoneacre Brasserie Photo (top) by Gina Mastrostefano, (L) courtesy of In The Pink, (R) courtesy of Stoneacre Brasserie,

In The Pink

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