Arnold Lumber is proud to announce the opening of our newest Arnold Kitchen + Design center located at 549 Metacom Avenue in Bristol, RI. This new stateof-the-art design center offers a full selection of products to take your new home or renovation ideas from vision to reality, along with the team and resources to guide you along the way.
Featuring:
• Comprehensive product selection guidance
• Homeowner + Contractor support
• Interactive showroom displays
• On-site design consultants
• Contractor referrals
Scan the QR code for more information
Flooring
Backyard
Let the coast call you home.
Alicia grew up spending summers in Green Hill, giving her a lifelong connection to the Ocean State. Now based in Barrington, she brings that same coastal perspective to buyers and sellers across Rhode Island.
Whether you’re searching for a weekend getaway or a new place to put down roots, Alicia’s local knowledge and market insight can help you find your perfect home, wherever in Rhode Island it may be.
HERE ARE SOME OF MY RHODY MUST-DOS FOR SUMMER:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Lobster roll from Dune Brothers East Side of Providence
Farmer’s market on Blackstone Boulevard East Side of Providence
Picnic + live music on Blackstone Boulevard East Side of Providence
Clamcakes and chowder at Monahan’s Narragansett & Charlestown
5. Dusk cruise around Newport Harbor, then dinner Newport
6.
Croquet (and maybe cocktails) at Ocean House Watch Hill
Alicia Reynolds
11
Record Release Party
Band’s latest launches in Matunuck and pays homage to PVD’s gritty past NEWS & CULTURE
37
The essential RI guide to fun and games all season long COVER STORY
Summer Bucket List
67
The 2026 FIFA World Cup shines a global spotlight on the Ocean State FEATURE
Game On
88
Caribbean Flair
Meet the chef bringing Haitian flavors to Providence FOOD & DRINK
City Summer Concert Series
Garden
Photo courtesy of Garden City Center
News & Culture
16 PRIDE: A PVD pottery studio builds community and a float
22 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Community members resist proposed waste processing plant
24 RHODY GEM: Discover gourmet goods in a Barrington cheese shop
26 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
RHODY PETS
29 Tips for stress-free traveling with cats and dogs
32 This month’s trio of adoptable pals
34 Speciality businesses for your radar
Home & Style
55 HOME: A Narragansett bonus room becomes a family’s summer hub
60 SHOP: Chic goods for al fresco living
62 RHODY READS: Nine picks from Watch Hill’s bestselling author
64 STYLE: History and housewives result in hot looks
Feature
67 Summer of Soccer: The 2026 FIFA World cup shines a global spotlight on the Ocean State
Food & Drink
77 IN THE KITCHEN: Two friends open a wildly popular biscuit shop
82 EXPERIENCE: Food and drink flights in Coventry are a sampler’s delight
92 ROUND-UP: Cold, hot, or cheffy: lobster rolls for every preference
Hey Rhody Photos
96 A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram
Photo by Ken Abrams
Photography by Erin McGinn
Jenna and Abigail salute summer at The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar. Photography by Nick DelGiudice.
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
CÉDIAN PAINTING: STUDIO-GALLERY
New Waves rolling in by Jennifer Jones Rashleigh on paintings pillows & tiles. 3848 Main Road • @cedianpainting www.cedianpainting.com
FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
Explore stunning art created by 18 local artists. Painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry, collage/mixed media, and glass. Experience our dynamic gallery space and special events. 3848 Main Road • fourcornersgalleryri.com @fourcornersgalleryri • (401) 816 4342
FOUR CORNERS GRILLE
Offering fresh, quality food along with fast, friendly service at reasonable prices. Featuring fresh, locally-caught seafood with an extensive & eclectic menu in a quaint, casual setting with a delightful patio. Cocktails, Wine & Beer • 4cornersgrille.com 3841 Main Rd • (401) 624 1510 • @fourcornersgrille
FORZA CAVALLO BOUTIQUE
Forza Cavallo creations are unique, sophisticated pieces of art using the horse as both shape and symbol. Our products and mission embody the creative energy of our brand — apparel, accessories, and home goods! 3650 Main Road • @forzacavallori forzacavallo.com
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
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 CURATED
Apparel for women & men. Accessories with intention. Distinctive gifts. Specialty toys & a touch of the unexpected. 3845 Main Road • (401) 625 5814 @SaylesLivingstonCurated
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
TIVERTON LAND TRUST
We preserve natural areas and promote stewardship. Help us conserve Hicks Farm –we’re over halfway there! Visit our website to learn more, join the effort and donate. 3964 Main Road • (401) 625 1300 @tivertonlandtrust • tivertonlandtrust.org
SAKONNET VINEYARDS
New England’s Oldest Vineyard, celebrating 50 years! Come enjoy expansive grounds, award-winning wine, music, events & our seasonal favorites from our kitchen. 162 West Main Rd, Little Compton • (401) 635 8486 @sakonnetwine • SakonnetWine.com
CONTRIBUTORS
The Hen House
1189 Putnam Pike • Chepachet, RI
BRITT MACHADO
During her relatively short time living in the Ocean State, Britt Machado has become familiar with many hyper-local makers and brands, which she showcases on the Shop page. For June, she’s all about decking the outdoor spaces in your life in “Unapologetically Al Fresco” (page 60). When she’s not sourcing cool stuff, find the founder/designer of awardwinning JohnnyCakes off on an adventure with her pup, Roxie.
ERIN MCGINN
This month, our “In the Kitchen” feature goes all-in on the tiny biscuit shop on Carpenter Street that’s getting a rise out of breakfast fans. In “Son of a Biscuit” (page 77), writer and photographer Erin McGinn talks to two seasoned chefs who are putting some South in our collective mouths. Based in Warwick, McGinn is known for capturing and “sharing moments of delight.”
HUGH MINOR
When we spotted the shiny kiln float at last year’s Illuminated Night Parade, we knew it had to become a story. In “All Fired Up” (page 16), Hugh Minor shines a light on a supportive and inclusive ceramics studio as they plan for this year’s PrideFest. When he’s not using his communications powers for good, find Minor curled up on the couch reading to his dog, Zee, who enjoys a wide range of subjects.
CYNTHIA MUNRAYOS
Born in Guatemala and raised in Rhode Island, Cynthia Munrayos is a freelance writer and Pawtucketbased artist with a deep passion for uncovering and celebrating Little Rhody’s hidden gems within its vibrant arts and food scenes. In “Caribbean Flair” (page 88), Munrayos explores a Haitian-inspired food truck and the women who brought it to life.
Publishers
Barry Fain
Richard Fleischer
John Howell
Editor in Chief
Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com
Editor
Ann Martini
Martini@HeyRhody.com
Digital Media Specialist
Jenna Kaplan
Jenna@HeyRhody.com
Advertising
Design Director
Layheang Meas
Senior Designer
Taylor Buttie
Account Managers
General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com
Managing Editor Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com
Senior Editorial Designer Abigail Burnham
Theresa S. Carrington Theresa@HeyRhody.com
Shelley Cavoli Shelley@HeyRhody.com
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Louann@HeyRhody.com
Ann Gallagher Ann@HeyRhody.com
Chris Revill Chris@HeyRhody.com
Interested in advertising?
Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com
Contributing Photographers
Liz Daly
Austin Devlin
Francesca Dolnier
Corey Favino
Karen Kalunian
Contributing Writers
Patty Jeffrey
Karen Kalunian
Britt Machado
Erin McGinn
Interested in writing?
Richard McCaffrey
Erin McGinn
Zach Pona Tandem
Hugh Minor
Cynthia Munrayos
Deborah Goodrich Royce
David Wright
Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com
Interns
Janibell Martinez Paige Martins
Looking for an internship?
Email Ken@HeyRhody.com
Distribution Services
Special Delivery Subscribe Today! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou
I’m not just your real estate agent, I’m your advocate. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’m committed to helping every client feel seen, respected, and supported. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or exploring new possibilities, you deserve a trusted partner who understands your journey.
THIS PREMIER EVENT TAKES PLACE AT THE VETERANS PARK AND GAZEBO FIELD AT THE HISTORIC “TOWERS” OVERLOOKING NARRAGANSETT BAY.
JANET HERMES, SALES ASSOCIATE
A Fresh Approach to the Spring Market
guide you.
NEWS & CULTURE
Arts | Pride | Ocean State Media | Rhody Gem | Calendar
Raw, Real, and Rough Around the Edges
Deer Tick’s new album explores the enduring, beautiful spirit of divine Providence
By Ken Abrams
Rhode Island’s reigning rock and roll champions are back with an outstanding new release, Coin-O-Matic , the title a nod to the former Federal Hill headquarters of the notorious mob boss Raymond Patriarca (worth a Google search). Released June 5, the album is a brutally honest tribute to the capital city, featuring a sound that is gritty, courageous, and unmistakably Providence. The quartet – John McCauley, Ian O’Neil, Dennis Ryan, and Christopher Ryan – paint a vivid portrait of a time and place where working-class struggles play out, weaving together songs steeped in desperation, loss, redemption, and resilience; a heartfelt tribute to an aging city.
Photo by Richard McCaffrey, courtesy of Deer Tick
Deer Tick members Ian O’Neil, Christopher Ryan, Dennis Ryan and John McCauley
NEWS & CULTURE
We caught up with songwriters McCauley and O’Neil recently at the PTX Lounge in Pawtuxet Village, where, keeping it real, both occasionally glanced at their phones – not to update their Instagram, but, like the rest of us, just checking in on kids and family going about their daily routines. Over a dirty martini or two, the pair shared a few details about how the new album came together over the past several years.
For McCauley, who spent a decade living in Nashville, “it feels like a weird kind of homecoming album – all of it was written after I moved back here. I hadn’t called Rhode Island home in quite some time.” Recorded in the band’s home studio, the album was entirely self-produced. “It was a special experience because we decided to do it all ourselves,” says O’Neil. “We took a big leap of faith, relying on one another. In the past, at least for me, working with a producer was like having a fifth opinion, a good reassurance. This time, I relied on these three guys to make sure my ideas weren’t stupid or crazy.” “Instead of having one cook, we had four cooks in the kitchen,” adds McCaulley. For a band that just turned 21, it sounds too easy to say the new record shows a level of sophistication not found on previous releases, but that’s honestly the best way to describe it. Well-paced, with compelling lyrics and fully involved arrangements across a variety of styles, Deer Tick reaches a new level of musical maturity on this album. “Mary Singletary,”
Deer Tick opens a nationwide tour in June at the Ocean Mist in South Kingstown
Guitarist Ian O’Neil wrote several songs for the new album
the advance single, is a straight-ahead, Petty-esque rocker, already gaining traction on independent radio. Penned as a Dylan-like confessional (like several on the release), the song checks all the boxes, and is literally set in a church confessional.
Once labeled indie-rock, McCauley isn’t joking when he says Coin-O-Matic is a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll. “One of the reasons I wanted us to make this album is that I think Rhode Island deserves to be a contender for a place that people sing about,” he says. “Sonically, there’s nothing country about it, but to me it feels like a country record set in an urban environment – there’s definitely some outlaws in there that aren’t normally in storytelling country songs, like drug dealers and mafiosos.”
Escape the Indoors at Roger Williams Park Zoo
Stop scrolling and step outside to connect with what’s real. Share a laugh – or two – no filters. From playful penguins to ginormous giraffes, there’s something for everyone.
THINK BIG THINK BUGS
Explore a Tiny World in a Big Way
See nature from a whole new angle in A Bug’s World exhibit at Roger Williams Park Zoo.
NOW THROUGH AUGUST 9
Summer-by-the-Sea
Vintage Fair & Antique Car Show Sat. June 13 (Rain date 6/14)
Celebrating Our 15th Year of Fine Gifts, Tabletop, Women & Baby Items, and Antiques From
John McCauley founded the band in 2004
Diamond
A PEARL
The album should strike a chord with Deer Tick fans wherever they live. “I feel like this is just a record about any hometown,” adds McCauley. “I think anybody can kind of see a little bit of where they grew up and these songs. And there’s going to be a big uptick on the ACI being Googled,” he laughs.
No other band in recent memory has built songs around the city of Providence quite
Photogrpahy by Ken Abrams
like Deer Tick, a tradition that continues here. This album isn’t a portrait of a shiny city on seven hills; more often, it’s a story of the gritty, resilient underbelly that can chew you up and spit you out – and just as quickly, wrap you up in a bear hug when you’re down and out. Check out Deer Tick on their summer tour which kicks off at the Ocean Mist in Matunuck with three album release shows June 5-7. Learn more at DeerTickMusic.com
THE BLUE GARDEN GILDED AGE
Experience Gilded Age splendor with a visit to the Blue Garden. Originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr, this garden was restored to its former glory, and welcomes visitors on Thursdays from June 11 through October 8, 2026. Tours meet at 11:00, 12:30, and 2:00. Online reservations and a $25 ticket purchase are required. For reservations and to learn more about the garden and its history, visit thebluegarden.org.
All Fired Up
By Hugh Minor
Building community is at the center of everything they do at Anyhow Studio, according to founder and owner Liz Welch. For more than five years, she has led and operated the ceramics workspace on Acorn Street, providing a welcoming, safe space for early-career artists and beginners to hone their clayworking
skills. “I had been thinking about opening a studio that would serve beginners in the first five years of their practice. There wasn’t really anything like that.” As a queer person, with a background in gender and sexuality studies and furniture design, Welch felt it was critically important to offer a creative space for artists that was both comfortable and inclusive.
“The physical space is really important. We’ve got comfy furniture, and we have a huge collection of handmade pottery and places to rest.” Crafting the culture she envisioned has been a deliberate effort in every aspect of the studio.
“It’s also about how we teach our classes. This is a place where you can feel safe to fail, which can be so difficult for adults to find.”
Community-centered ceramic studio shines at Pride and year-round
Photo courtesy of Anyhow Studio
Liz Welch (holding sign), surrounded by the Anyhow Studio community
e know how important your home is to your well-being. As custom home builders for nearly 40 years, we have crafted and restored coastal and luxury homes in Rhode Island and throughout New England. Our goal is to create spaces that allow you and your family to thrive.
During LGBTQIA+ Pride each June, Anyhow Studio lights the way as a shining example of belonging-focused with their parade float emblazoned with the theme, “Gay for Clay.” Welsh says, “We have so much fun. We made a pottery kiln out of a two-by-four armature covered in Styrofoam sheets and wrapped in tin foil. It’s very, very DIY, but it looks incredible. We built
Photo courtesy of Anyhow Studio
out a platform that fits in the bed of my pickup truck, and we put the kiln on top.” Giving back to people who have been historically marginalized and underrepresented in the arts is a critical piece of Welch’s vision for Anyhow Studio. Scholarships are available for participants who identify as QT/BIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, Person of Color), and members
Anyhow Studios cardboard creations at PrideFest
Gardens By The Sea
produce and donate more than 100 bowls each year for Empty Bowls, a fundraiser for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.
“My interest in the community is one of service. The more sharing we can do, the more I can get to what’s deep at the core of my personal values. It’s all about being a community resource,” adds Welch.
courtesy of Anyhow Studio
Photo
The Illuminated Night Parade winds through downtown Providence
Rhode Island Pride
New England’s largest LGBTQIA+ PrideFest Celebration and Illuminated Night Parade is planned for Saturday, June 20. The Festival at District Park begins at 11:30am, and the parade kicks off at 8pm, and is viewable from locations across downtown. Be sure to look for Anyhow Studio’s kiln float and join in on the fun!
Learn more about classes, memberships, and studio use at AnyhowStudioProvidence.com, and about Pride festivities at PrideRI.org.
That sense of collaboration derives directly from the art form itself, as Welch explained, “I do think there is something inherently communal about clay as a medium. You need a lot of people to fill a kiln. You need a lot of people to run an atmospheric kiln. You can do it alone, but it’s better and easier when you do it with other people.”
LARGEST CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
Nobody Wants it: Rhode Island’s Sludge Problem Lands in North Kingstown
As Woonsocket’s incinerator winds down, Rhode Island must decide where its “biosolids” go next
In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org •
By David Wright
Most Rhode Islanders don’t think about what happens after they flush. But that question is becoming harder to ignore. As one of the region’s main sludge incinerators starts winding down, it’s sparking a fight over where the waste should go next. A proposed new sludge processing plant in Quonset Business Park has drawn sharp concern from residents of North Kingstown, concerned about pollution, odor, and the use of relatively new technology.
At a recent packed meeting at North Kingstown High School, people lined up for hours to voice their opposition to the project. “You may not be aware, but all of these projects are right on top of our aquifer,” said resident Joe Texiera. “If chemicals get in that water, you will destroy the town.” Others bluntly focused on more immediate concerns. “Well, for one thing, it’s probably going to stink,” said Patricia O’Conner.
The proposal, backed by a Rhode Island renewable energy company called Green Solutions, comes as the state grapples with how to handle what are known as “biosolids” – the treated sludge left over after wastewater is processed.
A SYSTEM UNDER PRESSURE
Every day, Rhode Island treats millions of gallons of wastewater. At the Woonsocket Wastewater Treatment Facility alone, more than nine million gallons are processed daily. After treatment, the remaining solids are typically incinerated. Woonsocket is one of the state’s primary locations for doing that, handling sludge from dozens of communities across the region.
But that system is beginning to break down.
“The sludge incinerator in Woonsocket is failing,” said state Rep. Jon Brien, whose district includes Woonsocket and North Smithfield. “We are not spending more taxpayer
dollars to keep it open.” City officials have already begun reducing how much sludge the facility takes in, part of a broader effort to phase out operations over the next few years.
That leaves Rhode Island facing a difficult choice: develop a new in-state solution, or send the waste elsewhere at significantly higher cost.
“Let’s face it,” state Rep. Terri Cortvriend told a legislative committee, “none of us are going to want it in our town if they come and ask us.”
A NEW PROPOSAL — AND NEW CONCERNS
The project proposed for Quonset would use a process known as pyrolysis – a high-heat method that breaks down material in a low-oxygen environment. Developers say the approach is cleaner than traditional incineration methods and would essentially be pollution-free. “We’re not pursuing a typical incineration project,” said Hannah Morini of Green Development, the company behind the project. “We are pursuing pyrolysis.”
Project manager Matt Ursillo described the process as heating material to very high temperatures. The gases produced during pyrolysis would be captured, contained, and reused to help power the facility. The remaining material, known as biochar, can be used as a raw material in products like water filtration systems, deodorant, shoe soles, and construction materials. The company already operates a small pyrolysis plant in Quonset, using wood chips rather than sewage sludge.
Supporters say the technology represents an efficient new method for disposing of sludge. But its use for sewage sludge is still relatively limited, with only a small number of similar facilities operating in the United States, including a big new plant in Redwood City, California.
SKEPTICISM FROM RESIDENTS AND LEADERS
Despite those assurances, many residents remain unconvinced. “We’re being asked to accept an unproven technology right in our
Photo courtesy of David Wright/Ocean State Media
A new sludge processing plant proposed for the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown drew sharp concern from residents at a Town Council meeting Monday, April 27
backyard, next door to schools, parks and neighborhoods,” said North Kingstown resident Sean Taylor.
Quonset is also close to a major aquifer. “We live in a state where we supposedly care so much about the environment,” said resident Maria Valenti. “You turn around and they’re building a sludge facility. It just doesn’t make any sense.”
The advocacy group North Kingstown Residents for Clean Air and Water is suing the state agencies charged with regulating the sludge facility, saying they failed to consider the health and environmental effects of the project.
The issue has also spilled into state politics, briefly taking center stage in the Rhode Island governor’s race. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Helena Foulkes voiced her opposition last week, warning about potential impacts on air and water quality. Gov. Dan McKee quickly followed suit and is now pledging to do everything in his power to stop the project from going forward.
“My hope is that Quonset sees that this is a dead project,” McKee told North Kingstown residents. “It’s either going to have a slow death or a long death, but either way, in the end, this project is not going to happen.”
For now, the Quonset proposal is effectively on hold, as state lawmakers prepare to create a study commission to evaluate long-term solutions for sludge disposal. But even as that debate plays out, the underlying issue remains unresolved. Rhode Island still produces large amounts of sewage sludge every day. As existing facilities wind down, the state must decide where it will go next.
This article was originally posted on April 29, 2026. David Wright can be reached at dwright@OceanStateMedia.org.
ICED COFFEE Summer Celebration
Rind Cheese Shop
Gourmet foods store
What it is:
A family-owned cheese and gourmet foods shop.
Where to find it:
On Bosworth Street, the road that’s adjacent to Shaw’s plaza, where County and Rumstick roads merge, look for Rind inside a small shopping plaza.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
You’ll find a delicious assortment of thoughtfully curated cheeses, charcuterie, and pantry goods from Europe and the US, complemented by a variety of in-house treats such as pimento cheese, hummus, and mac and cheese. “Our goal is to offer great food without making it feel intimidating,” says co-owner Ashley LaPlante, who, with her co-owner husband Tim Fichers, has more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry.
“We love helping people discover new favorites – whether that’s a classic cheese, something a little more adventurous, or the perfect pairing for a gathering,” she says. The couple has a practical, yet philosophical, approach to their offerings.
“Cheese has a rind to protect it from the elements, but it also imparts its own unique characteristics,” LaPlante says. “And that can make all the difference to how your guests enjoy it. At Rind, it’s all about that uniqueness… a pretty perfect name for a cheese shop.”
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, 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!
P hoto courtesy of Rind Cheese Shop
The Must List
10 essential events this month
June 2-7: Six-time Tony Award-winning musical The Lion King brings the Serengeti to life at the Providence Performing Arts Center, with unforgettable music, inspiring visual artistry, and a story for the ages. PPACRI.org
June 5-13: The Rhode Island Stage Ensemble (RISE) presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid , the story of Ariel, a princess who dreams of exploring the human world and falling in love, at the Assembly Theater. Burrillville, RIStage.org
June 6: Fan The Flames is an exciting evening of fire, music, and molten magic; a fundraiser for the Blackstone River Glass Center with glowin-the-dark demonstrations, plus food and drink, including popcorn popped in molten glass. Cumberland, BlackstoneRiverGlass.com
The parade on June 13 is a Gaspee Days weekend highlight
For weekly Musts, subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com
June 13-14: Gaspee Days return with a 5K foot race and parade on Saturday, entertainment and the Burning of the HMS Gaspee on Sunday, and an ongoing encampment by colonial reenactors in the park all weekend. Warwick, Gaspee.com
June 3, 10, 17, 24: The family-friendly Summer Market returns to Tilted Barn every Wednesday through August, with a rotating lineup of vendors and makers selling fresh produce, apparel, and gifts, plus live music and food trucks. Exeter, TiltedBarnBrewery.com
June 14: The Woonsocket Pride Festival features drag performances, speeches from community leaders, food trucks, vendors, local organizations, resources for the community, and more at River Island Park. Woonsocket, WoonsocketPride.org
June 17: Join us for the Providence Monthly 30th Anniversary Party at Medici. Meet your neighbors, connect with local businesses, and dance the night away. Light bites, cocktails, and live DJ spinning hits. Providence, HeyRhody.com
June 19-July 4: Bristol Fourth of July boasts events leading up to the historic parade, including a summer concert series at Independence Park and a carnival from Rockwell Amusements at the town common. Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
Jane 20: Oyster lovers will enjoy a special evening with Christ Catucci, AKA The Shuckologist, who provides a farm-to-table Oyster PopUp experience, plus live music with country singer-songwriter Jake Hunsinger. Pawtucket, WorkingManDistillers.com
June 20-21: The volunteer-run Narragansett Art Festival returns to Veterans Park and Gazebo Field for a weekend celebrating creativity and community, with dozens of artists showcasing their work in a variety of media. Narragansett, WakefieldRotary.org
Photo courtesy of Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau
RHODY PETS
Travel | Adopt | Services
Traveling with pets can be rewarding, but takes a little extra planning
Let’s Go!
Tips for traveling with cats and dogs
By Elyse Major
Taking a trip this summer? If your travels include bringing your pets along with you, it’s wise to start thinking about packing and the prep that goes beyond remembering to take along their favorite bowl and toys. Whether by plane, train, or automobile, planning is key in helping to minimize stress all around, keeping you and your furry pals safe and well.
ROAD TRIPS WITH ROVER
Having a smooth and safe road trip with your pet requires preparation and planning, especially if driving long distances. To prepare your pet, it’s a good idea to take them on a series of short drives and gradually increase the amount of time spent in the car. Allowing pets to roam around the car or ride with their head outside the window can be dangerous, so keep them in the back seat in a harness attached to the seat buckle to prevent injury. If your pet is kept in their crate, check that your pet can stand, sit, lie down, and turn around while inside the crate, and make sure the crate is well-ventilated. Secure the crate so it won’t slide or shift when the car stops. Bring plenty of water, food,
a bowl, leash, waste bags, grooming supplies, medication and first-aid, and any travel documents, including proof of rabies vaccination. Feeding your pet three to four hours before leaving on your trip can help prevent car sickness or vomiting. Make frequent stops to allow dogs to go to the bathroom and stretch their legs. Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle as temperatures can rise or fall quickly within minutes and can cause death.
ON THE TRACKS WITH TRAMP
If your vacation is via rail, Amtrak allows dogs and cats on trips up to seven hours on most routes. Your pet must be at least eight weeks old,
odorless, harmless, not disruptive, require no attention during travel, and housed in a carrier with a 20-pound total limit (combined weight of pet and carrier). When you arrive at your departure station, check in at the ticket office 45 minutes before departure so that agents may validate pet eligibility and paperwork; at unstaffed stations, the conductor will validate pet eligibility and paperwork onboard. Learn more at Amtrak.com
TAKING THE BUS WITH BUSTER
From the Peter Pan Bus Terminal, it’s easy and comparatively inexpensive to get from PVD to New York City, Springfield, and Albany, NY; Boston and Cape Cod (Woods
Secure the crate so it won’t slide or shift when the car stops, and never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Hole, Hyannis, Fall River, New Bedford, MA); and Hartford, CT, and back again. For a non-refundable fee, passengers may bring along a small dog or cat that meets company guidelines, which includes a combined weight of pet and carrier that doesn’t exceed 25 pounds, pets must be at least eight weeks old, and remain inside a leakproof and well-ventilated carrier placed under the seat during the duration of the trip. Learn more at PeterPanBus.com
SKY HIGH WITH SOCS
Traveling with pets by plane takes careful preparation and planning, and could also be costly. If you must bring your pet on a flight, weeks before your departure, it’s wise to book a direct flight when possible to decrease the chances of your pet being separated from you during extreme weather or layovers. Check your pet’s vaccinations to make sure they are up to date. Get a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of your departure. Before heading to the airport, line the cargo crate with some type of bedding (shredded paper or towels) to absorb potential accidents. Place a small dish of water in the crate. Check that the crate door is securely closed but not locked, so airline staff can open it in case of an emergency. Your pet’s crate should have proper identification if shipped as cargo. Mark “live animal” on the crate, and include your name, cell phone, and destination phone number. Before departure or after arrival, give your dog a potty break before securing it in the crate for travel. Once boarded, keep pets in carriers and follow airline policies when bringing them on planes. If hand-carried, never place your pet in an overhead bin. Pets must be secured in their crates below the seat in front of you in accordance with airline policies. For international travel, additional planning and healthcare requirements may be needed. Research the requirements for pets for your destination country as well as for the United States. For animals stowed in the plane’s cargo area, purchase a US Department of Agriculture-approved shipping crate. The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and turn around in comfortably. Learn more at CDC.gov
Happy Pets, Happy People
Rhody Pets of the Month
By Karen Kalunian
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the 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.
DAVE
BREED: French Bulldog
AGE: 1.5 years
GENDER: Male
Dave is the life of the party. From his snorting little nose down to the tip of his stubby tail, this little guy is a young Frenchie with a zest for life and a heart full of love. He has had some medical issues that the RISPCA has been working on, and they can speak to you more about his condition. Nothing stops him from wanting to live life to the fullest – he’s a true entertainer, the type of pup you have to meet in person. His joyful heart is contagious.
RISPCA 401-383-1900, cats@rispca.org
HUNTER
BREED: Tabby Domestic Shorthair
AGE: 2 years
GENDER: Male
Meet Hunter the Tabby. He is a full-bodied boy who enjoys hanging out and would love to bask in a sunny window in your home. Hunter can also be playful and loves to dash in and out of cat tunnels. This handsome lad is searching for a home that will give him all the love he so deserves. With lots of affection, time, and patience, Hunter will be a loving and loyal companion.
PAWSWATCH COMMUNITY CAT CENTER 401-285-9800
Dave Hunter
Photo (L) courtesy of Cranston Animal Shelter
WINTER
BREED: Mixed
AGE: 1 year
GENDER: Female
Winter, spring, summer, or fall, this sweet girl has it all. Winter is ready for cozy days with you and promises to warm your heart, too. She wants to be your girl for every season. At just over a year old, she’s playful, lovable, smart, beautiful, and ready to find her forever home. She’s on the smaller side, perfectly petite, with a beautiful heart. Once you meet her, you will fall in love.
CRANSTON ANIMAL SHELTER
401-464-8700
Meet HempNip, Rhode Island’s Fresh Take on Cat Playtime
There’s a certain kind of joy every cat owner recognizes instantly. It starts with a curious sniff, builds into a playful roll, and ends in a full-speed dash across the room. HempNip was made for those moments, the ones that turn everyday routines into something unexpectedly fun.
Crafted on a Rhode Island urban family farm, HempNip is the latest from Sherlock Hemp Farms, founded by mother-son duo Magdalena and Joseph Andreozzi. Blending farm-grown hemp, catnip, and silvervine, the botanical mix is designed to naturally spark curiosity, energy, and play.
What sets HempNip apart is how seamlessly it fits into real life. A light sprinkle on a favorite toy, scratching post, or cozy corner is all it takes to bring out a cat’s instincts. The result is equal parts enrichment and entertainment, for them and for you.
Every batch begins right here in Rhode Island. The hemp is organically grown, pesticide-free, and cultivated with hands-on care on the family farm. It’s third-party tested and freshness-sealed, offering peace of mind with every use.
The story behind HempNip starts with Otis, the Andreozzi family’s rescue cat. His personality helped inspire not just the product, but the mission behind it. A portion of every sale supports local animal shelters, helping more pets find their way home.
To celebrate the launch, HempNip is hosting 2 Summer Cat-Joy-Box Giveaways, featuring a $25 Visa Gift Card, a curated collection of treats and surprises for cats and their humans. Scan the QR code to enter, learn more, or shop HempNip online. As a thank you, use code RHODYCAT15 for 15% off your first order.
Gifts, grooming, treats, and more for animal family members
By Ann Martini
The joy that taking care of our furry family members knows no bounds. These local services and shops help keep us, and our pets, happy.
Pet Portraits
Artist, decorative painter, and muralist Sandy MacDonald has an entire section of her portfolio dedicated to pet portraiture. Known for equally beautiful and durable finishes on any surface, she paints each portrait in oils on stretched linen, a process that takes on average six weeks to complete. Free estimate once size and subject are determined. Barrington, SandyMacStudio.com
Doggone Adorable
At Trish Hampton, every leash, collar, harness, bow tie, blossom, and bandana is handmade in New England with an eye toward both fashion and durability. Since 2002, owner Trish Hampton blends fun and colorful luxury fabrics with practical design, creating accessories stylish enough for downtown strolls and rugged enough for beach days and woodland adventures. Chepachet, TrishHampton.com
Sit, Stay, Play
Mind Your Dog has become a trusted destination for holistic pet wellness, training, boarding, and more in greater Glocester. Owners Heather and Jim Lukas share their passion for pups through nutrition-focused care, thoughtfully curated products, and a community-centered approach designed to help pets live healthier, happier lives through every stage. Chepachet, MindYourDogLLC.com
Dog Walking and Cat Visits
“I started Pal’s Pet Services for my genuine love for animals,” says owner Sherri Collins of her business. Whether your pup needs daily dog walking, pet sitting while you’re on vacation, taxi service to vet and grooming appointments, or cat playtime or litter box maintenance, Collins’ promise to all of her clients is that she will treat their dogs and cats as if they were her own. Chepachet, PalsPetServices.com
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Pup Glam Squad
At Paw Parazzi Dog Grooming, owner Raina Ballou welcomes dogs of every breed and temperament, creating a warm, inclusive environment where pups leave looking refreshed, camera-ready, and noticeably happier. All of Ballou’s personalized grooming sessions are tailored to pets’ individual personalities and coats. Chepachet, Facebook: Paw Parazzi
Tall Tails
A favorite among pet owners in Apple Valley, Grooming Tails specializes in thoughtful grooming services tailored to each dog’s coat, prioritizing comfort as much as appearance. Whether it’s a routine trim, seasonal cleanup, or full grooming session, expect polished results delivered with the one-on-one attention devoted pet parents appreciate. Smithfield, Facebook: Grooming Tails
Bougie Bites
At Buppy Pets, pet treats meet cheffy style. Founder Lauren Ruggiero’s company offers tasty treats made from just four simple, gluten-free, natural ingredients and come in flavors such as PB&J, strawberry shortcake, pumpkin, chicken, and pizza. Find stockists across Rhode Island at their website. Warren, BuppyPets.com
Peaceful Pets
Performing in-home pet euthanasia over the last 20 years affirmed to Jane Linden, DVM, that home is the best place to say goodbye. “So many animals fear a vet visit. Allowing your pet to pass at home is a gift, an act of love.” With Nature’s Paw Print, she also offers aquamation services, an eco-friendly alternative to cremation. Providence, PetsAtPeaceVetCare.com, NaturesPawPrint.com
For the Birds
Dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating exotic birds, Rhode Island Parrot Rescue provides sanctuary, medical support, and second chances for parrots in need. The volunteer-driven organization works tirelessly to educate the public while creating safe, enriching environments for surrendered and neglected birds, helping many eventually transition into loving forever homes. West Warwick, RIParrots.org
Beach Bucket List 2026
When the snow shovels are finally stowed away and the sand spades return, it’s a safe bet that it’s summertime, and we’re here for it! Keep and use this comprehensive guide all season long to plan your ultimate Beach Bucket List. Whether it’s a Pride event in June, fireworks in July, or a seafood festival in August, you’ll find all this and more right here.
EDITOR’S NOTE: As this issue goes to press in April, some information is not yet available and may be missing. Also, as many events are weather-dependent, please always check with host venues before heading out to avoid disappointment. All events are family friendly unless otherwise noted. If we missed your favorite, please let us know by emailing Marketing@HeyRhody.com.
How to Use This Guide:
Listings are divided into sections by region, starting with recurring events, and followed by dates and descriptions from June to Labor Day.
Aunt Carrie’s, Narragansett
GREATER PROVIDENCE
ALL SUMMER LONG
A Bug’s World: Shrink down to their size to witness awe-inspiring creatures just a step away! Adventure, discovery, and dinosaurs await at the Roger Williams Park Zoo exhibit. Through August 9. Providence, RWPZoo.org
Mural Tour: Embark on a self-guided tour of the Creative Capital’s murals via map or app. Providence, TheAvenueConcept.org
SUNDAYS
Flea in the Park: If you’re looking for unique gifts and beautiful artwork with a side of food and fun, don’t miss this summertime version of Providence Flea as it takes over 195 District Park. Providence, ProvidenceFlea.com
TUESDAYS
Sunset Celebration with the Providence Troupe: Head to the 195 District Park from 6:30pm-8:30pm weekly, for a rousing two hours of illuminated mobile drummers, dancers, artists, and circus performers. Participation encouraged! Providence, DowntownParks.org
Oakland Beach Cruise Nights: Motor over for classic, vintage, and sports cars, plus raffles, refreshments, and a DJ playing car tunes. Raindate: Thursdays. Warwick, Facebook: Oakland Beach Cruise Night
THURSDAYS
Gallery Night: Third Thursdays, take a deep dive into the Creative Capital’s art scene with guided tours to studios, galleries, and museums throughout the city via walking and mini coaches or trolleys. Providence, GalleryNight.org
Movies on the Block: Bring a blanket or chair and head to Grant’s Block at 260 Westminster Street, for the monthly movie series featuring popular films. Concessions will be available from downtown restaurants. Starts at dusk. June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10. Providence, InDowncity.com
Warwick Food Truck Night: Crowne Plaza Warwick lawn transforms into an outdoor picnic venue when the food trucks come rolling in. Warwick, Facebook: Warwick Food Truck Night - Crowne Plaza
FRIDAYS
Food Truck Fridays: Celebrate TGIF with dinner from a rotation of food trucks at RWP Carousel Village beginning at 5pm, plus beer and wine, live music, and kiddie train rides, too. Providence, RWPZoo.org
Bring Your Own Improv: Belly laughs abound at this weekly family-friendly interactive comedy event starting at 8pm, followed by Caffeinated Insomniacs for teens and adults at 10pm. Warwick, BringYourOwnImprov.com
FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS
Ice Cream Making Classes: Learn to craft your dream flavor at Gather Cafe and Ice Cream Bar (next to Gather Glass) using fresh ingredients sourced directly from the farm. Providence, GatherFarm.com
WATERFIRE PROVIDENCE
Don’t miss the award-winning spectacle along the rivers of downtown that has captured the imagination of over 10 million visitors.
BASIN & PARTIAL LIGHTINGS: June 12, June 18, July 17, August 14
FULL LIGHTINGS: July 4, August 1, August 29
STARTS AT SUNSET: July 9
Learn more at WaterFire.org
Photo courtesy of InDowncity
Movies on the Block
SATURDAYS
Providence Artisans Market: Discover handmade crafts, fresh produce, food trucks, and live music with this artistrun market at Lippitt Park. Providence, Facebook: Providence Artisans Market
JUNE
JUNE 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 14
Music on the Hill Festival: This harbinger of summertime presents a total of seven chamber music concerts at seven different venues in Cranston, East Greenwich, and Warwick. MusicOnTheHillRI.org
JUNE 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
The Lion King : All ages are sure to be captivated by the Tony Award-winning musical, which brings the entire Serengeti to life with an inspiring story and musical numbers. Providence, PPACRI.org
JUNE 5-7
High Tide Comedy Festival: This new event welcomes a diverse line-up of stand up comedians, musical comics, sketch and improv artists to a weekend-long comedy festival at locations around Providence and Pawtucket. HighTideComedyFestival.com
JUNE 6
Navy Day Picnic in the Park: A community field day to commemorate the establishment of the first American navy, which occurred in East Greenwich on June 12, 1775. East Greenwich, RhodeIsland250.org
JUNE 6
Symphony in the Park and Fireworks Extravaganza: Enjoy a performance by the Warwick Symphony Orchestra, culminating in fireworks set off in Salter’s Grove but visible throughout Pawtuxet Village. Food available for purchase. Warwick, Gaspee.Com
JUNE 6-7
Rhode Island Anime Con: Enjoy full days of cosplay, photo ops, autographs, and more at this unique extravaganza held at the RI Convention Center. Providence, RIAnimeCon.com
PEACE OF MIND, NOT PRESSURE
JUNE 6-7
Rhode Island Day of Portugal: 195 District Park is the setting for this year’s Dia de Portugal. Since 1978, the cultural celebration has featured a parade, music, and plenty of Portuguese food. Providence, RIDayOfPortugal.org
JUNE 10
Taste of Rhode Island: Sample your way through dozens of exciting eateries while enjoying live entertainment, a charity raffle, and sips from wine and beer partners at this 21+ evening. Warwick, TasteOfRI.com
JUNE 11
The Invention of Rum: A View from Rhode Island with Jordan B. Smith: Learn how rum was invented, made, sold, and consumed, and how that history connected RI to other parts of the Atlantic world. Providence, RIHS.org
JUNE 13
Spamilton: An American Parody , created by Gerard Alessandrini, is a crash course on favorite Broadway blockbusters, with celebrity satires, pop culture zings, and hip-hop on the piano. Cranston, TheParkRI.org
JUNE 13-14
Gaspee Days: Head to the Parkway’s red, white, and blue road stripe for a weekend of patriotic fun that kicks off with a 5K foot race and parade on Saturday, entertainment and the burning of the HMS Gaspee on Sunday, and an ongoing encampment by colonial reenactors in the park. Warwick, Gaspee.com
JUNE 14
Ocean State Card World Cup Edition: A day full of cards, trading, comics, toys, games, food and fun is on deck at the ultimate gathering for collectors and gamers, held at the West Warwick Civic Center. Warwick, OceanStateCardCon.com
JUNE 20
Rhode Island PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade: The annual celebration features vendors, live entertainment, and the night parade all aglow through the heart of Downtown Providence. PrideRI.com
JUNE 21
Juneteenth: The Temple to Music at Roger Williams Park provides the setting for inspiring speakers and live music by Jon Hope and others, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Providence, JuneteenthRI.com
JUNE 23
The Web They Wove: Women and Their Wardrobes During New England’s Revolution: Historical interpreters Dirty Blue Shirts present a fascinating look at women’s clothing during the American Revolution. Cranston, DirtyBlueShirts.com
JUNE 26-28
Providence 48 Hour Film Project: On your mark! Script, shoot, and edit a short film after receiving directives, and have it screened at the Avon Cinema – all in one weekend. Providence, 48HourFilm.com
JULY
JULY 5
Fourth of July Fireworks Boat Rides: Embark on a casual cruise of the downtown waterways en route to India Point to anchor in the harbor for the city’s fireworks display. Providence, ProvidenceRiverboat.com
JULY 6-13
Narragansett Shark Week: Crush it like Quint during a week of events celebrating all things JAWS . Enjoy seasonal brews, including Shark Blood Orange Ale and Krush it IPA. Providence, NarragansettBeer.com
JULY 11
Party with Pride: Head to Roger Williams Park
Zoo for an unforgettable evening celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community, with live entertainment, animal chats, and zoo-themed cocktails and cash bars scattered throughout the park. Providence, RWPZoo.org
JULY 12-18
FringePVD: Revel in this cross-section of entertainment presented by The Wilbury Theatre Group. With over 300 performing artists, enjoy uncensored performances of theater, dance, visual arts, and more. Providence, FringePVD.org
JULY 14
Weird Al Yankovic: The five-time Grammy Award winner brings his legendary multimedia comedy rock show to PPAC with the Bigger and Weirder Tour , playing his iconic hits as well as some never-performed-live fan favorites. Puddles Pity Party opens. Providence, PPACRI.org
JULY 25
Jordan Jensen: Don’t miss the stand-up comedian and actor whose hour-long comedy special, Take Me with You , recently debuted on Netflix to critical acclaim. Providence, UptownPVD.com
JULY 26 – AUGUST 8
Providence Restaurant Weeks: Savor two weeks of participating area eateries featuring deals and specials for lunch and dinner, with some offering prix fixe menus, breakfast, signature cocktails, etc. Greater PVD, GoProvidence.com/rw
Photo courtesy of PWCVB
Gaspee Days
AUGUST
AUGUST 4-9
Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival: RIIFF returns for its 30th year to continue celebrating independent filmmakers from around the world, with screenings at various venues. Providence, Film-Festival.org
AUGUST 5
Summer Pops: Conductor Troy Quinn and the RI Philharmonic Pops present a tribute to Hollywood classics with music from Phantom of the Opera , Mary Poppins , and West Side Story at the Roger Williams Park Temple to Music. Rain Date: August 6. Providence, RIPhil.org
AUGUST 22-23
Rocky Point Historic Base Ball Festival: Cheer on the Providence Grays and other vintage baseball teams, playing the game the way you might have seen it in the 19th century. Warwick, ProvidenceGrays.com
AUGUST 29
Brew at the Zoo: Sample 100-plus beers and libations from local, regional, and national breweries at Rhode Island’s largest outdoor beer festival. This adultsonly event includes live music, animal encounters, and more. Providence, RWPZoo.org
NORTHERN RHODY
ALL SUMMER LONG
Rustic Tri-View Drive In in 3: It’s only fitting that one of the remaining drive-ins in RI is on a road named for a famous actor from Woonsocket. Head to Eddie Dowling Highway for the summertime experience of loading up the car to watch movies on a big screen. North Smithfield, YourNeighborhoodTheatre.com
SUNDAYS
Assembly of Food Trucks: On select dates, enjoy “good eats, beats, and beer” at the Assembly Theatre against the backdrop of the Nipmuc River. BYO seating. June 28, July 26, August 30. Harrisville, FoodTrucksIn.com
TUESDAYS
Slater Park Children’s Performance Series: On select Tuesdays, make memories watching kiddie entertainers live. Pawtucket, PawtucketRI.gov
WEDNESDAYS
Foster Fairgrounds Food Truck Night Event Series: Break up the week with a picnic blanket and dinner from a rotation of vendors. Live music weekly beginning June 24 with beer and wine available. Foster, Facebook: Foster Fairgrounds Food Truck Night
THURSDAYS
Daggett Farm Summer Concert: On select Thursdays in July and August, live music awaits at Slater Park. Begins July 9. Pawtucket, PawtucketRI.gov
Food Truck Concert Nights: Diamond Hill Park and Bike Trail is the place to be for food trucks, live bands, and libations. BYO seating for a scenic spot by the grass, gentle hills, or water feature. Cumberland, TourBlackstone.com
Sunset Sip and Shop: June 11, July 9, August 13. Indulge in an evening of sipping, shopping, and supporting local businesses. Uncover unique finds while enjoying complimentary sips and great company. Chepachet, Facebook: Sunset Sip & Shop
FRIDAYS
Concert Series: Free, family-friendly concerts are slated for Friday evenings at River Island Art Park from June 12 through August 21. The event includes vendors, food trucks, and kids’ activities. Woonsocket, Levitt.org/Amp-Woonsocket-RI
Rustic Tri-View Drive In
SATURDAYS
Chase Farm Food Trucks and Concerts: The nature preserve grounds transform into a live music venue featuring a rotating lineup of food trucks and beverages. June 13, July 11, August 1, August 22. Lincoln, www.foodtrucksin.com/lincolnchasefarm
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Butterfly Farm’s Sunflower Fest: August 1-16, pick your own sunflowers from the field, with vendors, food trucks, and farm-fresh goods on hand. Leashed dogs are welcome. Lincoln, Instagram: @butterflyfarmri
River Cruises and Nature & Heritage Tours: Get schooled in the Blackstone Valley’s natural history aboard a scenic cruise for 50-minute boat tours on Saturdays and Sundays. Central Falls, RiverTourBlackstone.com
SUNDAYS
Music at the Farm: Experience classical works performed by prominent musicians at this historic farm and inn. June 14, July 12, August 9. Pascoag, GraceNoteFarmWeb.com
JUNE
JUNE 6
Historic House Tour: Embark on a tour of notable places, starting at the Elijah Angell House, first constructed in 1767. Johnston, RhodeIsland250.org
JUNE 6
Rhode Island Football Club Kid’s Night: Cheer on the state’s pro soccer team at Centreville Bank Stadium when they play regional rival Westchester FC. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
JUNE 12
Bill Burr brings his rant-driven comedy show to an open-air audience for the first non-sports event scheduled at the home of the Rhode Island FC. Pawtucket, CentrevilleBankStadium.com
JUNE 14
Woonsocket Pride Festival: Support Pride at an afternoon-long event with drag performances, live music, food trucks and local vendors, community resources and more at River Island Park. Woonsocket, WoonsocketPride.org
JUNE 14, 28; JULY 12, 25; AUGUST 1, 16, 30
We The People, A Journey Through Great Road’s History and Legacy: This program held at Hearthside House celebrates the farmers, blacksmiths, mill workers, teachers, and families who lived and worked in Rhode Island. Lincoln, GreatRoadHeritageCampus.org
JUNE 19
Straight No Chaser - Beach Bash: The all-male a capella group sensation (three million albums sold worldwide, over 100 million YouTube views) makes a stop in Rhode Island. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com
JULY
JULY 4
Arnold Mills Parade and Road Race: Since 1927, this event has been a community and family tradition. The four-mile road race begins at 9am, and the parade steps off at 11am. Cumberland, ArnoldMillsParade.com
JULY 4
Rhode Island Football Club: Cheer on Rhody’s pro soccer team as they play the Orange County SC and view fireworks after the game. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
JULY 5, 10, 19, 25
Boston Legacy FC: The women’s professional soccer team from Boston has several games scheduled at Centerville Bank Stadium this summer while their home is under construction. Pawtucket, CentrevilleBankStadium.com
JULY 11
Mowry Farm and Conservation Area Hike: Traverse community gardens and fields, visit the Woonasquatucket River, and see some ledges on this morning mile-and-a-half hike. Some hills. Smithfield, TourBlackstone.com
JULY 11
Rhode Island Football Club: Join players and fans to celebrate Pride Night at Centreville Bank Stadium when they take on Brooklyn FC. Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
JULY 17
Yacht Rock Concert: If you are a fan of Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, and other groups from Southern California circa 1976-1984, then this yacht rock concert by Boat House Row is for you. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com
AUGUST
AUGUST 1, 2
Dogapalooza Family Festival: Slater Park transforms into a destination for pet lovers and shoppers alike, with a host of vendors, delicious food trucks, and live entertainment. Pawtucket, Facebook: Dogapalooza 2026
AUGUST 15-16
Island Rhodes Music Festival: Spend the day at the inaugural Island Rhodes Festival, a reggae-focused concert featuring Sublime, Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, and The Roots. Pawtucket, CentrevilleBankStadium.com
AUGUST 16
Glen Miller Orchestra: Hear the classic hits when a 15-piece band pays tribute to the legendary conductor, one of the most famous bandleaders of the Swing Era of the 1930s and 40’s. Woonsocket, StadiumTheatre.com
AUGUST 8, 22
Rhode Island Football Club: Cheer on the state’s pro soccer club at the new Centreville Bank Stadium when they play USL Championship season home games this month! Pawtucket, RhodeIslandFC.com
Sunset Sip & Shop
EAST BAY & NEWPORT
ALL SUMMER LONG
Full Moon Bike Rides: Newport is the location for monthly 15-mile rides on scenic roads and the coastline. June 29: Strawberry Moon; July 29: Buck Moon; August 27: Sturgeon Moon. Weather-dependent. Newport, BikeNewportRI.org
Newport Gulls: Take yourself out to the ballgame! Cheer on the Newport Gulls – a wooden bat, collegiate summer team – play at Cardines Field. Home games are held most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout June and July. Newport, NewportGulls.PointStreakSites.com
SUNDAYS
Barrington Summer Concert Series: July through August, dance to local musicians in Latham Park and Barrington Town Beach. Barrington, Barrington.ri.gov
NIMFEST Concert Series:
Enjoy outdoor concerts all summer long at the King’s Park gazebo on Wellington Avenue overlooking Newport Harbor. Pack a lawn chair and a blanket; all
Music at Sunset: Take in the lush gardens and live music at Blithewold for their summer concert series running weekly from June 3August 26. Bristol, Blithewold.org
Nature Walks: Be ready to spot native species and identify different plants during guided trail walks led by a naturalist. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
THURSDAYS
Art Night Bristol/Warren: Tour the thriving art scenes of these two towns, held the last Thursdays of the month through August. Bristol & Warren, ArtNightBristolWarren.org
newportFILM: Keep a lawn chair or blanket in the trunk for evenings of critically acclaimed documentaries screened at outdoor locations throughout Aquidneck Island. Newport, NewportFilm.com
Sakonnet Green Market: Back by popular demand, this vendor market run by Tiverton
Farmers Market returns to Sakonnet Vineyard. Afternoons June 18-August 27. Little Compton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
FRIDAYS
Herreshoff Museum Summer Artisan Market: Head to the Herreshoff for a daytime market on most Fridays featuring hand-picked vendors. Bristol, Herreshoff.org
SATURDAYS
Coggeshall Farm Museum: Through June 28, the property is open for standard daytime admission with demos and costumed staff. After July 5, the same applies to Sundays. Bristol, CoggeshallFarm.org
Free Family Fun Days: The hidden gem that is the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium is free on first Saturdays, offering nature stories, animal discoveries, hikes, and more. Bristol, ASRI.org
Newport Polo: Experience a breezy night at Glen Farm watching this historic game played on horseback. Arrive early for pregame refreshments, shopping, and socializing. Portsmouth, NPTPolo.com
by
Photo
Corey Favino, courtesy of Discover Newport
Newport Gulls
631 MAIN STREET, EAST GREENWICH 885-2500 | BLUEPRINT5.COM
TUESDAY-FRIDAY: 10AM-6PM | SATURDAY: 10AM-4PM
GIOVANNI
JUNE
JUNE 7
Rhode Races Wine Run: A three-mile race along various (uneven) trails concludes with dinner, wine, and music at the coastal vineyard. Race participants will receive a souvenir wine glass. Little Compton, SakonnetWine.com
JUNE 9
Fragrance in Bloom: Join Waterway Farm in the lavender garden for a hands-on sensory experience playing alchemist, blending citrus bite with floral heat to create your own custom creation. Bristol, MountHopeFarm.org
JUNE 12-13
British Motorcar Festival: Car fanatics and anglophiles alike are in for a treat. With historic autos, vendors, and stunning views of Narragansett Bay, this event will surely be your cup of tea. Bristol, BritishMotorCarsInBristol.com
JUNE 13
Farm Coast Art & Garden Ramble: This outdoor event promises an unforgettable
combination of art and nature at historic Tiverton Four Corners. Along with vendors and live music, art workshops and demonstrations are planned. Tiverton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
JUNE 14
Raising the Liberty Pole: Part of Tiverton 250, this community celebration held at Bulgarmarsh Park and Road, includes speeches and the raising of said mast. Tiverton, DiscoverNewport.org
JUNE 19-21
Newport Flower Show: Held at Rosecliff, this year’s theme “Pearls of Newport,” includes an opening night party, installations inside and out, an engaging lecture series, a marketplace, and inspiration that is anything but garden variety. Newport, NewportMansions.org
JUNE 19-JULY 4
Rockwell Carnival: Be wristband-ready for rides, cotton candy, and good ol’ fashioned fun, held at Bristol Town Common. Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
JUNE 27
Newport Pride Festival and Parade: All are welcome to join the parade which kicks off at 11am from the Great Friends Meeting House and is followed by an all-day festival with live music, drag, DJ’s, food trucks and vendors. Newport, NewportPrideRI.org
JUNE 28
Annual Strawberry Shortcake Social: This special edition of the Sunday market celebrates the harvest of the mighty fruit. Indulge in strawberry-everything, from treats to mocktails. Tiverton, TivertonFarmersMarket.com
JUNE 22-25
Newport Charter Yacht Show: A can’t-miss for yacht charter pros, this four-day event showcases luxury yachts, and ancillary goods and services, plus an agenda filled with fun competitions, seminars, and a fundraiser soiree. Newport, NewportCharterShow.com
JUNE 26-28
Secret Garden Tours: This self-guided walking tour offers access to a host of beautiful private gardens. Newport, SecretGardenTours.org
Newport Flower Show
JULY
JULY 3
Bristol’s Fourth of July Celebration: This year’s fireworks over Bristol Harbor are planned for July 3 at 9:30pm. Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
Fireworks and Concert: An evening of concessions and live music pregame a fireworks display at Pierce Memorial Stadium. East Providence, EastProvidenceRI.gov
RI250 Night with the Newport Gulls: Fans can enjoy themed programming, special recognitions, and opportunities to engage with RI250 initiatives that connect our past to the present. Newport, NewportGulls.com
JULY 4
Annual Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade: Get your lawn chair ready! The Bristol 4th of July parade begins at 10:30am. Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
Independence Day Open House: Colony House will be open for visitors to explore the first floor and hear stories of independence and revolution in Newport. A slate of free events is also scheduled to take place at Washington Square. Newport, NewportHistory.org
Newport Fireworks: Weather permitting, this year’s display is scheduled to light up the harbor at 9:15pm. For best viewing, find a westward-facing spot along Newport Harbor. Popular viewing locations include Perrotti Park, King Park, and Queen Anne Square. Newport, CityOfNewport.com
JULY 2-19
Newport Classical Music Festival: Twenty-nine intimate concerts, 100 artists, and 11 venues –including Castle Hill Inn, The Elms, Blithewold Mansion – make this showcase of music and venues a highlight for classical music lovers. Newport, NewportClassical.org
JULY 5-12
Hall of Fame Open: Watch the pros play from great seats in the shade. Every Hall of Fame Open ticket comes with one free admission to the International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum. Newport, TennisFame.com
JULY 11
French in Newport Reenactment: A day of
living history features reenactments, exhibits, and free family fun returns to Washington Square with a kids’ scavenger hunt, fife and drum corps, tea tasting, silhouette art, and more. Newport, NewportHistory.org
JULY 11
Cars & Coffee – Youngtimers: Fort Adams is the place for food trucks and a car show with prizes. Rev-up with merch available online. Newport, AudrainYoungtimers.com
The Web They Wove: Women and Their Wardrobes During New England’s Revolution: Historical interpreters Dirty Blue Shirts present a fascinating look at women’s clothing during the American Revolution. Little Compton, DirtyBlueShirts.com
JULY 15-19
Newport Dance Festival: Prepare a picnic and sit on the lawn to watch beautifully choreographed performances. Newport, NewportContemporaryBallet.org
JULY 18
Newport Beer Run: Lace up your kicks and hit the road at this 21+ event that combines a 5K road race with 30-plus breweries at Fort Adams State Park. Newport, NewportBeerRun.com
JULY 19-20
South Coast Artists Open Studio Tour: This self-guided art tour around Tiverton and Little
Compton, and Westport and Dartmouth, MA, offers peeks at the creative process as you’re welcomed into private creative spaces. Repeats August 16-17. SouthCoastArtists.org.
JULY 24-26
Newport Folk Festival: End July on a high note at Fort Adams with the stellar fest lineup that includes Brandi Carlile, Lauryn Hill, Haley Williams, Tom Morello, other veteran performers and rising stars. Newport, NewportFolk.org
JULY 24-26
Float Fest: No ticket to Newport Folk Festival? No problem. This annual “spontaneous” event has boaters and paddlers heading to public ramps and making their way to Newport Harbor to watch the concert from the water. Newport
JULY 25-26
Newport Show: Fine arts enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this fundraiser filled with antiques, art, and other exquisite objects held at St. George’s to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County and the Newport Historical Society. Middletown, TheNewportShow.com
JULY 31- AUGUST 2
Newport Jazz: Swing into this historic festival weekend at Fort Adams State Park with a lineup including stars like Herbie Hancock, Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, Lake Street Dive and dozens more. NewportJazz.org
Tennis Hall of Fame
AUGUST
AUGUST 1
State Street Art Fair: This event promises something for all ages, from art, food, and flower vendors to live alpacas and more, rain or shine. Repeats August 23. Bristol, DiscoverNewport.org
AUGUST 9
Cruise-In for a Cause: Cars of all types and sizes will be on view at the James D. Rielly Foundation car show, featuring food trucks, specialty vendors, 50/50 raffle, music by Triple J DJ, and a $500 cash prize for Best in Show. Bristol, JDRFoundation.org
AUGUST 9
RI Philharmonic Summer Pops 2026: Emmynominated Troy Quinn brings Outstanding Overtures to Rosecliff. With overtures from My Fair Lady to Wicked , there’s truly something for everyone. Newport, RIPhil.org
AUGUST 14-16
Black Ships Festival: Celebrate Asian culture with colorful ceremonies and delicious food. With a cultural marketplace fair and Taiko drum performance, combine fun with community. Bristol & Newport, BlackShipsRI.org
AUGUST 15
Folks Fest: This annual event offers a snapshot of what makes Warren so cool. Enjoy a full familyfriendly day of art, music, activities, food, a beer garden, and non-profit orgs. Parking is scarce, so walking or biking over is encouraged. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org
AUGUST 16-17
South Coast Artists Open Studio Tour: Meet the makers where they create during this self-guided tour. Little Compton & Tiverton, Dartmouth & Westport, MA, SouthCoastArtists.org.
AUGUST 28-30
Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta: These waterfront races invite you to a weekend of competition or a classic yachting experience. Bristol, Herreshoff.org
AUGUST 30
Rhode Island Folk Festival: Crescent Park is the bayside setting for this showcase of local and regional stars with headliners John Cowsill and Vicki Peterson (The Bangles), and Tracy Bonham, plus craft vendors and food trucks. East Providence, RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com
SOUTHERN RHODY
ALL SUMMER LONG
Misquamicut Drive-In:
Ditch the remote and head to the beach to watch movies in the comfort of your vehicle. Purchase tickets online, turn the radio to 96.3FM, and you’re good to go. Audio also transmitted via DJ speakers. Concessions, too! MBADriveIn.com
Ocean House Author Series: Enjoy stimulating chats and refreshments at the breathtaking resort with an ongoing calendar of conversations, moderated by Rhody Reads contributor and best-selling author Deborah Goodrich Royce. June 24, July 1, July 8, July 22, August 5. Find details in this month’s column. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
Summer Concerts at the Gazebo: The heart of the pier across from Narragansett Town Beach will be alive with music this summer. Music includes blues, classic jazz, R&B, and tribute acts. June 5 to August 28. Narragansett, NarragansettRI.gov
Theatre By The Sea: Four musicals will be staged this summer at Bill Hanney’s historic barn theater. Performances are six days a week, all boasting Broadway-caliber casts. Pre-game shows at Bistro By The Sea and at the garden gazebo bar. Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com
WEDNESDAYS
Summer Market: Enjoy live music, food, craft brews, and locally made products every week from 4-6pm at Tilted Barn Brewery through August 26. Exeter, TiltedBarnBrewery.com
THURSDAYS
Main Street Strolls: Visit East Greenwich for monthly themed strolls, including dogs, art, music, and food, with local businesses bringing their wares outside for a day of shopping and festivities. East Greenwich, EastGreenwichChamber.com
Wickford Harbor Fire: The charming village glows with shops and restaurants open late, live music, carriage rides, and family fun, all with a backdrop of floating fire pits. June 18, July 16, August 13. Wickford, WickfordVillage.org
Theatre By The Sea
Photo courtesy of Theater By The Sea
JUNE
Sunday Funday: Support local establishments as they take their businesses into the street for days of pedestrian shopping and dining. A creation station for kids, 9-hole mini golf course, lawn games and more are planned. June 7, 14, 21. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
Strawberry Thanksgiving: Celebrate the Strawberry Moon at this annual event held at Ninigret Park. Storytelling, a Native arts market, traditional dances, food vendors, games, and more are all planned. Date TBA. Charlestown, TomaquagMuseum.org
JUNE 6-7
Open Studios at the Shady Lea Mill: Shop original jewelry, rugs, sculpture, pottery, paintings, photography, and more from participating artists, with a suggested donation of a canned good for the NK Food Pantry. North Kingstown, TheMillAtShadyLea.com
JUNE 13
South County Pride: The annual Pride Parade and Festival, with music, vendors, and local businesses will be held at the Contemporary Theater. Wakefield, SouthCountyPride.org
JUNE 13
Charity Golf Tournament: Swing for a great cause with the Brad Friel Memorial Golf Classic. The all-day affair starts with checkin and lunch, followed by a raw bar and prime dinner, raffles, and awards after golf. Hope Valley, CharihoRotary.com
JUNE 17
Red, White & Bloom Garden Party: The Chamber of Commerce hosts an elegant garden party at Ocean House to celebrate the 250th year of America’s independence. Stop by for patriotic-themed cocktails and bites to eat alongside an accompanying bluegrass duo. Westerly, OceanChamber.org
JUNE 20
Garden Tour Fundraiser: Made possible by local gardeners and residents, enjoy this rain or shine event exploring gardens. Charlestown, CrossMills.org
Parade and Summer Festival: Watch the afternoon parade, followed by food trucks, vendors, a kids zone, live music with the
Red Light Party Rock Band and evening fireworks at Coventry High School. Rain date: June 21. CoventryRI.MyRec.com
Summer Pops 2026: A pre-show at 6pm ushers in performances by The Chorus of Westerly and The Pops Festival Orchestra, and fireworks by Grucci, all at Wilcox Park. Rain date June 21. Westerly, ChorusOfWesterly.org
JUNE 20-21
Narragansett Art Festival: The annual volunteer-run event from the Rotary Club of Wakefield returns to Veteran’s Park and Gazebo Field. Narragansett, WakefieldRotary.org
JUNE 26
Summer Soirée: The primary fundraiser for the Jamestown Art Center includes artwork, seasonal savories, cocktails, and more. Take part in the live auction and grab your dancing shoes for this unforgettable occasion. JamestownArtCenter.org
JUNE
29
Strawberry Moon Paddle on the Quonnie: Led by Weekapaug Inn’s onsite naturalist,
this moonlit paddle pauses at a secluded beach for a champagne toast. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
JULY
JULY 4
Annual Fireworks at Town Beach: Locals love this yearly event held at the Town Beach Complex. Bring your blankets and chairs, but leave the pets at home. Live music and food trucks. North Kingstown, NorthKingstownRI.gov
Fireworks Cruise: Hop on board Rhode Island Fast Ferry’s Julia Leigh for a sunset cruise down Narragansett Bay, ending with the fireworks display over Newport Harbor and Narragansett Town Beach 7:30-9:45pm. North Kingstown, FastFerry.com
Independence Day Beach Ball: Enjoy a beachside New England Lobster Boil, specialty cocktails, and dancing to live music. A stunning fireworks display caps the night. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
Photo (L) courtesy of Tomaquag Museum, (R) by Taylor Buttie
Strawberry Thanksgiving
JULY 10
RiverFire: Special basins along the Saugatucket River are set ablaze, lighting up downtown Wakefield, along with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Wakefield, WakefieldVillageAssociation.com
JULY 10
RI Philharmonic Summer Pops 2026: Emmynominated Troy Quinn conducts Outstanding Overtures: Favorites from theater, film, and classical music. With overtures from My Fair Lady to Wicked , there’s truly something for everyone. Narragansett, RIPhil.org
JULY 11
Celebrate The Milky Way: Weather permitting, hang out with astronomers and telescopes at Frosty Drew Observatory as they showcase many of the celestial objects found along the Milky Way galactic plane. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
JULY 11-12
Wickford Art Festival: Spend the weekend discovering the handiwork of 200 juried artists at Wilson Park at one of the region’s longest-running art festivals. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org
JULY 22-AUGUST 2
Kingston Chamber Music Festival: The 37th season celebrates the unique beauty of making music in the Ocean State: From Coast to Cadence. Kingston, KingstonChamberMusic.org
JULY 23-25
Blessing of the Fleet Celebration: Attracting over 30,000 attendees, this three-day event includes a 10-mile road race, boat decoration contest, a beer tent, games, live music, and rides. Narragansett, NarragansettLionsClub.org
JULY 26
The Life of a Prominent Colonial Leader: Enjoy light bites and wine at Weekapaug Inn while learning about Samuel Ward, a colonial leader, patriot, farmer, and former Rhode Island Governor associated with Westerly. Westerly, OceanHouseRI.com
AUGUST
AUGUST 7-9
Charlestown Seafood Festival: Ninigret Park is the place to be for one of the biggest summer events in New England. Along with seafood for days, there’s a daily schedule of live bands, a car show, amusement rides, raffles, plus RV camping, and fireworks. Charlestown, CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com
AUGUST 12-13
Perseid Meteor Shower: Join Frosty Drew astronomers at the Observatory, weather permitting, to witness the Perseid meteor shower. After 11:30pm, plan on witnessing 100+ meteors an hour in what will be a spectacular event. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
AUGUST 12-16
Washington County Fair: Mark your calendars for five days of family fun with midway rides, livestock shows, tractor pulls, and everything else that celebrates rural heritage. Richmond, WashingtonCountyFair-RI.com
AUGUST 26
Blues Music Festival: Enjoy an afternoon under the tent at The General Stanton Inn with local blues musicians, barbecue, seafood, beer and more. Bring a lawn chair and your appetite. Charlestown, TheGeneralStantonInn.com
AUGUST 27
Lobster Boil and BBQ: Join the talented chefs at the Ocean House for an on-thebeach lobster boil and BBQ, featuring a traditional New England menu of summer favorites. Westerly, OceanHouseRI.com.
AUGUST 27-28
Lunar Eclipse: View the summer’s partial lunar eclipse, visible to all in New England, at the Frosty Drew Observatory. A lunar eclipse happens when the Moon passes into Earth’s shadow. Charlestown, FrostyDrew.org
AUGUST 28
Sturgeon Moon Paddle on the Quonnie: Led by Weekapaug Inn’s onsite naturalist, this moonlit paddle pauses at a secluded beach for a champagne toast. Westerly, OceanHouseEvents.com
RiverFire
Statewide ALL SUMMER
RI Troll Trail: Make a trek out of visiting these magnificent assemblages by world renown recycling artist Thomas Dambo. Five trolls dot the state in Charlestown, East Providence, Hope Valley, and North Kingstown. Download the travel guide and map at SouthCountyRI.com
Liberty Tree Project: Summer Plantings: Inspired by the historic 18th-century Liberty Tree (an elm in Boston), a Red Maple tree will be planted in all 39 of Rhode Island’s municipalities to commemorate the state’s role in the American Revolution. June 7: Glocester; June 10: Johnston; June 13: North Providence. RhodeIsland250.org
RI Farm Scavenger Hunt: The RI Farm Bureau encourages finding new farms with this activity that has participants exploring the state. The map changes every year to keep things as fresh as June strawberries! RIFB.org
State Beach Parking: Get updates on the status of parking lots at the busiest state beaches at RIParks.RI.gov .
Farmers Markets and More: Access the RI Grown tool to find locally caught, grown, and made foods from Rhode Island farms, fishers, and food producers. Listings even include vineyards, CSAs, and wood products. DEM.RI.gov
RI Walks Challenge: Hit trails across the state to find 30+ whimsical nature-inspired steel creatures posted in the woods, and track your progress by scanning QR codes on each. Find them all to win prizes! RIWalks.org
Glass Class: Craft yourself a cool decor accent this summer by taking a glass-blowing workshop: Bosgraaf Studio, Peace Dale; Blackstone River Glass Center, Cumberland; Gather Glass, Providence; The Glass Station, South Kingstown; Thames Glass, Newport.
BLOCK ISLAND
ALL SUMMER LONG
Glass Float Project: Search outdoor locations on Block Island for beautiful glass balls made by Eben Horten; finds are yours to keep but please register to help keep track, and consider making a donation to keep the ball rolling. Block Island, GlassFloatProject.com
SATURDAYS & WEDNESDAYS
Block Island Farmers Market: Even if you’re on vacay, it’s worth setting the alarm for this 9-11:30am outdoor market held at Legion Park. Flowers, honey, jewelry, and more are all part of this quintessential island experience. BIFarmersMarket.com
THURSDAYS
Lecture Series: Kicking off June 4, look for programming that centers around the American Revolution, including a watch party and sand art contest. BlockIslandHistorical.org.
JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST
JUNE 29
Sunset Full Moon Kayak and SUP: Register to kayak or paddleboard in time for sunset and the rising full moon. BlockIslandChamber.com
JUNE 28
Block Island Farmers Market
JULY 12
Block Island Arts and Craft Guild: The lawn of the Block Island Historical Society is the location for a series of outdoor art fairs that run most Sundays through midOctober. BlockIslandGuild.com
JULY 26
ConserFest: “Embrace your place” at this donation-based, family-style outdoor event that has become a mainstay. Held at Southeast Lighthouse, experience a full day of music, lawn games, vendors, and more. ConserFest.org
JULY 1
Fireworks: Expect the display to begin at dusk. Launched from a barge off Crescent Beach, fireworks are visible from much of the island. BlockIsland4th.com
JULY 4
Fourth of July Parade: Celebrate 250 Years of America is the theme for this year’s parade, which runs along West Side Road and ends at the statue of Rebecca. Prizes awarded for floats. BlockIsland4th.com
=
Great Salt Pond Swim-10: This annual fundraiser to protect the pond is a onemile swim limited to 150 individuals, beginning and ending at Andy’s Way Beach. CGSPBlockIsland.org
AUGUST 1
Block Island Triathlon: A quarter-mile open-water ocean swim, 12 miles of biking, and a four-mile run on Fred Benson Town Beach are all part of BI’s largest and most popular race. NewShorehamRI.gov
AUGUST 8
Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival: Paintings, handmade pieces, photography, and more will be for sale at this outdoor event hosted at Narragansett Inn. Facebook: Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival
Photo (L) by Zach Pona, (R) courtesy of Block Island Tourism Council
MAYOR FRANK J. PICOZZI
HOME & STYLE
Home | Shop | Rhody Reads | Style
Bright Idea
A bonus room gets redesigned for all-ages family fun
By Ann Martini
Have you ever heard someone say that a house has “great bones?” These are often the most desirable abodes because they feature wellbuilt foundations, high-quality framing, or solid architectural details that provide a canvas for customization. These homes are storytellers… accumulating modifications through the years that accommodate growing families, empty nesters, or trendy renovations. Such is the case of a 1967 ranch in Narragansett. Set along the quiet edge of a salt pond, this home tells a distinctly Rhode Island story – one shaped as much by generations of summer rituals as by thoughtful architectural evolution. This home has, over decades, expanded and adapted into a layered coastal retreat designed for gathering.
Photo by Liz Daly,
by
A warm white/beige (Natural Cream by Benjamin Moore) provides a backdrop for the window bed and trundle, designed by House of Winsor Interiors and built by Glenn Baller & Co out of Mystic, CT.
Owned by a retired couple who have long summered along the coast (and wintered in Florida), the house now serves as a seasonal anchor for a growing family that includes their three adult children and eight grandchildren. The owners were first drawn to what East Greenwich-based interior designer Lauren Winsor describes as “the waterfront setting and private dock on the salt pond,” a rare balance of seclusion and access. “The property allows them to entertain generously while still enjoying the quiet rhythm of coastal life,” Winsor explains.
A major renovation in 2012 reimagined the home
for ease and flow, prioritizing first-floor living and spaces that could accommodate a steady stream of guests. The latest addition – a 640-square-foot bonus room above the garage – extends that ethos.
“The goal was to create a space that could serve multiple purposes without compromise,” says Winsor. Outfitted with a custom window bed, trundle, convertible sofa, and ample storage, the room easily transitions from sleepover central to movie lounge to game room. At its center, a custom ping pong table by Providence’s Edge and End Studio doubles as a gathering surface for puzzles, cards, and dominoes.
The custom ping pong table was designed by House of Winsor Interiors and built by Edge and End in Providence. The table is walnut and white oak with a hand-caned net that is removable so the family can play games and puzzles. The wall hangings of The Breakers, beach scenes, and racquet collage are vintage finds.
Photo by Liz Daly, styling by Kerryn Connolly
WHAT?! IS RI MULCH EXPRESS BLOWER SERVICES??
Throughout, the design remains cohesive and quietly assured. “Our goal was cohesion – ensuring the FROG (finished room over garage!) felt fully integrated with the main home, as if completed in one thoughtful phase,” Winsor notes. The palette draws directly from the landscape: “We leaned slightly patriotic and into a classic New England feel,” she says, layering
whites, creams, and coastal blues with subtle touches of red. “You know you’re by the water, even when it is out of sight.”
Integral to the home’s character is the owner’s background as an antiques dealer. “Blending collected pieces with new custom work gives the space depth and authenticity,” Winsor explains. Furnishings sourced from
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Local Luxuries
Lauren Winsor dishes on how to be your own best designer. “We always work with local businesses and trades on our construction projects,” says Winsor. “The happiest elements in the project are those created by local artists – the ping pong table by Edge and End and artwork on the walls by Narragansett artist Marilyn Saaybe. Collected treasures from Brimfield and regional antique shops add history and personal narrative, which ultimately makes the space feel lived-in rather than newly constructed,” she says. “The light fixtures on this project are both Visual Comfort/Chapman & Myers – Myers is a Rhode Islander and friend!”
Backyard Finds
“Beyond the color palette, there is some amazing artwork with local scenes,” says Winsor. She shares that the painting of the waterfront at the breakers is a vintage find. Antiques on this project were sourced from some great shops including Consignments Ltd. in Wakefield, and The Corner Cupboard and RE Antiques, both in North Kingstown.
Outside In
“Let your surroundings guide you,” Winsor advises. “The setting of this project was a big influence on the design. The blue sky and water dotted by white sailboats on the salt pond were a big inspiration for the overall color palate. We carried the blue and white through all the textiles in the room –rugs, upholstery, drapery and pillows.” Learn more at HouseOfWinsorInteriors.com
nearby resale shops sit comfortably alongside contemporary elements, while local artwork reinforces the home’s coastal sense of place. In the end, it’s a house dictated by purpose. “Let your surroundings guide you,” Winsor reflects. Here, the water, sky, and enduring pull of a Rhode Island summer have done exactly that.
Photo by Liz Daly, styling by Kerryn Connolly
Work by local artists lends authentic atmosphere
Unapologetically Al Fresco
Favorite picks to celebrate a well-earned season
By Britt Machado
At last, it’s that glorious time of year when living, eating, and playing can happen outside. While a Wednesday afternoon run to the beach is entirely encouraged, the right lounge chair will zhush-up everything from a work call to a raucous dinner party. Our favorite entertaining hack: mix a batch of cocktails to refill a statement pitcher (work smarter, not harder). Never shy away from a seafood maximalist aesthetic (when in Rome or Rhody…) and even the most hurried re-plantings will look amazing in a hand-crafted vessel. Make the most of your summer playtime. You’ve certainly earned it.
Guy Wolff White Pot Garden Bowl
Cottage and Garden, Newport CottageAndGardenNewport.com
Grand Traverse Chaise Porch and Patio, Warwick PorchAndPatioCasual.com
Messermeister Oyster Knife Wald and Sea, Newport WaldAndSea.com
Viski Art Deco Highball Glass Modern Love, Providence ShopQueenOfHearts.com
Stormy Seas Woven Placemat
Bristol Looms, Bristol BristolLooms.com
Hand-blown Ribbon Pitcher
Providence Art Glass and Lighting, Cumberland ProvidenceArtGlass.com
Citronella Sea Salt Outdoor Incense OMO Jewels and Gifts, Westerly OMOJewels.com
Rhody Reads
Nine new books for your summer beach bag
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Is there anything better than a great book on a Rhode Island summer day? I’ve assembled nine books to keep you busy turning pages all season long.
May 6 brought Providence writer Diane Josefowicz’s locked room mystery, The Great Houses of Pill Hill . When New England decorator Hannah “Cookie” Cooke is hired to redo a historic house and the owner turns up dead, the detective on the case is sure the answer lies in one of Cookie’s miniature reproduction crime scenes. A contemporary take on classic noir, this is a deliciously chilling tale.
New York Times bestseller Phyllis Karas released Curse of the Blumenthals on May 19. After a car accident in 1935 kills six members of his bootlegging family, Ronnie Blumenthal is born six months later. A golden child until his own arrest in 1954 for murder, Ronnie pleads guilty and dies in a pauper’s grave. But what really happened over three generations of secrets, crimes, and lies?
Annabel Monaghan is back with Dolly All the Time . Dolly Brick returns to coastal Rhode Island every summer with her teenage son to help her dad run the family fish market. When she gets talked into faking a romance with Steward Whitfield, scion of the wealthiest family in town, feelings she never knew she was capable of are aroused. Ocean House Author Series: June 24
What if Marilyn Monroe hadn’t died? May 26 saw the publication of Lois Cahall’s intriguing reimagining, Maybe Marilyn . Monroe’s housekeeper and psychiatrist were supposedly the only two people to ever see her dead. Five hours elapsed before authorities were contacted. What if they helped her get away, recreate herself, and live the taste of freedom she had never been granted?
June 9 brings epic adventure on the high seas. The Stargazer of Nantucket by Barrington resident Julie Gerstenblatt, tells the tale of Winifred Starbuck, a girl desperate to leave Nantucket in 1851 to join her parents in bustling San Francisco and exciting China beyond. When she defies her parents’ orders and stows away on their merchant ship, she is plunged into turbulent waters and plenty of thrills.
Set to publish on June 23, New York Times bestseller Beatriz Williams’s newest novel, When You Loved Me , follows a young widow who returns to her late father’s New England estate and is drawn into the hunt for the rumored pirate treasure that consumed his life. The distant and not-sodistant past collide in this tale of lost treasures and loves that might be resurrected. Ocean House Author Series: July 8
ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE
Deborah Goodrich Royce is an accomplished author, former actress, preservationist, and philanthropist. Her newest psychological thriller, Best Boy , was an instant Indie Press bestseller! Her national bestseller, Reef Road , was a Kirkus Reviews best book of 2023 and an Indie Next pick. Ruby Falls won the Zibby Award for Best Plot Twist, and Finding Mrs. Ford was praised by Forbes, Book Riot, and Good Morning America . Royce co-created the Deer Mountain Writers’ Retreat, contributes this column quarterly, and hosts the Ocean House Author Series. Learn more at DeborahGoodrichRoyce.com and OceanHouseRI.com
New York Times bestseller Luanne Rice’s Until Midnight publishes June 30, and she will join me at the OHAS the following night! When a perfect wedding is disrupted by a pesky dead body – possibly that of a woman who shares a child with the groom – Rice is off to the races with another crime puzzler set in Watch Hill and surrounding towns. Ocean House Author Series: July 1.
National bestseller Jacqueline Friedland, brings us Breathing Under Water on August 4. The story of two women, Berry and McKenna, brought together in unexpected ways, is a deeply moving exploration of motherhood, sacrifice, and the extraordinary connections that emerge when we’re brave enough to let others see our struggles.
August 18 sees Rae Cline’s debut novel, Precious Ugly . Clementine is a girl in trouble. Homeless and only 13, she is desperate to escape her abusive and charismatic father while she protects her mother. Set in the Reagan 1980s in rural West Virginia, it is both a tale rooted in its era and a timeless examination of poverty, addiction, and the everyday marvels of tenacity and resourcefulness.
Years of Revolution, Independence, and Hope
Celebrate with hundreds of events this summer, including WaterFire in Providence on July 4th.
RhodeIsland250.org/Events
Stars & Stripes
Rhody trends for the Summer of ‘26
By Elyse Major
Alashan Cashmere
Kent Stetson
Beau Bleu
Rochelle’s Boutiques
What do you get when you combine The Gilded Age , The Real Housewives of Rhode Island , and the 250th anniversary of the United States? Summer fashion that includes everything from bedazzled bags to glimmers of gold, and of course, nods to the sea. Here’s what’s trending around our coast with the most.
PATRIOTIC PANACHE
Even the slightest breeze is reason enough to drape yourself in cashmere. The cotton-blend Semiquincentennial topper from Mapleville-based Alashan Cashmere is perfect for showing up with spirit for any 250th soirée. Super-soft, its elegant drape allows for versatile looks. AlashanCashmere.com
LICENSE TO LUXE
Sparkle like the sea in this crossbody clutch designed and made in Pawtucket by Kent Stetson. Crueltyfree and constructed from luxurycoated canvas, 20-percent of proceeds from each purchase are donated to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Shop.KentStetson.com
BLUE SKIES
The City by the Sea inspires The Burgess Collection, designed by lifelong Rhode Islander Cathy Burgess. Pieces imbue confidence via comfort and are as wearable as they are tailored. Rock flattering colors and fits in fabrics like stretch seersucker. TheBurgessCollection.com
GILDED GLAM
Shiny but simple Beachy Studs signal effortless elegance and a love for the shoreline. Find them at Rochelle’s Boutiques, a seasonal outpost on charming Bay Street in Watch Hill, or on Thames Street in Newport. Either location is worth a jaunt to the seaside for bling. RochellesBoutique.com
SHADY CHARACTER
Fans of sunnies are sure to love this unisex pair by Superior available at Beau Bleu – a Bristol boutique with a dedicated men’s store and second location in Newport. Steel frames are handmade with premium stainless steel hinges, and the included case keeps them nice and safe. BeauBleuBoutique.com
The Burgess Collection
RI FC games at Centreville Bank Stadium provide a family-friendly night out all summer long
FEATURE
by Ken Abrams
Summer of Soccer
The 2026 FIFA World Cup shines a global spotlight on the Ocean State
By Ken Abrams
The world’s biggest sporting event is coming to southern New England – and its impact will extend well beyond the stadium where the games are being played. The FIFA World Cup, held every four years, takes place across North America this summer, with more than 100 matches scheduled in cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Several games will be played at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, placing the Providence area squarely within the tournament’s orbit.
Photography
Centreville Bank Stadium has modern amenities and great sitelines
While Boston is the official host city, Rhode Island is preparing for a significant influx of visitors, with seven matches scheduled at Gillette (renamed Boston Stadium for the tournament), between June 13 and July 9. Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to travel through the region, and many will stay in Providence-area hotels and visit area restaurants, bars, and attractions, generating significant economic activity.
Planning efforts have been underway for months, involving local businesses, tourism officials, and community groups. Mary Talbot, director of special projects at the Rhode Island Sports Commission, says stakeholders in the hospitality industry are ready for an influx of foreign visitors and are preparing for challenges that may arise from cultural differences. For example, because many (non-US) visitors are not accustomed to tipping at restaurants and bars, “Restaurants may build their pricing differently, knowing that
people (from some countries) don’t tip, to make sure employees are compensated properly,” she explains. “If you’re working in a pub or something that is going to be near the FanZone, you’ll be doing quick turnaround meals, rather than more complex dishes, knowing that you’ll be busier.”
One fan hub is expected to emerge at Track 15 in downtown Providence, serving as an informal gathering spot for fans of Ghana’s national team, which will be based at Bryant University in Smithfield, creating a unique cultural connection. Talbot said excitement among Ghanaian fans is already strong, driven by early outreach. “We hosted an influencer from Ghana during the week of the big snowstorm,” she says. “Although we had to cancel a planned announcement, she still toured the area, connected with local partners, and immediately saw the potential – suggesting cultural programming, guest chefs, and events that celebrate Ghanaian heritage.”
Locals can also expect a friendly invasion of all things Scottish when Team Scotland plays at Gillette. “We have a very active Scottish contingent, called the Tartan Army,” says Talbot. “We’ve been in touch with both the Tartan Army (fanclub) and the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal, their charitable arm. They’re going to have a very strong presence in downtown Providence, working with the G Pub on their events.”
Got tickets for a game? Be assured, it’s going to be a little crazy, and there will likely be traffic backups along routes 1 and 95 on game days, says Talbot. “People assume it’s going to be like a football game, that they’re going to have that same kind of access to the stadium. But that’s not the case, she says. “There are no trains going to Gillette from Providence. You can’t drive your car there unless you reserve a pass, and there are going to be 75 percent fewer passes than at a typical football game.”
Photo courtesy of RI FC
FANZONE COMING TO PVD
Couldn’t score tickets to the World Cup? Worry not, you can still be part of the fun. Station Park in Providence will host the FIFA PVD FanZone, a free, large-scale watch party running from June 11 through July 19. Located on the lawn between the State House and the train station, the FanZone will feature live broadcasts on a giant screen, along with music, food trucks, and a beer garden.
“The PVD FanZone will be a lively, accessible way for neighbors and visitors to take part in the energy of Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer right here in Providence,” says Michaela Antunes, spokeswoman for Providence Mayor Brett Smiley. “Attendance and programming will vary by day and match schedule, but we are planning for several thousand visitors on peak days, particularly around high-profile matches and weekends, with strong attendance over the course of the six-week run.”
Accompanying the FanZone, Waterplace Park will be a center of activity, hosting the “House of Portugal” through August 1. The activation, led by WeGotSoccer in partnership with PUMA and the Portuguese Football Federation, aims to create a major fan destination that celebrates both Portuguese culture and the state’s strong Portuguese-American community. Organizers say the site will feature live match viewings, cultural exhibits, fan engagement events, and appearances by athletes and public figures. FIFA merchandise will also be available, alongside tourism showcases promoting both Portugal and Rhode Island.
“This is a wonderful addition that will enhance Rhode Island’s Summer of Soccer experience,” notes General Treasurer and Ocean State 2026 Chair James Diossa. “The House of Portugal brings together soccer, cultural pride, and economic opportunity that will showcase Providence and our state on an international stage. As fans from around the world come to New England in 2026, this activation helps ensure Rhode Island stands out as a destination that celebrates its Portuguese heritage and creates unforgettable experiences throughout the Summer of Soccer.”
LOCAL IMPACT: Sports Commission supports expansion of RI youth soccer programs
Earlier this year, the Rhode Island Sports Commission announced $40,000 in grants to eight youth soccer organizations as part of a statewide initiative to expand youth participation and strengthen community programs. Executive Director Jonathan Walker said the funding is designed to help local groups promote events, increase access for young players, and build excitement ahead of a summer expected to draw heightened attention to the sport.
Recipients include Burrillville Glocester Youth Soccer Association, Coventry Soccer Association, Cumberland Youth Soccer Association, East Providence Youth Soccer Association, Mundialito, Narragansett Youth Soccer Association, Project GOAL, and South County Youth Soccer Club. Organizers emphasize that grassroots programs play a key role in developing future athletes while fostering inclusion and community engagement.
Leaders from participating organizations say the funding will expand tournaments, leadership opportunities, and family-focused events. Project GOAL Executive Director Darius Shirzadi said the grant will support a range of summer activities and enhance existing programs. “At Project GOAL, we are honored and appreciative of the grant award by the Rhode Island Sports Commission. This contribution will help us provide an exciting summer of soccer-related events to benefit our kids at Project GOAL and our organization’s programming.”
by Ken Abrams
Photo
RI FC star Noah Fuson
WHAT IS FIFA?
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, aka FIFA (French for International Federation of Association Football), is the global governing body of soccer, responsible for organizing and overseeing international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Founded in 1904 and based in Zurich, it sets the rules of the game, promotes development worldwide, and coordinates national associations. FIFA works to grow the sport, ensure fair play, and manage major tournaments that bring together teams and fans from across the globe.
BRYANT TO SERVE AS BASE CAMP FOR GHANA NATIONAL TEAM
Bryant University will serve as the official base camp for the Ghana Men’s National Team during the World Cup, bringing global attention to both the university and the state. The West African team, known as the Black Stars, will train on campus as they prepare for their fifth World Cup appearance.
Led by midfielder Antoine Semenyo, who plays in the English Premier League, Ghana
will compete in Group L, facing Panama in Toronto on June 17, England in Boston on June 23, and Croatia in Philadelphia on June 27. Bryant recently opened a 43,000-squarefoot field house featuring advanced training, recovery, and sports medicine facilities designed to support elite athletes and meet FIFA’s standards for field quality, security, and professional-grade infrastructure.
RHODE ISLAND’S PRO SOCCER TEAM ENTERS ITS SECOND SEASON AT CENTREVILLE BANK STADIUM
The World Cup will undoubtedly draw more attention to soccer, both nationally and locally. Rhode Island Football Club officials expect to see increased fan support as a result of the tournament. “If you remember World Cup ‘94, there was
a pretty impactful bounce with soccer in general; I’d anticipate that there’ll be a similar impact this time,” says interim President Sean Carey. “There’s obviously a lot of interest in the sport, and in the World Cup itself. That supports RI FC on
multiple levels. We have a diverse squad with players from many different countries. I think people are paying attention, even if their countries aren’t playing in the World Cup, there’s an interest in who’s playing and where they are from.”
Photos courtesy of Ghana Football Association
Team Ghana midfielder Mohammed Kudus plays in the English Premier League
Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, will be based at Bryant University during the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Boston Legacy FC women’s professional soccer team plays several games at Pawtucket’s Centreville Stadium this summer
WOMEN’S PRO SOCCER COMING TO PAWTUCKET
Expect a pro-level soccer atmosphere when Boston Legacy FC comes to Pawtucket’s Centreville Stadium for several games this summer. The women’s professional team is splitting its home season between Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium and the new Pawtucket stadium while its Boston venue is being renovated. Led by US Olympic gold medalist Casey Murphy, the team is playing its inaugural season in the National Women’s Soccer
League (NWSL). “We’re proud to be hosting the Boston Legacy FC team,” says stadium General Manager Paul Byrne. “I think they will be the first-ever professional women’s soccer games played in Rhode Island.” “With the FIFA World Cup coming to our region and unprecedented momentum behind the women’s game, 2026 is set to be a landmark year for soccer,” adds Boston Legacy Football Club Team President Jennifer van Dijk.
RI FC Summer Schedule Centreville Bank Stadium (All games begin at 7:30pm)
• June 6 vs. Westchester FC (Kids Night)
• July 4 vs. Orange County FC (Fireworks)
• July 11 vs. Brooklyn FC (Pride Night)
• July 18 vs. Hartford Athletic
• August 8 vs. Colorado Switchbacks FC
• August 22 vs. Monterey Bay FC (Folklore Night)
Boston Legacy FC schedule Centreville Bank Stadium
• July 5 vs. Bay FC
• July 10 vs. Chicago Stars
• July 19 vs. Washington Spirit
• July 25 vs. Kansas City Current
• August 9 vs. Portland Thorns
• September 20 vs. Houston Dash
Photo courtesy of Boston Legacy FC
Student Loans
Student Loan Refinancing
Low
FOOD & DRINK
In the Kitchen | Experience | Food Truck | Round Up
Erin McGinn
by
Son of a Biscuit
Southern recipes meet Philly flair resulting in breakfast sammies worth lining up for
By Erin McGinn
James Dean and Joe Hafner hit it off from the start. The two met as coworkers at Gracie’s, the downtown restaurant renowned for its
egant atmosphere and seasonal menus. Hafner, from the Philadelphia area, was working as a chef, while Dean, from North Carolina, was on-staff while attending graduate school at the Rhode Island School of Design. Before long, Hafner headed west to work as a private chef for luminaries like Wes Anderson, and Dean got busy teaching full-time at RISD in the architecture department. But the pandemic – and a boatload of North Carolina milled flour – gave rise to reconnecting the friends.
el -
Photography
Joe Hafner and James Dean
At the time, The Tailor Shop on Broadway was hosting a slew of pop-ups, and Dean was playing around with what he could do on a biscuit under the moniker Irregardless. “Since I’m from North Carolina originally, I try to think of how we can take a product from here in the Northeast and give it a Southern accent,” he explains. Hafner, back in Rhode Island, would drop by to help. “The reaction from customers on the West End was impressive,” Hafner recalls. “What was even more interesting was that people from further away were hearing about Irregardless and seeking it out, even with its limited hours. I knew it had legs after just a few shifts, and working together
had always been a goal we both shared.”
The affable pair began their culinary adventure serving up viral favorites at pop-ups, including hot honey chicken sandwiches, pork roll breakfast stacks, and their signature housemade strawberry butter. The long lines around Broadway every weekend were a clear sign of their success. Regardless of Dean and Hafner’s impressive pedigrees, they simply put their heads down and created the mouth-watering biscuits that folks eagerly rallied for week after week, importing nearly 12,000 pounds of flour annually from their North Carolina supplier.
When the Kitchen on Carpenter Street closed,
the two jumped at the chance to start a brick-andmortar just steps away from the original pop-up. With cheery yellow and orange lettering from the inimitable Providence Painted Signs, and their adorable honey bear logo created by artist Alex Correia, the fun-sized shop has just enough space to line up tight next to framed Archie Meets Ramones comic book covers, orange tables, and cool merch featuring The Guest Check Sketch in collaboration with Frog & Toad. But nods to beloved Kitchen remain in homages that include the restaurant’s signature spoon, and inclusion of menu favorites Howard’s Biscuit and maple and pepper-glazed bacon.
Photography by Erin McGinn
James Dean rolling the biscuit dough
Joe Hafner adds hot honey
Iconic cashmere, designed in Rhode Island—crafted to celebrate America’s 250th!
“It’s been really great,” says Dean. “Lots of new faces as well as folks who have been coming in since the pop-up. The support has been unreal. It’s allowed us to do so many things that just weren’t possible as a pop-up.” Dean shares that what’s been most important to him personally is that with community support, they can pay their employees a wage they deserve. “That was non-negotiable for us from day one. Each team member is empowered and encouraged to interact with every customer and welcome them into the space with a
friendly smile.” Nodding, Hafner adds, “People come for James or Joe, but just as many come to say hello to the front staff or our baker, Erin, and Alana, Andrew, and Brook!”
As I slather another layer of the housemade strawberry butter on my perfectly warm biscuit, I ask Dean and Hafner about their favorites. “I’m pretty simple, so for me it’s just country ham on a biscuit with maybe a little mustard, or a sausage biscuit. That’s how I ate them growing up at my house,” Dean states. Hafner adds, “My favorite sandwich is the
South Philly, which has pork roll – popular where I’m from just outside of Philadelphia – with vinegar pepper hot sauce, another nod. We didn’t think it was going to sell! I am a particularly huge fan of our hashbrowns – James came up with the spice recipe we sprinkle on them.”
Irregardless
94 Carpenter Street
IrregardlessPVD.com
Limited hours
Photography by Erin McGinn
Offerings from the Signature Biscuits menu section
Non-Stop Flights
From martinis to mac and cheese – small portion samplers make this Coventry restaurant a worthy trip
By Jenna Kaplan
There’s a certain kind of night out that doesn’t need much planning. You pick a place, meet your people, and let the evening unfold from there. At Blackstone Coventry, that kind of night tends to stretch a little longer than expected. Part café, part martini bar, the spot has become a steady presence in the Centre of New England plaza. Owned by Rhode Island natives Gian and Bryanna Ranucci, it reflects a vision that blends relaxed European café culture with a distinctly local energy. It’s casual, a little offbeat, and built around sharing, whether that’s drinks, plates, or the overall experience.
On a recent visit, my partner and I settled in quickly and let the table fill itself, guided in large part by our server, who seemed to
know exactly how the night should unfold. We started with martinis, because it’s hard not to. I ordered the fresh fruit martini flight, bright and balanced without leaning too sweet. The Sour Patch came in sharp with watermelon and lime, the pear and honey softened things with a light, floral edge, and the pomegranate kept everything crisp. Across the table, my plus-one ordered the classic martini flight, a Coventryonly option (other locations in East Greenwich and Putnam, CT), at our server’s suggestion. It’s a trio that feels instantly recognizable, from the rich pull of an espresso martini to the citrusy lift of a lemon drop and the clean finish of a Cosmo. The espresso martini stood out immediately, smooth and easy, the kind you know you’ll come back to later.
Must-Try Items
DORITO DEVILED EGG: A taco-seasoned deviled egg topped with a crunchy Dorito ($4)
TEQUILA BUZZ
ESPRESSO MARTINI: Reposado tequila, creme de cocoa, Kahlua, espresso ($12.99)
TRUFFLE MAC & CHEESE: House mac, mushrooms, truffle oil ($5.50)
Cuisine: Contemporary American Atmosphere: Casual and fun
by Jenna Kaplan
Photo
Flights of sliders and mac and cheese
The food follows that same rhythm. You don’t commit to one dish. You build the table as you go, and with a little guidance, it comes together easily. We started with the deviled eggs flight, mixing three styles. The original kept things classic, creamy with a light sprinkle of paprika. The bacon version added richness, with meat folded into the filling and more on top, finished with chives. The Dorito brought a taco-seasoned twist and a bit of crunch that worked better than expected. Our server had flagged these early as one of the most popular options, and she wasn’t exaggerating. They disappeared almost as quickly as they arrived. Then came the cheese wheel experience, which pulls focus the moment it hits the table.
Three individual cheese wheels are warmed and lightly flamed, their interiors softened before fresh pasta is tossed directly inside. Each turn coats the pasta in a thick, glossy layer of melted cheese. It’s simple, but it feels like an event, and it’s exactly the kind of thing our server encouraged us not to skip. I went with the mac and cheese flight, which builds off that base in three directions. The original leans into comfort with small shells and a rich house cheese sauce. The truffle version adds mushrooms and truffle oil, bringing a deeper, more savory note. The buffalo cuts through with heat and tang, keeping everything balanced. It’s indulgent, but still easy to keep going back for another bite.
Our trusty server also pointed out that you can take the same route with a pasta flight instead of mac and cheese, choosing from spaghetti marinara, penne vodka, fettuccine alfredo, or cavatappi with pesto. Each can be finished with add-ons like grilled chicken, fried chicken, meatballs, or shrimp, giving you a little more flexibility depending on what you’re in the mood for. Across the table, the slider trio filled in the rest. Buffalo chicken with lettuce, tomato, onion, and ranch brought a steady heat. The meatball stayed classic with marinara, provolone, and basil. The cheeseburger kept things simple with American cheese and caramelized onions. Nothing overworked, just solid, familiar bites done well.
Photos by Jenna Kaplan
Deviled eggs
Firing up the cheese wheel
SMITH’S CASTLE
A
Dessert felt like a pause in the night. We went with a slice of cheesecake, drizzled with caramel and chocolate, with crushed pecans brought on the side by our star server in case we wanted to turn it into a turtle-style cheesecake. It was easy to share and rich without being too much. There’s also a cheesecake flight on the menu, along with a gelato flight with waffle chips that almost won us over. We circled back to what stood out earlier and ordered an espresso martini flight to finish. Two classic versions came rich and velvety, while the tequila buzz added a slightly deeper, cocoa-leaning finish. Paired with dessert, it felt less like an extra and more like the final course.
Off to the side, the golf simulator keeps the night moving. It’s set up so you can book time, order food and drinks straight to the bay, and rotate through turns without breaking
Photo by Jenna Kaplan
the flow of the table. It works just as well for someone picking up a club for the first time as it does for someone who actually wants the data behind their swing. It adds a layer to the night that feels natural, not separate. And that’s really where Blackstone Coventry lands. It gives you reasons to stay, and the kind of service that makes it easy to do just that. Regulars lean across tables to talk, call out to the bar, and move easily through the space. The room carries that kind of energy, familiar, social, and just busy enough to feel like something is always happening. You come for a drink, maybe a bite, and end up staying longer than planned. Around here, that’s usually a good sign.
Blackstone Coventry
710 Centre of New England Blvd. Coventry • BlackstoneCoventry.com
Positioned on exclusive Nayatt Point across from Narragansett Bay, this expansive 7,454 sq. ft. coastal residence features six bedrooms, eight baths, four garage spaces, multiple fireplaces, a guest apartment, media room, and fine finishes throughout.
Caribbean Flair
The chef bringing Haitian flavors to Smith Hill
By Cynthia Munrayos
At the intersection of Douglas Avenue and Eaton Street, sits Haitian.ish, a food truck with an alluring tropical design, where owner and Chef Anne Rabel takes pride in a menu bursting with rich flavors and a colorful, eye-catching aesthetic delivered with every plate served. “I felt like
there was a missing link in Rhode Island’s food community, especially when it came to Haitian culture,” Rabel says. “We didn’t have a lot of food trucks representing us, so I felt like it was my calling to step in and do that.”
Rabel started cooking at 16, and thought nursing school was something she wanted to pursue, until it wasn’t. She pivoted and
by
Photos
Austin Devlin, courtesy of Haitian.ish
Chef Anne Rabel of Haitian.ish
A heaping platter of Haitian classics
attended culinary school, after which she began traveling and working in various locations – Washington, DC, Virginia, Atlanta, and Boston – before returning to Rhode Island where she considered starting something of her own while working at Ocean House in Westerly, followed by Plant City, Providence. “I realized that there was a need when it came to Haitian cuisine, especially Haitian fast food and street food, that I could tap into,” she says. “That’s where ‘Haitian.ish’ comes from because it’s Haitian, but with a little flair for other things.” Haitian.ish began in 2022 as a food cart and catering business serving Haitian meat pies, and officially hit the road as a food truck in the summer of 2025, appearing at outdoor music festivals including Yellow Cup Weekend and Daytrill. At the core of Haitian cooking is an herbheavy marinade called epis. Chopped garlic, parsley, scallions, bell peppers, and maybe some citrus, cloves, or ground pepper impart big flavors to meat and fish. The Haitian.ish way of ordering is simple: choose a protein and two sides. With an ever-changing menu, Rabel recommends trying the
A NEWPORT SUMMER TRADITION
weekly special, as it’s the most popular and likely to sell out first. Past specials have been oxtail and pineapple-glazed lamb chops, so if you’re lucky enough to catch it on the menu, order it, there’s no telling when it will return. Other notable options on the menu are red snapper, shrimp, chicken wings, and beef. Sides vary and can include plantains, mac and cheese, rice, spicy Haitian spagetti, or fries.
“Haitian food is very flavorful, cultural, and intentional. It’s shaped by so many different influences and melting pots, so the outcome is bound to be delicious,” says Rabel. Her personal favorite is turkey wings, which give a chicken chicharrón-like experience, with a lightly crisp,
golden exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat. “The techniques I use are a twist on what Haitians would originally do,” she explains. When it comes to refreshing drinks, Haitian.ish has a variety of popular lemonades in flavors like strawberry passion fruit. When it’s your turn at the window, ask about dessert, which is sure to be fresh and flavorful, like the recent strawberry crunch. Rabel offers catering services, along with mixology and bartending for private events. Look for the palm tree logo emitting Caribbean vibes Friday-Sunday at 391 Douglas Avenue, and follow along for events and updates at Haitinish.net; Instagram @haitian.ish_
Rhode Island’s first Haitian food truck
Photo by Austin Devlin, courtesy of Haitian.ish
Savoring Rhody
From Warren to Watch Hill, top picks for the sandwich of summer
By Patty J
Every Rhode Islander knows no summer day is complete without tucking into a lobster roll piled high with claw and tail meat. Whether you prefer it cold or warm, these clam shacks and seafood eateries offer rolls worth shell-ebrating!
Bay Street Deli
Open for the season, this unassuming sandwich shop by the sea is a destination for outstanding lobster rolls. You’ll need to use two hands to hold onto these heaping rolls of tender lobster meat. Plus, you never know who you’ll see there – there’s a photo wall displaying celebs who have stopped in over the years. Watch Hill
Blount Clam Shack on the Waterfront
Situated on the waterfront, the Blount truck serves up rolls overflowing with huge chunks of mouthwatering lobster. Choose from three styles in two sizes (¼ or ½ pound): mixed with housemade dill mayo, cold with butter on the side, or tossed in warm butter. They even have a Lobster Roll Club where members can earn coins to redeem for food, merch, and prizes! Warren
Coast Guard House
Hosting out-of-towners this summer?
A visit to Coast Guard House is a must, not only for its sweeping seawall location but for the fanciful twist they give to their lobster rolls. A buttered brioche replaces the split-top roll, mayo is swapped with citrus aioli, and flavorful herbs mingle with lettuce. There’s so much chilled lobster meat, you just might need a fork. Narragansett
Photo (top) courtesy of Blount Clam Shack, (center) courtesy of Patty J, (bottom) by Elyse Major
Coast Guard House
Blount Clam Shack
Crow’s Nest
Crow’s Nest
Set a course for the Crow’s Nest and discover Apponaug Cove. Since 1966, this dock-and-dine fish house and oyster bar has been an in-theknow go-to for lobster rolls – served with chilled meat, a little mayonnaise, chopped celery, and seasoning in a grilled roll. Pro-tip: order a half portion with a side of chowder. Warwick
Dune Brothers
This pier-to-plate business, inspired by nostalgia for New England clam shacks, prepares the popular dish warm and buttery on brioche buns. Order yours at Dune Brothers Fox Point, the Providence Shack in the Jewelry District, Dune Brothers at Track 15, or the Riverside Shack. Check out their fresh
fish markets on Ives Street in Providence and Warwick Neck Avenue in Warwick, too.
Matunuck Oyster Bar
The Matunuck Oyster Bar tent returns to 650 Succotash Road in East Matunuck to delight with lobster rolls and more in the elegant al fresco setting, erected after last spring’s devastating fire. Served with French fries or a house salad, enjoy chilled lobster lightly mixed with mayonnaise and chopped celery, on a grilled buttery roll. Pro tip: play it safe and make a reservation. Wakefield
Monahan’s
Whether you go to Monahan’s Clam Shack by the Sea in Narragansett, or Monahan’s Clam Shack by
the Cove in Charlestown, you’re getting lobster rolls – served cold with mayo or hot with drawn butter – considered by many Rhode Islanders to be the best in the state. Avoid any lines by ordering online, and be sure to save a little room for ice cream. Charlestown and Narragansett
Newport Lobster Shack
Located behind The Brenton Hotel on Long Wharf Mall, this no-frills fish market and food truck is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Everything is local, fresh, and cooked to order. Is there anything more RI summer than noshing on a jam-packed lobster roll and a bag of chips at a picnic table? Pregame your visit with a look at their website for lobster lingo, recipes, and fisherman profiles. Newport
Dune Brothers Matunuck Oyster Bar
Photo (L) courtesy of Dune Brothers, (R) by Elyse Major
RHODY SNAPSHOTS
ANNUAL GUIDE TO THE CITY OF PROVIDENCE Destination
pvd:
SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE
Join us for an opening look at our 4th Annual Providence Monthly “ Destination PVD”. Featuring Neighborhood Spotlights, Life & Style, Food & Drink, and Art & Culture sections. With a must-do list for tourists and locals alike, this issue is packed with places for readers to find the best restaurants, cocktails, shopping, entertainment and more!
EMAIL: MARKETING@HEYRHODY.COM OR CALL: 401-305-0360 25,000 COPIES DISTRIBUTED
LEARN MORE ABOUT ADVERTISING IN SEPTEMBER Deadline: July 28, 2026
Celebrate our 30th Anniversary at Medici lounge
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17TH | 6-9PM
Meet your neighbors, connect with local businesses, enjoy a fun evening at one of PVD’s coolest spots with great company, light bites, cocktails and a DJ and dancing, while we celebrate the people who help make our neighborhoods stronger every day!
