There’s nothing quite like experiencing the festivals in Rhode Island. From the small town charm of the Newport Folk Festival to the excitement of Providence Comic Con. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a weekend of music and fun or a chance to dress up and meet your favorite comic book characters, Rhode Island has a festival for you.
Amazing Festivals in Rhode Island
Newport International Boat Show
Planning for a quick vacation getaway in Newport? Be sure to catch the wonderful Newport International Boat Show that happens in the city once a year. If you are interested in boating, this event will be extra special to you. Held in the vibrant Bellevue Avenue Suite, this festival dominates the city’s waterscape. Lots of programs are prepared for participants, including a presentation of modern aquatic vessels, marine products exhibits, and seminars. Additionally, food and drinks are also sold from every corner of downtown Newport.
Gaspee Days
One of the many efforts of the government of Rhode Island to preserve the city’s fascinating history and rich culture. Gaspee Days features a series of fun-filled events and activities for locals and tourists alike. It is a fantastic annual event that has been recurring since 1965. Some of the highlights of Gaspee Days are the military parade called Gaspee Days Parade. The burning of the ship which locals fondly call Burning of the Gaspee. Aside from those, there are trade fairs that sell local crafts at the festival.
Rhode Island International Film Festival
The Rhode Island International Film Festival is a wonderful event that will surely pique the interest of movie junkies and film enthusiasts. It is surely an unmissable celebration. It is held in Providence and Newport annually. Spearheaded by Flickers – Newport Film/Video Society & Arts Collaborative, the RIIFF is an intimate event that features movie screenings, an awards night, lectures from experts in the industry, and a delightful after-party for the attendees.
Newport Winter Festival [Last event in 2020]
Experience warmth during winter as the Newport Winter Festival takes place in Pelham Street. This exciting event welcomes families, couples, groups of friends, and even solo wanderers for 10 days of music, entertainment, and delicious culinary delights. Newport Winter Festival bills itself as New England’s Largest Winter Extravaganza. Expect a fascinating chili cook-off, Princess Party, Mac & Cheese Smackdown, and other well-curated activities for all types of visitors. Plus, a live band will grace the stage at the festival to provide lovely entertainment for all.
Providence Folk Festival
Another fantastic event that happens in Providence every year is the Providence Folk Festival. Held in Bullocks Point Avenue with the views of the picturesque river as the backdrop of the festival, this event will surely bring so much joy to its attendees. Lots of local and international bands are features to showcase their talents and provide entertainment for the people. Additionally, food and drink vendors are present to serve delicious snacks to satisfy some hungry tummies. This is an excellent celebration to close summer.
Providence Boat Show
If Newport boasts their Newport International Boat Show every September, Providence is not left behind. This captivating city has its own version which they call the Providence Boat Show, and it happens in January of each year. Whether you are a boat owner or a frustrated sailor who wants to learn the ropes of boating, the Providence Boat Show is an event that you should not miss. Here you can browse through the exhibits of various marine vehicles and equipment and the show can help you plan the things you need to buy to start your adventures in the sea. Also, trade fairs are positioned in Sabin Street, where guests can purchase quality local items and gorge on palatable snacks.
Newport Folk Festival
Just like Providence, Newport celebrates a folk festival, which is called the Newport Folk Festival. It happens every year, sometimes in July and August, and it brings so much entertainment and lasting memories for festival-goers. Same with Providence Folk Festival, the Newport Folk Festival invites international and local bands, to give high-energy, folk-oriented musical performances that will amp up the party vibes in Fort Adams Drive. It started in 1959 and has continuously grown bigger and grander each year. Tasty snacks and alcoholic drinks can be bought in the area for a complete festival experience.
Rhode Island Seafood Festival
An event that will excite foodie travelers, Rhode Island hosts an exciting Rhode Island Seafood Festival, and it takes place in Providence. In 2020, it is scheduled on the 12th and 13th of September, Labor Day weekend, at India Street. Presented by numerous local restaurants and food businesses, this festival will take you to a delicious culinary escapade that you will never forget. It started not long ago in 2011, but since then, it has cemented its place in the social scene of Providence and a lot of people are excited about it every year, including tourists.
Newport Jazz Festival
Make the most of your summer vacation by traveling to Newport to attend the fun-filled and exciting New Port Jazz Festival. Immerse in the city’s jazz heritage, unleash your inner social butterfly, and listen to the country’s top bands as they play their music in one big festival ground. This huge party happens in Fort Adams Drive with Newport’s waterscape as the backdrop. It’s been recurring since 1954 and its attendees grow in number as the years go by. In 2020, the Newport Jazz Festival will take place on August 7, falling on a Friday.
Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show
Whether you are someone with a green thumb or someone who just has a deep appreciation for Mother Nature, you are welcome to experience the activities and offerings of Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show. During the festival, guests can wander around 10,000 square feet (929 square meters) of breathtaking gardens and marvel at the beauty of nature. Also, you can join or be a spectator in an interesting Floral Competition that serves as one of the highlights of the event. Additionally, a home tour and furniture exhibit is part of the Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show. Guests can also bag some lovely souvenir items and local crafts at the festival.
Enjoying the Festivals in Rhode Island
If you are planning a trip to Rhode Island, be sure to plan ahead, so you can attend and enjoy their festivals. Rhode Island is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from food and wine to art and music. No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be a festival in Rhode Island that you will enjoy.
