6/6/24

With the weekend almost here, it’s time to swap the work grind for some Ocean State fun. Get ready for Pride parades that rival your wildest dreams, a farm-to-table tour that will make your taste buds sing, and enough festivities to fill a lobster pot.

Weekend Must-Do’s: Mermaids, Pride, Parades, and More!

From the nostalgia of a vintage car show to the enchantment of a mermaid parade, this weekend’s lineup offers something for everyone. Enjoy improv comedy, Pride festivities, live music, a farm-to-table tour, cultural celebrations, markets, parades, and more in the Ocean State. Read the full list online at HeyRhody.com.

_{• By Cheikh Higgs, photo courtesy of Tiverton Farmers Market}

Join Bike Newport on June 8 for a Ride Towards a More Inclusive Cycling Community

Bari Freeman, executive director and founder of Bike Newport, is on a mission to reduce car usage during Newport's busy summer season by promoting cycling. Freeman champions inclusivity and community collaboration, with initiatives like Elliot's Ride for Everyone honoring the joy of biking and advocating for a more sustainable and connected community. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com

^{•By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of Bike Newport}

Presented by Girl Gang Craft

Fem-Forward Girl Gang Craft Fair Returns to Providence for Second Year

Whether you’re motivated by the thrill of perusing one-of-a-kind handmade goods or eager to support a fem-forward mission, Girl Gang Craft (GGC) will have you zipping over to the WaterFire Arts Center on June 8 to see what local creatives have in store. With jewelry, ceramics, apparel, and art that empower and delight, the craft fair centers women, trans, non-binary, and gender-expansive makers, all in one magical space.

Phoebe Sherman is the founder, designer, and podcast host behind the unique brand that not only hosts colorful craft fairs but also serves as a fem-forward platform for small businesses. What began as an apparel project advocating for abortion access has grown into a nationally recognized, multifaceted community with a podcast and classes offering resources and inspiration to budding entrepreneurs. GGC has a presence in California; Salem, MA; and Providence.

Once visitors attend one event, they’re usually hooked. Says enthusiastic event-goer, Sam Khaikin, “GGC events always feel incredibly alive to me; there is always an interesting, vibrant, and diverse group of makers who bring an infectious energy. I always leave feeling so honored and blessed to be in the room with these incredibly inspiring (and dare I say, extremely cool) women and women-identifying makers."

At the Providence event, guests can anticipate 50+ New England vendors, including PVDonuts, music by DJ Lady Ruck, cocktails shaken by Little Bitte, food from Methods of a Mad Woman, and balloon art by True Balloon USA, plus voting registration with League of Women Voters. “[The GGC Craft Fair] brings me so much joy,” says another fan, Emily Pierce. “There is no place I feel better spending all my money!”

The Providence Girl Gang Craft Fair takes place June 8, 11am-5pm, with tickets via Eventbrite for $5, or $10 at the door; kids 12 and under attend free.

Instagram: @girlgangcraft

Facebook: Girl Gang Craft

^{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Girl Gang Craft}

Explore the Intersection of Breathwork and Writing with Lisa Tener's New Book

Rhode Island-based author and writing coach Lisa Tener's upcoming book, Breathe. Write. Breathe., to be released on June 12, merges breathwork and writing exercises to boost creativity and well-being. Inspired by her qigong experiences, Tener shares accessible practices for writers to overcome blocks and tap into their inner muse, incorporating elements like earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo by Seth Jacobson, courtesy of Lisa Tener}

Presented by Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center

Discover the Mashantucket Pequot Museum's Educational Pow Wow

Join the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center for a captivating Educational Pow Wow this July. Experience the vibrant dances and cultural traditions of America's first people, as narrated exhibitions bring history to life. Free with museum admission, this event promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Pequot community and culture. Read more online at HeyRhody.com

^{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center}

Rhody Recipe: Chopped Italian Sandwich

The classic Italian sub gets a fun refresh with diced meats and cheeses, inspired by statewide delis. Perfect for picnics or beachside snacking, this chopped version is quick to make and travels well. Read the full recipe online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• Writing and photo by Liz Murray}